2020 Marriage Challenge Day 27

Day 27

Day 27: Love Flourishes

One word I've repeated over the past month is the word "flourishes." I love that word when it comes to marriage because that is my goal when talking with couples or doing marriage conferences. I honestly believe that every couple can experience a love that flourishes. Flourishing doesn't come easy to anyone, but it might come easier to some than others. Some had better role models, are emotionally more healthy, or are just more naturally compatible with their spouses than others. Yet flourishing can come to everyone. With enough intention, work, and help every couple can have a healthy, vigorous relationship that brings them comfort, strength, and vitality. I'm yet to see a couple where both partners are willing to work hard and not give up where they haven't eventually experienced a healthy relationship. The problem is it takes a great deal of work, vulnerability, and humility. In some cases, one or both spouses give up before they reach their goal. But imagine what it would be like if you could honestly say your love was flourishing. It wouldn't mean perfection. It wouldn't be an absence of tension or disappointments. But it would mean an ability to navigate difficulties, communicate through hardships, forgive and be forgiven. Consider the gift it would be to yourself and others if you and your spouse consistently loved each other well. Love flourishes.                    Application: When I talk about flourishing in marriage, I mean something very specific. Re-read the 9 Traits of a Healthy Marriage. In what areas are you strong? In what areas does your relationship need to grow?                For more, see:10 Signs Your Marriage Is HealthyThe Definitive Indicator of Healthy Relationships