KEYS TO FAMILY HAPPINESS

Conclusion of CHALLENGE 2: Your relationship as a couple weakens.

If you are a husband, what can you do to strengthen the marriage?   Tell your wife that you love her.  Back up your words with acts of tenderness.  Make a conscious effort to allay any feelings of insecurity that your wife may have.  Sarah, a 30-year-old mother, says:  "A wife needs to know that she is still valued and loved, even though her body is not what it was before her pregnancy."  Alan, who lives in Germany and is the father of two boys, sees the need for providing emotional support.  He says: "I have always tried to be a shoulder for my wife to cry on."

Understandably, the arrival of a baby disrupts a couple's sexual relationship.  So a husband and wife need to discuss each other's needs.  The Bible states that changes in a couple's sexual relationship should be made by "mutual consent."  ( 1 Corinthians 7:1-5)  That requires communication.  Depending on your upbringing or cultural background, you might be reluctant to talk about sexual matters with your spouse.  But such conversations are vital as a couple adjust to the routines of parenthood. Be empathetic, patient and honest.  ( 1 Corinthians 10:24)  You and your spouse will thus avoid misunderstandings and will deepen your love for each other. -1 Peter 3:7, 8.

A couple can also deepen the love they feel for each other by expressing appreciation.  A wise husband will realize that much of the work performed  by a new mother goes  unseen.  Vivianne says:  "By the end of the day, I often feel as if I have accomplished nothing-even though I have been busy caring for the baby constantly!"  Despite being busy, a discerning wife will be careful not to belittle her husband's contribution to the family. -Proverbs 17:17.

TRY THIS: Mothers, if possible, take a nap when your  baby is sleeping.  By thus "recharging your batteries," you will have more energy for your  marriage.  Fathers,  whenever possible, get up at night to feed or change the baby so that your wife can rest.  Regularly reaffirm you love for your mate by leaving notes for her, sending her text messages, or talking to  her on the telephone.  As a couple, make time to have one-on-one conversations.  Talk about each other, not only about your child.  Keep your friendship with your spouse strong, and you will be better able to handle the challenges of parenthood. 

Next time: CHALLENGE 3:  You disagree about parenting.

Watchtower, 2011