Many marriages are just hanging on. Couples marry, smitten by love, only to quickly discover that love fades as reality sets in. The routine of life will quickly drain the passion of any relationship. Marriages, like gardens, need to be plowed, planted, cultivated, watered and cared for with tender love. If you want to harvest the fruit, you have to invest some time, care and effort.
Paul challenged husbands to “nourish and cherish” their wives! He writes, “…husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it…” (Ephesians 5:28-29, NLT). The same is true in terms of the wife for the husband. Since a husband and wife are one flesh in the eyes of God, when you bless your spouse then you bless yourself. What are some ways you can nourish your marriage this Valentine’s season?
In words. Speak to your wife or husband with tender love. The Bible says that we should build one another up (Romans 14:19). When is the last time you spoke words that complimented your spouse? When did you last strengthen their character, build their self-esteem, or fortify their value through words of encouragement? You nourish your marriage when you bless your spouse with uplifting words! The Bible says, “Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing” (Proverbs 12:18, NLT). The Bible also says, “Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy for the body” (Proverbs 16:24, NLT). Lavish words of praise and encouragement on your spouse today, and you will find it will bless your own life!
In actions. What practical way could you bless your spouse today? Virtually every spouse has some wish list of “honey-do” chores they would like completed. My wife never complained on those occasions when I washed dishes, swept the floor or folded clothes. Most women claim it makes her husband more attractive. The bottom line is that love should not just be spoken, but shown. The Scriptures declare, “Dear children, let’s not merely say we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions” (I John 3:18, NLT). Totally surprise your spouse this Valentine’s by blessing them in a way they would never expect! When you bless them you also bless yourself.
In time. The old adage is still true: How do you spell love? T-I-M-E. Take your spouse on a date. Go see a movie. Go for a ride in the car. Take her or him on an overnight trip. Carve some time out of your week to invest in your spouse. Good marriages do not just happen, they are nurtured, cherished and planned. Like a rose, the way you treat your spouse will either make your marriage bloom or wilt.