Serving One Another: A 3-Day Marriage PlanSample

Love by Serving

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14

Husband, we’re speaking especially to you tonight. Just as selfishness is a sure marriage killer, an attitude of service and sacrifice—the “I’m Third” philosophy—is an indisputable marriage builder.

We urge you to study your wife. What is it that speaks to her heart? Are you providing that for her? Would she appreciate help with the dishes, vacuuming, or changing the baby’s diaper? Should you be more romantic? Could you put off that weekend auto show so she can visit her sister? Maybe you’d rather go fishing on Saturday, but should you watch the kids instead so your wife can have a needed day out?

Jesus gave us a classic example of service when He washed His disciples’ feet and told them to do the same for one another. Is it time for some symbolic “foot washing” in your marriage? Women are romantic creatures. God made them that way. Have you tried to understand that tender nature and sought to meet the needs it expresses?

Here’s the personal payoff: If you as a husband will address this romantic longing, your wife, being a responder, will be drawn closer to you. You’ll get the kind of attention and admiration you hope for. Try it!

Just between us . . .

·(husband) When have I done a good job of “foot washing” in our marriage?

·(husband) Do you feel I understand your romantic nature? Why or why not?

·(husband) Have I met your needs during the past week?

(husband) Dear Lord, I want to become an expert at meeting my wife’s needs. Teach me to “wash her feet” and serve my way to a great marriage. Amen.

Excerpted from Night Light for Couples, used with permission.

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her . . . (Eph. 5:25, ESV)

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. (Phil. 2:3-4, ESV)