Day 8

I'm excited to hear that some of you have joined me and have decided to participate in the Love Dare. And because I know that some of you are actually relying on my blog to get your "dare" for the day...I will try my best to get the dares posted relatively early each day. However, I also wanted to let you know that even if you have to skip a day or don't find the time to do it during that particular day...you can always "double up" on the next day. :)

Love is not Jealous

"Love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire." -Song of Solomon 8:6

Jealousy is one of the strongest drives known to man. Illegitimate jealousy is jealousy that is rooted in selfishness. This is to be jealous of someone, to be "moved with envy." It has been said that people are find with our succeeding, just as long as it is not more than theirs. Jealousy is a common struggle that can poison you from living the life of love God intended. If you don't diffuse your anger by learning to love others, you may eventually begin plotting against them. The Bible says that envy leads to fighting, quarreling, and every evil thing. And if you aren't careful, jealousy can begin to infect your marriage. When you were married, you were given the role of becoming your spouse's biggest cheerleader and the captain of his or her fan club. Both of you become one and were to share in the enjoyment of the other. But if selfishness rules, any good thing happening to only one of you can be a catalyst for envy rather than congratulations. Because love is not selfish and puts other first, it refuses to let jealousy in. it leads you to celebrate the successes of your spouse rather than resenting them. It's time to let love destroy any jealousy that springs up in your heart. It's time to let your mate's successes draw you closer together and give you greater opportunities to show genuine love.

Today's Dare: Determine to be your spouse's biggest fan and to reject any thoughts of jealousy. To help set your heart on your spouse and focus on their achievements, take yesterday's list of negative attributes and discreetly burn it. Then share with your spouse how glad you are about a success he or she recently enjoyed.