Walking with an individual for 42 years certainly exposes areas of angst. And thus, the desire to walk away can become strong over time when we do not handle the conflicts correctly. Unashamedly, God’s Word prescriptively indicates we have everything we need to live godly lives (1 Peter 1:3). He has blessed us with spiritual blessings so much so that we should be having a good time on our way to heaven. The problem becomes when we fail to appropriate and possess these blessings by faith (Ephesians 1:3), much like the Israelites. Scripture that has carried me through the years and made a huge impact in my relationship with my husband (once I began practicing it! Yes, years of wrestling with God over my obedience to Him in this matter!) is the following:

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:3-5 (NASB)

There is nothing more convicting than to realize how selfishness and pride reign in our mortal bodies. We tend to focus on what is happening in our own lives and not those around us, even under our own roofs.

While appropriating Scripture during this June fast leading up to my wedding anniversary on the 26^th, my prayer is to grow in love and respect for my Heavenly Father enabling me to honor the husband I chose!

Another aid that promotes love and devotion for my spouse is focusing on that special ingredient he possesses which drew me to him so long ago! We are all made up of ingredients that make us who we are. They are not necessarily individually appetizing, but they all work together to make something beautiful! Very often it provides the fuel we need to support the other person and not tear them down. This instigates harmony and fuels a good time along the way. Our wise God knew that would be the case.

Focusing on my husband’s special ingredient, 😉 allows me to find “joy” in serving him through managing our home and working to keep things moving smoothly, like getting him off to work, and being assured he will have something for lunch, having his clothes lined out for the week and being organized. And of course, a high priority in keeping this pace in our home is washing clothes, regularly. My desire is for him to be successful! Looking out for his interests is my top priority!

An increasing phenomenon in America is pets having priority over the spouse. And while we are to take care of our pets, we have lost our real significance according to the Bible. Philippians 2:3-5 addresses people and not our animals. God made people “a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You gave them authority over all things” (Hebrews 2:7-8, NLT). Human beings are created to house the Holy Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). When animals are put ahead of other humans, we are dishonoring God and His Word.

Regrettably, there were many years, I would have gladly turned to an animal for affection, but thankfully, the Lord continues to show patience with me and lead me in the way that serves Him. This month my focus is finding “joy” in putting my husband first. And most importantly, continuing to learn and obey the commands of Scripture: To be a “doer of the word, and not hearer only” (James 1:22).

Twenty days to go!

I wonder if anyone can guess what my husband’s special ingredient is!