What Do We Value

When news about the nature of the H1N1 virus spread, Americans responded dramatically!  People lined up for vaccinations, got to their doctor for a checkup at the slightest of symptoms, and antibacterial lotion dispersers appeared in every corner!  We had a national frenzy for months because of the virus.  Why all the fuss?  Because we value our health and our lives!

When the earthquake recently rocked Haiti, millions of dollars in aid and thousands of volunteers arrived to help.  Why would people volunteer vacation time and forfeit comfort for the difficulties of existence in Port au Prince?

We value children and distraught people.  We also value compassion.

“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral” (Heb. 13:4).

When we honor marriage, we recognize the high value of the relationship.  The American trend is dishonor marriage.  The percentage of married people in America has been decreasing.  Single people are choosing to live together and many divorced people are choosing to not remarry though also choosing to be sexually active.  Oklahoma recently moved from number three among the states in divorces to number two.  Our local newspapers consistently report that there are more people getting divorced than there are getting married.

Those of us who profess to honor marriage must be more deliberate to show that we honor the relationship and our own spouses.  Here are 10 great ways to show that you place high value on your marriage.

Speak in terms of “us” and “we” instead of “I” and “me.” Talk like a you are a team.

Prioritize the marriage above all other earthly relationships.

Speak positively to others about your spouse and the marriage relationship.

Surround yourself with people who support your marriage and godly marriages in general.

Compliment your spouse often. In fact, do it right now.

Commit to pray together every day and never fail to pray specifically for your marriage.

Be proactive. Keep your marriage fresh as you navigate the changes of life together.

Guard your heart. Only engage in flirtatious behavior with your spouse.

Forgive your spouse quickly.

Live the Golden Rule in your marriage.  Treat your spouse with the love and respect that you want to receive yourself.

Marriage is God’s relationship!  He has exalted the marriage relationship.  Reflect its value in your relationship!