[Eph 5:33 NIV] 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
In a marriage, love and respect are like superpowers that can transform the relationship in extraordinary ways. When a woman knows, deep down to her core, that she is genuinely loved, appreciated, and desired by her husband, she radiates a confidence that's unstoppable. And when a husband leaves home for work, knowing he's respected, honored, and admired there, he operates from a place of abundance, not desperation, in his pursuits.
Love is the heart and soul of a thriving marriage. It's not just about warm fuzzy feelings, but a deliberate choice to put your spouse first and cherish them. Love in marriage means selflessness, sacrifice, and standing by each other no matter what. It's an active force that seeks your partner's well-being and happiness, even when things get tough.
Respect, on the other hand, is like the secret sofrito sauce that adds flavor to your marriage. It's about appreciating and valuing each other's essence, calling, unique qualities and contributions. When you respect your spouse, you create an environment of trust, openness, and authentic communication that leads to confidence and contribution. It's all about honoring their dignity and showing that you value who they are.
When love and respect come together, something powerful happens. A wife who feels genuinely loved gains an inner strength and confidence that can add love and grace to the world. And a husband who is respected and admired at home operates with a sense of purpose and determination in all he does.
In the grand scheme of things, love and respect in marriage align with God's plan for us. The Bible tells us to love sacrificially, just as Christ loved the Church. It also encourages wives to respect and honor their husbands. It's a beautiful balance that acknowledges each other's unique roles while fostering a deep connection based on love and respect.
Life is hard enough and people could be weird, passive aggressive and bugged out. We might as well choose to make our home a harbor and haven where we speak life, love and light into each other.
Kids play a role as well. When our kids figure out how to honor, respond and respect their parents their is no end to the willingness and sacrifices parents will make for their kiddos.
LOVE
RESPECT
HONOR
Pray for each other
Pray with each other
Romance
Responsibility
Rewards
Moments
Money
Ministry
Share the emotional labor
Share Love
Share your heart
Systems
Sacrifices
Stewards
Saving
Expectation
Execution
Enduring
Enjoying
Such beautiful insights here. I certainly navigate the world with confidence because of the love and support I receive at home. Thank you for articulating that here!