Stamp of Inspected or Approved

Approval 

Building up or affirming another person, particularly for who they are (as opposed to what they do); affirming both the fact and the importance of our relationship with another person.
Eph. 4:29, Mark 1:11

Jesus frequently affirmed the importance of His relationship with the disciples. John 17: 6-19

 I was in Asia many years ago with an opportunity to buy a new camera.  I noticed two different stickers on the cameras:  “inspected” or “Passed (Approved)”.  Subtle difference, in that the two stickers looked the same, but a world of difference as to the condition of the camera.  Do you look for ways to let your spouse know that you “Approve” him/her and consider him/her a blessing….not perfect.. but valued.   

      Have you noticed?  Your spouse displays important character qualities.  God has consistently used him/her to be a blessing to many.  Have you shown Approval?  Let’s take some time to talk about Approval  and see if we can get in some practice meeting this need for others this week… beginning with your spouse.  Being thought of as an Inspector can leave your spouse very much alone.  Being known as one who finds things to show approval builds intimacy.  

Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any questions or suggestions!

The TBI Ministries Team

A Worthy Goal: (a little Support from TBI)

Don’t stop investing wisely into your marriage and family until your children and friends envy your relationship and want what you have…. “faith expressing itself in love” – Galatians 5:6.

Set aside a few minutes this week or plan a date night to discuss Approval  together. 
Husband, would you lead this time?  Please be prepared to lead by reviewing the questions below.  When ready, please initiate a “LOVE (Speak)” time.

LOVE(Speak)  

Consider these statements as you answer the questions below:

1. ___He/She is one of the most intelligent people I ever knew.
2. ___He/She is the greatest leader I ever knew.
3. ___He/She gives freely to help others who are less fortunate.
4. ___He/She is as much like Jesus as any one I know.
5. ___He/She is a person who can be trusted to keep his/her word.
6. ___He/She is a great listener, always seems interested in others.
7. ___He/She is a great friend who speaks truth to me in a loving way.
8. ___He/She is one of the most attractive people I have ever knew.
9. ___He/She is a real comfort to me and to others in times of sorrow.
10. ___He/She is one of the wealthiest people I ever knew.
11. ___He/She is the best at his/her profession of anyone I’ve known.
12. ___He/She sacrifices his/her own time and resources for others.

1. Which of the statements come close to what you hope others think and say about you? (you can choose more than one)

2. In your opinion, which of the statements is least important in terms of the legacy you leave behind in this life?

3. Which ones do you think your spouse will choose as answers to #1?

4. Which one do you think your spouse will choose to answer #2?

5. Would you number 1-12 in the blanks provided to indicate the order of importance to you? As you do so, consider how these characteristics fit into your personal priorities, especially in regards to the legacy you hope to leave to your children/family/friends.  

Note: Please remember that answers will vary and revealing priorities is a very vulnerable act. Please listen well, use appropriate responses, and create an atmosphere of acceptance rather than judging your spouse’s answers as inferior or superior. This installment of the 52-Week Plan is not to create a contest but a conversation.

Application: Do you meet with each other on a regular basis to discuss schedules, finances, etc.? Consider adding this question to the agenda: “Where do you most need my approval / what should I be noticing in your character that I have not mentioned?”

What About the Kids?       Ask – Listen – Respond 

1. Have a conversation with your child (child of focus – if you don’t have children at home) based on your answers and his/her answers to #1 and #2.

Remember to listen well.

2. If your child is not old enough to deal with these 12 statements, perhaps you and your spouse or another caring adult could discuss what you hope to instill in your children based on those 12 statements. Do you have a plan to pass along Christ-like character to your children? Does it include praying with or for them? Does it include serving others alongside them? Does it include making time with God and each other priorities? What are they seeing?