Leadership Speaks — Marriage

In every significant relationship the partners will sometimes disagree. Differences of opinion are not necessarily a problem but can be a strength. The goal isn’t to eliminate them but to handle them in a mature, constructive fashion. Here are thirteen guidelines for managing disagreements in marriage. Don’t yell, scream, or use harsh or offensive language. Verbal or emotional abuse is never appropriate. (See Ephesians 5:29–33; I Peter 3:7.) Never resort to physical violence or intimidation. Physical abuse, whether hitting, pushing, or physical threat, is never appropriate. (See I Timothy 3:3; I Peter 3:7.) Don’t withhold physical intimacy. (See I Corinthians...