“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” Ephesians 5:31 

There has been a wedding and we have a question from the mother of the groom. “My son just got married and I’m having a hard time accepting the young lady as a member of our family. Can you help?”

It can be difficult for Mom when a son marries. What’s the old saying? “A son’s a son till he takes a wife. A daughter’s a daughter the rest of her life.”  There’s some truth in that clique.

It is up to you, Mom.  You need to do all you can to build a loving, healthy relationship with your daughter-in-law.

Step One is for this mom to realize her daughter-in-law IS a member of the family.  It doesn’t matter how Mom feels. This is the woman her son chose. Because he chose to spend the rest of his life with this young lady she undoubtedly has some wonderful attributes!  Mom, it’s time to discover those positive qualities.

Mom, get to know this new family member. Learn what she likes and what she does well.  Be an encourager. Listen more than talk.

Never compare or create competition. If competition is created, your daughter-in-law should and will win every time.

Always remember – If you fail to accept your daughter-in-law, you are rejecting (& losing) your son.  That is never worth it!

How did you build a loving relationship with your daughter-in-law?

How have you and your mother-in-law built a good relationship?