Valentine’s Day is next week.
In the United States, the Hallmark Channel is running “romantic” movies almost 24/7. The chocolatiers have the tastiest of the chocolatiest displayed to tempt you. Florists are loading up on roses and roses and roses. Stationery stores make it easy to find just the perfect card for your special someone.
Ads are everywhere bombarding you and me with the perfect gift to express your love, hinting that if you spend the right amount of money you’ll score points.
Frankly, I’m not buying any of it.
What if the perfect way to re-spark your romance has nothing to do with spending money?
Here’s 4 actions you and I can take each day:
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Pray fervently. Each day, pray for your love. Pray for their strength for the tasks in that day. Ask the Father to give them wisdom, grace, and peace for every part of their day. Pray for protection of their mind, heart, and soul from the forces of evil that threaten to attack them that day. Ask the Father to draw them deeper into relationship with Him—to become more like Jesus that day. Pray for your marriage to be strengthened through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Speak lovingly. Whenever you talk about your spouse or significant other in public, only talk about how blessed you are to be in a relationship with them. Brag on all the good things they do each day, how hard they work for you and your family, and how grateful you are for them.
- Express gratitude. Tell your spouse or significant other why you are thankful for them. Find simple ways each day to express your love and gratitude for them. Be kind and courteous in your actions and attitudes toward them.
- Forgive quickly. When your love messes up, forgive them quickly. Even if they don’t ask. Forgiveness frees you from carrying anger or resentment. Then practice #2 again.
Deep, abiding love has more to do with simple, every day actions and attitudes than any gift you give or receive.
Don’t get me wrong. I love to give and receive gifts! But, my actions speak louder than any gift.
Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15 New Living Translation
Will you accept this challenge? Leave a comment below.
In 30 days, let’s see what happens. Keep in mind, your spouse may not change at all (that’s not the point). You will. Your attitude will. Who knows? You might just find a new appreciation for your marriage and your spouse.
Live your legacy today,
Kirsten D. Samuel
Aftershock Recovery Coach
8-week Program, Custom-paced Coaching, Remote or In-person Sessions
