Unconditional Love and Growing Old Together

It is scary yet comforting how someone can know you so well as to know that something very specific is going on in your head. Such was the case for me last night. Not sure he wanted to know the answer, my husband says,

“Come on, give it to me straight. What are thinking about?”

“N-O-T-H-I-N-G…”

“Don't lie.”

“Well, if you must know, I was thinking about how I was going to honor you since you are getting older tomorrow.”

“I'm sorry I asked”…

Today is a special day for two reasons. One being his birthday and two, it is the day we officially became a couple. (Our wedding anniversary is in October.) I know, I agree with you! The second reason is of much greater importance. After all, he was blessed with the privilege of calling me his girl. (Go ahead, throw up—then resume reading.)

Do you feel better now? Awesome, let's continue.

As I was saying a few lines back, I wanted to do something special for the man I have called my own for 24 years as of today. I spent all day talking it over with the Lord and He brought a few Proverbs to mind. I have to say, I love God's sense of humor, yet it fits.

In honor of my husband's birthday, I share these Proverbs with you today.

“…And the contentions of a wife are a continual dripping” Proverbs 19:13

I know this is what I was for so long. I didn't realize my nagging and finger pointing was driving you crazy. Not until I heard the faucet leak. Drip, Drip, Drip! Ugh! But I finally got it. Thank you for being patient with me.

“Better to dwell in a tent in the wilderness than with an angry and contentious wife” Proverbs 21:19

Is that where you were? I don't blame you for not wanting to come home. I'm sorry that the animals where more comforting to you than I was. But God showed me the way…thank you for being patient with me.

God must love me. He gave me a man who saw past the hardness of my heart; one who appreciated my loyalty and fiery passion. Moreover, the only man who was and still is willing to put up with me.

So what does this have to do with you? I'm glad you asked.

Husbands do not give up on your wife. Be patient. In addition, while you are out in the wilderness, say a prayer for her. Show her love and understanding. Look past the superficial and allow God to give you a vision of how those seemingly bad qualities can be awesome when nurtured by a loving husband.

Wives—quit nagging. Support your husband even if you think he does not deserve it. The next time he doesn't come home, ask yourself if you are the reason.

Unconditional love and practical application of these and many other Proverbs are the answer to strengthening a frail marriage. Unconditional love and a heart that wants to serve as well as be served, will give you a long and joyful marriage.

As for you Mr. Ortiz, happy birthday and thank you for not throwing me out of the house like you did our leaky faucet! Although it isn't a traditional birthday song, it is does express the sentiments of my heart. (Except for a few parts that do not apply).

I wanna make you smile,

Whenever you're sad.

Carry you around when your arthritis is bad.

Oh, all I wanna do is grow old with you.

I'll get your medicine when your tummy aches,

Build you a fire when the furnace breaks.

Oh, it could be so nice, growin' old with you.

I'll miss you, kiss you,

Give you my coat when you are cold,

Need you, feed you.

I'll even let you hold the remote control.

So let me do the dishes in our kitchen sink,

Put you to bed when you've had too much to drink.

Oh I could be the woman who grows old with you.

I wanna grow old with you.

Lyrics by Adam Sandler

Who loves you baby?

© Teresa Ortiz

For more information on Teresa and In Season Ministries, please visit my web-site at www.inseason2tim.com

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