Biblical Family Relationships: Part Two

Love is the priority for the Christian husband! Following the apostle Paul's instructions to the wives (Eph 5:22-24), which says that the husband is the head of the wife, you would've expected him to say next, "Now husbands, exercise your authority over your wives diligently, just as Jesus is the head over the church." But, that is not what the apostle says! I have asked many Christian husbands, "What is your main responsibility toward your wife?" and I have often been told, "To be the head of my home!" Headship is a serious responsibility, but that is not what Paul says when he speaks to husbands! Rather, he says (literally), "Husbands, be continually loving your wives as Christ also loved the church..." The husband primarily (not the wife) is who the Lord holds responsible for establishing an atmosphere of love in the home! So, headship is not the priority for Christian husbands, love is! Material provision is not the priority. Many American Christian husbands think that their main responsibility is to provide an increasingly comfortable lifestyle for their wives and children. In fact, I've been told by many husbands that the very long hours they work (some with two jobs) are proof of their love for their families! Truth be told, many husbands find it much easier to give their wives and children THINGS than to spend time with them and share their hearts with them in deep loving and caring relationships! The Word of God plainly states that if a man does not provide financially for his family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever (1 Tim 5:8). Those are strong words and we should not ignore or take them lightly! But, apostle Paul is saying that we must provide our families with basic needs, not with all the stuff that the world says we need to have to be a happy and blessed family! Rather, the main responsibility of the Christian husband toward his wife is, "LOVE HER!" It's not easy, but it is your priority! Husbands, maintain an atmosphere of unconditional love in your home, and your wives and children will be blessed! Your move. Be encouraged!