Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn & Fred Stoeker
Week 9: Part Four — Talking to Your Wife
Read Part Four, Chapters 16–17 of Every Man's Battle. Key Scripture: Ephesians 4:25; James 5:16.
Previewing Week 9 of Every Man's Battle
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 14-week guide when you’re ready.
These chapters tackle one of the most feared conversations a man can have — telling his wife the truth about his struggle. The authors offer wisdom about what to say, what not to say, and why honesty is ultimately an act of love.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.The authors distinguish carefully between transparency (sharing the nature and scope of the struggle) and confession of specific details that can wound without helping. Do you think they draw that line in the right place? Where does healthy honesty end and harmful over-disclosure begin?
2.Arterburn and Stoeker acknowledge that some wives will react with great pain, anger, or a sense of betrayal when told about a husband's struggle. What makes it right to have this conversation even when the short-term cost is high? What might be the long-term cost of never having it?
3.James 5:16 instructs believers to 'confess your sins to one another and pray for each other so that you may be healed.' The authors apply this principle in the marital context. Have you ever experienced the healing power of honest confession — with anyone? What was that like?