610: HONOR YOUR SPOUSE

“If you think well of others, you will also speak well of others AND to others. From the abundance of your heart, the mouth speaks. If your heart is full of love you will speak of love.” —Mother Theresa

It’s easy to dishonor one another. In fact, in today’s culture, it’s become perfectly acceptable to dishonor one’s spouse. This includes talking poorly of them, making fun of them, or even belittling them in front of others.

That’s because this behavior is modeled for us every day in movies and television shows, on social media, and even in some conversations we have in social settings. 

It’s also easy to get caught up in this pattern of talk or even the subtle behaviors that imply it. These can include:

• Those looks of disdain.
• Finding fault in everything that they do or say.
• Complaining more than complimenting them.

If you truly wish to honor your spouse, then admiration, respect, and special recognition are all areas of importance you need to focus on.  

It’s important to recognize and acknowledge your spouse. Spouses are in a unique situation with one another. You more than likely spend most of your time together and know each other more intimately. This means that your words will generally carry more weight and have greater influence over your spouse than anyone realizes.

It means that what you say AND how you say it can be life-changing.  It tells your spouse you see them. Love them. Appreciate them. Value them. Believe in them. 

You can also change how they see themselves and how others see them.

It’s an opportunity to become a louder voice than the one in their head saying things like “you’re no good” or “you can’t do this.” Your voice can be their lifeline, carrying them through tough seasons. 

Find something in or about your spouse you can recognize no matter where you are in your marriage. Choose to find something, no matter how small, to be able to speak about your spouse. Your mindset will change when you do.