Who’s Already There? {Building Marriage}

Every Monday, we send out an email to a collection of our business friends with a motivational quote and some thoughts on the above quote. This week’s was one of my favorites yet, and I think it has as much impact in marriage as it does in business!

“The fastest way to change yourself is to hang out with people who are already the way you want to be.”

~Reid Hoffman

I’ve heard it said that you become a combination of the 5 people you hang out with the most. I kind of tucked that away as a piece of business knowledge that’s great to bring up in an appropriate conversation.

But just recently, I’ve really become more aware of the impact of its truth.

We’re blessed to have some very godly and loving friends in our church who are a constant source of encouragement and wisdom for us. I’ve found that the more time I spend with them, the more I’m able to keep thoughts of Christ and my service to Him on my heart. I more often ponder things of my faith and develop my heart of serving in Christ’s kingdom.

The same goes for some good friends of ours who are incredible business owners. When we’re able to spend significant time hanging out with them, I feel my creativity and business savvy come alive.

What does this mean for your marriage?

We think it’s so important to spend time with those whose marriage you admire. Get to know them (I mean, actually get to know them, not just a surface-level relationship) and watch their example of a healthy marriage.

There’s so much junk out there on TV, in movies, and in books that glorify unhealthy relationships. Even our culture at large indicates that it’s normal for people to fall out of love sooner or later, or that a commitment doesn’t really mean anything. We’re taught that disrespectful relationships are funny and that it’s all about keeping ourselves happy.

You have to be intentional in filling your minds and your hearts with following the example of those who have gone before you – those who have walked through life’s challenges and stayed true to their vows. Those who put each other first and live each day trying to out-love each other.

They’re not perfect. You’re not going to be perfect. But marriage is something worth fighting for!

This week, list 2 or 3 couples who have marriages you really admire. How can you spend more time with them this year? Or if you already spend lots of time with people you admire, how can you reach out to a young couple who would be blessed by the things you’ve learned?

*hugs*

Amber