Picture this...

1. As a high-level executive, Doug commands a successfully productive team. But at home, he feels like he and his wife are on opposing teams, often returning enemy fire back and forth at each other with their actions and words. Many days Doug can’t wait to get back to the office where he is respected and successful.

2. At work Michael is commended and paid handsomely for troubleshooting and correcting potential flaws, saving the company big bucks. When he tries to put his talents to use at home, his wife informs him that he is not getting paid or promoted to point out her flaws, and he should leave his expertise at the office!

3. Thomas is barraged all day with countless meetings and issues that need to be resolved. His wife spends her day chasing after the kids and the dog, while simultaneously cooking, cleaning, and commanding a household. By the time Thomas walks in the door, she wants him to take over being the referee, but he is emotionally exhausted and just wants to chill. The interaction that follows leaves them both feeling misunderstood and unappreciated.

Juggling life between work and home can be both physically and mentally exhausting. Although conflict resolution in both places have some of the same underlying components, there are distinct differences to be noted. Understanding your role and mission in each environment takes wisdom, planning, and dedication.

Wisdom – “When you are struggling with how to respond in a situation, ask Me. I am not disappointed that you don’t know. I am delighted to fill you with My wisdom for every moment of your life” (Jas 1:5 paraphrased)

Planning – “Write the vision. Make it plain on tablets…” (Hab 2:2).

Dedication – “And let us not grow weary of doing good. For in due season, we will reap if we do not give up” (Gal 6:9).

Take time to sit down with your spouse today. Ask for God’s wisdom to mediate the hot button issues of blurred boundaries between work and home. Make a plan and talk through how that will work in real life. If you are struggling to see each other’s perspectives, call in a trusted and wise ally to help you find resolve. Then dedicate yourself to the mission of a successful and godly work AND homelife.

If you would like to learn more about strengthening your marriage, click here.