Things That I must do in a relationship with my wife.

I may not be a good husband.
But I'm TRYING.
- Jerry N. Bustillo

To my Loving Wife
who strive to make a good home.

Having a strong and healthy relationship with your spouse is important in any marriage, and there are many principles in the scriptures that can guide us in building a strong relationship with our spouses. Here are a few key principles:

• Love and Respect: In Ephesians 5:33, it says, "However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." This verse emphasizes the importance of love and respect in a marriage. It's important to show love and affection to your wife and to treat her with respect.

• Communication: Open and honest communication is vital in any relationship. In Ephesians 4:29, it says, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." This verse reminds us to use our words to build each other up and to communicate in a loving and respectful way.

• Sacrificial Love: Jesus taught us about sacrificial love, and this principle applies to our relationships as well. In Ephesians 5:25, it says, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." This verse encourages husbands to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church.

• Forgiveness: In any relationship, there will be times when we make mistakes or hurt each other. It's important to practice forgiveness and extend grace to one another. In Colossians 3:13, it says, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

These are just a few principles from the Bible that can guide us in building a biblical relationship with our spouses. It's important to study the Word of God together, pray together, and seek guidance from God in your marriage. Remember, every relationship is unique, and it's important to seek wisdom and guidance from God as you navigate your marriage journey.

Showing love and respect to your wife involves both actions and attitudes. Here are some practical ways to demonstrate love and respect:

• Love her unconditionally: The Bible teaches us to love our wives unconditionally, just as Christ loves the church. This means loving her regardless of her flaws or shortcomings. Show her love through your words, actions, and gestures of affection.

• Listen to her: Take the time to truly listen to your wife and value her opinions and feelings. Show genuine interest in what she has to say and be attentive to her needs. This demonstrates respect and validates her as an important part of your life.

• Serve and support her: Look for ways to serve and support your wife. Help with household chores, offer assistance when she's overwhelmed, and be her biggest cheerleader. Encourage her dreams and aspirations, and be there to support her in achieving them.

• Communicate with kindness and gentleness: Use your words to build her up and speak to her with kindness and gentleness. Avoid harsh or hurtful language, and be mindful of how you communicate, especially during disagreements. Ephesians 4:29 reminds us to speak words that are helpful and beneficial.

• Show affection: Physical touch and affection are important in a marriage. Show your wife affection through hugs, kisses, and holding hands. Physical touch can communicate love and care in a powerful way.

• Pray for her: Lift your wife up in prayer regularly. Pray for her well-being, her dreams, her challenges, and her spiritual growth. Praying for your wife demonstrates your love and commitment to her.

• Seek her input and involve her in decision-making: Value your wife's opinions and involve her in decision-making processes. This shows respect for her thoughts and ideas and reinforces the importance of teamwork in your relationship.

Remember, every marriage is unique, and it's important to communicate with your wife and understand her specific needs and preferences. The Bible provides principles, but it's essential to apply them in a way that aligns with your wife's personality and love language.