Date night conversation emphasizing the value of differences.
Things you’ll need:
- Supplies for peanut butter and jelly sandwich
- OR strawberries and melted chocolate
- OR French fries and ketchup
- OR other similar paired food items
Faith Talk: Many food choices come in pairs and could be described as going “hand in hand”. In our culture, we view these different flavors individually but also appreciate how they coexist or are complimentary. Consider these examples:
- Peanut Butter and Jelly
- Salt and Pepper
- Macaroni and Cheese
- Fish and Chips
These complimentary items have individual flavors but also complement each other. Neither loses the flavor when combined but create a better together flavor when joined. Each family member should begin with their own index card with their name written at the top. Consider one strength or skill of your own that you recognize in yourself and write it on the card, under your name. Then, pass your card to your right. Similarly, write at least one positive trait for the person named on the card. Once complete, pass the card to the right. Continue until your card has made it back to you. Each family member should begin with their own index card with their name written at the top. Consider one strength or skill of your own that you recognize in yourself and write it on the card, under your name. Then, pass your card to your right. Similarly, write at least one positive trait for the person named on the card. Once complete, pass the card to the right. Continue until your card has made it back to you.
“For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and the two will become one flesh.” Ephesians 5:31
As you prepare a snack or meal together, notice how the different textures, flavors, and food groups combine. Also, consider your marriage and how your individual strengths and character traits compliment each other in your relationship. Remember what initially attracted you to your spouse. Often the character traits we most admire were traits that were not our personal strengths. How have these various traits benefitted your marriage?
Consider peanut butter and jelly. One is non-sweet, slightly salty, unrefrigerated, and smooth textured food while the other is sweet, fruity, and congealed. On the surface no similarities exist, and yet this food combination is a desired and popular pairing.
Read Ephesians 5:31 together. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and the two will become one flesh.” God’s design for marriage is for two individuals to become one. Your differences, though complimentary, could become points of tension. What hinders your oneness? Discuss possible hurdles and how you plan to approach the hurdles together. Pray as a couple. Thank God for the gift of your spouse. “Thank You, Lord, for my spouse. He/She is Your gift to me. Thank You for our differences and for bringing us together as one. Help us work together as a team to complement each other. Amen.”