A little boy once asked his father, "Daddy, how much does it cost to get married?" The father replied, "I don't know, son; I'm still paying for it.”
That classic joke hits home because, for many, marriage can feel like a never-ending expense, both financially and emotionally. The truth is, marriage is often as hard as we choose to make it. But here's the real secret, the "ingredient" that changes everything: valuing your spouse.
In marriage, valuing your partner isn't just a nice idea; it's the solid ground your relationship needs to truly thrive. It's the very first step toward building something strong and lasting together.
When we talk about valuing our spouses, it simply means treating them with respect and kindness. It's about making sure our words and actions always show how much we appreciate them, consistently letting them know they matter.
What Pets Can Teach Us About Valuing
Now, think about this for a moment: We often show incredible affection to our pets. Dog lovers, for example, know how to truly value their furry friends. No matter how busy or tired they are, they'll stop to cuddle, whisper sweet nothings, and genuinely connect before moving on with their day. It makes you wonder, doesn't it? If we could bring even a fraction of that consistent, open affection into our marriages, imagine the profound difference it would make.
This pet lover's example isn't about shaming anyone, but instead highlighting how easily we can extend unwavering value when our hearts are fully engaged.
So, without further ado, let's dive into the three key reasons why this core behavior—valuing your spouse—is so incredibly important in building a truly wonderful world within your marriage.
I. Valuing Helps You Prioritize Your Relationship
Couples who really "get" marriage understand how vital it is to value their partner. They make a point to focus on their bond, even when life gets super busy with endless distractions and responsibilities.
It's a genuine commitment to truly respecting and cherishing each other, not just when things are easy, but always. By nurturing this sense of importance, couples build a rock-solid foundation where love and respect can truly bloom.
II. Valuing Leads to Celebrating Unique Qualities
Valuing your spouse goes deeper than just acknowledging they're there. It's about genuinely appreciating all the special, unique qualities they bring to your relationship. Think of it like a jeweler admiring every intricate detail of a precious gem.
Celebrating these unique traits can turn your marriage into a vibrant, beautiful mosaic of shared moments and mutual admiration. This practice brings a whole new level of joy and a deeper appreciation for the amazing person you're with.
III. Valuing Enables You to Tackle Challenges Together
When life throws curveballs at your marriage, your deep appreciation for your spouse might just be their greatest source of hope and strength. By valuing your partner, you can keep your connection strong and steady, even when conflicts and tough challenges come your way.
This shared resilience helps you both weather the toughest storms, emerging stronger and closer than ever before. It's in these moments that true value shines brightest.
Are you Valuing Your Spouse?
Remember, valuing your spouse isn't just some passing feeling; it's a conscious choice to honor, cherish, and stand by each other through all of life's ups and downs. It forms the bedrock of lasting love, powerfully demonstrating the strength of mutual respect and admiration.
As you make valuing each other a top priority in your marriage, you're setting the stage for a lasting partnership, one guided by a shared vision of love, commitment, and unwavering loyalty.
Maybe that's why the Bible says, "Out of respect for Christ, be courteously reverent to one another." Ephesians 5:21.
- This post is just a peek into the powerful ideas in my new book, Unbreakable Marriage. If you're ready to dive deep and build a relationship with your partner filled with unwavering loyalty, commitment, and love, I invite you to dive into the whole journey inside its pages.
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Nick Gonzalez
Author | NickGonzalez.com
Empowering Couples to Build Thriving, Faith-Filled Relationships
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