BUILDING A FAMILY THAT HONORS GOD

Conclusion of Tools For Building A HAPPY MARRIAGE

In your house, let us say that you would have a very useful container that is especially delicate.  Would you  not treat it with great care?  Well, Peter used the term "weaker vessel" in a similar vein, and this should move a Christians husband to manifest tender regard for his beloved wife.  

But what counsel does the Bible give a wife?  Paul wrote:  "The wife should have deep respect for her husband."  (Ephesians 5:33)  Just as a wife needs to sense that she is honored and dearly loved by her mate, a husband needs to feel that he is respected by his wife.  A respectful wife would not thoughtlessly broadcast her husband's faults, whether he is a Christian or not.  She would not strip him of his dignity by criticizing and belittling him either privately or publicly.  - 1 Timothy 3:11; 5:13. 

This does not mean that a wife cannot express her opinions. If something disturbs her, she can respectfully give voice to it. (Genesis 21:9-12) Conveying an idea to her husband might be likened  to throwing a ball to him. She can toss it gently so that he can easily catch it, or she can fling it with such force that it injures him. How much better it is when both mates avoid hurtling accusations but, rather speak in a kind and gentle manner! -Matthew 87:12; Colossians 4:6; 1 Peter 3:3, 4.

As we have seen, Bible principles can help  you to build a happy marriage.  But what if your mate shows little interest in what the Bible has to say?  Much can still be accomplished if you apply the knowledge of God in your role. Peter wrote:  "You wives be in subjection to  your own husbands, in order that, if you are not obedient to the word, they may be won without a word through the conduct of their wives, because of having been eyewitnesses of your chaste conduct together with deep respect>"  (1 Peter 3:1, 2)  Of course, the same would apply  to a husband whose wife is indifferent toward the Bible.  Regardless of what your mate chooses to do, let the Bible principles make you a better spouse.  The knowledge of God can also make you a better parent.  

Next time: BUILDING A FAMILY THAT HONORS GOD/REARING CHILDREN ACCORDING TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life