The Heart of Ministry
| Valentine’s Day, February 14th, gives us another opportunity to express the very heart of ministry. When Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was he replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind . . . and you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). When we consider Christ’s love for the church, God’s Word gives us this illustration of love. “Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25). Marriage is to be an illustration of God’s love. |
How can we keep God’s love flowing in and through our marriages so as to be a light in a dark and desperate world? In his book The Five Love Languages Dr Gary Chapman writes about the importance of being able to express love to your spouse in a language that your spouse can understand. He calls this type of communication the five love languages. Discover and use the best language that speaks the most to your spouse.
WORDS OF AFFIRMATION. This could be when you say how nice your spouse looks or how delicious the dinner was. Encouraging words will build your mates self-image and confidence.
QUALITY TIME. Some spouses believe being together and doing things together is the best way to show love. It is giving undivided attention.
GIFTS. In all cultures gift giving demonstrates love. Some spouses feel neglected and unloved when a birthday or anniversary is forgotten.
ACTS OF SERVICE. Discovering what acts of service most pleases your spouse and doing it with joy speaks volumes.
PHYSICAL TOUCH. To some spouses a hug, holding hands, a kiss, or physical intimacy fulfills their need for knowing they are loved.
To have the heart of ministry speak the language of love – Jesus did.
by: Cliff Sanders