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Another look at how Jesus would have us love our wives. I’m going to use a Pauline text for this one, but the idea is certainly found in how Jesus calls us to behave.
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her ~Ephesians 5:25 ESV
The Message drives the point home well, saying:
Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. ~ MSG
I would put it this way: Love sacrifices for the one it loves. This is the hallmark of love. If this is missing, it’s probably not love, and it’s certainly not mature, healthy love.
Of course, there are seasons to this. There are times when one spouse does far more sacrificing. But if that’s the norm, something is wrong. Both husband and wife need to sacrifice regularly.
BTW, when I say sacrifice, I don’t just mean not doing something. I also mean doing something you have no interest in doing because your wife wants it. That means watching a show with her that she really wants you to watch with her. It means rubbing her back when it’s sore, even if you’re exhausted and just want to sleep. It means making time to talk with her when you feel no desire to talk, and actually engaging well. It means letting her choose the restaurant, even though you know it will be one you would never choose. Love says, “I have no interest, but will gladly do that with you because I love you.”
Do you sacrifice for your wife? Do you do it often enough?
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Thank you for sharing this. There have been times when a post like this was convicting and pointed to something I need to improve. Frankly I have wondered at times if I was doing this or at least if I was doing it well.
This time, the Holy Spirit used your listed examples to bring to mind different times when I have done just those things and other similar things. It served as a balm to my spirit and an encouragement that I am doing what I need to be in this area. I’m not perfect and I have much growing, learning, and improving to do in so many areas but I am thankful for this uplifting moment I’m my day/week/month… I needed it. Thank you again for sharing with us.