Perspective

Marriage is hard. Sometimes I am tempted to compare nathan to other husbands; 'oh if only nathan did that' etc but I am always reminded of 3 things:

1. I am no piece of cake myself
2. My husband is an AMAZING gift from God and you don't look a gift horse in the mouth!
3. Sometimes a little perspective is all that is needed.

For example, I was talking today about some things with a good friend and she gave me some real insight and a different way of looking at life. I realised (again) that every problem has a solution, that often things are not the way they seem. I am so appreciative of the wonderful women in my life who help me to stretch and broaden my views on myself, life and marriage. We all have different strengths and weaknesses. I think marriage is a concerted effort on each partners behalf to be that one person who will always stand for them, see the best in them and stick by them through thick and thin. Sometimes it is tempting for me to nitpick and nag, but in reality, I want to be my husbands biggest cheerleader in life.

Prov 12:4 says
'An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, But she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones.'

This verse seems really full on, but I can totally relate to it. Pointing out where someone is falling short only brings shame and resentment. Counting my blessings and celebrating all the beautiful, amazing qualities of my hubby and telling him how much I admire him strengthens him and gives him wings to fly into his future and his dreams. I so want to be that wife for him, all the time, not just when I find it easy (like after he has bought me flowers. I want to be just as nice when he forgets to take the garbage out hehe)

Another verse that has convicted and challenged me is Prov 14:1
'The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish pulls it down with her hands.'

Nothing pulls a man and a home down faster than constant critism and distrust. A wise wife builds into her hubby's life with kind and gracious words and she is rewarded for it with harmony in her home and a man who is empowered to reach his full potential.

One last scripture that really encourages me is Prov 31:28,29. It says of a virtuous wife that
'Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: “ Many daughters have done well, But you excel them all.”

I love the wisdom of God and the wonderful rewards He blesses us with when we live by His principles. I love how He is ironing out my crinkles through marriage. I still feel very wrinkly, but I am getting there! xox