(I’m taking a few days off and decided to repost some of the more well-received “More Than Useless” posts. See you next week!)

Father, what a week it has been! It has been full of its challenges but Your presence has made all the difference. I am so grateful that Karen’s back surgery went so smoothly and that we got home with no problem. In some ways the last several days have been taxing but…I don’t want this to sound corny but…what a privilege it has been to serve my wife! She has cared for me for 31 years (and counting!) and this week I have been blessed to give back, if only for a few days. And I have another whole week to help her in whatever way I can. May I have the heart of a servant as we go through this week. May my love for her be strong, so much so that I cannot help but express it in a multitude of ways. Thank You, Father, for the great blessing of a wonderful helpmate and friend.

Lord, there are so, so many relationships that are on the rocks. Couples bicker and fight and let the smallest of things come between them. Maybe initially it is not too impacting but all too often it multiplies and eventually becomes a wedge between two people who at one point would have done anything for one another.

On June 14, 1986, I vowed to love Karen, “for better, for worse” and that simply does not have an expiration date. I am here for her and she is here for me. We by no means have a perfect relationship but we love each other and as Your word says, “love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8b) Your love is the example by which we live. You forgive, You forget and we move on. Your love is totally unconditional. I don’t live up to that standard in totality but with Your influence and strength, I strive to do so more and more each day. What better investment can I make than in my relationship with my wife?

The first part of verse 8 is my goal,

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other…”

Lord Jesus, may that not only be the goal in my marriage but may it be my goal every day of my life. It is surely a challenge but may I strive “to show deep love“ for everyone that crosses my path. May I live my life as You did. Amen.

Nov 5th, 2017, Sun, 7:43 pm