Thursday, January 11, 2007

To Sum It Up

My apologies for not posting yesterday, but I was away from my computer. My husband and I were invited by Pastor Mark and Mrs. Debbie Pryor to speak to the married couples of The Pentecostals of Orange County concerning How To Resolve/Avoid Conflict. Although I am no authority on this topic, 27 years of marriage has taught me a few things. The moment Pastor Pryor gave us the topic, I immediately thought of Proverbs 15:1. In The Message Bible it reads, "A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire." Borrowing Smokey Bear's famous quote, I titled my lesson "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires." Ephesians 4:26 instructs us not to use our anger as fuel for revenge. Although I will not take time to give you my entire outline, I pointed out six ways Jesus used anger properly. My husband has frequently told people, "Call me when there is a fire on the stove. I can probably help you save the house. Don't call me when the house is entirely engulfed in flames. It is too late to salvage anything." If you have a stressful relationship, there are three ways to avoid a huge fire. 1. Have a smoke alarm - that means you must communicate, communicate, communicate. 2. Have fire insurance - pray, pray, pray! 3. Get a fire extinguisher - love, love, love. Finally, always remember that you are for each other and not against each other. I hope you have a blessed day surrounded with love.

6 comments:

  1. That is a great allegory! I know that the MOST important thing in any relationship, but ESPECIALLY a marriage, is COMMUNICATION. Sit down and TALK, don't yell and scream, DISCUSS and just as important is to ACCEPT that YOU, yes, YOU, have part of the "blame" for marital conflicts!!! :) When we admit our part in a situation, it is like pouring water over a roaring flame, POOF!!! Nothing left but smoke!!

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  2. Sister Allard I would of loved to hear you speak on this subject, I am in the process of being engaged and this may help, did they record any of the speaking of you or Pastor Allard, Love you, Cheri

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  3. Thank you for sharing this to everyone also, this is great information, I am learning even in the beginning of this relationship, that talking is very important, i have learned his dislikes along with his likenesses, and it has help to talk things out,

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  4. Thanks for the comment, Jana.

    Cheri - I believe The Pentecostals of Orange County are recording each lesson of this series. Pastor Allard and I will be returning the end of January and possibly another week in February to teach about other aspects of the marriage relationship. I will get info about the CD's for you. Love you, too.

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  5. Oh so TRUE! I'm sure you did a great job and was a blessing to all who heard you.

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  6. Jana, you and Brian were awesome. Everyone that I have spoke with is still talking about it. Great stuff.

    Debbie and I enjoyed the time with you all @ Mimi's as well. Nothing like hanging out with friends. :-)

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