We are to extend to our spouses a love that understands and accepts -- one that makes us willing to walk around in each other's shoes for a while.

Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build  him up.  Romans 15:2, NIV

John was happily married, with a loving wife and children. He had been a Christian several years, and life was good. One morning, however, a young man called him at his office, claiming to be John's twenty-year-old son. The young man explained he had been adopted as a baby and had for the last two years been search­ing for his biological parents. He asked John if he would be willing to meet him.

John was stunned. He never knew that his high school girlfriend had been pregnant when they broke up. Now all he could think about was whether or not this would destroy his marriage. He promised his newfound son that he would call later with the decision about whether or not to see him, then hung up. After much prayer and counsel from a trusted friend, John told his wife the whole story.

Without hesitation, John's wife threw her arms around him and said she understood all the pain he must be going through. She told him that she loved him and would support him. His wife's understanding response caused his love and respect for her to grow.

Today's Scripture passage introduces us to the principle of "the good of others:" a fundamental part of Christ's ministry. An attitude that puts the good of others first is critical evidence of God's agape love.

John's wife exhibited this kind of love in a unique way as she sup­ported her husband even though he had difficult news for her to hear.

That is the kind of love we are to extend to our spouses. It's a love that understands and accepts, a love that makes us willing to walk around in our spouses' shoes for a while.

In what specific areas do you need to be more understanding of your spouse?

Thank You, God, that marriage is a place where pain can be shared and understanding can be offered.