25 Ways to be a Blessing

March 24, 2014 is our 25 year wedding anniversary! I’ve posted a few pics on my personal FB page and a few things have been posted to our church’s FB page, so hopefully it’s not ad nausea for you, the gracious reader of Cornerstone of Strength. It’s just HARD to NOT share the goodness of God in our lives, right?!

I must say, “Wow, how time flies when you’re having fun! And how time flies when you’re living an obedient life for God!”  Blessed. I’m not trying to sound obnoxiously happy, but I’m extremely blessed! B-l-e-s-s-e-d.

We can find tips and points on just about everything on the internet: How to DIY your wallpaper, DIY replacing ceiling fans, tips on communication, points on effective marketing, tips on how to ask for a raise. You name it – you’ll probably find it!

So in honor of my wedding anniversary, I wanted to comprise my own short list of 25 things to be a blessing to your spouse. (Although, these 25 tips are awesomely great in my estimation, there is no easy recipe for marriage. It takes sacrifice, work, and undivided love).

25 Ways to Bless Your Spouse

·         Be nice in the morning. (If you’re not a morning person, but your spouse is, don’t spoil their special part of the day by being grouchy)

·         Smile. (I’m just a fan of smiling. In the movie, Elf, Buddy the elf says smiling is his favorite! It makes me laugh every time. But there’s a simple truth in it). There’s powerful communication in making eye contact and offering a genuine smile.

·         Pray for your spouse daily. (They may have unspoken and unknown requests that you don’t know about).

·         Try not to complain over simple things. (Whining and complaining tends to grate on the nerves). I don’t know anyone who enjoys listening to whining.

·         Be appreciative – of small things your spouse does as well as the bigger things. Actually say, “Hey, thank you so much for…”

·         Honor basic house atmosphere. (By this I mean, putting the cell phone down during a meal. Remembering that they may prefer the television off in the bedroom even if you like it on. Perhaps your spouse drinks coffee, but you don’t. Things like that).

·         Don’t dwell on the negative! (We have all negative traits. It’s best not to dwell on them or your apt to over react when something triggers your irritation nerve).

·         Follow your role in the house. (If you’re a lady, be willing to follow. If you’re the gentleman, be willing to lead). Easier said than done sometimes.

·         Remember your spouse’s birthday – whether you celebrate it with a “party” or not. Saying, “I didn’t forget today is the day of your birth” is special.

·         If you’re leaving for work or to run an errand – don’t forget to say “I love you,” before you go.

·         When you’re leaving in different directions, take time for a quick hug and a smooch. Don’t get in too much of a rush to offer this physical connection.

·         Offer a compliment – at least once or twice per week. (We compliment the dog when they go potty outside. We reward kids with praise when they learn to spell words right. Our spouses need praise too!)

·         Know your spouse’s favorite restaurant or meal. Go there sometimes – even when it’s not a birthday or anniversary.

·         Wear your spouse’s favorite dress (or shirt for the men) sometimes. If your spouse likes you in blue – then treat yourself to something blue. (Don’t let go of keeping your spouse’s eye on you.)

·         Say thank you and please.

·         Do not point out disappointments – over and over.

·         Bite your tongue when things aren’t going like you thought they would. At least on occasion! Be refreshing by NOT taking over a given situation. Wait to respond…see how it goes before you speak!

·         Be willing to say, “I’m sorry,” first! (This can be hard when you’re irritated, right?)

·         Offer to pray for your spouse’s circumstance. (Your spouse may not be looking for you to solve a problem or burden – but rather to listen and pray about it).

·         Refrain from making comments about other men and women – those of a sensual nature. It can cause jealousy, division, and mistrust.

·         Stick to the present! (PLEASE do not bring up the past – past mistakes. If you’ve forgiven it, then forget it!)

·         Be aware of communication…try not to use words like “never.” (You NEVER take out the trash! You NEVER wear makeup anymore. Be leery! These are divisive fighting words).

·         Hold hands – at every stage of life. (It’s a special connection to each other).

·         Don’t be rude. Rudeness can be a barrier. (Refrain from things like rolling our eyes, or mocking, or critical language).

·         And tip number 25…If you SAY, “I love you,” then really mean it. (Demonstrate it consistently! Understand that not agreeing doesn't mean you love them any less)

I pray that you are blessed with a wonderful spouse too…a fantastic best friend…maybe children…fur babies…a good job. Blessings come in all shapes and forms! I know one thing, time goes by too quickly, and we can use these tips to be a blessing to SOMEONE in our life. As God blesses each of us, let’s try to be a blessing to someone else!

Look UP my friends!