Researchers are clear—when contempt and acrimony flood a relationship, a physical or emotional separation is not far behind. This research isn’t based on rocket science, but rather practical principles, as well as Biblical truths, that we cannot abuse each other without severe ramifications.
Thankfully, our relationships don’t need to be driven by our brain stems. Put another way, we can think through how we want to respond to confrontation. In fact, with a little forethought we can manage how someone talks to us after we have been confronted.
It has always been uncomfortable to admit to shortcomings. Rarely do we like our faults pointed out to us. Few feel strong or secure enough to allow someone to speak truth into their lives. It is far easier, and much more comfortable, to sit with the mistaken belief that we are somehow on the higher moral road, and our mate is on the lower one. Sadly, this mistake keeps us stuck, both relationally and as individuals.