Heavens Declare

 
God's been painting again!


The heavens declare the glory of God; 
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 
Day after day they pour forth speech; 
night after night they reveal knowledge.
Psalm 19:1-2

August 4
Yesterday I had a fabulous discussion with our six year old granddaughter. It blessed me! She began talking about how God made the sun, moon and stars and then thought he'd do more and he made the planets.  She talked about earth being covered by water and then God wanting to do more and added various aspects of nature, but yet He wanted more and she talked about all the animals and how he finally came up with the idea of people.  That led to a precious conversation about how God purposefully made us so that we can communicate with Him and how sad it must make him when we forget to talk to him!  So far, that's one of my top five summer conversations!

For those who are being conscious of how they talk to their husbands, here are days 4 & 5.

Day Four

"Let him labor, working with his hands what is good." (Eph. 4:28b)

We are all accountable for the things we say, both negative and positive words. Have you embraced the challenge to speak only positive things to your husband and to others about him? Here's a suggestion that touches the core of your husband's world.

Some women take their husband's career for granted, and they show it in many ways. Do you "dump" on your husband at the end of the workday, or do you strengthen and encourage him with your words? A wise wife will make her husband feel that she values and appreciates his work. Let him know that you are glad he is a hard worker. Take opportunities to praise his diligence and resourcefulness to others.

If your husband is out of work, unable to work, or refuses to work, you'll need to be more creative. Praise him for a character quality that you see in him that would be a vital part of a successful career—such as persistence, decisiveness, strength, an analytical mind,

organizational skills, good with people, good listener, determination, etc.

Journaling Thought:

In what areas do you need to verbally affirm your husband more often?

Day Five

"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers." (Eph. 4:29)

Another way to describe the positive side of this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge" is by using the word "edify," which means, "to build up." Negative comments only discourage and tear down. Positive comments encourage and build.

Do you edify your husband before others, adding to his value in their eyes? This is especially important to other family members.

Do you praise your husband to his relatives, and yours? Does your husband's mother know how much you love him? How about your dad? Perhaps you can drop a word of praise into a conversation or letter. Be creative in letting your relatives know that you respect your husband, love him, and support him - in spite of whatever flaws and weaknesses he may have.

Journaling Thought:
Write down some edifying comments you've made to others about your husband lately.  If that hasn't happened ask God to direct your heart in ways now to do that.