Helping Each Other Grow

Two people living closely together will influence one another. We can make honesty easier or excuses more comfortable. We can encourage a wise habit or help each other postpone it for another month.

The picture of iron sharpening iron points toward the value of good influence. It does not make every argument useful. Correction that humiliates may leave damage rather than understanding. Helping someone grow requires truth, patience, and a willingness to be corrected yourself.

Your spouse is not a project placed under your control. Both of you answer to God. Offer encouragement and honest observations without treating your own preferences as though they were commands from Scripture.

Support one good intention your spouse has already expressed. Make room for the habit, ask how you can help, and avoid keeping a score of every imperfect attempt. Receive the same kind of support when it is offered to you. Growth is often steadier when a companion walks beside us instead of standing over us.