“ So again I say, a man must love his wife as a part of himself; and the wife must see to it that she deeply respects her husband- obeying, praising and honoring him.”  Ephesians 5: 33 TLB

What have you planned for today? Hopefully you can enjoy the summer weather. July is half over already. If you blink summer may be over. Do you feel this way or have I been too busy? 

Respect for others has been lost in our society to some extent. Everyone is so busy chasing their own dreams. I’m not saying this is a bad thing but there has to be balance. What about strengthening someone else in their dreams? 

Marriage has this give and take about it. In the loving and giving we may have to put our own plans on the back burner. Prayer is the wisest way to bring balance to this. Being available to help our spouse is important too.

My husband has put me before himself many times. I can’t remember a time when he put his needs first. I know this is a rare attribute and not everyone can do this. Its easy to love when your husband is wonderful.

What about when life gets hard and a husband is critical, mean and demeaning? This is where leaning on God is the answer. Sometimes leaning can really mean falling on. When you can't stand the abuse and pain but you know you need to stand. 

No one should stay in the same home with a physically abusive husband. God doesn't call us to die at the hands of someone who has pledged to love us! Quite the opposite! Because of the Love God has for us He wants us to be in a safe place.

What if your man is cranky, and insulting. Love him to the love of God. If he is a christian, pray and find someone else who will pray with you about this. Don't give in to behaving badly in return. Certainly this is very hard and my heart goes out to you!

When it is hard to obey God we need the body of Christ to lift us up. Even if you have to go for prayer every Sunday after the service. Do it. Until you find someone who will agree to pray for you every day. Hold onto His hand and don't let go!