Serving With Gladness

Serving with Gladness

Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!

Psalm 100:1-2 (ESV)

A HEALTHY MARRIAGE will include a positive attitude of service between a husband and wife. She will want to do things for him, and he will want to do things for her. But how do you know what things to do? Simple: You ask questions.

How about asking your spouse, “What is one thing I could do for you this week that would make your life easier?” When he or she tells you, you respond, “I’ll try to remember that.” All true service must be given freely, so the choice to do what your spouse suggests still rests with you. But now you have a concrete idea of how to invest your time and energy in a way that he or she will appreciate.

When you choose to do what your spouse has requested, you are serving Christ by serving your loved one. The first verses of Psalm 100 remind us that we’re called to serve with gladness. Serving God—whether directly or through serving others—can be joyful and energizing, and it can certainly bring blessing. It is the road to greatness, and it will also give you a growing marriage.

Father, I want to serve you with gladness. Help me to approach my spouse to find out how best to serve him or her—and then to do it with joy.

Service