“The underlying questions are, Am I expressing love to my spouse? Is my attitude characterized by love? Am I truly looking out for my spouse’s interests? Is my major concern to meet his or her needs?

If these are my sincere desires, then I must examine my words and my actions. Am I communicating to my spouse (by the way I talk and by what I say) that I am committed to his or her well-being? Do I view my spouse as a gift from God and see myself as God’s agent for building him or her up to become everything He desires? Do my actions reflect my love? When I cook a meal, do I do it as an expression of love to my spouse or do I do it with resentment? When I carry out the garbage, do I do it with an attitude of love or do I complain as I do it?

When my words and actions reflect the love of Christ, I am on the road to having a relationship that not only brings satisfaction to the two of us but also brings pleasure to God. Making life better for my spouse is the theme of love.”

I read this recently and the idea and questions were simple but profound.

I believe this represents a sure fire way to improve any relationship in your life. Just replace spouse with brother, friend, neighbor, co-worker, ex-wife, etc. No matter the relationship, there is a way to be more loving and selfless.

First, review your attitude and desires.

Then, review your actions and words.

This advice was specifically targeted at Christians with the goal of aligning our attitudes and actions with those of Christ, but I think this applies outside the Christian faith as well. Pick a role model and align yourself with that ideal (although if you are just picking one, Christ would be a great place to start).

Relationships are the hardest, most rewarding part of our lives.

They are worth it.

Ask yourself the hard questions.

Make it a great day.

Jake