“He shall…bring happiness to his wife.” Deuteronomy 24:5 NKJV
THE BIBLE says, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her” (Ephesians 5:25 NKJV). And since the disciples were the original church founders, let’s look again at how Jesus treated them. He spent time with them, talking and listening. Old Testament law required: “When a man has taken a new wife, he shall not go out to war or be charged with any business; he shall be free at home one year, and bring happiness to his wife” (Deuteronomy 24:5 NKJV). Imagine, a whole year of doing nothing but loving and getting to know each other! Why did God plan it that way? Because no battle you’ll ever fight, and no business you’ll ever be involved in, is more important than building a lasting relationship with your spouse.
A leading cause of divorce today is among couples who don’t set aside time at the end of the workday to sit down together, free from the TV and telephone, and share their thoughts and feelings. Do you know what never grows old? Caring, communicating, assuring your spouse that of all the places you could be right now, you’d rather be with them. Many times your wife will share problems with you, but it’s not because she wants you to “fix” them. Truth be told, some of the problems she discussed with you months ago remain unfixed, and she’s okay with that! What she’s looking for is empathy, understanding, and support. When you listen attentively to her concerns, she feels loved and valued, and nine times out of ten, the problem fades into obscurity. It’s a big return—on a small investment!
Soul Food Reading: Exo 39-40, Luke 15:11-32, Ps 135, Pro 7:21-23
