Today begins the first of the forty day “Love Dare” emails, culminating on Feb. 12th. On Sunday, Feb. 13th Dale and I will teach a onetime “Championship Marriage” class at College Church – just in time for Valentine’s Day. If you’ve not had a chance to watch the movie, “Fireproof,” do so as soon as possible. (We would be happy to share a copy with you if you need one.) Regardless if your marriage is blazing and amazing – or a fizzle with no sizzle, it’s never too late to ignite the fire! :) (Sorry, couldn’t resist.) It’s our prayer that the marriages of the people we know and love (that’s you) burn with a passion for a “Championship Marriage.” In 2011, let’s all lock arms and encourage one another – pray for one another – to win – and to never settle for just a mediocre marriage. Fire up!
Day 1: Love is Patient
Although we communicate love in a number of ways, words often reflect the condition of our hearts. For today’s dare, resolve to demonstrate patience and to speak only positive words to your spouse. If the temptation arises to complain, hold your tongue rather than to say something you'll regret.
When choosing to be patient, we choose to respond in a positive way to a negative situation. When we're slow to anger, we extend mercy. We choose to control our emotions rather than allowing our emotions to control us. Anger stems from not getting something we want - a reaction based on selfishness. And exhibiting patience reveals wisdom.
VERSE FOR TODAY’S DARE: "He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly" (Proverbs 14:29).
THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S DARE: Few of us easily demonstrate patience well, but wise men and women pursue it. So today, our first dare to express true love begins with - patience.
(Want to take it a step further? Purchase the “Love Dare” book by Stephen Kendrick and Alex Kendrick for additional information and to record your results.)
Blessings to you as we embark on this forty day journey together!
Dale and Susan
