LOVE & RESPECT

LOVE & RESPECT

Never too late to learn
The days of dating, engagement and the first few years of marriage can be an exciting time of discovery as you learn more about your spouse. But the excitement doesn’t need to stop there! People continue to change and develop, so never stop being a student of your spouse.

Speaking their language  
When was the last time you did something that spoke to your spouse’s love language? Whether it’s words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service or physical touch, author Gary Chapman encourages you to be intentional with how you express your love in order to deepen your relationship with your spouse.

Eye each other up
You've heard that the eye is the window to the soul. With that in mind, connect with your spouse by gazing fondly and intently into each other’s eyes for 30 seconds every day. It may be awkward at first, but the intimacy will grow as your eyes communicate – no need for words!
 
Verbalize your love and respect
Want to show your spouse that you love and respect them? Try to make a habit of saying “you’re welcome,” “please” and “thank you.”

In sickness and in healthHow does your spouse handle being sick? Do they want lots of attention and tender care – or mostly to be left alone? Ask your spouse how you can best love and care for them when they’re feeling under the weather. Learning how they want to be treated during illness can strengthen your marriage for other challenges ahead.

Celebrate each reunionRefrain from talking about your stressful day for the first 10 minutes when you come home. Instead, celebrate your reunion with a hug and enjoy each other’s company, then tell your spouse about your day. Those 10 minutes set the tone for the rest of your night together.

Fox huntingSolomon wisely observed that little foxes ruin the vineyard. Even if your marriage is great, you likely have small habits that annoy your spouse. As an expression of love, regularly hold a personal “fox hunt,” and determine to eliminate habits that steal some of the joy from your spouse’s day.

Do you know your spouse’s love language?According to Gary Chapman’s book words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service and physical touch are ways to receive and express love. Not knowing your spouse’s personal love language is like shooting an arrow in the dark. Ever wonder why your wife is thrilled when you pick up the groceries but less than excited about that thoughtful box of chocolates you bought her? While she might appreciate occasional gifts, it might be that her love language is receiving acts of service. Take time to sit down with your spouse and discuss the different ways he/she receives love best.

Invest into your marriage “bank account”You get more out of your marriage if you invest into it. Make a “deposit” each day with kindness, service and encouragement. You will experience a richer marriage as a result.