Marital abuse is the silent sin that causes damaging emotional and/or physical pain in too many relationships. Abuse in marriage involves a persistent pattern of behaviors to exercise control, power, and entitlement. There are six types of abuse: emotional, verbal, physical, sexual, financial, and time. Shown below are just a few questions to assess possible abuse in a marital relationship.

1. Do you feel like you have to “walk on egg shells” to keep your spouse from getting angry?

2. Does your spouse criticize many things that you do?

3. Does your spouse isolate you by trying to cut you off from family and friends?

4. Are you compliant because you are afraid to hurt your spouse’s feelings?

5. Does your spouse give you the silent treatment to punish you?

6. Is your spouse hypersensitive and easily insulted?

7. Are you frightened by your spouse’s temper?

8. Does your spouse blame you for their anger?

9. Does your spouse do everything to win an argument?

10. Does your spouse rant about injustices that are just part of life?

Today: I pray that you are able to answer “no” to all these questions. If you answered “yes” to a question(s) and have concerns for your personal well-being and marriage seek help from a professional.

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