I married an introvert. I am an extrovert. This requires a learning curve (to say the least). We've been trying to process some of this and learn how to balance our time together. Magnus has been great in letting me know when he needs "introvert time" and I am learning to not sap ALL his energy by staying connected with friends.
Yet, I'm definitely still learning. A lot.
Last Sunday was evidence of this. Magnus was preaching in the evening and came home exhausted. I was struggling with something and wanted to talk... and talk and talk. I just needed to process. I tried to hold my tongue and let him recover... but I kept bursting into conversation and then getting irritated by his response (or lack there of).
I finally went into the bedroom to regain composure - frustrated that this man could not die to himself and listen for a little bit longer. That's when God brought Philippians 2:3-4 to mind, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others. Each of you should look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others" (my memorized version).
I was being selfish in asking/wanting him to talk more. My "pressing" needs could wait. I must love him and consider his needs and learn unselfishness. Yikes. At that moment, I feel I got a taste of what this thing called marriage is really all about, and how it will truly change me.
My personality can never be an excuse for selfishness - everything must be submitted to Christ and done out of love.
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