Handle with Care!

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to go to Cuba on a missions trip. Downtown Havana was a real disappointing sight. It was clear that the buildings were constructed in beauty with architectural flair, but decades of neglect had turned them into a crumbling shadow of their former glory. It was a real shame.

It's odd how many of us allow our marriages to fall into disrepair simply because of neglect. I don't think anyone intends for this to happen, we just convince ourselves that we can work on our marriage later...right after we finish this to do list which is never satisfied. We assume that our marriage is well built and can withstand a little neglect without any adverse effects. So, we get pressured into neglecting the most important thing in order to take care of the most urgent things.

After our relationship with God, our marriage is the greatest treasure we have! Think about it, if we lose our marriage, everything we love will be negatively affected or destroyed. A successful marriage should be the highest priority to us. Your mate is your real treasure!

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to lose your mate? Two years into our marriage, my wife nearly died due to complications in the birth of our first son. As I waited in the hallway, I was overwhelmed by the importance she has in my life. Of course, many have lost a spouse and can tell you firsthand how devastating the loss has been. God created marriage so two people could help each other through life in ways that are too wonderful for words. It is such a shame when such a wonderful gift is lost simply due to neglect.

Neglect is a tricky foe. It always seems innocent, necessary, harmless, and justified, but a little too much and your treasure begins to slip away. The key is to shine up our treasure every day. Think about what you can do this week to shine up your husband/wife this week. How about some encouraging words, a small gift, some special task or help, an extra hug and kiss, or something else that says,"I love you" in a special way to your mate.

Now that you have a plan...make sure to act on it!

Remember...your mate is your real treasure in life...a gift from God to help you through life!

Don't let neglect tarnish your gift! 

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