We may be wrapping up the month of February, but working at our marriage is a daily practice. So far this month, using the acrostic V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E, we have seen some ways to grow and change in the blessed gift of a biblical marriage.
V – Value the grace gift of marriage
A – Advance your marriage through prayer
L – Love your spouse unconditionally
E – Energize your marriage
N – Nothing should come between you and your spouse
T – Take time to cherish your spouse
In the past few days, I have had conversations with four men who have endured the trial and grief of their wife’s death. One occurred just two weeks ago.
Knowing that none of us have control of our lives nor know the length of days God has appointed for us on earth, may I challenge you to cherish your spouse today?
When you cherish something, you protect it and hold it dear to yourself.
You protect and hold your marriage dear by . . .
Building up one another with grace-filled communication. Just you can shatter a treasured china tea cup by dropping it on the floor, our words can shatter the heart of our treasured spouse by what we say and how we say it. Proverbs 15:4, A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
Making good memories. As you walk through this relationship, this bond in Christ, you take time to make good memories. Perhaps its a romantic dinner at home, an overnight get away, a weekly game night, a regular act of service, a habitual thoughtful gesture, a favorite coffee shop, long hugs, sweet kisses, engaged conversations, walks in the neighborhood or on the country road, holding hands and praying before you go to sleep each night or (you fill in the blank).
Relating to the opposite sex in such a way that your spouse would not need to question you. Guard your heart and your relationship. Don’t allow yourself to be in a potentially compromising situation. Live above reproach. 2 Timothy 2:22, So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Proverbs 10:9, Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.
How are you handling and protecting your treasured marriage and spouse? Schedule a date this week in a quiet location and discuss ways you are cherishing each other. Be open and transparent in love. Even this is a way to cherish the gift of marriage and one another.
From A Pastor's Heart 