Week 58: I Corinthians 13

Fun Activity This Week: Instead of singing about the 12 things your true love gave to you this Christmas, make a list of the 13 things you want to do for your spouse.  I am not speaking of things that cost money, but you can add those if you choose (and you can add more than 13).  I am suggesting writing a list as a sort of pledge such as, "Twice a week I will take over one of your household chores," or "I can get up half an hour earlier at least once day a week to have a Bible study with you." Or offer to do any helpful things for one another and stick with it all year! Other ideas are bake a favorite dessert once a month, take over carpool for a week, wear sexy lingerie once a month, give a back massage once a month, go for a walk together once a week, etc...  If you are having difficultly coming up with ideas, then ask your mate where he/she could use some help. 

Week 57: I Corinthians 13

This week is such an easy topic it practically writes itself.  Well, actually the apostle Paul wrote it for us.  After you read the verses on love, I suggest you also read Galatians 5 (also listed below) and note how very similar the fruits of the Spirit are to qualities of love listed in I Corinthians chapter 13. I wrote about the fruits of the spirit in week 12 https://abcsofajoyfulmarriage.blogspot.com/2018/12/week-12-fruitful-fun.html so I won't repeat myself this week (for once!).

I love all of I Corinthians 13, so I also suggest you read the entire chapter together. In fact (I think I mentioned this before) I Corinthians 13:12 is my favorite scripture verse.

As I stated, there really is nothing to add to Paul's description on love, it's pretty self explanatory. I highly suggest memorizing this list, and when you are feeling anger or frustrated in your marriage, remind yourself of all the things that love is, and do your best to practice those ideals in your marriage!

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.  Love never fails.  I Corinthians 13:4-8

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

Marriage-Enhancing Idea for the Week: Read the two lists above from I Corinthians and Galatians together. Honestly evaluate your actions in your marriage and confess to one another where you need help.  Then do your best to reflect all that love is to one another from now on!

Art Project Idea: As I was finishing up a box of tissues this week, I realized that the beautiful pattern and sturdy cardboard on the box would be great for this week's art project.  Or better yet, to start saving different beautiful patterns from an inexpensive boxes of tissues to make this project more colorful! Cut out hearts and write all the descriptions of love on them listed in I Corinthians 13. You can also add your own words.  You can either tape them on the walls or refrigerator, punch holes in them and make a mobile out of them, make a mini book, or whatever you choose.  Of course, you can choose any material for this project, just be creative and have fun!