“…Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” - Philippians 4:8

Assuming has gotten me in more trouble than practically anything else in my life. I’ve missed opportunities, I’ve hurt people, and I’ve made mistakes because I assumed things that turned out to be incorrect.

When it comes to care, assuming feeds the monster of carelessness. We naturally assume that people don’t need more than a “thank you”. After all, aren’t the words enough? Maybe, but when a quick thank you is thrown out, it loses its effectiveness. A thank you note or text lets the recipient know you’re appreciative even after the exchange.

Sometimes we assume our relationship is beyond courtesy. In the comfort of a relationship, we may leave out kindness. This becomes very evident in marriage. We assume that since we’ve made a decision to be with another person for a lifetime, kindness and thoughtfulness aren’t necessary, when in fact the opposite is true. It’s the fuel that keeps the relationship moving forward. Many adulterous affairs occur because one spouse feels unappreciated and neglected by the other. When someone recognizes you and is thoughtful towards you, it’s like medicine to your soul, so being thoughtful is a powerful tool in committed relationships.

TRY IT: Ask a friend or spouse if they’ve ever felt taken advantage of by you. Make sure to apologize and make amends.