Praying for My Wifeنموونە

An Attitude of Gratitude

Last Christmas, I was struck by a simple statement of gratitude in the story of Jesus. God lovingly provided Mary with a special relationship in Elizabeth. The Lord knew Mary would need the blessing of another human who understood the incredible, divinely orchestrated circumstances. The most blessed of all women expressed gratitude because she wasn’t going through the circumstances alone: “My soul exalts the Lord” (Luke 1:46 NASB). As I read those words, I was amazed. Mary’s gratitude wasn’t about her position, but about relationship. I now see that the same God who blessed Mary with a special relationship has sent my wife as one of His most special gifts for me. God has provided and “found” a beautiful wife for me, and she is a blessing from Him (Proverbs 18:22). More and more frequently, I’ve recognized a sense of deep gratitude for my life partner. She’s a partner who has seen my less-than-perfect side and still accepts me, a partner whose strengths lovingly balance my weaknesses, and a partner who thinks of me, gives to me, and cares about me. She’s the partner and blessing my God has given to me. Because of this, my soul exalts the Lord. 

PRAY: LISTEN TO JESUS 

In case you’re unsure of how to connect with me, I’ve given you a hint. Thank me. I’ve given you everything you enjoy— every breath you breathe and every relationship you call dear. It’s my absolute joy to give, yet it hurts my heart when the ones I love forget to say thank you. I feel loved and honored when I hear your words of gratitude. My followers who have learned to acclaim me walk in my presence and find great blessing. Your gratitude keeps us close.

* Jesus, I don’t ever want you to feel disappointed because I forget to say thank you. When I imagine how much you have given to me and our family, and how you might experience hurt because of my lack of gratitude, I feel ________. 

* Lord, I don’t want to forget to say thank you for my wife. She is a gift from you. Remind me of all the ways she is a special blessing from you to me. Keep me from being critical. I’m grateful you found and provided her for me because ________.

LIVE: DO THE BIBLE (Psalm 69:30)

* God, I want to bring you honor with my gratitude. Remind me of some of the special ways you have loved me recently. Today, I am particularly grateful for these ten things: ________. 

* God, in the same way, I pray for my wife. Would you move her heart with gratefulness for how you have loved her well. I want her to enjoy the blessing of walking in your presence. I want her to receive the joy of special connection with you because ________.

TAKE ACTION 

• Tell your wife some of the ways that she is a blessing to you. Share the top ten reasons she is God’s gift. 

• Brag about your wife and how you’ve been blessed by her. Share a post on social media or find some other public way to demonstrate your gratitude. Brag in front of your kids, family members, or friends: “I’ve recently been reminded of some of the great qualities in my wife. I’m grateful God gave her to me because ________.”