How can we consistently "bring good" to our spouses in daily life? Opening Verse “She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.” (Proverbs 31:12) What “Good” Looks Like • Good is active benevolence—choosing words, actions, and attitudes that build up. • Good is continual—“all the days of her life,” leaving no off-days for neglect or resentment. • Good is intentional—deliberately planned rather than accidental. The Heart Behind Consistent Good • Christ-centered love (Ephesians 5:33) • Humble, others-first mindset (Philippians 2:3) • Steadfast commitment, not swayed by mood or circumstance (1 Corinthians 13:7) Daily Practices That Bring Good 1. Speak life – Offer sincere encouragement before criticism. – Use gentle tones; “A gentle tongue can break a bone” (Proverbs 25:15). 2. Serve gladly – Small acts: brewing coffee, handling an errand, sharing a laugh. – Large acts: supporting a dream, standing beside in hardship. 3. Guard the schedule – Prioritize shared meals, bedtime conversation, and Sabbath rest together. 4. Pray for and with each other – Lift specific needs to God; celebrate answered prayer aloud. 5. Celebrate strengths, cover weaknesses – “Love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). 6. Honor publicly, correct privately – Praise your spouse among friends; reserve concerns for one-on-one moments. 7. Cultivate physical tenderness – Simple touch communicates security and affection beyond words. 8. Practice quick forgiveness – “Keep no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:5). 9. Keep finances transparent – Oneness thrives where monetary trust is undivided. 10. Seek mutual growth – Read Scripture together, attend worship, share insights. Guarding Against Harm • Watch the tongue—sarcasm and contempt can undo hours of kindness (James 3:5-6). • Refuse silent treatments—withdrawal breeds misunderstanding. • Resist comparison—envy erodes gratitude (Galatians 6:4). • Protect purity—emotional or digital flirtations fracture trust (Matthew 5:28). Strengthening the Habit • Start mornings asking, “What one good can I bring today?” • End evenings recounting ways you saw God’s goodness flow between you. • Anchor routines—weekly date night, monthly budget review, annual getaway. • Invite accountability—trusted believers can cheer and correct. Encouragement from Scripture • Colossians 3:12-14: “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience…And over all these virtues put on love.” • Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; outdo yourselves in honoring one another.” • 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: Love’s timeless checklist for daily good. Walking It Out Consistent good is a series of small, Spirit-empowered choices that—over time—create a marriage marked by safety, joy, and witness to God’s faithfulness. Begin today with one tangible act, add another tomorrow, and watch “good, not harm” become your shared rhythm “all the days” God grants. |
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