Lavish Richly

Of this I am convinced, no matter our nature, our bent, our habits or even our comfort level, it can become second nature to lavish our spouses, our children with love in ways they understand it and to do so richly. This is the way it happens: 1st We gain an understanding of how they feel loved. 2nd We determine to do whatever it takes to show them we love them in the way they understand or experience love.  3rd We choose to speak love to them in that way, regularly. 4th Consistency over time develops a good habit. By doing what is right, the feelings will follow. Your own heart will begin to warm as you show affection, as you show love in ways that connect with your loved one's heart. 

If you have a man who needs words of affirmation, compliment him lavishly and do so in front of friends and family. If you're married to someone who desires your affection, push through your desire to resist (denying yourself) and lavish affection on your spouse. Each time you do these things that go against your nature, you are one step closer to having these things become a natural part of who you are as well. On the road to getting there, pray, be patient and be faithful. 

Do what is right and the blessings will begin to overflow in your marriage and in your relationship with your children. It's not the easy road and that's why God created us differently. We're given the challenge and opportunity daily to go against our nature and choose to do good for someone else. This is how we build treasures in heaven. Like my Dad always used to say, "Anything worth having takes work." A good marriage, a good relationship with your children, building up treasures in heaven, these are things that are worth the work.