Beginning An In-law Relationship Right

Beginning an In-Law Relationship Right

Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters.

1 Peter 2:17

WHEN YOU BECOME A MOTHER-IN-LAW or father-in-law, you enter a whole new world of relationships. Don’t just let it happen. Talk about it.

Before your son or daughter gets married, talk about what life will be like after the wedding. Talk with your spouse; talk with your child; and talk with your future son- or daughter-in-law.

You want to have good relationships, so talk about what would make them good. Listen to each other. Respect each other’s ideas. Answer the following questions:

• What should the new son- or daughter-in-law call us?
• If we will be living in the same area, will we call each other before we show up at the door or just drop by?
• What kind of contact will we have after the wedding? How often will we call each other or visit?
• Are we open to invitations for dinner? Will we give each other the freedom to say no if we have other plans?
• Will we help the young couple financially? If so, how can we do it without their feeling controlled?

When we treat our family members—and new family members—with love and respect, we are following the apostle Peter’s advice. We are also setting the stage for strong family relationships in the years to come. Preparing for life after the wedding is fully as important as planning for the wedding.

Heavenly Father, I want to have a good relationship with my son- or daughter-in-law, whether I’m in that situation now or whether it’s still far in the future. Thank you for the reminder that proactive communication, love, and respect are always beneficial. May our family relationships grow ever stronger, more supportive, and more loving.

In-laws