Marriage GPS

On a recent trip, Jim and I had the opportunity to borrow a Garmin (GPS) device. At first, when this little gadget of wonders talks back to you, it’s rather fun. As you make wrong turns, it alerts you with the words — “RECALCULATING!”

We were navigating downtown Dallas fairly well, until, we found ourselves on the wrong ramp heading north of the city instead of south. With each new turn Jim made, we heard the words “recalculating”. The Garmin recalculated so many times it eventually became silent. I think it gave up. And, I know Jim wished he could throw it out the window.

As we were flying home a few days later, we discussed the similarities between the Garmin and our relationship. Really, we do have crazy discussions like this.

There have been times in our marriage when we've tried to speak truth about the wrong direction one of us is taking. Similar to the Garmin, we were attempting to recalculate the other toward eliminating sinful behavior or making decisions that would derail us from loving God or each other well.

Taking wrong directions in marriage can be very subtle.

1. I’ll spend a little more time at the office tonight. My spouse won’t care.
2. I'll go out to lunch with this co-worker of the opposite sex. It's just business.
3. I’m spending a little extra money on myself. I deserve it and it won’t make a difference in our budget this month.
4. Stopping for a drink or two after work is okay.
5. Everyone occasionally loses his or her temper, right?
6. We don’t need a date night; sitting on the couch is fine.
7. The kid’s needs and activities are more important than ours.
8. Get-a-way weekends are a luxury and not necessary.
9. Viewing porn or spending time in chat rooms is okay — if I keep it under control.
10. Participating in my hobbies several times a week isn’t a problem.

Is it time to recalculate?