Every married woman learns sooner or later that it takes two to fight as a couple. It’s sort of like a boxing match. There are two fighters in the ring. The husband wearing blue trunks over in his corner, and the wife in pink shorts in the opposite corner. When the bell rings, two fighters are expected to come out and fight until one is beaten or knocked out or gives up or loses.
But what happens if, when the bell rings, only one fighter comes out? It’s obvious: There is no fight. There can be no fight. Why? Because it takes two to have a fight.
When a discussion gets hostile or uncomfortable or out of control, there are several things you can do to create calm. You always have the right to ask for time to think about whatever the issue is. Take time to pray about it and to search the Scriptures about it. And seek counsel about it. Be calm. Pray. Soften your voice and be gracious: “A gracious woman retains honor” (Proverbs 11:16). God will give you all the grace you need to be gracious.
Don’t guess about the next step and hope for the best. Get a clear view of the right path as you follow God’s wisdom. Elizabeth George takes you on a journey through the 31 chapters of Proverbs, which cover the matters closest to your heart, in Proverbs for a Woman’s Day.