Marriage Insight - Tell Your Spouse “Thank You”

Tell Your Spouse “Thank You”

Have you made it a point to say, “Thank you” to your spouse lately? We’re not just talking about saying thanks after he or she does something for you (although that’s important too). But lets ALSO remember to give thanks beyond those common courtesies. How about telling your spouse “thank you” for the person she or he is, not just what your spouse has done for you?

Here’s a marriage tip from the web site, “To Love, Honor, and Vacuum”:

“Instead of telling your husband you love him, tell him WHY you love him.”

Actively Practice Your Gratitude

We think that’s a great idea. It can be shared both ways. Why not sit down and write out a few of the reasons you most love about him or her? And then share them with your spouse. Actively practice gratitude.

Someone said, “Instead of focusing on what’s missing, learn to appreciate what’s already there.” We want to add, “and don’t forget to GIVE VOICE to that, which you appreciate.”

We’re told in the Song of Solomon, “This is my beloved; this is my friend.” Why not tell your friend (spouse) “thank you” for some of the things you appreciate about him or her?

The Thank You Challenge

The following is a challenge for you. Start out with this phrase, “Thank you for being you…” And then list several of the things you’re thankful for. Afterward, share your lists with each other.

Steve and I took this “challenge” last night. It was a very emotional time for us —in a great way. It endeared us to each other all the more. Someone else said, “It is not happy people who are thankful. It is thankful people who are happy.” (I’m sorry, but I really don’t know who gave that tip, but it’s true.) Steve and I are even happier than we were before we exchanged our “thank you’s.”

The Lord is pleased, no doubt, when we “encourage one another” as we’re told to do in the Bible. “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11) Speak words to your spouse that express your appreciation of him or her. The things you say to your spouse can become as “apples of gold in settings of silver.” They can make our spouse shine from the outside in, and then from the inside out. That’s a shine that brightens even cloudy days!

Give Thanks

So, during this time of Thanksgiving, why not say thanks to your spouse, as well? Thank God first, and above all, and then thank your spouse. And if you can, please tell us how it went by leaving your comment below. You might even share your thanks publicly on the web site. And then invite your spouse to see it. It has been said that, “Giving accolades in front of an audience is like giving care packages for the heart.” When you say something nice about your spouse to others, it sure can make them feel grateful that they have a spouse who brags on them. Give your spouse a “care package” for the heart whenever you can.

That’s what we decided to do. On the tail end of this Marriage Insight, we’re including a few of the things we appreciate about each other. We’re hoping they will inspire you to do the same with your spouse. Also, we’ll be including a few links to related articles, as well. We pray they bless your heart, and also your marriage.

Make sure you “encourage one another” whenever you can. And may your marriage be blessed!

Cindy and Steve Wright