As some of you know, Joe and I will be married for 29 years next June.  We have each grown in our marriage, as well as our Lord for each other and God.  Without God in a marriage it is hard to make it.  We go out to eat usually on Sundays and some Friday nights.  I wait for Joe to open the door to the restaurant for me.  And if both our hands are not full, he will open the car door for me.  And I can tell you that when we are old and gray, well that last part I'm there, and Joe is getting close, I will still expect him to open the door for me.

Now the ones of you who really know me, know that I am a very independent woman. I am strong willed, and can do about anything I set my mind to do.  But I still like to be treated like a lady.  One of my daughters once said, "Mama taught us if a man can do it, let him, even though you can handle it yourself.  Let him treat you like a lady.  It will not only make you feel special, but will also make him feel special." 

Today, coming out of a restaurant I waited for Joe to open the door for me.  As we was walking away, a man smoking a cigarette, said, huh. He thought we were dating or something, I guess.  But I believe I am due respect, as well as Joe is also due respect. I said thank you.  Joe and I were with a couple awhile back, who did not show respect to one another.  If we do not agree with each other, we do not bring it out in public.  We would not raise our voices to each other in disrespect, in front of other people.  Humiliation can hurt worse than a physical hurt at times. 

I Peter 3: 7, (NKJV) says, "Husbands, likewise dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered."

I Peter 3: 7, (NIV) says, "Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers."

I John 3: 18, (NKJV) says, "My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth."

I John 3: 18, (NIV) says, "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

God designed marriage to illustrate the relationship He intends to have with His people. The husband is to give his wife honor and understand, protecting her and acknowledging that she is a fully partnered heir of God.  The wife is to accept the care of her husband, living in a manner that honors him. The beauty of the spirit of such a woman will be precious to God and to her husband. 

Wife, place yourself in the loving hands of your husband.  Live in a way that honors your husband and God.  Believe that this Godly conduct will win an unsaved husband to Christ.

Husband, be kind and gentle to your wife. Honor her as your very best friend. Listen to her and spend time with her.  Cherish her and make her feel extremely important. Recognize that not doing so will hinder your prayer life and obstruct answers from God.

Joyfully, In The Master's Service
   Blessings, Prayers and Love,
   Pastor Pat

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