Genesis 2:18 Kjv And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
The story is told of a troublesome mother-in-law, Grace, who went to visit her daughter’s new home. “I’m so glad to see you, Grandma”, said her grandson little Kofi. “Now maybe daddy will do the trick he has been promising us.”
Madam Grace was curious. “What trick is that?” she asked. “I heard him tell mommy that he would climb the walls if you came to visit!” Kofi answered.
I am sure as young as Kofi was he had noticed the friction between his parents and grandparents, which I call “In-law Trouble”.
Many marriages have suffered because of this. “In-law Trouble”, if not carefully managed, could be a recipe for that marriage’s doom.
Here are 3 things to do to avoid “In-law Trouble”:
#1. Abide by the “leave and cleave” principle. The Bible makes me understand in Genesis 2:24 that, it is important for the new couple to leave and cleave: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”
#2. Do not see your in-laws as a cross to bear. Fairly frequently we consider our in-laws as trouble even when there is no such trouble. What we see them as in our heart, affects the relationship they build with us. Don’t see them as trouble; relax about them, and tap into their wisdom instead.
#3. Don’t dishonour your in-laws. Your in-laws are not your parents but they raised your sweetheart and hence qualify as your parents too. Bible says in
Ephesians 6:2, “Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise. That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”
Instead of dishonouring them, have understanding, patience and open communication with them. Moreover, learn to compromise with them on differences.
Precious one, you are not married to your in-laws so just relax about them.
Prayer : Heavenly Father, grant me wisdom to overcome “in-law trouble” in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Topics : Relationship, Marriage, Charles Agyinasare, Charles Agyinasare, Stories, In-Law,
