Her husband’s heart trusts in her, and he lacks nothing valuable. She brings him good and not harm all the days of her life.  Proverbs 31:11-12

Leftovers, Again?     I remember that “aha” moment — when I realized my husband’s heart didn’t trust me. It had nothing to do with fidelity in the typical understanding. It had to do with the “good” I brought him.

What I had brought him was “leftovers.” You know, what I had left over from my day.  My energy was being expended on my job, other family, my “me” time, friends, household chores — all those things came before Bob.

That moment happened after more than thirty years of marriage. Can you imagine? And Bob and I have had a good relationship by most standards.

When It Could Be More

But it wasn’t all it could be. And it was out of order. When I had that revelation and began making changes to put Bob first, I discovered I had overextended myself. Thinking there was a lack of purpose in my life, I had added all these activities and people to fill the space that belonged to my hubby. Realizing this meant making some difficult choices and ultimately, difficult life decisions.

We all have seasons in our life where our days are consumed by raising children, paying bills, taking care of parents, but when those seasons move on, making sure that we don’t fill those empty spaces with things other than building a relationship with our husband and our Heavenly Father is so important. Otherwise, we’re doing nothing more than adding wood, hay, and stubble to our lives (1 Corinthians 3:12).

I have wonderful friends. I love to write. I love to putter in the kitchen. But those things come after I bring my first to the Lord and bring the good and valuable to my husband. Because I made those difficult decisions, our marriage is sweet and harmonious. We’re not perfect by any means, but if I have a choice whether to hang with Bob or anyone else — it’s Bob. And that’s a good thing.

Think More About It

This verse can apply to either spouse. Men can have valueless priorities that occupy time and space meant for their wives. What are other ways we might need to adjust our priorities. Sowing into balanced priorities can reap a treasure in our relationships.

Until tomorrow, may we bring our spouses and loved ones the valuable and good, my friends.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers for Israel. God bless you and Shabbat Shalom!