Cheer Up
If it is not the crisis of a moment, for example long-term unemployment, then you have to do more than simply listen. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick...” Proverbs 13:2 (NIV).
If you can, try to cheer up your spouse. This does not mean the same thing for every individual. While some people can be cheered by watching a funny movie, others need quiet and peaceful moments in nature or social activities with beloved friends. It all depends on the kind of person your spouse is and what lifts them up. Remember that cheering up is a temporary fix. It will not ‘cure’ your spouse, but it can help to make the burden lighter.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 (NIV).
