Dealing
with a Meddling In-Law
When
an overly controlling in-law meddles in a marriage, anger and
desperation
can rise very quickly to the surface. The strong
familial bonds can leave you feeling fairly helpless to change
anything. You realize you are “stuck” with the person,
after all, and it can begin to seem that you are being tyrannized.
While it is good to stay in the place of unconditional love toward
your in-law, you still have the responsibility to hold them accountable
for mean-spirited words and actions.
That
said, it’s important
to remember that a meddling in-law may have some unhappiness
within them that is the result of something or someone in their
own past. Exercise care and compassion, but remember that it
is you and your spouse’s responsibility to set realistic
boundaries that your meddling in-law cannot cross.
To
Try: Have a conversation with your spouse about at least
three boundaries that you will establish with your meddling in-law
and before you implement them, pray together for a spirit of
peace and compassion. Remember that God loves you, your spouse,
and your meddling in-law!
Scripture
for Reflection: “A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1
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