Remember those “warts”? Guess what? You will find you both have them! You have found some of your own, and one day you will see some of his. What you may have thought was a cute little quirk can eventually become an irritant. Consider well your response to the imperfections of your man — may it be solidly grounded in love.

If the “wart” is just some difference in personality between you, celebrate it. Thank God for whom He created your partner to be. God understands him far better than anyone else; as you ask God for insight, you will often find that He will reveal something about him or about yourself. There were likely several differences between you that drew you together. Take them to prayer. Talk about them, and seek some resolution if necessary, so they are not ongoing irritants to both of you.

As you respond to other imperfections or irritants, consider your options. You may choose to cover it with love, simply forgiving it and letting it go. Forgiving can sometimes seem impossible. It may well be impossible without God’s help; remember, though, how often He has forgiven you. Once forgiven, let it go. Don’t keep the offense in the kitchen drawer, ready to pull out and use against him time and again.

Yet another valid and godly response is to confront in love. Paul challenged the early believers to “speak the truth in love.” Perhaps that wart you see is a blind spot for your husband. A word at the right time, with a loving attitude, in the power of the Holy Spirit, can make a huge difference.

If you cannot come to some resolution in a timely manner, dear one, may I encourage you to consider your response well? It may be time to entrust it to God in prayer, and wait for Him to clarify matters. In any case, bad-mouthing your spouse is not wise; involving those who don’t know you or don’t care is usually foolish. Yet there is certainly a time, if the two of you have been unable to communicate well, to discreetly ask a trusted, godly advisor for perspective and help on a specific issue.A third party can pave the way for better understanding, if you are both willing.

Many times a spouse will try to fix or change their partner. But as has been stated so wisely, “There is a God, and I’m not Him.“ Bathe the issue in prayer, lovingly share your concern with your husband, and entrust the matter to your Heavenly Father.

Blessed is the couple who can share with one another openly, speak honestly and together create an environment of mutual acceptance, love and growth.

Lord, there are days that this man of mine seems too good to be true. We’re just perfect together. Sometimes though, there are things that irritate me about him. Help me to see when those things are just a part of what makes him him, something to rejoice over or celebrate. Give me strength to cover over other offenses, truly forgiving him.

If there are areas, Lord, that I need to lovingly address, I ask for gentle words, proper timing and a heart of love. Help me trust You as we talk. He is not my enemy. Prepare the way in each of our hearts.

When he needs to address an issue with which I am struggling, help me to receive that well. Help us to love one another well. Thank You, Lord, for Your deep love for us. Amen