Online Reporter
Laina Makuzha-LOVE by DESIGN
In these early weeks of January, fresh from the triumphs and trials of 2025, it is tempting to bask in the glow of blessings — new opportunities, breakthroughs, reconciled relationships, or even the quiet gift of simply making it through another year.
Yet, in our celebration, we must pause and ask: have we remembered the giver of the gift?
Have we honoured the spouse who stood by us, the family or friends who prayed for us, and the God who carried us when our own strength faltered?
Too often, some cry out to God in desperation: “Lord, if you get me out of this one, I’ll never do it again.”
We plead for another chance after a broken relationship, a failed promise, or a season of neglect.
And yet, how quickly we return to old patterns once the storm has passed. How many of us have whispered, “If you give me another chance, I will love with all my heart,” only to forget the vow when comfort returns? Reminds me of a beautiful song by Isaac Caree called ‘Chances’. He asks imploring questions in that song, deep enough to inspire change in the hearts of those who truly want to do better.
Forgetfulness of the good done for us, is not new. In Luke 17:11-19, Jesus healed 10 lepers, yet only one returned to say thank you. In marriage and family life, we risk repeating that same ingratitude. We enjoy the companionship, the laughter of children, the stability of a home, but neglect to honour the spouse who sacrifices daily, or the God who orchestrated the miracle of love itself in the first place.
Renowned marriage counsellor Gary Chapman and author of The Five Love Languages – whose wisdom on relationships I often reference,reminds us that gratitude is one of the most powerful forces in sustaining intimacy.
A thankful heart sees the small acts – a meal prepared, a prayer whispered, a hand held in silence – and magnifies them into treasures, thereby also inspiring more kindness. Gratitude transforms ordinary routines into sacred acts of love.
The danger of taking love for granted
When we take our spouse or family for granted, we erode the very foundation of trust and affection. A husband who assumes his wife’s devotion without acknowledgment, or a wife who overlooks her husband’s sacrifices, risks creating silent wounds. Over time, these wounds harden into resentment. Gratitude, however, softens hearts. It reminds us that love is not owed; it is given.
Scripture warns us against pride in our own genius. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” The victories of 2025 were not achieved by brilliance alone.
Yes, indeed hard word or resilience pays. But most importantly,these victories in love and other areas of life, were sustained by grace, by the prayers of loved ones, and by the unseen hand of God.
Prayer points for families in 2026
In need, I have picked a few easy-to-follow prayer points (made to God in the name of Jesus Christ,) that you could consider, or add to yours:
Prayer of gratitude: Lord, thank you for my spouse , my children, and the gift of family. May I never take them for granted.
Anyone can customise such a prayer to address their own exact situation.
Family unity: Bind us together in love and understanding. Let no division or bitterness of the past or present take root.
Renewal: Give us fresh joy in our companionship. Restore laughter, tenderness, and patience in our home.
Faithfulness: Help us honour the vows we made, and keep our hearts pure and devoted.
I find this aspect really key in the perilous times we live in,where infidelity is raging and ruining marriages unabated. Prayer among other things, does change things.
Legacy: May our marriage and family be a testimony of Your goodness to generations.
The beauty of a thankful heart
A grateful heart in marriage is not passive; it is active. It speaks words of appreciation, writes notes of encouragement, and offers prayers of thanksgiving. It notices the unseen labour – the late nights, the quiet sacrifices – and says, “I see you, and I thank you.” Gratitude is the oil that keeps the machinery of love running smoothly.
As New Year unfolds, let us not be like the nine lepers who walked away healed but silent. Let us be that ‘one’ who returned, who bowed in thanksgiving, who recognised that blessings are not self-made but God-given. In marriage, in family, and in life, gratitude is the language that honours both the giver and the gift.
I invite you, dear reader, to think about how God has blessed you with the love and family you have. Even if you do not have the love you wish and pray for, find something you can say a silent thank you,to God for. Are you breathing? Thank Him. Do you have food and shelter, thank Him. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. If still waiting upon the Lord for love or whatever breakthrough, may this be the year you get to testify zvine mutsindo.
Share your thoughts: How do you practice gratitude in your marriage or family? What tips or insights have helped you keep love fresh and thankful? Leave your comments,tips and insights below, or send to the feedback details provided.
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