Day 12: Love Lets the Other Win
DEMONSTRATE LOVE BY WILLINGLY CHOOSING TO GIVE IN TO AN AREA OF DISAGREEMENT BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR SPOUSE. TELL THEM YOU ARE PUTTING THEIR PREFERENCE FIRST.
Depending on your personality style, today's dare could be a tough one. Some of us strive to win - no matter what - and all of us enjoy winning. Although Dale and I both have strong personality styles, something we learned a long time ago was that it's more important for our marriage to win - rather than getting our own way.
Difference of opinion? Seek God's plan, not your own. He will not give polarized answers. For example, one of you may want more children, to buy a new house, or to home-school your kids - while the other one does not. It's simple - seek not your will, but pray for God's will.
Regarding less important decisions (paint colors, restaurant choices, etc.) - be flexible, cooperate, and willing to put your marriage first. Are you refusing to give in because of pride? Give it up and choose to honor your mate. Let your spouse know he/she is more important to you than winning.
VERSE FOR TODAY'S DARE: "Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others" (Philippians 2:4).
THOUGHT FOR TODAY'S DARE: If it doesn't matter in the long run, it doesn't matter. You've heard the saying - win the war, not the battle.
Blessings for a "winning" day,
Dale and Susan Crook
(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.)
