Pastor Ricky Powell

Five Ways You Can Affair-Proof Your Marriage

Yesterday I preached about the importance of protecting our marriages from the devastating effects of adultery.  You can listen to the message HERE. I thought it might be helpful to post my sermon outline, as well. You will find it below. I will comment on this outline in a post later this week, so be sure to check back or subscribe to my blog for updates. 

Ten Ways You Can Romance Your Wife For Free

Valentine's Day reminds us of the importance of romance. Romance as a verb is defined as wooing or pursuing someone in order to win their affection. Our wives desire to be romanced. They long to be longed for and cherished by their husband. 

So often we lose the romance with the passing of time and with the daily grind of jobs, bills, deadlines, and kids. "Besides," we say, "she already knows I love her." 

While it may be true that she knows you love her, she still desires to be pursued, valued and cherished. 

You do not have to wait for Valentine's Day or some other special occasion to romance your wife. In fact, you ought to romance her a little every day in the little things of life. 

Perhaps you are thinking, "Well, I don't have a lot of money. I can't afford a Caribbean cruise or to take her out to fancy restaurants all the time." I can relate! But I am not talking about expensive cruises, jewelry, or meals. If you use your imagination you can think of free or inexpensive ways to romance your wife throughout the year. To help you get started I have listed ten ways you can romance your wife for free. You CAN do this! 

1. Send your spouse a text message during the grind of the day to tell her how much you love her.
2. Leave a handwritten note on her pillow while she sleeps expressing how beautiful she is.
3. Greet her with a kiss and a hug at the door as she comes home from work.
4. Prepare a warm bubble bath for her after she has had a long day.
5. Call her during the day to say, “I just called to say I love you.” (Cue the Stevie Wonder music!)
6. Create a playlist of her favorite songs and listen to it together when you drive somewhere.
7. Give her a back rub with no expectations of anything in return. (Men, you know what I mean.)
8. Whisper in her ear at a party how sexy she is.
9. Make a Valentine’s Day card for her instead of buying one.
10. Let her overhear you telling someone how lucky you are to be married to her.

“You’ve captured my heart, dear friend. You looked at me, and I fell in love. One look my way and I was hopelessly in love! How beautiful your love, dear, dear friend— far more pleasing than a fine, rare wine, your fragrance more exotic than select spices.” (Song of Solomon 4:9–10, The Message)

What are some other ways we can romance our wives without waiting for a special occasion?

What Are The Three Keys To Effective Communication In Marriage?

Yesterday I preached about communication in marriage. You can listen to the message HERE. I have provided my sermon outline below. I hope the message is helpful to you!

Be sure to leave me a comment below and let me know what you would add to the message. You might just help another couple learn to improve their communication skills and intimacy.

How Can We Communicate Better As A Couple?

Tomorrow I will share a message about, "Three Keys For Successful Communication In Marriage."

The three keys I will share are the ones Donna and I have tried to practice throughout our marriage. We have not always used these successfully each time, but they certainly guide our steps. Not to give it away, but the keys have to do with listening, speaking, and resolving conflict. 

Most couples I counsel identify improved communication as their number one need. I hope the practical insights I share tomorrow will be helpful to all of us. 

What are your keys to successful communication in marriage? What have you found works best? Leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you.

What Is The Greatest Wedding Gift?

Of all the wonderful wedding gifts Donna and I received when we married twenty-six years ago, she is the greatest. I am so grateful God brought her into my life. She is my gift from God.

Your spouse is your greatest wedding gift.

Find a way today to express your appreciation to your spouse for the gift they are to you.

What do you love most about your spouse? Leave me a comment below.

Marriage: Why Is Teamwork Hard Work?

In yesterday’s sermon, I talked about the importance of teamwork in marriage. There seemed to be a consensus that teamwork is absolutely essential to a successful marriage. "Teamwork makes the dream work." However, most of us recognize that teamwork is easier conceived than achieved.

Why is teamwork hard work?

Ephesians 4:2