A Google search of the word 'Tune-Up' revealed the following definition:
An Adjustment for Better Functioning
A search for the definition of 'Adjustment' revealed the following:
A Small Change, A Minor Correction, A Modification
More on Tune-Up Tuesday here.
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Photo by AYUMI
“Finally, brethren,..if there be any praise, think on these things.”
In the beginning of your relationship, you probably accumulated quite a list of positive attributes about your spouse; all those things that you loved about them that made you want to marry them. If you were like me, you thought about those wonderful qualities often (maybe even with that sappy, dreamy look in your eyes LOL). Then, once you got married and began living together, suddenly a whole new list started. Maybe you didn’t mean for this list to start – I certainly didn’t. But out of hurt feelings, unmet expectations or just plain selfishness, this list was created: the weaknesses, irritating traits and failings of your spouse. It's not long, but it is there.
When we dwell on the first list – the positive one; we are thankful for our spouse and our appreciation for him increases. When we begin to think about aspects of the second list, our hearts begin to devalue our spouse and it’s a slippery slope from there. It can drain our joy and the love right out of our marriage.
Love isn’t oblivious to anything, it is well aware that the negative qualities exist but it chooses to be gracious not to focus on them. Whether or not they deserve it, Love chooses to see the best and pray about the rest! (that rhymes!)
Challenge: This week, make a list of your spouses good attributes. Aim for 10! Next Tuesday, I’ll be posting mine and you are welcome to post yours as well and link up!
Verses: Philippians 4:8, 1 Corinthians 13:7
And litte PS. I am very much in love with the awesome man God has given me, but there are moments when I become ungrateful...those are the moments I want to work on...
You can follow along here however I really recommend picking up a copy of The Love Dare for yourself. It contains so much more than what I am sharing here. You can purchase one by clicking the appropriate button on my right sidebar to go to my A-Store.
Related posts: Loving My God, Loving My Man, Love is Patient, Love is Kind & Not Selfish, Thoughtfulness, Irritating or Irritable?
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Do you have a tune-up you are working on this week? Are you joining me in the Love Dare? How are you doing? Leave a comment to let us know or add a direct link to your blog post below to encourage and inspire others. Don't underestimate the power of accountability - it's a great motivator!
I did one of these lists a while back (only longer than 10 *blush*).
ReplyDeleteGod pairs us so perfectly I'm continually boggled by it all.
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I'm actually the reverse of your story above-- I could not articulate at the time of our marriage *why* I wanted to marry Jay. This was very disturbing to my cerebral self, and nearly kept me from saying "yes." I was used to defining and understanding everything, and here was something I couldn't.
So to have a list now is a triumph and a delight. And a delicious confirmation that that emotional stuff wasn't crazy or foolish.
This could be really fun to join! I am adding you to my outlook feed reader so I can remember to check in when my life is a bit slower. :-)
ReplyDeleteAlso, thanks for your comment on my necklace giveaway! Yes, I made it :-)