How difficult is it for you and your spouse to discuss in‐law relationships and how they might be affecting your marriage? What could make those discussions easier?
How can you continue to show honor and respect for the sacrifices and efforts your parents and in-laws put in to raising you and your spouse while at the same time “leaving and cleaving”?
Give some thought to the difference in “leaving” your parents and in-laws and
“isolating” yourself from them. What is one thing you can do today to build your relationship with them?
Discuss with your spouse some of the parental beliefs, lifestyles, values and traditions that your families follow that may not clearly be delineated in Scripture. What are you clinging to that is traditional rather than Scriptural? Discuss how you and your spouse can build your own traditions together.
How are you treating your in-laws like family? What are some ways you may be treating your in-laws as outsiders?
Memorize Scriptures of hope and help pertinent to your situation right now.
How careful are you not to be critical of your spouse’s parents? Think about times when you may have blamed them for something they did or did not do. Ask yourself if you have a resentful spirit toward your in-laws.
Take the following online assessment to see if you might be experiencing an emotionally destructive relationship. Discuss the results with your spouse
and/or a mentor.
