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Heartofsilver

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Hello everyone,

I haven't always had a good relationship with my in-laws, but things got better between us when I married my husband. But, after four and a half years of marriage things are waning between my mother in-law, sister in-law and I. Lately when I get excited about a gift that they buy me they always have comments. They will say things like "that is why I got it for you", and they will say it with a tone.

My mother in-law recently invited me to a baby shower for one of thier family friends. When I asked when and where it will be she became annoyed.

My dad in-law was eating some pie and he said that I could have some. I still wasn't sure if I should have some or not so, I didn't get any at first. Shortly after this my sister in-law said with a raised, annoyed voice that if I wanted some pie I could help myself to some. At that point, I decided just to forget it and grabbed myself a slice of pie.

I tried talking to my husband on what to do. He said that I could talk to them, but if I do they will become defensive/offended. If he talks to them it could make things worse and it has done so in the past. So, we both don't know what to do.

Thank you all for your prayers and godly counsel. God bless you all!
 

Delvianna

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HI there :) I know you're worried about them getting upset and making things worse, but its honestly the only way to solve this. You cant prevent how people will react but you can draw boundaries on how people converse with you. If theyre saying and doing something that upsets you, you need to speak up and say something. If it continues and they have no desire to change and treat you better, then I think you and your husband need to come up with a mutual agreement on boundaries and what you will do moving forward which can be as simple as limiting contact and letting them know why contact is limited, due to their behavior.

I know its easier to keep the peace and you want to get along but honestly, unless something is said, boundaries are applied and consequences are in place, nothing is going to change and its just a matter of what you are willing to put up with.

Praying for you, that God gives you clarity and wisdom to navigate this. God bless!
 
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timf

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It sounds like your husband is aware of their limitations and you are starting to understand. When dealing with people of limited ability one has to limit oneself so as to not exceed their limits.

The Christian life is supposed to be about coming to maturity which means transitioning from the selfishness of the flesh to the selfless love of Christ-likeness by walking by the Spirit. Few Christian even know about this much less embark on the path of maturity.

Unsaved people can even restrain themselves to the degree that they maintain an "other awareness" to maintain civility.

However, without either civility or Christian maturity, people tend to express the selfish nature we all have. If you can not react to them with pity and understanding for their behavior retardation, it might be best to have less frequent contact.
 
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com7fy8

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I tried talking to my husband on what to do.
In any case, make sure you share well with your husband. In case his family members are not Christians or are not mature Christians . . . it is possible that there is no really right thing to do with them, because they could react badly, no matter what you try. But be with them when God has you sharing with them, and be a good example. Be kind and pleasant, and listen to whatever they say so you can know what is going on with them.
 
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