Dr. Dobson's Married Couples Devotional - Dec. 12
Is Honor Overdue?
“Humility comes before honor.”
Proverbs 15:33
Mr. Smith learned that his neighbor, Mr. Jones, had presented flowers and a gift to Mrs. Jones five nights in a row. He thought, That must be what wins a woman’s heart. So Smith went out and bought a big box of candy and a bouquet of his wife’s favorite flowers. Arriving home a little early that after‐noon, he rang the doorbell. When Mrs. Smith appeared, he passionately embraced her. Suddenly she sagged and fell in a heap on the floor. “My goodness! What’s wrong?” he exclaimed. When she regained consciousness, she explained. “Oh, this has been the worst day! Our son received a terrible report card; Mother was admitted to the hospital; the roast burned; the washing machine broke. Now to top it off, you come home drunk!”
If your partner can’t even fathom the possibility that you would bring her flowers or a gift (or some similar surprise), take the hint. It’s time to work on honoring your mate!
Just between us . . .
• Would you be shocked if I brought you flowers or some other gift?
• What’s the best surprise I ever gave you?
• What kind of thoughtful gesture would be enjoyable and honoring to you?
• Do you prefer being surprised in front of friends or in private?
Lord, we confess that the hurly-burly pace of living often threatens to suffo- cate our relationship. Remind us to care for each other. Help us to encourage others who are struggling in their marriages. Amen.
• Illustration from Building Your Mate’s Self-Esteem by Dennis and Barbara Rainey (San Bernardino, Calif.: Here’s Life Publishers, 1986).
Listen to today's broadcast of Dr. James Dobson's Family Talk at OnePlace.com. For more from Dr. Dobson, visit the resource center at drjamesdobson.org.
This devotional is taken from Night Light for Couples. Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
