Ephesians 5:33
Each one of you should love his wife as himself, and the wife should respect her husband.
One of the books I selected for my 5 Books in 5 Months book club is Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. It's our February book - to get us prepped for Valentine's Day. The book is based on this verse, recognizing that part of the reason marriage is tough is that men and women are built differently. When it comes to relationships, men primarily (not entirely) desire respect and women primarily (not entirely) desire love.
Right or wrong, husbands interpret their world through the respect grid. While wives are made to love, want to love, and expect love. Often, we focus on our own needs and simply overlook the needs of the other person.
If you've found in your marriage that you feel unloved ladies, try amping up the respect you show your husband - watch your facial expressions when you speak to him, watch the way you criticize. Guys, you know what's coming - if you feel disrespected, try being extra loving towards your wife, remember that she she wants you to listen, hold her hand, be considerate of her.
And if you feel like the effort is one-sided, remember that God is with you. Pray for determination and peace!
