Your Spiritual Health, Part 4

We are continuing on with the Sunday Series, again these books are called The Homebuilder Couples Series (click to order).  They are meant to be led devotional style together or in a group of couples.  My husband and I choose to do them together once a week.  It helps us understand each other and improve our communication.  Marriage is something that should always be changing and growing stronger.  This takes actual work.  It doesn't just magically happen.  Couples have to decide that complacency isn't okay and strive to become everything God intended for them.  This is just one way to start and continue that process in your own relationship or marriage.    


Today we are going to discuss:  
Planting Positive Words
so grab some coffee, grab your bible, and grab your honey to participate with you!


warm-up: Guess Who
discuss this question between yourselves or your group.  Yes, this is an icebreaker!  Go with it!

• In what way do words have the power to paint pictures in our mind?

Blueprints: The Power of Words
1. "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." As you look at that childhood statement from an adult perspective, how do you feel about it?

2.Think about the power of words in your life.  What were some statements you heard about yourself growing up--either positive or negative--that you still remember?

3. What is easier for you to recall---positive or negative words?  Why?

4. Words can be compared to seeds.  Read aloud the following verses from Proverbs about the power of words.

• Proverbs 11:9
• Proverbs 12:25
• Proverbs 15:4
• Proverbs 16:24
• Proverbs 24:26
• Proverbs 25:11

Of these verses, which stands out to you and why?

The Power of Praise 

Since words should be used carefully and constructively, let's consider how best to speak to your spouse.

5. What is one of the best compliments or words of encouragement you have received? 

6. Why do you think some people find it hard to give or to receive praise? Which is harder for you to do?

7. Read Ruth 2:2-17.  The pleasant exchange of words between Boaz and Ruth occurred in ordinary, daily circumstances as they both went about their work.  In what way does their interaction challenge you in how you relate to your spouse, particularly in the words you use daily? 

8. It is important to be specific in praising your spouse.  Complete the following statements about your spouse:

• Thank you for...
• You made me feel loved when...
• I like being with you because...
• I appreciate you because...
• I admire you for...
• I feel confident you can...
• One thing you are really good at is...

Answer these questions on  your own.

1. During these readings what insight, discovery, or reminder did you find most helpful?

2. Why do you think there is a tendency for couples to become callous or insensitive to the effect their words have on each other after they have been married awhile? How can understanding the power of words begin to change the vocabulary you use with your spouse?

3. What are some words from your spouse that encourages you and lifts your spirit?

4. What are some words from your spouse that bring you down and discourage you?

5. How can you regularly communicate praise to your spouse?

okay, now you two can come back together to answer the final questions together!

1. See if you can compliment each other all the way through the alphabet.  For example, taking turns start with the letter "a" and say something to your spouse like "you are the Apple of my eye" or "You're Athletic", or "I Admire you".  Then go to the letter be and try and make it all the way through.  

2. Share your answers to the questions you answered individually. Be open, kind, and understanding toward each other .

3. Agree  on any action steps you should take and how you should implement them.

4. Finish by praying for each other in the areas that you noted above.  Thank God for your spouse. 

Next Sunday is Christmas , so
Part 4 will post the  following Sunday!

Stay Tuned!

p.s. today is the 6th day of Christmas giveaways!
Hop on over to Shalyn's blog to  enter her giveaway! 

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