The Bible does not shy away from showing the less-than-flattering aspects of the “heroes of the faith.” A case in point is the account of Abraham found in Genesis 20. Abraham told King Abimelech that Sarah was his sister. He was afraid that if Abimelech knew she was his wife, he would kill Abraham so that he could marry her himself. His attitude was 180 degrees from how God intends spouses to care for each other. God’s plan is for us to choose an attitude of love.

As one wife expressed it, “I am committed to my husband’s well-being. I want to do everything I can to enrich his life and help him accomplish his objectives in life.” If her husband has the same attitude toward her, they will find resolutions to their conflicts that will benefit both of them. Selfishness is the opposite of love. Selfish people seek to impose their will on others. What is important to them is “getting my way.” On the other hand, Lovers seek to do those things that are most helpful for their spouses.

Take time to pray:

• Thank God for giving you someone to help keep you from becoming self-centered.
• Ask Him to reveal areas in which you’ve neglected to enrich your spouse’s life.
• Ask Him to bless your efforts to make things right with your spouse.

Reflect on these questions:

• Are you committed to your spouse’s well-being? In what ways do you show it?
• Do you believe your spouse is committed to your well-being? In what ways does he or she show it?
• What specific steps can you take this week to enrich your spouse’s life and seek their well-being?

Consider these passages for further study on selfishness:

Psalm 119:36 Give me an eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money!

Romans 2:8 But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers.

I Corinthians 13:4-6 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.

A good attitude to keep in focus when being a value with the loved ones close to you. Devotional thoughts of Gary Chapman. Share a personal way that you are enriching your loved ones around you. For me, I like to take the time to rub my feet or simply fix a drink for my loved one. Sharing positive and encouraging words always help me smile and know that I love them.