Do not underestimate the power of your influence over your spouse

You cannot change your spouse, but you can influence your spouse to change. No one comes into marriage as a finished product. We all come with unlimited potential for improvement. Through your influence, you can build or break your spouse. Therefore, do not preach to your spouse. Instead, model the change you want to see in your spouse. Create a positive zero-judgment atmosphere in your marriage. Watch what you say or do not say. Ask yourself, "Is my spouse becoming better or worse because of my influence?" Words create reality. Speak life, healing, hope, and success to your spouse. Encourage, motivate and inspire your spouse to do and become better. Show selfless love and unwavering support. When your spouse does wrong, do not be quick to judge and condemn. Instead, show grace and mercy and undeserved forgiveness. Allow God to use you as an instrument for positive change in your spouse. Marriage should make us holy, not just happy.