Princesses and Knights in Shining Armour

As I pondered how to begin this topic of significant other, I had a startling thought: "My marriage may be the only picture some people see, to help them understand God's love for His bride."

If that is true, what are those watching learning about God as they look in on my relationship with my husband? Is it the truth about God's love? I sure want to paint a beautiful rosy portrait, but honestly, I fall short in this area of closest human relationships. (No surprise there!)

But who is it that needs to change to make this happen? Any attempt to change my mate has shown me that it is like "trying to catch a squirrel by chasing it." Since that's a futile effort, I'll work on what I can control, changing myself.

The first change needs to be from my natural tendency of selfishness to God's call to selflessness. Now that's not natural. But then again, my life in Christ is not a call to the natural but the supernatural. What I can't do in my strength, He can, as I give Him my weakness.
Sheila Gregoire writes in ChristianWeek (Feb 1,2009) "He (God) made us women to yearn to be princesses who need to be pursued, but He also gave our husbands the need to feel like knights in shining armour!"

Since I tend to emphasize the 'pursuing of the princess' from that quote, I'd like a change here. During this month as we celebrate love, I purposefully want to choose God's plan to forget myself (that doesn't mean neglect) and think of all the ways I could bless my mate.

Ways to make your mate feel like a Knight

Find out about your husbands' hobby or special interest.
I never ever wanted to ride a motorcycle but when Bob retired, he purchased one. Concerned that I'd be bored just riding behind him, but knowing I needed to give it a try, I put on a used helmet and jacket and off we went. It didn't take long for me to discover what I'd never have known if I'd gone by my own preconceived idea: I really enjoy motorcycling. Now we have a wonderful group of brand new supportive friends who all love the sport. On a recent plane flight, I read an article from one of his many cycling magazines and really found it interesting. (Reading one of those magazines has taken about ten years...oops! Need some work here.)
What does your mate enjoy in his free time? How can you connect?

Watch a favourite movie with him. (His choice and no complaints!)
Washroom breaks only!

Bake him a favourite cake or pie from scratch and let him have a piece whenever he wants it. How often have I made Bob a treat and then given the leftovers to someone else. Shame on me!What can you whip up? It's not that difficult.

Listen to what he is saying (undivided attention) endeavouring to hear his heart, not just the words he says. Have you ever misjudged your mate because of poor listening?

Forgive again and again
Ruth Bell Graham said" A good marriage is made up of two good forgivers."

What do you think of that comment?

I'd love to hear your responses to how you make your husband feel like a knight!

Ruth