The Mother-in-Law Trap
Avoid the Pitfalls and Enjoy Your In-Laws
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Day 3: Communication Issues, Part 1
Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. (Proverbs 16:24)
Understanding the Power of Words
Popular songs tell us we need love. Movies and TV shows portray people looking for it. Love is a precious commodity. As we communicate with others, our love must be evident in our words and attitudes. Our interactions with our in-laws certainly are not exceptions to the rule.
As we communicate with our mothers-in-law or daughters-in-law, it is imperative that we, as Christians, live love even when we do not feel it. While our human nature encourages us to say ugly things and to even ignore others at times, we must be diligent in lifting others up. Why? Because words are a powerful tool in building up others as we seek to build relationships with them. Proverbs gives insight. Read the proverb below.
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Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. (Proverbs 16:24) |
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To better understand the importance of this concept, create a statement expressing the opposite of this verse:
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Because all of us sometimes struggle with a lack of self-control in our speech, we can regretfully recall hurtful words we have spoken. Thankfully, many people have a forgiving heart and are happy to forgive, but your MIL or DIL may not be one of
those. Perhaps you’ve recently said something hurtful to your in-law and have not asked for forgiveness. Even if you suspect she will not readily grant it, you should consider apologizing. Apologizing helps heal old hurts, paves the way for a better relationship, and proves that a loving heart lives behind mistakes.
1. Has anyone ever demonstrated their love for you through apology? If so, how did that make you feel?
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About the Book
Ever wondered why the mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationship is often the brunt of jokes? Have you ever fallen into the trap of thinking that everyone treats her in-laws badly? Are you preparing to enter a new in-law relationship and find yourself hoping to avoid the pitfalls your friends have warned you about? Or if you are you longing to repair damage to your mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationship but don’t know where to begin, this Bible study is for you. The Mother-in-Law Trap offers practical applications based on biblical truths that will help you avoid the pitfalls that might jeopardize your relationship and develop an enjoyable, healthy relationship with your in-laws.
About the Author
Leslie Hudson, the daughter-in-law, is a Bible teacher and speaker, free-lance writer, and piano teacher. She desires to see women turn to God's Word for Biblical principles to use in building and strengthening their relationships.
Connie Lovett Neal, the mother-in-law, is a free-lance writer, a Bible study leader, and a public school teacher. She believes that women will only find peace and contentment in their relationships when they listen to God's voice, not the world's.