Care In The Little Things

care - Care in the Little Things

Put [your] religion into practice by caring for [your] own family. 1 Timothy 5:4, NIV

My day had begun with an early meeting, and I (David) was squeezing in phone calls along the way. An afternoon of three more sessions stretched before me. I didn’t have much to look forward to but a long day and long drive home after dark.

I began to feel disconnected from my family and emotionally sapped from the tensions of the day. As I rushed past my message box, I checked for more phone calls, but I was greeted instead by “manna from heaven.” My box contained a soft drink, my favorite crackers, and a short love note—all from Teresa, who had thought of me and passed through the office.

Her initiative and sensitivity spoke volumes. My whole perspective changed. I realized, “I’ve been thought of! I’m important! I’m loved!” As I walked back to my office, I told everyone who would listen how my wife had so lovingly cared for me.

That night I was reminded of how the little things make such an impact. Turning down her side of the bed at night says, “I’m thinking of you.” Taking her a cup of coffee in the morning communicates, “You matter to me.” These small gestures let your spouse know that you consider his or her needs and care enough to meet them.

There are a million little ways to care for your spouse. Here are some examples:

• Buy her favorite bagels at the store.
• Fix and serve her dinner plate first.
• Open her car door for her—like you used to do when you were dating.
• Pick up the video of the movie she’s been wanting to see.

What “little things” can you do today to communicate to your spouse that you care?