Driving home this morning, I found myself behind a rather
grimy semi. On the back of the trailer, someone had written in the dirt, “Encourage
more.” “What a lovely thought,” I said
to myself; but then I started thinking about it. When was the last time I
encouraged someone? Whom did I encourage? I wasn’t quite as fond of my answers
as I thought I would be. I realized that the majority of the encouragement I
provide is given to those who are not within my own family. Next on the list
are my children. And who is last? Woody, the man to whom I vowed to cherish and
honor. The person who should be first.
I know how hard it is sometimes to say something kind and
inspiring to your spouse. Usually, when you do find time during the day to
exchange ideas, your conversation is full of details—kids’ schedules, work,
meal plans, bills, and a thousand other particulars. We are so preoccupied with
keeping everything running smoothly that we fail to see that disregarding the
most important detail—your spouse—can derail the whole train. How hard is it to squeeze in a few words of
encouragement along with all the information that a couple must share during
the course of a day?
“I love the way you provide for our family. You are so
helpful. You are such an honorable man. Thank you for being a godly example for
our children.” These are only a few phrases that might encourage your partner
in life and love. Make a list of positive phrases you might say to your spouse;
and the next time you speak, throw one in. I have made my list and am ready to
use it.
Encourage more. And
to think that a dirty semi could teach me a life lesson.
