If you feel disappointment, annoyance or anger with your spouse, it may be due to an unmet expectation.
Talking Points:
- We all have expectations, and they come from our childhood, culture, and internal dialogue.
- Your spouse isn’t a mind reader, so set them up for success by sharing your expectations. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
- You are not perfect, and neither is your spouse. Show grace as you grow into soulmates. 2 Peter 3:9, Ephesians 4:32
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share about your home growing up(structure, roles). How has your childhood affected your view of being a spouse/parent today?
- How have the differences in how you and your spouse were raised impacted your marriage for good and for bad?
- Share the last time missed expectations resulted in a conflict. Why is it important to be clear about what you expect?
- Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. What does this passage say about how you should love your spouse? How does this passage challenge you on how you should respond to missed expectations?
- Read 2 Peter 3:9. How has God communicated His expectations to us? What is His response when we miss the mark?
- Read Ephesians 4:32. What is a kind and gentle way to respond to each other regarding missed expectations? Why does it take time to grow into soul mates?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
Adapted from the book Marriage Forecasting by Tim Muehlhoff
