Thanks, ladies, for your responses and suggestions yesterday. Kevin and I love watching the show Man vs. Wild hosted by Bear Grylls, so last Christmas I got him an adventure book that Bear Grylls wrote, thinking Kevin would like it. But... it still sits on the shelf unfinished (except that I read and enjoyed it!). Regarding reading more, what I think I might say is this: "Since I want to work on reading more, it would help me if you read with me for a few minutes every night. Maybe not the same book, we could each have a book of our choice. It would really help me out by holding me accountable, but I think we would both benefit!" Then it turns the focus back to me, instead of me nagging at him once again to "pick up a book, maybe?" What do you think? We'll see...And Angie, I love Dance, Dance Revolution, but I'm just not sure if Kevin would dig it. I sure can ask him though! =) He did think about getting it for me once when I first discovered how much I liked it.
I didn't mention yesterday, and I want to take the time today, to share how proud I am for Kevin keeping up socially with coworkers and church friends. He's quick to get involved on sports teams, just for the social benefit, even though he's not the most experienced athlete. It would be easy for pride to take over and him to say he didn't want to get involved for fear of what the other guys would think. But he doesn't do that. And for being naturally timid, he'll find courage and be bold enough to invite friends with him on his Jeep outings and other events. In his boldness, he's allowing himself to build great friendships. And I'm so proud of him for that.
June 27--DAY 27
30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge
By Nancy Leigh DeMoss
"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD." Ps. 31:24
You have almost completed the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge." Perhaps it has taken you a tremendous amount of courage to speak words of encouragement consistently to your husband. Courage comes as we place our trust in God. Have faith that God will continue to work long after your encouraging words have been shared.
There are lots of "tough guys" in the world, but true courage comes from the Lord. Does your husband exhibit the courage to take an unpopular stand, perhaps even to stand alone against evil? Is he courageous in his faith? Does he work hard to change injustice? Is he a stickler for the truth? Does he protect you or your family from the attacks of the Enemy?
Psalm 27:14 says this kind of courage comes from "waiting" on the Lord for His strength. If your budget allows, "award" your husband with a medal, trophy, framed picture of a brave knight, or some other token that represents his courage as a man of God. Praise evidences of your husband's courage in protecting you, your marriage, your family, or your home.
Kevin is great about protecting our family, and being careful where he takes us and who we're around. Being in the Navy, I'm sure there have been plenty of social situations that Kevin has had to say No to in order to stand up for what he believes in. And as time goes on, those around begin to understand who Kevin is and what his values are. He's a strong man and a good leader, and even though I don't think I'll be going out and getting him a trophy or anything, he certainly does deserve praises for his courage.
2 comments:
I think that would be a great approach, Sarah. Yes, you both read a different book! Sorry, that is what I meant. If you put the focus on him, he won't take it as a personal attack! Let me know how it goes. We are going to go to the bookstore sometime this week.
I know Shawn takes a stand, since he is a Christian. Shawn knows the line not to cross. I know he is a leader in our home by the actions he takes. He wants to protect our family! If Shawn feels strongly about something, then he will debate with someone on the issue. I strongly encourage friendships with other Christians he knows through church! He knows that fellow Christians have the same morals as him. It makes such a difference if the other people have the same morals! Shawn being in the Navy can make things more difficult. He wants to be apart of the team at work but he also has to stand up for what he believes in. He knows his words and actions speak volumes. I know everyone at work knows he is a Christian, but I think sometimes he might struggle with being on the "line". He feels comfortable in his work area, so not being apart of the team can be difficult. We have found the same situations come up here and in GA. There are very few Christians in the area he works now. Hopefully one day there will be more NAVY leaders to guide our men in the right direction. I am thankfully Shawn keeps his morals in tact and is a strong Christian in today's society! It's 5:30 am and I am signing off!
No, no, Lisa! I knew what you meant, and I took your suggestion! I just found a way to phrase it so it would be clear to Kevin that I was not once again pressuring him to pick up a book. Thanks for the suggestion! I appreciated it!
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