Love That Lasts: 30 Days to a Stronger MarriageNäide

Then You Came

"Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:8)

The young husband was desperate. His wife had abandoned him and their two children weeks before. Though she still called occasionally, he had no idea where she was.

On the phone, he pleaded with her to come home and told her how much he and the children loved her, yet she continually rebuffed him. Was it time to give up and move on?

No. The husband used his meager savings to hire a detective, who found his wife living in a third‐rate hotel across the country. The husband borrowed money for a plane ticket. Soon, he was on her doorstep saying, “We love you so much. Won’t you come home?” She fell apart in his arms, and they went home together.

Weeks later, he asked why she hadn’t come when he expressed his love repeatedly on the phone. “Because,” she answered, “those were only words before. But then you came.”

True love is more than words. It may involve flying across the country, even when it costs you your last nickel to bring your spouse home.

Questions for Today . . .

• How have you shown your love to your spouse this week?
• If “actions speak louder than words,” are your deeds shouting or whispering your love?
• What can you do this week to show my love for your spouse?
• How, specifically, did Jesus show us His love?

Prayer . . .

Dear Lord Jesus, I want both my words and actions to say “love” in personal, powerful, and positive ways. Show me new ways to “honor others above myself.” Amen.

(Excerpted from Dr. James and Shirley Dobson’s book, Night Light for Couples. Used with permission.)

Bonus Content: How to Know That You Are Blessing Your Spouse

Serving your spouse is a daily act of love, but at times, your partner can feel unloved despite your greatest efforts. In this video, Brenen and Morgan Beeler explain how a husband and wife experience affection differently. They also share a great idea you can do together to be a blessing and strengthen your relationship. This simple exercise will encourage your spouse to feel cared for and loved.