Divorce-Proof Your Marriage
1. Four Horsemen #1. Criticism. The Antidote? Gentle Start-Ups (soften your delivery)
“Catch for us the little foxes that ruin the vineyards…” Song of Songs 2:15 NIV
“Four Horseman,” by Dr. John Gottman
Let everyone see that you are gentle and kind. Philippians 4:5a NCV
A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1 NAS
everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the
righteousness of God. James 1:19 NAS
2. Four Horsemen #2. Contempt. The Antidote? Admiration. gratitude, & honor.
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 ESV
So encourage each other and give each other strength, just as you are doing now. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NCV
Love each other...Give each other more honor than you want for yourselves. Romans 12:10 NCV
set examples for each other in showing respect. Romans 12:10 CJB
3. Four Horsemen #3. Defensiveness. Antidote? Take responsibility.
Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Matthew 7:3 NAS
Humble yourselves before the Lord.. James 4:10 ESV
Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses… finds mercy. Proverbs 28:13 NIV
4. Four Horsemen #4. Stonewalling. Antidote? Calm down then come back. (regulate your emotions)
It is better to be patient than to fight. It is better to control your temper.. Proverbs 16:32 NIrV
In your anger do not sin… do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. Ephesians 4:26 NIV
the prudent sift and weigh every word. Proverbs 14:15 MSG
Ask yourself: “Where do I need to repent?”
Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. Revelation 2:5NIV
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12 NIV