On the night of Jesus’ betrayal, Jesus took a towel and a basin of water and washed the feet of His disciples. (See John 13:1-17). In Jesus’ day, foot washing was a daily occurrence. However, it was the custom to have a household slave wash the feet of the guests.

When Jesus and His disciples arrived at the upper room for their last meal together, none of the twelve disciples even considered making sure that everyone’s feet were cleansed. Jesus seized this opportunity to take a basin of water and wash His disciple’s feet. This story is a great illustration of the call each of us has received to serve one another.

God is looking for servants in the kingdom of God. In a Christian marriage this is also true of what God is looking for – a servant.

When we are called to marriage, we are called to servitude. We are saying “I do” to serving the other person all the days of our lives. We are both called to serve one another.

There are several areas of need where you must learn to serve your spouse in marriage. It is a good idea to discuss these various areas to give you a chance to evaluate how you are serving your spouse in each of these areas.

Spiritual Service

Your spouse needs you to serve him or her spiritually. You can serve your spouse spiritually by being spiritually strong, praying, studying the Word, and developing a circle of good Christian friends.

Your spouse needs you to serve by being his or her best intercessor. At the very least, pray daily for your spouse. Care enough about your spouse’s spiritual growth to ask about the spiritual lessons he or she is learning. Discuss his or her daily Bible study, and be interested in his or her one-on-one relationship with Christ.

Your spouse also needs you to serve by being faithful in a local church. Maintain a consistent and positive attitude about your local church and give financially to it as well. The local church is the best way to grow and practice your faith. Being firmly planted in a local church will encourage both of you to be rooted in God and His people as you go through all the various trials and seasons of life.