Get In The Game

Fools think they need no advice, but the wise listen to others. Proverbs 12:15

“You have got to get in the game!” the pastor exclaimed.

“What do you mean by that?” the man asked in frustration.

“Your wife was designed to be loved in a certain way, and you are trying to make up your own way,” his pastor answered. “You cannot just make up your own rules and expect them to work.”

The man didn’t like hearing his pastor’s words, but because he did not want to lose his wife, he listened. He had tried confronting her, pointing out her inconsistencies, and feverishly arguing with her, but none of those things had worked. He knew that his old ways were leading his relationship to disaster. He also had two daughters, and he was afraid he might alienate them too. He knew he had to make some changes.

Get in the game. Those words inspired the man to think differently. He didn’t know exactly what to do, so he tried listening to his wife—really listening. Before, he had been in the habit of listening just long enough to correct her. But now he began listening until she got to the end of her thinking. It didn’t feel like it would work at first, but he kept listening. It made him feel more passive than before, but he continued to listen. It was hard work holding back his thoughts, but he made up his mind just to listen. Amazingly, his wife began to respond.

The man still can’t explain why listening worked, but he will tell you that one of the greatest days of his life was the day his wife said, “At first I stayed because of the kids, but I am actually falling in love with you again. You are definitely back in the game!”

Do you feel the need to “get in the game” when it comes to your marriage and family? Then try listening! You will be amazed at the results.

Dear Lord, show me how to listen well.