So in retirement, I am helping coach my granddaughters in little league girls softball. It is never dull and pretty demanding mentally at times. It takes a good bit of patience too. The girls try hard most of the time and it is rewarding to see them learn, grow, have fun and get better at the game.

There are two things that happen almost every game. One of the girls will field the ball and with so many people screaming what to do sometimes they just freeze and stand with the ball. The other thing that happens is a runner on base has to run because there is a runner or runners on the other base(s). The ball is hit into the base path they must run so they just stand on the base thinking if they run they will get out.

In both cases the outcome is not good because doing nothing is not a good decision in softball….the other team will take advantage of indecision. In marriage, not doing something when your spouse is hurting,or upset gives turmoil and trouble a foothold in your relationship. James 3:15 describes wisdom from heaven as pure and peace loving. Unattended conflict and frustration will not spontaneously turn into peace. If you want to strengthen your relationship you have to take action NOW.

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.

James 3:17

QUESTIONS

Q: When was the last time you knew there was an issue in your relationship? What did you do and what can you learn from it?

Q: When you are upset or hurt, do you just want someone to listen (not solve the problem)? Actively listening can be helpful to anyone who is struggling.

CALL TO ACTION

Use the fruit of the Spirit as a guide to measure your actions or inaction, ask yourself; Do my actions reflect ____________?

• Love
• Joy
• Peace
• Patience
• Kindness
• Goodness
• Faithfulness
• Gentleness
• Self-control

Source: Galatians 5:22

Go Fan That Fire!