No Relationship is perfect. But when does "not perfect" cross the line into abuse? That's the question Leslie answers in today's episode.
1. Types of Relationships:
- Differentiate between difficult, disappointing, and destructive marriages.
- Difficulties can bring couples closer if handled maturely.
- There are many external stressors in marriages.
2. Disappointing Marriages:
- Discuss common expectations that lead to disappointment.
- Emphasize the importance of accepting imperfections in a spouse.
3. Recognizing Destructive Relationships:
- Define abusive and destructive relationships.
- What the Bible teaches about love, harm, and taking responsibility.
- If an abusive incident happens, it is very important that the behavior does not continue.
4. Types of Abuse:
- Emotional, financial, sexual, and spiritual.
- Leslie explains the motivations behind using these abusive tactics, primarily control and power.
- What is the impact of abusive tactics on the victim's self-esteem and freedom?
5. Addressing Sexual Abuse:
- Misconceptions about sexual abuse in marriage.
- Analyze 1 Corinthians 7 and its interpretation regarding consent.
- The importance of mutual respect and consent in marital intimacy.
6. Emotional Abuse:
- Is "emotional abuse" talked about in the Bible?
- The power of words and their impact on individuals.
- Scriptural references about the impact of words on relationships.
7. Taking Responsibility:
- Leslie and Julie discuss the notion of provocation in abusive relationships.
- The reality of individual responsibility for emotional reactions.
- Self-awareness and self-improvement is encouraged in order to break the cycle of abuse.
8. Seeking Help:
- Guidance for individuals in abusive relationships.
Resources:
Free test to discover if you're in a destructive relationship
Kindle version of Leslie's book, "The Emotionally Destructive Marriage"
