UNCOMMEN: Being Better Husbands And Fathers DailyShembull

[Illustrations included in this devotional are not visible in this view. Illustrations are only supported in the Bible App for iOS, Android, and at Bible.com] Day 1 - Morning // Start with Gratitude to Your Wife They say one of the most important things you can do in the morning is to show you are grateful for what you have in life. One of the best ways to get into a positive mindset first thing in the morning is to say a prayer of thanks to God. His mercies are new every morning. One of the greatest ways to appreciate your wife is to show your wife that you are thankful for her in the mornings as well. While that’s not always the easiest thing to remember (especially before the first cup of coffee), it’s not that difficult to say a few grateful words to her and remind her why she matters to you and to God. Do something special – something unexpected like taking care of a household chore that your wife doesn’t like doing or making sure breakfast or lunches are ready for the kids (if that is something she normally does). You can also speak kindness with a thoughtful compliment or by expressing gratitude for what she is giving you. Freshen Up Your Thanks The best way to reap the benefits of gratitude is to notice new things you’re grateful for every day. Gratitude journaling works because it slowly changes the way we perceive situations by adjusting what we focus on. Gratitude notes are even better.  While you might always be thankful for your wife, merely writing “I’m grateful for my wife” week after week doesn’t keep your brain on alert for fresh grateful moments. Get specific by writing “Today my wife helped me organize my office” or "My wife helped me think through that challenging situation at work." And be sure to stretch yourself beyond the great stuff right in front of you. Opening your eyes to more of the world around you can deeply enhance your gratitude practice. Make a game out of noticing new things each day. Morning Challenge: Start with one compliment to your wife when you first wake up and one act of unexpected service for your wife. Show your gratitude before you pour that first cup of coffee. Even better, make her that favorite cup of coffee. Bible Verse Reference Hebrews 10:24-25 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near. About the Author: Sam Casey is the Managing Partner at Banyan Creative based in Charlotte, NC and the Content Editor for Uncommen.org About the Designer: Tj Todd is the CEO / Creative Director at Studio490 based in Charlotte, NC and the Creative Director and Web Designer for Uncommen.org