Fireproof, and "The Love Dare"

I just finished watching the movie, "Fireproof". I've seen the book, "Fireproof:Never Leave Your Partner Behind" by Eric Wilson and the companion book, "The Love Dare" (the 40 day guide) by Alex & Stephen Kendrick, but have not taken the time to watch the movie or read the books. AFter hearing so many good things about it, and watching the books continue to fly off the shelves, I decided to rent the movie. I ordered it through Netflix, and after deciding that I didn't have time to make good use of the service, I cancelled it, and received an email that I still had "Fireproof" checked out and that it needed to be returned. I decided that I would watch it after work today since I didn't have school and no homework due for school tomorrow.

During the movie when Captain Caleb Holt gets a package in the mail from his father, detailing forty days of "assignments" to better love his wife I started taking notes. Every marriage goes through ups and downs and challenges, and although things are pretty smooth right now, I can't think of a marriage that couldn't use a little improvement, and I would certainly rather try the Love Dare when we are in a good place, than as a last resort. I'd like to share some of the daily assignments, and I may even be brave enough to share how they've worked for me as time goes on. :)

The first day's assignment is as follows:

Day 1: Love is patient

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

—Ephesians 4:2 NIV

TODAY’S DARE

The first part of this dare is fairly simple. Although love is communicated in a number of ways, our words often reflect the condition of our heart. For the next day, resolve to demonstrate patience and to say nothing negative to your spouse at all. If the temptation arises, choose not to say anything. It’s better to hold your tongue than to say something you’ll regret.



I don't know about you, but for me, when I answer shortly, right off the tip of my tongue in a moment of frustration, I'm not happy with myself, and regret my sharp words. To not say it in the first place is so much better, but definitely a challenge, especially for me - my brain doesn't always seem to have a filter on it's way through my mouth!

I figured that since I haven't seen my husband since 6:45 this morning, it probably wouldn't be fair to count today as the first day, so tomorrow I am going to resolve to demonstrate patience, and say nothing negative to my spouse. Of course, having said that, I'm sure tomorrow will be one of those days that tests my patience, but hey, its only one day - surely this will be a step I can make, before I attempt to add day # 2's assignment!!!

If you care to join me and share in discussion, I would be glad to have the company!