by Tonja Taylor
Rejoice at all times. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – I Thess. 5:16-18, Berean Standard Bible
In my opinion, two little words–“Thank you!”–have remarkable power to heal and bless any relationship, but especially marriage.
I have not only astounded people through the years (them being astounded that I said “Thank you,” or wrote a thank you card, etc., astounded me!) by saying “Thank you!”, but I have seen my marriage start thriving, as I gave this gift of thanks to my husband.
It has not always been easy to be thankful, but the LORD helps us. The more we practice thanksgiving (or anything else, almost), the better we get at it.
I’ve found that, in me modeling the right behavior, that has helped my dear husband to be more thankful.
(Yes, I’ve had to “go first” in many areas, but the LORD helped me, and finally helped my husband see that the boldness of the LORD in me prompts me to do many things that used to make him uncomfortable, but that he now understands and supports. Praise God. I’m thankful for those breakthroughs, and many other good things about our marriage!)
Trust me, when both spouses are more thankful to God, and then to each other, life is just better! It’s more like Heaven on earth (Deut. 11), which has been God’s Plan from the Beginning (Genesis 1)!
So try it. It can only help, even if your marriage is strong.
Most people like to be appreciated, especially verbally. Go for it, and if you find it hard to find things to be thankful for about your spouse and/or others, ask the LORD to help you. He will!
By expressing your thankfulness, you will bring Him glory, and put more positivity into the atmosphere!
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. – Colossians 3:17, Berean Standard Bible
Many of Tonja’s books are available at Barnesandnoble.com, Amazon, and other places, with several new works upcoming! She and her husband live to exalt God–through her books, the “River Rain Creative” YouTube channel, and service in church, community, and beyond. JESUS IS LORD!
