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It is always a blessing to share our lessons from what we learn. These are 10 brief lessons from our book for February, 2024. Ponder over each lesson and let them bring great changes in your life.
1. CHERISHING VS. INDIFFERENCE.
Recognize that the way you treat your spouse reflects whether you cherish them or hold them with indifference or contempt. Actively choose to notice, appreciate, honor, and hold your spouse dear, fostering a deep sense of value and connection.
2. COMPLEMENTING LOVE WITH CHERISH.
Understand that love and cherish are complementary aspects of marriage, with cherish adding a "tasting" dimension that goes beyond meeting needs. Pursuing cherish alongside love enhances intimacy and satisfaction in the relationship.
3. AVOIDING COMPARISON.
Refrain from comparing your spouse's shortcomings to others' strengths, as it only leads to dissatisfaction and discouragement. Instead, embrace your spouse's uniqueness and focus on cherishing their individual qualities.
4. ACTIVE HONORING.
Cherishing your spouse requires active honoring, both inside and outside the bedroom. Respond to their bids for attention with excitement and interest, and make them feel valued through thoughtful gestures and communication.
5. WAR AGAINST CONTEMPT.
Be vigilant against contempt in your relationship, as it poses a significant threat to marital happiness and survival. Practice grace and thankfulness, focusing on how far your spouse has come rather than dwelling on their faults.
6. EMBRACING IMPERFECTION.
Accept that both you and your spouse are imperfect and need grace. Cherishing involves assuming responsibility for nurturing and cherishing each other, despite flaws and weaknesses.
7. CULTIVATING UNDERSTANDING.
Seek to understand and empathize with your spouse's unique story, personality, and emotions. Cherishing requires a deep understanding of who your spouse truly is and a willingness to adapt and relate to them accordingly.
8. GENTLE CORRECTION AND PATIENCE.
Approach correction with gentleness and patience, cherishing your spouse even in moments of disagreement or conflict. Recognize that occasional stumbles are part of the journey and respond with compassion and support.
9. INTENTIONAL CHERISHING PRACTICES.
Cultivate a cherishing mindset through intentional actions such as expressing gratitude, sacrificing for your spouse, and actively engaging in their dreams and aspirations. Cherishing requires ongoing effort and attention to maintain.
10. ROOTING CHERISHING IN THE GOSPEL.
Ground your ability to cherish your spouse in the gospel, understanding and embracing God's grace and forgiveness. By reflecting God's love and kindness, you can cultivate a cherishing marriage built on mutual respect, honor, and love.
Compiled by,
HENRY KANKAM,
TUTOR, THE SCHOOL OF FRIENDSHIP.