Chapter 2, Time to Consider

What can I do today to make him smile?
save money
schedule and plan date nights
make it possible for him to go and see a movie
organize and clean the basement, the part where he hangs out

Few women ever know what it means to be cherished by their husbands, but if you love him through this trouble, you will be cherished. Being cherished is much, much more than being loved. (Created To Be His Help Meet, pg. 34)
Loving your husband isn't just doing what you feel shows love, it is doing what means love to him. Gifts are one of my love languages but Lewis would prefer I not get him a gift if he doesn't need or want anything. For years I would try to find the perfect gift to show my love and year after year I was disappointed by his indifference to my gifts. I was also disappointed year after year when he put minimal effort into picking out, buying and giving me gifts. I have learned to help him with ideas for gift giving and I always ask what, if anything, he wants.

Joy - emotion evoked by well-being, success or good fortune; gladness or delight

Psalm 51:12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Psalm 31:11 You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy that my heart may sing to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever.

Psalm 16:11 You have made known to me the path of life; You fill me with Your joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.

Father God you are so amazing the way You work in our hearts and minds. Please help me to always be joyful, to show joy to my husband and children, to daily wear a smile and demonstrate that the joy of the Lord is my strength! In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Please post your responses to Chapter 2 this week and Chapter 3 by next weekend.