Appreciation is a powerful way to show love in marriage. It communicates that you value your partner, their contributions, and their presence in your life. Everyone in your life wants to know they matter to you and are seen as part of your life. A spouse feels the same. When you express appreciation, you are also strengthening the bond between you and your partner.
There are many ways to show appreciation in marriage. Here are a few ideas:
Give specific compliments. Don't just say "I love you." Tell your partner what you appreciate about them specifically. This shows you have seen something they're doing to make the marriage work. You're concerned about the minute details. For example, you could say "I love the way you always make me laugh" or "I appreciate how hard you work to provide for our family." Day to day activities have a way of making us so busy that we don't take moments to be grateful for the little or big things that keep the vehicle of our lives running. Be specific in your compliments, it shows thoughtfulness. Song of Solomon 1:14, My beloved is unto me as a cluster of camphire in the vineyards of En-gedi.
Say thank you. It may seem simple, but saying "thank you" to your spouse for the things they do for you can go a long way. Let them know that you appreciate their efforts, whether it's taking out the trash, cooking dinner, or just being there for you. 1 Thess 5:18, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Do something thoughtful. This could be anything from cooking their favourite meal to giving them a massage to buying their favourite snack on your way home. The important thing is that it's something that shows you were thinking of them. Php 4:8, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Spend quality time together. This could be anything from going on a date night to just cuddling on the couch and watching a movie or going on a jog together. Make sure you're making time to connect with your partner on a regular basis. We all need a break at some point, don't be too engrossed in even the responsibilities that you forget to talk or laugh with your spouse. No one is too busy for the ones they love.
Be a good listener. When your partner is talking to you, really listen to what they have to say. Don't just wait for your turn to talk. A good listener shows they are concerned with what makes their spouses happy or not. When your spouse chooses to have a conversation with you on something that's very important to them, say, on how you treat or respond to them, instead of thinking they're trying to pick an argument, rather listen attentively and ask yourself what you can do to be better for them. It's not about but that's how I am or she or he is complaining too much. If you're not changing then you're giving them more reasons to bring it back to your attention every time. Most times, they're not even asking for you to change a night into day but to put in the effort to make things easier. You may not have the solutions off hand but your willingness to listen and assure them show that you appreciate them. Jam 1:19, Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Offer your support. Be there for your partner when they need you. This could mean offering emotional support, practical help, or just being a shoulder to cry on. Help out around the house. This is especially important if your spouse is the one who typically does most of the housework. Offer to help out with cooking, cleaning, or running errands. This will show them that you appreciate their efforts and that you're willing to share the load. John 15:13, Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
Appreciating your partner is a simple but effective way to show them how much you love them. It can strengthen your bond, make them feel valued, and help you both feel happier and more connected. They will be willing to go an extra mile for you every time.
Here are some benefits of showing appreciation in marriage:
It increases happiness. Studies have shown that people who feel appreciated are happier and more satisfied with their lives.
It improves communication. When you express appreciation, you are opening the door to open and honest communication. This can help you resolve conflict more effectively and build a stronger foundation for your relationship. The next time you want to resolve anything in your relationship, begin by doing something that shows you appreciate your spouse and when they're relaxed, I can assure you you'd have a good conversation with them.
It reduces stress. Feeling appreciated can reduce stress levels and make you feel more relaxed and at peace. A good scenario is, you had a hard time at work and even on your way home but upon arrival at home, you find that your spouse has made your favourite food, gone the extra mile to set up scented candles and created a loving ambience, a warm bubble bath awaits you and they were at the entrance to welcome you with a warm hug. I see you're already smiling and feeling it'd be a good way to be welcomed home. What a great stress reliever.
It makes you feel good. When you express appreciation, you are also doing something that makes you feel good and happy especially when it's something they were looking forward to. It's a win-win for both you and your partner.
So, if you want to show your spouse how much you love them, don't forget to express your appreciation. Remember to do what they would love and what they'd see as appreciation. You know your spouse best so be particular about what would interest them. It's a simple but powerful way to make your marriage stronger and happier.