The Mended Rib: A 27-Day Devotional for Men Battling Lust and InfidelitySample

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools you can wield in the battle against lust and infidelity. When you choose to focus on the blessings in your marriage, it shifts your perspective from what you think is lacking to what God has already given you. Lust thrives in discontentment, but gratitude cultivates love, appreciation, and a deeper bond with your spouse. It changes the atmosphere of your heart and relationship by highlighting the good that is often overshadowed by negative thoughts.

I used to spend far too much time focusing on the negatives in my marriage. I allowed myself to believe that the challenges I faced justified my unfaithfulness. But the truth was, there were so many things to be grateful for—things I ignored or didn’t know how to appreciate. Even in her pain and unhappiness, my wife continued to love me, take care of our home, help raise our children, and remain committed to God. Despite all she endured, she stayed faithful, and her kindness shone through her own hurt.

Looking back, I realize that my wife has always been a jewel in my life, a blessing I had taken for granted. It took time, but I came to understand the depth of what I had almost lost. Gratitude opened my eyes to her value, and it’s something I will never overlook again. Shifting my focus from complaints to thankfulness has not only restored our relationship but also deepened my love and appreciation for her.

Challenge

Today, write down three things you are grateful for in your wife. Take time to thank God for her and, if possible, express your appreciation to her personally.

Prayer

Father, I thank You for my wife and the blessing she is in my life. Help me to cultivate an attitude of gratitude in my marriage and to appreciate her daily. Amen.