Serving One Another: A 3-Day Marriage PlanНамуна

What a Man Needs

It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.

Genesis 2:18

Wife, do you understand the needs of your husband? Let’s face it, a man’s career is usually extremely important to his self‐esteem. He is made that way. Many women complain about their husbands’ “workaholism,” which may be valid, and yet husbands deserve thanks for the effort they invest. Compared to the man who sits around the house doing little or nothing, the hard worker is an honorable man. God has assigned two key tasks to men: to provide for and to protect their families. If your husband meets those two requirements, you need to let him know that you appreciate how hard he works.

Several years ago a survey was taken to determine what men wanted in their homes. The result was surprising: It was tranquility. Is your home a peaceful haven for your husband and your family—a place where he can “recharge his batteries” and enjoy the company of his family?

Whatever his specific needs and wants, your husband—and your marriage—will benefit immeasurably when you make him a priority in your life. Scripture says that a woman was designed to be a “helper” for her husband (who, in turn, is commanded to love his wife as Christ loved the church). And after all, there’s no one better for the job than you.

Just between us . . .

·(wife) Do you feel that I appreciate how hard you work?

·(wife) What do I do for you that you most appreciate?

·(wife) What things could I do to show my love for you this week?

(wife) Heavenly Father, thank You for my husband. I want to understand and serve him in ways that refresh and encourage him. Show me how to bless him with beautiful gifts like appreciation, support, and tranquility. Amen.

Excerpted from Night Light for Couples, used with permission.

She does him [her husband] good, and not harm, all the days of her life. (Prov. 31:12, ESV)

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. (Eph. 5:22, ESV)