That’s not what I am saying…I passionately defend myself to my husband as we try to hear each others’ hearts. We’ve been married for decades, yet we still have trouble communicating at times. I believe God created men and women with opposite natures just so we would have to rely on Him in our commitment to each other. There is no other relationship that tests our ability to love unconditionally more than the marriage.
Real love is when we are willing to sacrifice our own needs in order to see that our spouse’s needs are met first. My need as a woman to be heard and understood should be much less important to me than it is for me to respect my husband’s desires.
I am challenged daily to love purely with no selfish motives, but with the help of Christ and through His strength I know that I can press on in loving my husband sacrificially.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
— 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 (New International Version)
I’m linking up for Five Minute Friday where Lisa Jo Baker and other awesome people write for five minutes flat with no self critiquing or no striving for perfection. This week’s prompt is: “Willing.”
The photo was taken the day my husband and I renewed our wedding vows.
Yes. Yes. And more yes. I have counseled several engaged couples and am amazed when they are surprised that love takes commitment, willingness, and sacrifice. But then again, they’re not married yet. 🙂
Thank you for sharing your willingness to love!
(just stopping over here from 5 minute Friday)
Thanks, Leah, for stopping by and leaving a comment. How awesome that you have the opportunity to counsel engaged couples! Have a blessed weekend!
I forgot to add that I love your blog name. I try to live life abundantly every day – that’s why it’s in my email address!! 🙂
I love how you have the same passion as I do for living life abundantly! And I love your e-mail address! 🙂
I’m always so encouraged by folks with good strong marriages. Stopping by from FMF.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment, Michelle. Have a blessed weekend! 🙂