For this book reading, each day will contain three very important element;
First, a unique aspect of love will be discussed.
Second, you will be given a specific dare to do for your spouse.
Last, you will need a journal to log what you are learning and doing and how your spouse is responding by answering the 'question of the day'. These note will record your progress and should become priceless to you in the future.
The entire book will not be published but every chapter will be previewed and I strongly recommend that you get a hard copy for future references.
Ensure that you do not miss any part of this book reading. Enjoy!
DAY 10: Love is unconditional
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
—Romans 5:8
—Romans 5:8
If someone should ask you, "Why do you love your wife?" or "Why do you love your husband?"- What would you say?
If your reasons for loving your spouse all have something to do with his or her qualities- and then those same qualities suddenly or gradually disappears- your basis for love is over.
The only way love can last for ever is if it's unconditional. The truth is this: love is not determined by the one being loved but rather by the one choosing to love.
The Bible refers to this kind of love by using the Greek word agape. It differs from the other types of love, which are- phileo (friendship) and eros (sexual love). Both friendship and sex have an important place in marriage, of course, and are definitely part of the house you build together as husband and wife. But if your marriage totally depends on having common interests or enjoying healthy sex life, then the foundation of your relationship is unstable. There must be a stronger foundation than mere friendship or sexual attraction. Unconditional love will not sway by time or circumstance.
That's not to say, though, that love which began for the wrong reasons cannot be restored and redeemed. In fact, when you build your marriage with agape as its foundation, then the friendship and romantic aspects of your love become more endearing than ever before.
But you will struggle and fail to attain this kind of marriage unless you allow God to begin growing His love within you. 1 Corinthians 13:7 kind of love does not come from within. It can only come from God.
Romans 8:38-39 is God's kind of love. And thankfully- by your choice- it can become your kind of love. But first you must receive it and share it.
TODAY’S DARE
Do something out of the ordinary today for your spouse—something that proves (to you and to them) that your love is based on your choice and nothing else. Wash her car. Clean the kitchen. Buy his favorite dessert. Fold the laundry. Demonstrate love to them for the sheer joy of being their partner in marriage.
QUESTION OF THE DAY
Has your love in the past been based on your spouse's attributes and behavior, or on your commitment? How can you continue to show love when it's not returned in a way you hoped for?
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