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Key Bible Verse: Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do. … submit to one another out of reverence for Christ ( Ephesians 5:17, 21 ). Bonus Reading: Genesis 13:1-12

Mark and Laurie have been married for ten years. Mark owns a small business, selling sporting goods. It provides him fulfillment and a healthy family income. Long before she met Mark, Laurie discovered her love for oil painting. Over time she developed her passion into a profitable sideline business.

But then three kids came along in four years. As the high chairs multiplied, Laurie's time for painting faded. The couple had always planned for Mark to be the "breadwinner," allowing Laurie to be a homemaker. But she gradually discovered that her love for painting provided a creative outlet that helped balance her day. Her overwhelming duties, however, gave her fewer and fewer opportunities to paint.

Mark sensed Laurie's need to express her artistic gift. After much thought, he decided to cut back on his number of clients to help his wife pursue her artistic career. Laurie now has access to a small gallery that provides her with refreshing breaks from her routine. Mark takes care of the children and household chores every Tuesday, Thursday morning, and Saturday afternoon. His sensitivity to his wife's needs and choice to act selflessly have provided enormous happiness for both.

—Ed Young in The 10 Commandments of Marriage

My Response: I'll ask my partner about her dreams.

Thought to Apply: What's the opposite of love? In marriage it's not hate, but selfishness.—BILLY & RUTH GRAHAM

Adapted from The 10 Commandments of Marriage (Moody, 2003) by permission.

Copyright © 2006 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Your Son taught us, Lord, that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Help me to believe it and apply it in my own family.

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