Forgiveness is a very important part of any relationship, but it is especially true in your marriage. We are commanded by the Lord to forgive all men regardless of what their offense is. When it comes to your marriage, it is important to be able to fully forgive your spouse. There may be instances when a transgression (such as an affair or abuse) may end the marriage, however it is still important to forgive your spouse so that you can find peace in your heart.
The cycle of annoyances and irritants can escalate rapidly especially with those that you are close to you. If you let yourself become annoyed by continually picking up after your husband or if you choose to dwell on an insensitive remark, you are perpetuating the negative cycle. If you are dwelling on these feelings the way you treat your husband will change. In turn the way he treats you will change and your will spiral downward.
So how do you stop the negative feelings? It may be as simple as listing three positive things about your spouse for every negative thought you have. If you are having a lot of negative thoughts throughout the day, then list three different things for each negative thought. You may decide to do something nice for your spouse, especially if you haven’t been treating each other very well.
If your negative feelings are the result of a wrong that was done to you by your spouse or a mutual argument you may want to turn to the Lord for help. You should begin by praying that your heart may be softened so that you can forgive your spouse. Depending on the seriousness of the situation you may need to go to your bishop or seek marriage counseling. These things will help you to work through your feelings together.
As you make it a practice to forgive your spouse, you will come to love him more. Forgiveness is a freeing process, as it allows you to shed negative feelings that may be weighing you down. It also helps you to increase your love for your spouse.
Related Articles:
The Atonement and Forgiveness in Marriage
General Conference: “And Nothing Shall Offend”
General Conference: “The Healing Power of Forgiveness”