Talk about the book of Ephesians. Read each chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passages below and discuss the questions that follow.
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3
- Do you prefer that we openly discuss difficult issues or keep them to ourselves to avoid conflict?
- What are the differences between keeping peace and making peace?
- How can we discern when to keep peace and when to make peace?
We’re clearly called to unity with our spouse. Sometimes that means we need to let go of our own grievances; but other times, to be truly unified, we’re called to make peace. A divisive issue can cause more damage when it’s hidden. Squarely facing the issue — always with a humble and gentle spirit — is sometimes the only way to bring true peace. Unity develops when both husband and wife, even with their differences, see the issue in the same light through the guidance of the Spirit.
For devotions to help make your faith — and your marriage — stronger each week of the year, see Jim and Jean Daly’s book The Best Year of Your Marriage: 52 devotions to bring you closer.