The Love Dare - Day Eleven

Love Cherishes

The problem within our culture is that marriage is more often treated like it is disposable.  When your relationship experiences difficulty, you are urged to dump your spouse for a “newer model.”  But those who have this view do not understand the significant bond between a husband and wife. The truth is, with marriage  you are a part of one another.

Marriage is a beautiful mystery, joining two lives together as one.  This not only happens physically but spiritually and emotionally.  When your spouse goes through a tragedy, both of you feel it.  When you find success at your job, both of your rejoice.  But somewhere along the way, you experience disappointment, and the sobering reality that you married an imperfect person sets in.  This, however, does not change the fact that your spouse is still a part of you.  You must treat them with the same nurture and care that you treat yourself.  When you show love to your spouse, you are showing love to yourself as well.

But there is a flip side to this coin.  When you mistreat your mate, you are mistreating yourself.  Think about it.  Your lives are now interwoven together.  Your spouse cannot experience joy or pain, blessing or cursing, without it also affecting you.  So when you attack your mate, it is like attacking your own body.  She, too, needs to be loved and cherished.  Just as you treasure your eyes, hands, and feet, you should treasure your spouse as a priceless gift.

Marriage should be a picture of love between two imperfect people who choose to love each other regardless. When you look at your mate, you’re looking at a part of you.  So treat her well.  Speak highly of him.  Nourish and cherish the love of your life.

Today’s Dare

What need does your spouse have that could meet today?  Can you run an errand?  Give a back rub or foot massage?  Is there housework you could help with?  Choose a gesture that says, “I cherish you” and do it with a smile.