Blessed Wives, Blessed Lives
ICS Daily Devotions
Ephesians 5:28-29 (NKJV) So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. How do husbands ensure that their wives are well nourished? They prioritise their wives’ needs above their own. One of their wives’ needs are their emotional needs. Husbands ought to ensure that their wives’ emotional reservoirs are constantly filled through the love language, where they feel loved.
The five love languages are acts of kindness, affirmation, quality time, gifts, and touch.
Acts of kindness can include helping with household chores, picking her up from work, sending her for a facial, and coaching the kids on their homework.
Affirmation is a powerful way to build her up with words, praising her work, achievements, beauty, and how she has grown spiritually by being more considerate, helpful, kind, and generous. Husbands should validate their wives’ feelings and not dismiss their concerns, tell them they are God’s masterpieces with spiritual and administrative gifts, encourage them to pursue their gifts, and pray with them and bless them.
Quality time could include going on a date without the children, going on a cruise, watching a film, having a chat to find out how her day was, spending time with her doing what she enjoys.
Gifts for wives can be given anytime, not only on special occasions. Find out what their favourite flowers, colours, foods, and cosmetic brands are.
Husbands can make physical contact by hugging them or holding their hands. They should also initiate sexual relationships and show affection to them, regardless of age.
Furthermore, husbands should ensure that they and their wives have a joint bank account where they deposit all their money. This is especially important when they view marriage as a covenant, where they promise to stay together in good and bad times, in sickness and health, until death do they part. It is a strong signal that they are one flesh and will face everything in life together. It builds trust when they do not hide their assets and financial status by maintaining a joint account.
When making major purchases or investments, the couple should discuss and agree on the way forward. Another crucial step for the husband is to support his wife when there are conflicts with her in-laws. He should speak up and stand by her when the situation calls for it. If possible, it is better not to reside in the same house as in-laws, as this provides the couple with time and space to build their marriage without external interference.
We must prevent trust from eroding in marriage. Therefore, it is important to be candid and transparent, honour commitments, be compassionate and attentive, and, above all else, practise Agape love. This will ensure a blessed wife, a blessed life, and a happy family.
Sermon Series- Blessed Wives, Blessed Lives
