The marriage relationship is the most important human relationship we’ll ever experience.  God said the love shared in marriage is comparable to the love Christ has for the church (see Ephesians 5:22-33).  Knowing this, it would make sense that God has given us the ability to grow stronger in our marriages.  Regardless of the condition of your marriage right now, it can get better!  & God will help you in that effort.

In 1 Peter 3:7, God tells us husbands to dwell with our wives “with understanding.”  Sometimes we men may feel like we’ll never be able to properly relate to our wife, we’ll never really understand what makes her tick.  But God says you can.  With His help, you can increase in your understanding of this unique woman.  It won’t always be easy, but the rewards that come from your efforts will make it a great investment!

To the wives, God says to show respect for your husband (see Ephesians 5:33).  This is something you must choose to do, not something you’ll necessarily feel like doing.  When a man feels respected by his wife, he will usually respond in a more respectful & loving manner.  When he feels disrespected, he will often react in a negative manner.  While you can’t control your husband’s responses, you can greatly influence him by the way you respond to him.

EXTRA MARRIAGE ITEMS:

Let your spouse be who he/she was meant to be. You can’t control your spouse, because you were never meant to. The Bible did not say “Control your spouse.” To the husbands, God said, “Love your wife.” To the wives, God said, “Respect your husband.” The way we respond to our spouse influences them greatly, but does not control them.  As we obey God, our spouse will be influenced and will eventually respond. Reap what you sow.