Marriage Myths (3)

May... God... give you a spirit of unity.
Romans 15:5

"We're not in love any more." Did you hear about the woman who ran a newspaper advert that said, "Husband wanted?" She got lots of responses, all saying the same thing:
"You can have mine!"
Seriously, if negativity and bitterness are eroding your marriage it's time to make some changes by:
(1) Remembering your history. Chances are you started out as good friends. So ask yourself how you'd treat your best friend if you were having relationship issues. Not by being critical and defensive, right? What initially attracted you to one another any how? When did you fall in love? How did you act when things were good? Recall and rehearse your best moments.
(2) Keeping your thoughts focused on what God can do. Zero in on your mate's best qualities, then start believing that God can turn your relationship around. Remember, you have more ability than you realise to change your perception of your partner. So concentrate on all the things in your marriage that are "of good report" (Philippians 4:8).
(3) Building thoughtful behaviour back into your relationship. List some of the things you know would make your spouse happy. Be specific. For example, hugging your husband when he comes home from work after a hard day, or helping your wife with the laundry. Show you care! Inject consideration back into your relationship.
(4) Seeing your partner through God's eyes. Trying to love others like God loves you is a good rule for all your relationships, not just marriage. And if you don't love yourself, start by remembering what God says about you: that you're blessed... loved... valued... and wonderfully made.