REFLECTION & PRACTICE  (Day 3 of 7)
(Need to start at the beginning? Day 1)

Our three concepts:

be welcoming – does your spouse feel at home?
stand with others in trouble – ’cause we all need that kind of friend
speak up – don’t let your silence speak for you

In standing with other folks, I’ve been thinking about what that looks like in different situations.

It can show up in big ways, like when Paul was in prison and Onesiphorus went looking for him to take care of him (2 Tim 1:16-17).

Recently, in our neck of the woods, several families lost their homes to local forest fires. I so loved seeing a number of people, churches, and agencies step up to help take care of these families. They were modern day Onesiphoruses. (I’m sure they would appreciate the sentiment, not necessarily the moniker.)  🙂

But don’t forget that standing with others can also show up in everyday small ways like inviting a friend to coffee because you know they need to talk. Spouses need hugs on down days and sometimes a shoulder rub when they’re sore from exercise or heavy chores.

I think this is hugely about being aware of the people around us and seeing if there is something we can do to make life easier for them.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info.
Image credit © Pexels / Pixabay
We’re Donation Supported

REFLECTION & PRACTICE (Day 2 of 7)
(Need to start at the beginning? Day 1)

Our three concepts:

be welcoming – does your spouse feel at home?
stand with others in trouble – ’cause we all need that kind of friend
speak up – don’t let your silence speak for you

In thinking about being welcoming, as with most things, I go all practical.

Can my sweetie easily get to the door (from the outside and inside)? Is certain gear easily available (like an umbrella, boots, etc.)?

When he enters the home, what does he need emotionally? A hug? A few words? A comfortable place to sit and relax a moment?

I listen to what he says and does as he enters and leaves the home. Then I make it easier for him to want to be home.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info.
Image credit © Andrew Neel / Unsplash
We’re Donation Supported

REFLECTION & PRACTICE  (Day 1 of 7)

So we have a week of review.

be welcoming – does your spouse feel at home?
stand with others in trouble – ’cause we all need that kind of friend
speak up – don’t let your silence speak for you

Which concept is the most challenging for you? Where did you see some growth and success? Which concept played into your marriage more strongly?

I’m working on the speaking up thing this week. I generally do, but I realized I’m not as aware and intentional as I need to be about this. Where is the line between “important enough to speak up” and “let it go”?

I’m going to have that conversation with Paul and as many friends as will put up with me.  🙂  I’d love to hear your thoughts, as well.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info.
Image credit © Gerd Altmann / Pixabay
We’re Donation Supported