Practically Speaking to Husbands and Wives

In several years of preaching, there is an area that I have come to enjoy very much – premarital counseling. If you had told me when starting this would be something that would bring so much joy and satisfaction, I most likely would have laughed out loud. However, I find it to be very rewarding and, as it turns out, a very good thing for my own marriage. Julie and I almost always sit down for a number of one-hour sessions with the groom and bride-to-be. As we discuss with them a number of Biblical and practical aspects of marriage and their God-given roles and responsibilities, it always serves as a good reminder of the stewardship God has placed in my care as a man, husband, and father. I know that Julie feels the same about the roles she has in our home as woman, wife, and mother. Can I offer some practical things for you to consider in your home, no matter how many years you have been married?

Suggestions to husbands:

1. Be the spiritual leader in your home (Ephesians 5:23;6:4).
2. Tell her often, “I love you!” (Ecclesiastes 9:9; Ephesians 5:25).
3. Compliment her on her looks and accomplishments (Song of Solomon 4:1-7).
4. Never criticize her before others to her disadvantage (Ephesians 5:27).
5. Have a clear understanding about money matters (Proverbs 22:7).
6. Appreciate and thank her for the things she does for you (Proverbs 31:28).
7. Confide in her – see that he is your best friend (Proverbs 27:17).
8. Do not be jealousy suspicious of her (1 Corinthians 13:5).
9. Be patient and understanding with her (1 Peter 3:7).
10. Share recreational time with her.

Suggestions to wives:

1. Make the home a comfortable, attractive, and livable place to be (Titus 2:5).
2. Dress with an eye to please your husband especially (1 Timothy 2:9-10).
3. Do not criticize your husband before others (Ephesians 5:33).
4. Learn to meet financial reverses bravely (Titus 2:5).
5. Discuss your husband’s business with him intelligently (Proverbs 31:23-27).
6. Become a part of his successes and/or failures – you’re always in this together (Proverbs 31:23-27).
7. Make a special effort to get along with his relatives.
8. Take time to play together.
9. Never nag or become a quarrelsome woman (Proverbs 21:9).
10. Respect him and love him (Ephesians 5:22-23; Titus 2:5).

-Adam Orr