Friday, February 26, 2010

February 26, 2010

"If a man loudly blesses his neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse." Proverbs 27:14
"Common courtesy" is not so common any more.
I held a door open for a couple of ladies at a restaurant the other day and they commented on how rare it was. Since I have always done it, I found it odd that they found it odd. But apparently it doesn't happen much.
Our Love Dare challenge today is a reminder of the importance and the impact of just being considerate to others. It is an essential part of being a good witness. You can't be a good witness and have bad manners. And certainly, that must begin at home.
As I read the Scripture verse this morning and reflected on it, I realized that rudeness is the result of impatience, unkindness, and thoughtlessness. If you whiff on any of the first three challenges you will miss on this one.
Since love is built on respect and trust, show your respect and gain respect by showing common courtesy to your spouse. Respect their space. Lighten their load. Lift their spirits. Strengthen their strengths. Overlook their weaknesses. Don't be easily irritated. Keep a sense of humor and don't take yourself too seriously. Say "please" and "thank you". Be fun and easy to be around.
If you are keeping your spouse on edge, always walking on egg shells, it it time for you deal with that. It doesn't take a spiritual giant to overcome rudeness. Start with common courtesy. Show love and respect by being polite to your partner.
Mind your manners and mend your marriage!