I have been thinking about new year’s resolutions today (like many other people). Although I always want to get healthier, get more organized, and become a better human overall, this year I think my focus is going to be more geared toward encouraging others. Specifically, encouraging my husband.

I had an enlightening conversation with my husband today as we came home from seeing my family in Colorado.  We were talking about how much our lives have changed in the last 10 1/2 years since we got married. If you would have told me back then what we would be up to today, I doubt I would believe it. As a 20-something newly-wed, I thought I knew the path my life would take. However, nearly 11 years later, I now know that I really don’t have a clue.  Proverbs 20:24 has it right when it says, “The LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?” I wouldn’t have it any other way, as hard as that is to admit. What struck me about that conversation though, is when he told me something to the extent of how important it is to have someone in your corner. He said that he always knows that no matter what decisions he makes that I will stand behind him. That statement really stuck with me. I realized that there is so much power in our words. That is why my resolution for this year is to simply do a better job of building others up, rather than tearing them down with my words.

So, I would like to challenge you to join me. Maybe it is your husband or wife that needs built up rather than torn down. Or maybe, you find yourself easily criticizing others at work or school. Or possibly you just find yourself looking only at the negative parts of your life and neglect focusing on all the blessings you may have. Whatever it is, make 2018 the best year yet!

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8