words that make a marriage

I hold my husband's hand and remember that our lives, and those of our kids and grandkids, began because of God’s love for humanity and, specifically, for the passion and adoration He’s given us for Him and for each other.

Strong marriages make strong families which, in turn, make strong societies.

Having an affectionate, faith-filled marriage can literally change the world ... At the very least, our own little worlds.

I'm so thankful that our days are seeped in tenderness, and I'll continue to find creative ways to say I love you, whispering sweet affirmations to my man.

Our granddaughters are learning new ideas and gaining more understanding as they grow.

Guiding them by our speech and actions is a great privilege and one of the legacies we can etch on their hearts.

Here are some words we aspire, along with their parents, to witness, ones we all pray will be hardwired inside of them to eventually be passed along to their own spouses, kids, and grandchildren:

Love

Honor

Humor

Respect

Resilience

Humility

Laughter

Forgiveness

Courage

Kindness

Loyalty

Patience

Persistence

Obedience

Faithfulness

Integrity

Strength

Goodness

Joy

We'll strive to keep our focus clear, remembering the big, beautiful picture, always grateful, and make this list expand—petitioning for these principles to be passed down for generations, just as they were brilliantly demonstrated for us.

Psalm 19:14 (NLT) May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.