1. Contentment in Marriage Genesis 2:18 I. God Intends Contentment. A. Husbands to live contently with their wife. (Proverbs 5:15-20; Colossians 3:19). B. Wives to learn to be content with their husband. (Prov 31:10-12,18 & 27- 28; Ephesians 5:22-24; Titus 2:3-5).

2. Contentment in Marriage Genesis 2:18 I. God Intends Contentment. C. “What Causes Discontentment?” The Entertainment Industry. A Wealthy Society (I Tim 5:3-16). The Feminist Movement Selfishness

3. Contentment in Marriage Genesis 2:18 II. What is Contentment? A. It is not acceptance with no desire for improvement (Heb 10:23-24). Not by… Bitterness (Col 3:19) Nagging (Prov 27:15,16) Unfavorable Comparison (Eph 4:29). Withholding Intimacy (I Cor 7:3-5, 2). Destroying Influence (I Cor 7:33,34).

4. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 1. Smile or say yes when it’s not expected. 2. Offer positive suggestions, but avoid criticism, argument, blaming or bringing up past mistakes. 3. Celebrate everyday things with unplanned surprises, and break some old routines. 4. Recognize their feelings, needs and be helpful.

5. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 5. Avoid toxic “trigger words” that start arguments. 6. Respect their wishes, sensitivities and privacy. 7. Send surprise fun cards, flowers, gifts, etc. 8. Find ways to be pleasant, cheerful and agreeable.

6. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 9. Instead of changing someone change your attitude or actions, accept them “as-is.” 10. Don’t struggle over things you can’t change. 11. Showing trust and forgiveness is a key to happiness. 12. Communicate and share thoughts, dreams and feelings.

7. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 13. Show affection and romance daily in different ways. 14. Avoid discussing problems if you’re tired or it’s late. 15. Try not to control or change anyone. 16. Take time to be patient. Listen more. 17. Leave little notes to express your feelings.

8. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 19. Turn off the TV and have discussions or family meetings. 20. Avoid name-calling or saying “I told you so”. 21. Anger is painful, so never go to sleep mad. Call a truce, apologize, or forgive and accept. 22. Encourage their interests, growth and individuality.

9. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 23. Praise them to family and friends and others. 24. Keep breathing space between you and relatives. 25. Discuss money matters in advance, share spending responsibilities, and give each one pocket money.

10. Secrets of Good Relationships and Marriages 26. Give them a day off, or free personal time. 27. Avoid talking about past loves or relationships. 28. Families and relationships run on cooperation. 29. Ask about their day, then tell about yours. - from The Listening Center

11. Contentment in Marriage Genesis 2:18 II. What is Contentment? A. It is not acceptance with no desire for improvement (Heb 10:23-24; Col 3:19; Prov 27:15,16; Eph 4:29; I Cor 7:3-5 & 2; 7:33,34). B. It is cheerful adaptation to a situation even if it cannot be changed (Philippians 4:10-13).

12. Contentment in Marriage Genesis 2:18 II. What is Contentment? C. Practicing Contentment. 1. Avoid being critical of your companion (Matthew 7:1). 2. Consider your own faults and work on improving yourself (Matthew 7:3-6). 3. Treat your mate as you want them to treat you (Matthew 7:12).

13. Contentment in Marriage Genesis 2:18 Conclusion: A. It May Be Difficult to be… 1. A good wife to an undeserving husband (Ephesians 5:22). 2. A good husband to an undesrving wife (I Peter 3:7; Matthew 18:32-35). B. Consider the alternatives! 1. Divorce? (Malachi 2:16; Matthew 19:9). 2. Constant conflict? (Romans 12:18).