The Art of Edification: A 3-Day Marriage PlanSample

Unsung Heroes

Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom. . . Wealth and honor come from you.

1 Chronicles 29:11–12

As a society, we are inclined to honor heroes and high achievers. We award a Purple Heart to soldiers wounded in action. We admire All‐Americans who excel in college football, basketball, or baseball. We celebrate winners of the Nobel Peace Prize. We applaud students who graduate magna cum laude. We fawn over movie stars at the Academy Awards. But who takes time to honor the wives and husbands who diligently fulfill their responsibilities each day? Who cares about these unsung heroes who give of themselves, sacrificing for their children or caring for each other? Most often, the only cheering section for such couples is themselves—but when one partner doesn’t seem to notice, it’s pretty tough for the other to feel valued or motivated.

Scripture is clear regarding this matter. The apostle Paul says, “Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10). There’s no better place to apply this verse than in your home—with the husband or wife sitting next to you.

Just between us . . .

·What do you think honoring each other means in the context of marriage?

·Do you feel “honored” by me?

·Do you know, without a doubt, that I hold you in highest esteem?

·When in our marriage have you most felt this way? When have you not?

Dear Lord, in our rush to admire and celebrate the achievements of others, help us to remember the loving life partner right beside us who most deserves our appreciation and respect. Open our eyes to simple but meaningful ways we can show honor. Amen.

Excerpted from Night Light for Couples, used with permission.

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” (Prov. 31:28-29, ESV)

So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. (Rom. 14:19, ESV)