Greetings!
Do the people with whom you work tell you that they are grateful for the work you do? Does your extended family do a good job of expressing appreciation for you? Regardless of how your coworkers, your boss, or your extended family do or don’t express appreciation, your marriage should be a relationship in which you know and show gratitude and appreciation. I know we can live without it, but it sure helps the relationships when appreciation is given and received. Don’t you think?
In this email, you’ll find the “Need of the Week”, which highlights one of the Top Ten Relational Needs.
Our “LOVE(Speak)” section contains five questions crafted to enhance communication as a couple. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our “Q4K” section, offering questions to use as you talk about these relational tools with your kids!
We have also included some “Getting Started” suggestions if you need a little direction as you begin.
Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any questions or suggestions for us!
The TBI Ministries Team
Getting Started
Be intentional about setting aside a few minutes this week or planning a date night to discuss Appreciation together.
Husband, would you lead this time by reviewing the statements to be completed or questions being asked so that you know how to make the most of your time? When you are ready, please initiate a “LOVE(Speak)” time with your wife.
Need of the Week
Appreciation
to communicate with words and feelings a personal gratefulness for another
I Cor. 11:2
Jesus welcomed children-was not bothered by them. Mark 10:14
LOVE(Speak)
- What is something your spouse has said or done recently that made you feel appreciated?
- What are some things you say/do that let your spouse know that you appreciate the work they do or effort they invest at home, work, or ministry? How does he/she react when you do it?
- Do you think that TV, movies, and music portray an accurate view of how we should show appreciation for our spouse? Can you relate any good examples of appreciation shown from TV/movies/popular culture (i.e. the Cosby Show)?
- Do you feel more, or less, appreciated by your spouse since you’ve been married versus the way you felt while dating or engaged? What, if anything, has changed?
- Based on the answers to the above questions, now discuss with your spouse how you can grow in meeting his/her need for appreciation.
Q4K: Yours or Others’
1. Idea: Notice when your children obey you or when they take initiative to pick up toys/books or offer to help you or someone else. Maybe you could say, “I really appreciate your help.” Or, “I know your teacher/coach really appreciated it when you…..”. Sometimes you may have to look long and hard to find something to appreciate, but something can be found eventually.
2. Let children see you express appreciation to another person (spouse, parent, friend, or clerk). Most of these qualities are caught more than taught.
The behavior you want to see repeated is worth rewarding.