We have a motto in this house.
It only takes someone saying “teamwork” to initiate the chant, and a chorus of rowdy brothers chimes in, “makes the dream work.”
Setting the table for dinner—“Teamwork makes the dream work.”
Unloading the groceries from the minivan—“Teamwork makes the dream work.”
Gathering up the toys—you get the drift.
And it’s so good. My kids are learning cooperation and service matter, and we are far better together than we are on our own.
Yet, there are days when I fail immensely at my role as a teammate, and it’s usually when I reflect on the quality time I’ve missed with my husband.
After all, he doesn’t need me in the same ways our kiddos do. He is wiser and more capable and can certainly tie his own shoes. So I often forget to invest the proper attention needed to bond our hearts and boast of God’s glory on the covenant we’re committed to.
Instead of asking him more questions about his stressful work day, I acknowledge his load but move quickly to recap my frustrations and how I’d appreciate some peace and quiet on my own.
And that’s fair. And even necessary some days.
Yet, am I demonstrating my interest by returning to his stories and his wants and his needs? Am I being his teammate when the kids are around and when they are not?
I recall reading Ecclesiastes 4:12 before we were married 10 years ago, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” The life, the family we’ve built together is evidence that God sustains even when we find it easier to go silent or slip away.
This image of God’s sturdy knot comes to mind as I settle into my routine and my schedule and start feeling pulled apart.
The cord has three strands: God, you, and me.
When I prioritize seeking God’s heart first, His Holy Word tells me exactly where to go from there: in my marriage, in my parenting, and in whatever capacity He has called me to serve.
RELATED: It Takes 3 To Make a Marriage Work
It just takes returning to Him daily for me to be ready to recommit. And to love my spouse by giving him the attention he needs.
Marriage takes work. Thankfully, there’s an app that can help! Lasting—the nation’s #1 relationship counseling app—provides accessible sessions designed to help you build a healthy marriage. Download and take Lasting’s free Relationship Health Assessment.
Recommendations in this post contain affiliate links. Her View From Home may receive a small commission if you choose to purchase.