What Can Chick-fil-A Teach Us About Marriage?

Chick-fil-A. If you’re anything like me, just saying the name means you’re already thinking about those delicious chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. But why mention a fast food joint in a blog post about marriage? Well, believe it or not, there's a valuable lesson to be learned here.

At Chick-fil-A, when you place an order, you’re greeted with five simple words: “How may I serve you?” It’s not just about food; it’s a mindset that can transform not only your dining experience but also your relationships, especially your marriage.

The key lies in adopting the attitude of Christ, as outlined in Philippians 2:1-11. This passage urges us to emulate Jesus’ humility in our interactions with others. Whether you’re married, single, or in any kind of relationship, this principle remains relevant. Relationships can get messy, but by embodying Christ's mindset, we can navigate through the mess and strengthen our bonds.

Paul's letter to the Philippians addresses a community dealing with its own share of discord. Sound familiar? If your marriage feels a little messy right now, don’t despair. Instead, see it as an opportunity for growth. Just as Paul encouraged the Philippians to find common ground, we too can strive for unity by modeling ourselves after Christ.  So, how do we tighten our serve and strengthen our relationships? It starts with three simple steps.

Firstly, show selflessness. Selfishness is the nemesis of any relationship, corroding the bonds of love and trust. Instead, let’s follow Jesus’ example of selflessness, putting the needs of others above our own.

Next, exercise humility. Humility isn’t about thinking less of ourselves but rather thinking of ourselves less. Jesus, despite His divine status, humbled Himself to serve others. Likewise, we should approach our relationships with a humble spirit, prioritizing the well-being of our loved ones.
 
Lastly, honor your spouse above yourself. Acknowledge their value and importance in your life. Treat them with the same respect and admiration that you would expect for yourself.
But how do we put these principles into action? It’s the little things that count. Whether it’s putting the toilet seat down or simply asking, “How can I help you today?” Every small gesture contributes to a culture of service and love within our marriages. And if you’ve fallen short, don’t be afraid to come clean. Confess your faults, seek forgiveness, and rely on the transformative power of Jesus to guide you in modeling His mindset in your marriage.

Let’s strive to serve our spouses better than even the most customer-centric businesses. By embodying the attitude of Christ—selflessness, humility, and honor—we can not only tighten our serve but also strengthen the bonds of love and unity within our marriages. Remember, it’s through our commitment to serve and love one another that we truly reflect the love of Christ in our relationships.