Pause and Consider

Posted on June 11, 2019 by Debi Walter

Photo by Umit Bulut on Unsplash

We all have one, at least one, but we may not realize it because of our lack of pausing and considering it. I’m talking about an area of strength in your marriage. Oftentimes we focus on what is lacking and miss what is strong. This is not only discouraging, but a neglect of giving thanks to God for what He has done.

Gary Thomas, in his book Cherish, tells the story of a woman who was married to a very accomplished man. He was used to hearing accolades from coaches, teachers, parents, and fans. But at home he more often heard, “boo!”

His wife explained her husband was so successful she didn’t realize he needed her encouragement more than all others. She went on to say that he had set the bar so high of what a good husband looks like, she took all of his strengths for granted. (Chapter 10 – Your Unique Spouse)

Pause and Consider.

Have you become so accustomed to the things your spouse does well that they are no longer noticed?

May I encourage us all to take time today and look at our spouse from a fresh perspective. Ask God to illuminate their strengths to you, and then purpose to commend your spouse specifically and sincerely.

“But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭3:13‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Some areas to consider:

  • Financial matters
  • Hospitality
  • Generosity
  • Communication
  • Service to others
  • Handy with repairs and maintenance
  • Sense of humor
  • Kindness to strangers
  • Physically strong and fit
  • Parenting with gentleness
  • Teaching others
  • Discipleship
  • Artistic skills
  • Musically gifted

May we all pause and consider our spouse with fresh eyes today. And may we be reminded of why we fell in love with them in the first place. This is a great way we can begin cherishing our spouse for who they are. Gary Thomas says, “Cherish is the one word that changes everything.” Try it and see for yourself.

About Debi Walter

Tom and Debi have been sharing encouragements through their blogs for many years. Marriage, Reading God's Word and documenting family history is our focus. Growing in our relationship with the Lord is primary in all we say, write or do. We are grateful for all who desire to join us in the same endeavors.
This entry was posted in Biblical Encouragement, Cherishing, Christian Marriage, Encouraging Your Spouse, Growing Strong Marriages, Showing Honor and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

3 Responses to Pause and Consider

  1. Andrew Budek-Schmeisser says:
    June 11, 2019 at 11:55 am

    It’s one of life’s small tragedies
    that much good goes unnoticed,
    and for this, the only remedy’s
    to keep our vision focused
    We must keep eyes clear and new
    to the things that we me cherish,
    for in omission, this is true:
    our love will wither, perish.
    I must betimes ignore the mote
    when scorn would give me glee,
    and regard instead the beam I tote;
    that’s pointing back at me.
    If I but praise what I’ve ignored,
    ’tis gift to wife, and to the Lord.

    Liked by 1 person

  2. SavingSupergirl says:
    June 15, 2019 at 12:13 pm

    I love this! I will definitely try practicing this with my husband. Thank you. 😊

    Like

  3. Pingback: A Loveliness of Links ~ June 2019 - The Forgiven Wife

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