Intentional Love · Day 16 of 21
Planning Thoughtful Expressions of Love
Scripture reading
“Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.”
Proverbs 14:22, KJV
Teaching lesson
She remembered his difficult appointment several times during the week. Each time, she thought about doing something encouraging beforehand. When the morning arrived, she was rushing to leave, and the thoughtful words she had intended to share never reached him.
Good intentions sometimes need a little preparation.
We plan for appointments, household tasks and the things we do not want to forget. The care we offer our spouse can receive that same attention. Remembering deliberately does not make an expression of love less sincere.
Proverbs speaks favourably of those who devise good. The verse invites us to consider the direction of our plans: what are we using our thought and effort to bring about?
Within marriage, we can use that thoughtfulness to prepare something that will encourage our spouse.
Begin with what you know about their coming days. Is there something they are anticipating, carrying or quietly hoping for? Choose an expression of care that fits the occasion and their preferences.
Perhaps you could write a short note before a demanding day or arrange to take responsibility for a task when their schedule is especially full. A reminder on your phone can help you follow through on what your heart already wants to do.
Keep the plan simple enough to carry out. If it requires your spouse's time or changes shared arrangements, include them in the decision. A thoughtful surprise should not create an unexpected burden.
Leave room for the day to unfold differently. Your spouse may need something other than what you prepared. Listening and adjusting can be part of the gift.
You do not have to produce an impressive occasion. The purpose is to let your spouse experience that you have considered them before the moment arrived.
Today, ask God to help you turn a kind intention into a workable plan. Prepare one expression of love, decide when you will offer it and give yourself a practical way to remember.
Put it into practice
Together
Your challenge
Choose one thoughtful expression of love for your spouse within the next three days. Make any simple preparation it needs and set a reminder to follow through. Check with your spouse if it affects their time or shared plans.
On your own
To reflect on
- What kind intention could I turn into a realistic plan instead of leaving it to memory?
Prayer focus
“Heavenly Father, help us use our thoughts and plans to care for each other. Give us attentiveness to what would encourage our spouse and willingness to prepare. Keep our intentions sincere and our plans flexible as we respond to each other's needs. In Jesus' name, Amen.”
With love and prayer,Sharlene
Vividly in Love offers encouragement and practical tools, not counselling. If your marriage is in a season that needs professional support, Sharlene’s counselling practice, Vivid Resolutions, works with adults and couples across the Caribbean.
This is not a crisis service. Emergency contacts vary across the Caribbean. If there is immediate danger, contact your local police or ambulance service. In Trinidad and Tobago: Police 999, Ambulance 811, or 800-COPE (2673) for a mental-health crisis.