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Have you made it all the way through to day 21? If you have, congratulations! Now that you have completed the challenge, however, remember that this is merely a jump-start. God willing, you’ll have many, many years to continue this journey through love!
Day 21 – To Encourage & Edify You
Today’s Scripture
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29, NIV)
Today’s Marriage Vow – To Encourage & Edify You
There’s a lot of weight on men’s shoulders, at least most men I know. When they aren’t facing deadlines at work, they’re dealing with the spiritual and financial responsibilities that come with leading a family.
And so, while they might appear to have everything under control, most of our husbands would not only appreciate encouragement from us, they would benefit from it.
Author, Matthew L. Jacobson writes, “We need your affirmation—we have to have it and, oh, how we thrive with it. Typically, men are quiet about these things but that doesn’t mean we need and enjoy our wife’s affirmation any less. And every man feels it: When his woman is behind him, he can slay dragons.”
Encouragement is a powerful force. It’s the cheer at the end of a race that gives a runner that final push to the finish. It’s the nurturing of a parent that instills confidence in their child’s life. It’s the words of a spouse who inspires you to grow in God’s grace.
To encourage someone is to “instill courage” in them. It’s more than a compliment, it’s a steady reminder that God’s on their side, that He is their power and strength, and that all things work out for good to those who are in Christ Jesus.
Excerpt from The Ultimate Marriage Vow – Day 21 (affiliate link)
Today’s Challenge
Look for ways to encourage your husband today.
Appreciate the Little Things
Have you been taking the time to journal each day? Have you written down some of the things you admire about your husband, or appreciate in your marriage? Now that we’re finished the 21 days, consider sharing these notes with your husband.
Let’s Not Forget Prayer
The best plan of attack starts with a morning prayer. God helps us formulate a plan, and He helps us to achieve it.
David once wrote, “My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.” (Psalm 5:3, KJV)
David knew what it took to slay a giant. He knew that his wisdom and strength rested on the power of God, and he drew on it daily.
And so I want to remind you to bring your marriage to prayer. Bring your husband to prayer. Bring your home to prayer. And, if you have children bring them to prayer. Lay them down at the feet of our Savior each and every morning asking God to bless and protect them. You won’t find better protection for your marriage, than that which only God can provide!
The Ultimate Marriage Vow, available at Amazon.com (affiliate link)
Surrender Your Marriage to God…
Too many couples give up. They part ways before they experience the joy of growing together God’s way.
I’ve been there. I’ve smelled the stench of death in my own marriage. We’ve been to rock bottom where all hope was seemingly lost. But that wasn’t the end—something incredible happened when we surrendered our marriage to God. Winter turned to Spring, Spring turned into Summer, and here we are decades later thanking God for His life-saving grace.
And so, I’m asking, will you give me 21 days? That’s all I’m asking you for—3 weeks, 10 minutes a day, and a gentle heart that’s willing to yield. Give me 21 days to show you what God can do for your marriage. 21 days to remind you that marriage is a gift worth fighting for. 21 days to love on and pray for your husband. 21 days to a life filled with love, joy, and peace. 21 days to a life-long commitment.
About the Author
DARLENE SCHACHT is an award-winning and NYT best-selling author. She is the founder of Time-Warp Wife Ministries, an online publication that encourages women to live Christ-centered lives.
Her passion for scripture and hunger for truth is the driving force behind a unique ministry that offers Bible studies and daily marriage prayers. Darlene is joined by her husband Michael on the daily podcast “5-Minute Marriage.”
Connect with Darlene:
Facebook: @timewarpwife
Instagram: @timewarpwife
Pinterest: @timewarpwife
Twitter: @timewarpwife
Amazon: Darlene Schacht (affiliate link)