“Be intentional in marriage.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – February 14, 2022
Marriage should be honored by all. Hebrews 13:4
Successful marriages require intentionality. Most marriages that please the Lord do not happen by accident. There is a prayerful pattern of planning and wise choices that come with a meaningful marriage. The husband-and-wife honor one another by aspiring to each other’s interests. They connect at deeper emotional levels because they take the time to communicate their feelings. By God’s grace they understand each other’s needs and help satisfy those needs. Really understanding each other takes intentional, patient listening. Empathetic listening connects at the heart level then moves to the logical head level.
How can we be intentional with our spouse? Our acts of service are an example of how we can show them tangible ways we care. If we are the recipient of a deliciously prepared meal, we can insist on clearing the table and cleaning up the kitchen. If our car requires maintenance or repair, we can take the lead taking care of the need. Perhaps we collaborate over a grocery list and then quietly make a trip to the market and pick up the items. Intentional service that helps in a way that’s helpful expresses love. Wisdom discusses the calendar for clarity to prevent resentfulness in not meeting one another’s expectations. Anticipating upcoming details that need attention shows intentional love!
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13).
Intentional marriages set goals to grow and learn skills. You may decide as a couple to dialogue daily, date weekly and depart quarterly. Daily dialogue is a sure-fire way to keep the fire in your relationship burning brightly. Consistent emotional connection between husband and wife is necessary to feel loved. Weekly date nights give you an opportunity to romance one another and have fun. Intimacy takes intentionality. Make a marriage plan so life doesn’t make plans for you. Intentionality shows your spouse love.
Above all else, have spiritual intentionality in your marriage. Take the time for prayer walks and initiate talks about spiritual matters. Volunteer together at church and/or in your community. Keep your individual quiet times a priority and then share with one another what the Lord is teaching you. Perhaps you serve on a mission trip together at home and/or overseas. Marriage intentionality honors the Lord and honors you and your spouse. Invest time together with an experienced Christian counselor for a marriage tune up or to do some deep emotional, relational and spiritual work. Be intentional together!
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10).
Prayer
Dear Lord, give us wisdom in our marriage to model Your intentional love and care, through Christ’s love and in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
What area of my marriage needs both of us to be more collaborative, prayerful and intentional?
Related Reading
Psalm 133:1; Philippians 2:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter 1:22
Worship Resource
Casting Crowns: Broken Together
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