The most critical gift we can give our mate is respect. I have several observations about this that seem obvious, but we have found that many couples struggle in this area. First, respect is the element that keeps the relationship satisfying and rewarding. Second, respect is given by choice. Finally, respect must be guarded and cultivated. A lack of respect will eventually destroy a relationship.
Respect is basically choosing to value another person highly and allow that value to permeate every element of our interaction with that person like the way we talk to and about them and the way we treat them in general. One of the things that causes a struggle in marriage is that we build a history of the other's weaknesses, faults and mistakes.
In the early stages of the relationship our focus was on their wonderful qualities and their successes. The key here is to choose to return to focusing on his/her great qualities and successes and remind ourselves that we are not perfect either.
People love to say that respect is earned not given. I beg to differ. it is true that a person's behavior, speech, and deeds earn either admiration and approval or disappointment and disapproval, however respect is about the way we choose to treat others. We can either have an arrogant attitude where we see ourselves as the "authority on all things and the judge of others" or we can have an attitude of humility where we value others and choose to treat them with dignity, kindness, and...respect because we know that God loves all people. The way I treat others speaks more about me than it speaks about them. Jesus taught us to be respectful to everyone. How much more does this apply to our marriage partner?
This week, treat your mate as the most important person in your life.
Speak to your mate with kindness and appreciation. Be careful with your words and tone. Try to go a full week without saying anything demeaning or derogatory to your mate. Isn't it crazy how we are more careful about how we speak to friends co-workers and strangers than our mate?
Be helpful and accommodating in regards to your mate's needs and desires. Put your mate first.
Focus on your mate's great qualities and stop focusing on their shortcomings.
Cultivate a greater demonstration of respect for your mate this week and........
Respect is basically choosing to value another person highly and allow that value to permeate every element of our interaction with that person like the way we talk to and about them and the way we treat them in general. One of the things that causes a struggle in marriage is that we build a history of the other's weaknesses, faults and mistakes.
In the early stages of the relationship our focus was on their wonderful qualities and their successes. The key here is to choose to return to focusing on his/her great qualities and successes and remind ourselves that we are not perfect either.
People love to say that respect is earned not given. I beg to differ. it is true that a person's behavior, speech, and deeds earn either admiration and approval or disappointment and disapproval, however respect is about the way we choose to treat others. We can either have an arrogant attitude where we see ourselves as the "authority on all things and the judge of others" or we can have an attitude of humility where we value others and choose to treat them with dignity, kindness, and...respect because we know that God loves all people. The way I treat others speaks more about me than it speaks about them. Jesus taught us to be respectful to everyone. How much more does this apply to our marriage partner?
This week, treat your mate as the most important person in your life.
Speak to your mate with kindness and appreciation. Be careful with your words and tone. Try to go a full week without saying anything demeaning or derogatory to your mate. Isn't it crazy how we are more careful about how we speak to friends co-workers and strangers than our mate?
Be helpful and accommodating in regards to your mate's needs and desires. Put your mate first.
Focus on your mate's great qualities and stop focusing on their shortcomings.
Cultivate a greater demonstration of respect for your mate this week and........
Watch the Romance Grow!
For more ideas to help boost your marriage, order our book, I Still Do.
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