PowerPoint - July 21, 2008

July 21, 2008

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.

--Ephesians 5:25

Do you know what the primary responsibility of a man in marriage is? According to God’s plan, it’s to love his wife.

Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? Not really!

Our Scripture today says, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” As men, our example of how to love our wives is the Lord Jesus Christ.

And what exactly does that kind of love look like?

First, it initiates. According to 1 John 4:19, Jesus “first loved us.” If we take the first step in initiating an atmosphere of love at home, our wives will respond.

Second, it sacrifices. In the Scripture, we are commanded to love sacrificially just as Christ did when He laid down His life for us. Genuine sacrifice like this in a marriage fuels loyalty, godly submission, and acceptance.

And third, a Christ-like love is humble. It leads with humility. Remember, if you have to tell your wife that you’re in charge… you’re not in charge. Real authority comes from humility. 

Christ’s example of love is the biblical blueprint for success in marriage. So, how does a man love a woman? In the footsteps of Christ!

Men, it’s a hard assignment. And we cannot do it alone. We need the Spirit of the living Christ to supernaturally make us more like Him as we assume the responsibility He has ordained for us as husbands. 

A marriage of lifelong, satisfying love begins with you!   

ASK GOD TODAY TO FILL YOUR SPIRIT AND HEART WITH THE LOVE THAT COMES FROM SACRIFICE, HUMILITY, AND UNDERSTANDING.