Husbands, Love Your Wives

Submitted by Jarvis Howe

This is undoubtedly one of the most important verses for those seeking to be more godly husbands, and that is something we all struggle with. I won’t go into too much depth today but I just wanted to share a couple of thoughts on this verse and a couple of ways in which we as husbands can love our wives as Christ loved the church.

One thing you will notice again and again in the gospels is that Jesus sincerely listened to those he encountered. He listened to their stories and their perspectives. This is a good but potentially overlooked example of love. He was Jesus, the Son of God. He was here to die for our sins and redeem mankind, yet He took time to listen to the problems of His children, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem. Husbands and wives alike have issues in their own lives that may seem small and trivial, but sharing them with their spouse, either to find a solution to a problem or just to vent can make a world of difference. Taking the time to listen to your wife talk about her day or about something that happened recently, or even about her opinion on some matter that to you may seem trivial shows her you love her. If Jesus made time for it, surely we as husbands can make time for it also.

Recall Jesus serving his disciples by washing their feet. There are so many opportunities we have to serve others every day. Sometimes at the end of a long day though, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that it’s time to go home and just relax and not lift a finger. Take advantage of ways to serve your wife whenever you see them. Think about how you greet one another when you come home. Sometimes this can be hard, and we, as men, may overlook opportunities. But take advantage of the ones that are right in front of your face. For example, my wife loves massages. I’m not batting .1000 when it comes to giving her massages when she asks so it’s definitely an area in which I can improve. But, doing the things your wife asks you to do and then doing extra little things to serve her is another great way to serve her and love her as Christ loved the church.

Looking for additional ways to invest in your marriage? Contact Jarvis Howe, Director of Counseling and Family Ministry at 217-423-6955.

You may also consider attending the Family Life “I STILL DO” Simulcast event coming up at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 17th (8:00am-4:00pm). Tickets are available online now by clicking HERE.