LOVE = TIME, what does that even mean? I thought that was an interesting way to think about and look at love!
I’m sure you have all heard about the 5 Languages of Love. Everyone is different! Quality Time is my Love Language. So, when I saw this while reading through a Bible Plan in the Holy Bible app, I was intrigued. As I worked through this plan, one of the most important aspects they were teaching was TIME speaks louder and gives more priority to your marriage because the depth of a relationship is directly proportional to the TIME you invest in it!
WOW! That really spoke to me! Spending time together, talking about your day and asking your spouse how their day was; maybe a new joke you heard; what the kids did in school; something you learned; etc….these are all things that brush the surface, but they are still an integral part of your relationship. The person who wrote this Bible Plan asked Johnny Hunt, who is an American evangelical Christian pastor and author, “What is the one thing you have learned about marriage that you could share with me?” Mr. Hunt replied, “Nothing replaces spending quality time with your spouse.” He, also, added, 3 statements and I have included them below in my own words:
- Spend time talking with your spouse daily. Whether you are retired or working, it does not matter. Have at least one open conversation that speaks to his or her heart. I have a short list of questions that you might want to start with and then develop questions better suited to your relationship. * What is your perfect dream date? * What is most important to you in our marriage? * What can I do to help you spiritually? * If there is one thing that would help you that I can change, what would it be? * Tell me, how I can encourage you? * Are you happy with our marriage?
- Take time to date weekly. Pick a day during the week that works for both of you and plan to do something together, but just the two of you-NO KIDS. You need quality time to yourselves. It can be as simple as having the children go upstairs and you can be downstairs just the two of you or sitting on the patio or porch just holding hands. Maybe watch a special movie that you both agree on. Just some time to be adults and enjoy each other’s company. Maybe you don’t have kids. Go to the park, hold hands and just stroll! Enjoying the time with each other, laughing and goofing off. It’s relaxing and takes the stress away. It’s really important!!!
- Try to get away for a weekend every few months, if possible. When you prioritize your spouse and are able to plan and save for time away, it shows them that they are very important to you! This is essential for both of you. Take turns planning a special little getaway. It doesn’t need to break the bank, but time together not worrying about chores, kids, work, family, etc….is a wonderful thing! You don’t even have to leave town, just go rent a hotel/motel room and do whatever you want without answering to anyone! It’s a fun way to help each other to relax and spend time together!
This is just some ideas for you to think about and hopefully you will come up with your own!
1 Corinthians 13:13, And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
I hope this helps you and your marriage! You can always go to our Prayer Wall and add a prayer request. It does not need to be about marriage or a relationship. It can be about anything! It would be our pleasure to pray and stand with you!
If you need to talk with someone, please reach out to info@unitymarriageministry.org. It would bless and honor us to speak with you! REMEMBER:
WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!