How beautiful you are, my darling. How very beautiful? Your eyes are doves. Song of Songs 1:15 HCSB
We all like to hear sincere words of affirmation. We especially want to hear words of affirmation from our spouse, our parents, our children, our grandparents, our brothers and sisters, and even our boss. Affirming words validate us and give us self-worth. One thing I have tried to do is tell all of my children, “I am proud of you.” I also try to tell my wife how nice she looks and how lucky I am to be her husband.
In this verse Solomon told his spouse how beautiful she was. He goes on to describe her eyes as being like doves. Some may think this is a peculiar way to describe how beautiful a woman is, but today as in ancient times the dove was a symbol of love and peace. Solomon was telling her that her eyes were round, peaceful, and beautiful just like a dove. He could see the love she had for him in her eyes.
Challenge: Write down some words of affirmation for your spouse, children, parents, brothers and sisters, and even your grandparents. Make a point to share the words of affirmation with them this week. Write a note to each of your children affirming him or her and expressing how proud you are of them. Take some time to look into the eyes of your spouse and tell her or him how much you love and appreciate him or her. Look for ways to affirm those with whom you work. Write Thank You notes and birthday cards when appropriate. Pray that God will use you to affirm others this week.