Once a year, we celebrate Thanksgiving…which to many means football, butterball and, of course, Black Friday shopping. The giving thanks part has been relegated to a rather minor position. This holiday was founded by people who gave thanks to God on a daily basis. And now, as a nation, we struggle to focus on being thankful for just one day a year.
Thanks and giving are both important aspects of marriage. I think it’s important in building your relationship that you regularly give thanks to your spouse for all the good things he or she is giving to you and your family. Paul was thankful for the special people God brought into his life. He says in Ephesians 1, “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus, I have not stopped giving thanks for you.”
So let’s make it your project this week to identify things about your spouse that you’re thankful for, and for which you can give praise and recognition…even if your relationship hasn’t been going too well. This exercise can help get you back onto a better path. Look for an opportunity every day to genuinely thank your spouse for something positive you see in him or her to help you get started.
Here’s a list of some things that spouses have been thankful for:
- Gives unconditional love
- Doesn’t hold grudges
- Puts God first
- Is patient
- Is trustworthy
- Is committed to our marriage
- Listens
- Has overcome sinful habits
- Models leadership
- Cares for others
- Is thoughtful
- Has a servant’s heart
- Is a peacemaker
- Believes in God of the second chance
- Lets me dream
- Is a great provider
- Dependable
- Is a great mom or dad
- Knows and loves Jesus
- Manages our home well
- Gives encouragement
- Is fun to be with
- Prays for me
- Covers my weakness
- Depends on God
- Gives me grace
- Empowers me
- Has a teachable spirit
- Is selfless and humble
Would you like to give your spouse an amazing gift for Thanksgiving, one that will be cherished for years to come? Why not write down a list of things in a card or letter what you appreciate most about your spouse and give it to him or her on Thanksgiving.
