Counsel #6 — Support And Being Supported

Picture: Counsel #6 — Support and Being SupportedCR 101.1

Giving and receiving support is an essential element of successful marriages.^{[96]https://www.marriage.com/advice/emotional-intimacy/ways-to-improve-emotional-support-in-your-relationship/} The quiet, comforting knowledge that your partner will be there for you in difficult times is one of the greatest benefits of marriage. Don’t minimize your partner’s emotional or mental pain by telling them it’s not that big of a deal or to just relax. Support them by giving them what they need.CR 101.2

If you are the partner who feels unsupported emotionally through distress or trauma, it is important not to lash out in accusation against your partner. They may not be able to easily express empathy, and unkind confrontation or anger could weaken the connection instead of strengthening it.CR 101.3

Pray that God will help you both support each other in being present and listening well.CR 101.4

“Bear one another’s burdens.” Galatians 6:2 NKJVCR 101.5

“There are many who regard the expression of love as weakness, and they maintain a reserve that repels others. This spirit checks the current of sympathy. As the social and generous impulses are repressed, they wither, and the heart becomes desolate and cold…. Let not the heart of one connected with you starve for want of kindness and sympathy.”  Ellen White in The Adventist Home, p. 107CR 101.6

Reflect: Do you and your spouse have a healthy balance of support in your marriage, or is one of you more of a taker than a giver? How would you approach discussing this with your spouse?CR 101.7