Replace complaints with appreciation & see your marriage flourish!

Appreciate

Sometimes it takes a special occasion like a birthday or an anniversary to remind you to appreciate each other.   I woke up this morning with a deep sense of appreciation that I am married to such a wonderful man. I appreciate so many things about him but that wasn’t always the case.

Stop Grumbling

Every morning I would grumble and complain that Roy seemed incapable of picking his underwear and socks off the floor where he had dropped them. I focused on his problem rather than realising I had a problem of my own. For years I had been stuck in the cycle of complaining. I even prayed that Roy would change and that it would dawn on him how to find the wash basket.

Change Bad Habits

One morning, mid-complaint, God interrupted my rant with the shocking revelation that I was wrong. That I should learn to appreciate my husband rather than complain about him. I broke the old habit of complaint by exchanging it with thankfulness. Roy gave me an opportunity every morning as I picked up his underwear (yet again) to thank God for him. I started to pray for him and bless his day.  I soon discovered that I was no longer angry and frustrated but I was genuinely thankful.

Continue to Make the Effort

Nearly 3 decades on Roy doesn’t always leave his underwear on the floor, I don’t always remember to be appreciative but we do have a strong marriage because we allowed God to work on both our attitudes.

So here is my appreciation list:

Roy I appreciate:

  1. waking up in the morning and knowing that I have a faithful man by my side.
  2. that you take the time to pray with me about the day ahead.
  3. the way you look at me lovingly.
  4. the cup of coffee you bring me in bed.
  5. your protectiveness.
  6. your sense of humour and the way you laugh at your own jokes.
  7. your thoughtfulness.
  8. the jobs you do to keep everything running smoothly.
  9. the way you still go shopping with me even though you hate shopping.
  10. that you never comment on my wrinkles but always make me feel like I did when we first started dating.

Make a list of what you appreciate!

Bringing Worlds Together Book

Many couples struggle to get on the same page in marriage. Whether you are newlyweds or have been married for years Bringing Worlds Together will help you blend together. Expect to learn more about your spouse, gain insight and be challenged.

Are you ready to move closer rather than drift apart?

Available in print and ebook formats.

Adjusting Expectations Book

No-one enters marriage expectation free. Adjusting Expectations helps identify how expectations were formed and whether or not they were realistic. Most expectations need some adjustment; they are often too high but can also be set too low. The good news is expectations can be reset!

Find out what you should expect and what God expects from you.

Available in print and ebook formats.

Improving Communication Book

Most couples would willingly admit that their communication could do with some improvement; although many people also point the finger of blame squarely at their spouse for communication failures. Whether you believe it’s your fault, their fault or that you’re both to blame, this book is for you! There is always room for improvement.

Available in print and ebook formats.

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