We are more likely to be blessings to others when we feel good about ourselves. We also tend to notice each other's shortcomings more frequently when we're struggling with our own problems. If we're going to be bless others, and especially our spouses, we must first come to terms with ourselves. Before we're able to share peace, we must experience it personally. When we find fault with people around us, it probably means we need to do some good old-fashioned soul searching.

Continue encouraging each other and building each other up, just like you are doing already.

–1 Thessalonians 5:11

Taste and see how good the Lord is!

–Psalm 34:8

A bouquet of roses from the garden, with their beauty and fragrance, goes a long way toward solving arguments. The sound of gentle words such as "I'm sorry" or "I love you" can soften even the hardest hearts. Holding hand while going for a walk employs all our human senses, especially if you tuck a bit of food in your pocket. tangible expressions of caring both connect us to God and bring us together as a couple.

There are different spiritual gifts but the same Spirit ... and there are different activities but the same God who produces all of them in everyone.

–1 Corinthians 12:4-6

In a marriage, one may be a morning person, the other definitely not. One turns the thermostat up; the other turns it down. One knows the precise bank balance: the other's not even sure where the bank is. The important thing is to see these differences as a source of strength and joy. God has gone to considerable effort to make each of us unique. The least we can do is honor that.

Life is lived in the realm of "everyday." It's where work is done, tears are wiped, laughter is heard, and love is shared. It's where hearts are broken and mended. In marriage, it's what starts when the honeymoon is over. The goal is not merely t survive but to prosper, to find meaning and joy in each moment. We need to plan for the future yet live in the present. It's a delicate balancing act requiring God's constant guidance.

Remember this day....

–Exodus 13:3

We want our lives to count for something. Jesus teaches that we win not by gaining but by giving, not by standing up but by stepping down. Pretending to be something we aren't or trying to camouflage our limitations doesn't cut it when it comes to God. Once we've learned to accept ourselves as we are—weaknesses and strength, irritating and lovely habits alike—we've taken a giant step toward making our lives count for plenty. That's necessary prelude for receiving and using the gifts God has given us.

The one who is greatest among you will be your servant. All who lift themselves up will be brought low. But all who make themselves low will be lifted up.

–Matthew 23:11-12