The Challenge

I find it fascinating that when we ask God to help us improve in a particular area, He doesn't automatically make us better in that area. Rather, He provides us opportunities to improve. If we pray for patience, we are not instantly more patient. Instead, we are given circumstances to practice our patience. Any mother with young children knows this well.  If we say Lord, "grow my faith", we don't find ourselves with more faith. Alternatively, the Lord will present us with challenges, as a way to grow our faith.

Even after I began writing this blog, which is clearly determined by God for me to do; it seems I have been faced more frequently with opportunities to "practice" being respectful, both to my husband and other men. Frankly, it is not always easy.  I certainly make mistakes, but I am committed to it, because I know it is how God designed relationships to work.

As we start this new year, many people have made resolutions.  The point of a resolution is to improve a particular area. It is a decision with determination. It shows purpose. If you have not made one, today is a great time to start. I want to invite you to take 30 days, alongside me and commit to being more respectful to your spouse. Let's purposely resolve to respond differently, to filter our thoughts before we speak them, and to affirm our spouse. There is no harm in answering the call to be respectful. The best part is, if you mess up, it is easy to fix. Apologize and keep trying. I guarantee that your spouse will notice. He may, or may not say anything, but he will definitely notice.

If you are unsure of where to start, feel free to reference my blog from November 4th, for 55 ideas on how to begin affirming your spouse. If you want to use that list and pick one thing to say, each day for 30 days, that would be awesome! The challenge will be unique for each person.

I would love to hear what the result is at the end of the 30 days. In fact, those who comment and share their results in the comments section below, by February 15th, will have their name entered into a drawing for a $20 gift card. I cannot wait to celebrate with you the results of honoring your spouse God's way! 

 

Therefore, as God's chosen people,

holy and dearly loved,

clothe yourselves with compassion,

 kindness, humility, gentleness,

and patience.

And over all these virtues

 put on love

 which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Colossians 3:12 &14