More than words

Speaking kind words to our spouse is something that sounds so normal and easy.  It's probably something we say we all do every day.  But, are there times when we let this slip and the words don't come as easy or as often?  In this life of distractions, phones and social media that's probably more true than we would want to admit.

Let's take that to the next level.  What kind of words do you speak about your spouse to family, friends, co-workers or in public?  Several years ago, I was in a situation where I took our daughters to an after school activity and found myself sitting with other moms waiting to pick up our children. The conversations of these women invariably turned to their husbands and their marriages.  I grew more and more horrified each time at the words and tones of these conversations and how they spoke about their husbands.  "Lazy," "useless," "non-involved" and "no-good" were the descriptions I began to hear.  A lot of it became vulgar and not repeatable.  Never once, did I hear these women say they felt their husbands were good men or good fathers.  If you tried to inject something good into their conversations or give some encouragement, it was met with sarcasm and disdain.

I know from earlier in my life, that people can drag you down with their words and affect those around you and their perception of you.  Do you really want that for your spouse?  Be cautious of your words to your spouse and also when you are around other people.  Speaking life into people and modeling Christ and His love can change the way they see themselves and the way others see them as well.  Build up the one you love in the eyes of your children, family, friends and in public in obedience to Christ.  The Bible says a lot about our words. Just one example is James 3:8-9.."but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness."  Strong words to think about! Proverbs 16:24 says, "Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."  Let's use our words to encourage, build up, affirm and honor our spouse each day.  I promise, it will make a difference in your marriage.