Husbands, Love Your Wives
December 9
Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
Colossians 3:19
“Let’s you and me have a dance, Momma,” T.J. said as he took Irene’s hand. She smiled up at her husband as their grandson quietly played his guitar. T.J. moved his feet to the rhythm of the guitar, holding tightly to his sweetheart’s hand. In turn, Irene allowed him to move as far as she could reach.
Peering through a crack in the door so as not to interrupt, a daughter, granddaughter, and an ICU nurse witnessed this precious event. “Ohhh… That’s so sweet!” the nurse whispered, moved to tears by the love and tenderness with which the ninety-four-year-old husband treated his ailing wife. They were mute observers, watching an intimate moment.
In spite of the fact that Irene lay in a hospital bed, tubes protruding from her head following brain surgery, they acted like teenagers, with eyes only for each other. Just two lovers declaring their affection, silently stating there was no power that could dampen their spirits. They were serving notice to the Universe that through it all their love remained as strong as that day sixty-six years ago, when they’d said, “I do…”
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What a wonderful example of love in action. T.J. was letting Irene know she was still, and would always be, his ‘dance partner’.
God created men to be strong, so when adversity comes they are equal to the challenge. But husbands must also be gentle, not allowing harshness a place in their marriage. So, God instructs husbands to be gentle, loving their wives with a tenderness that bears witness to a sacrificial love.
Men, God realized we would need reminders, so He had Paul address this specific issue in two of his letters. Why? Because men are not naturally-gentle creatures. We tend to meet life head on, with our sleeves rolled up, reserving tenderness for special occasions. By saying it twice God ensured His directive would carry the significance intended.
T.J.’s deep enduring love wasn’t forced. It had become natural for him to show Irene affection. Any man can learn to express such tenderness. It is a choice that strengthens the marriage through thoughtful acts of love.
Prayer
“Help me love the way You love, Lord. Help me be gentle when needed. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”
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