Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – August 7, 2015
Love is patient. Love is kind. 1 Corinthians 13:4
I am a work in progress—a lifetime student in the school of learning to love my wife well. Though I have known Rita since 7th grade (we couple skated at Archie’s skating rink), I feel like I am only beginning to love her like she likes to be loved. Thankfully, she is patient with my snail’s pace progress all these years. By God’s grace I will continue to give her my very best. So, from one imperfect husband to another here are some ideas on how to better love our sweeties.
Talk
Rita loves me, but she really loves my words. My capacity for conversation is a mini-bike gas tank and her’s is an eighteen wheeler fuel tank. Husbands normally need to engage more in eye to eye discussions with their wives. We can use the excuse that we are tired, but when we are fatigued at work or a sporting event we get caffeinated, so we can stay fired up. Whatever it takes men—we are called to love our wives with our words. Show up, man up and speak up!
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29).
Listen
Listening equals love. When we take the time to discern what our spouse is feeling by what they say—we say I love you. It is what’s behind the words that matters most. Speech is a mirror of the soul. If your wife says, “I am sad”, you can ask why and/or you can ask how you can help. Listening that loves seeks to understand, not rush on when matters get emotional. With an empathic tone offer comfort first, not how to’s of instruction. Warmly listening makes her feel loved.
“Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19).
Work
God made you to work. Your wife expects you to work. Work gives your spouse security. Retirement for her is too much husband and not enough money! Especially if you don’t have to work—work. Work helps you better understand God’s will. Work helps you relate to the rest of us. Work keeps you out of trouble. Work gives you influence with those who work. Stay engaged in employment, so you can employ others in God’s kingdom. Your work announces: I love you!
“As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me [Jesus]. Night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4).
Prayer: Heavenly Father lead me to love my wife like You love my wife.
Application: What are some creative ways to love my wife well in this season of her life?
Related Readings: Genesis 2:2-3; Luke 13:10-17; John 17:4; Acts 20:35; Romans 16:12
Post/Tweet this today: Listening well equals loving well. #lovewife #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 5 minute music video- Jeremy Camp: Overcome
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What happens when work is not an option? I worked for 20+ yrs to keep my wife a stay at home mom. Now with a brain disorder and constant pain I can’t even walk around the block with my children or make plans till I see how I am doing that day. My wife now cleans other peoples houses to make ends meet. And, I had been blessed with a great job. I want to be back at work more than words can say. Thank you
Dear John,
Thank you for your sincere and heartfelt comments. Your story adds an unique perspective to the devotional, but the fact remains you did work for many years and unfortunately, your health situation is what is keeping you from work. John, I am sorry about your health challenges but I am so thankful that you know our Heavenly Father and know HE is working through these trials and tests for His Good!
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
Please let us know how you and your family are doing from time to time. We are all part of the “same family”.
I will look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Take care and God bless you and your family.
Gwynne
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
Galatians 6:10