Compromise—an agreement or a settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions.
This morning, the Lord gave me a sweet example of compromise. During our walk in the morning, we add a “burst” every so often by running 50 paces. (May need to lower to 49 as we age!) As we were running, I noticed that Tom purposefully made his steps smaller. I’m 4’ 11” and my shortness is in my legs. Tom’s not that tall, but his legs are nearly 6 inches longer than mine. When I realized what he was doing, I purposefully lengthened my stride a bit. We compromised.
What an important ingredient in any relationship, but especially in marriage. No two people will always agree on everything. At times, conflict can only be resolved when both sides give a little. I do realize that there are also times when, as a wife, I just need to give it over to my husband because his headship in our home AND he will give an account of our marriage, not me. Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you (Hebrews 13:17). But the sweetness of our marriage comes because Tom shortens his stride and I lengthen mine.
What can you do to make your marriage sweeter today? Guarantee: it will not work to point at the other and say, “Hey! Slow down! I’m shorter than you are.” You can translate that into whatever area needs a little compromise “sweetener!” After all, who wants to live in a house full of the fruits of the unholy spirit (that would be the “old man” Paul speaks about)?
that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24).
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself (Philippians 2:3).
Beyond Common Sense 