These thoughts can be good or bad. They might be the ones that lead you astray, away from your spouse. Or they might be the ones that create a desire in you to draw you closer.

Today, I want to focus on how your heart’s beat is leading your thoughts and actions toward your spouse and marriage.

Whether we want to admit it or not, we are called to renew our minds. Temptation and unrealistic expectations are always in front of you. Just look at your social media, whatever you peruse on a daily basis.

The Bible tells us to “guard our hearts with all diligence” (Proverbs 4:23). This is especially important in marriage, as our hearts are closely connected to the heart of our spouse.

Our hearts are like gardens, and the things we allow to grow there will ultimately bear fruit in our lives.

When we allow negative thoughts and emotions to fill our hearts, it can affect the health of our marriage. But when we fill our hearts with love, patience, and understanding, it can strengthen the bond between us.

You don’t want the weeds of this world to overtake what God has united together.

So you’ve got to till the soil.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Till the S.O.I.L.!

Tilling the soil involves turning over about the first 6–10 inches of soil before planting new seeds.

Your marriage needs tilling often. And if you let what falls on top continue to stay there, it will suffocate your relationship.

1. STRENGTHEN your purpose in your marriage. What is it? What do you want your marriage to stand for?
2. OBSERVE your thoughts and actions. What are you thinking now about your marriage and your spouse? Be honest. Be real. Get to the heart of what matters, good or bad.
3. INTERNALIZE your preparation. You have got to take heart to what matters. Let go of the stuff that doesn’t matter. Stop keeping score. Let bygones be bygones. Invest in what God makes possible.
4. LOVE with God’s heart. Your rhythm has got to be connected to God. 1 Corinthians 13:13 reminds us that “faith, hope, and love remain” and that “the greatest of these is love.” Love is the foundation of a healthy marriage and is essential for a fulfilling life together. And that love comes from God. “God is love” (1 John 4:8). When we turn to Him and allow His love to flow into our hearts, it will overflow into our marriage and into the lives of those around us.

The heart’s beat and the love it holds comes from our Creator. You can’t extend the love your spouse deserves without allowing God to love you first and then extending that love shown to you by God to your spouse.

It’s the extension of God’s heart, His love for you, your spouse, and your family.

PRAYER: May your thoughts and actions be a mirror of God’s love. As your heart’s beat is strengthened by God’s grace, be quick to listen and slow to speak. And with every waking morning, may you choose to till the soil instilling a foundation of faith, hope, and love.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“