What does Denzil Washington, Joyce Meyer and Thomas D. Jakes have in common? With the support of their spouse, they excelled in their purpose.

According to Denzil, his wife Pauletta made their house a home by doing the “heavy-lifting.” That gave him the support to excel in his career. In the article Who Is Denzel Washington’s Wife, Pauletta Washington? Denzil said, “Everybody has their ups and downs; we’ve had ours. It’s hard work, you know. But we made a commitment. A spiritual foundation helps everything—marriage, work, peace of mind.” Over his career Denzil starred, co-starred in many films, and amassed awards too many to mention here. Him and his wife were married in June 1983.

At first Joyce’s husband Dave was not onboard with her call to ministry. But he changed his mind and decided to back her up in whatever she did. In fact, it was his idea to start the TV show, “Everyday Life,” in the early ’90s. Today Joyce is known internationally as a speaker and author. They were married for 55 years in January 2022.

On their 35th Anniversary in May 2017, Bishop Thomas D. Jakes honored his wife as he reflected on their marriage over the years. He shared that “they endured some major challenges and changes throughout the years.” However, “the constant has been our unwavering love and her consistent loyalty to me and the vision God gave me!” Today the accomplishments of TD Jakes, as he known, include renowned speaker throughout America, author and movie producer.

My wife and I have been married for over fourteen years. Because God is sovereign, I have come to believe in her purpose in my life and vice versa. I learned two important aspects to her purpose. One is to challenge me to be a better person, and another is to cheer me on when I fall short as well as when I hit the mark. The trick is to remember to accept her even when her method of challenging me is different to how I would challenge. It is easier received when I remember that we are on the same team and because her intent is endearing, any perception otherwise means there is probably a misunderstanding.

Today, believe that not only does God want His best for you but so does your spouse – assuming both of you want a healthy marriage. Continue to nurture trust in each other, which helps to better believe in their best intentions even when it seems otherwise.

Your spouse wants to communicate in a language you understand but sometimes may miss the mark. Strive to “do everything in love” according to 1 Corinthians 16:14 and this will serve to govern your intent and approach toward him or her. It may come as a surprise as to how both of you flourish in your individual and collective purposes.