Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8 (NLT)
When you first meet someone and begin a romantic relationship, you think everything about that person is fantastic. You’re sure he’s your knight in shining armour or she’s the woman of your dreams. Only after a period of time do you develop true love.
You see, true love requires you to love imperfection.
In the early infatuation stage of a relationship, you think the person you love has no faults. Over time, you find out this isn’t true. True love is developed and maintained as you choose to focus on someone’s strengths and great attributes—even when you know their faults.
Of course, the old saying is true: “Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, half shut afterward.” If you aren’t yet married and you’re seeing things in the other person you don’t think you can live with, don’t ignore that feeling. But when we’re talking about your relationship with your spouse, kids or parents, it’s different. Don’t focus on their flaws.
People often fall for the lie that their relationships would be better if they could just change a few things in the other person. But the truth is, your life will get better when you choose to accept people, along with the things they do that annoy you.
Loving imperfection doesn’t mean that you don’t confront or talk to each other. It’s just that you can’t focus every second of the day on their imperfections. Instead, focus on all of their wonderful characteristics and admirable attributes. Choose to focus on all that you love about them and you’ll develop true, lasting love.
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