Christian Marriage Articles

When There’s Something Else Going On Behind the Conflict

What’s Really Going On with the Husband Who Doesn’t Want His Wife’s Input?

What’s Really Going On with the Husband Who Doesn’t Want His Wife’s Input?

Sadly, many a man will not include his wife in decisions because he fears her input as an attempt to control him rather than as her desire to be his helpful teammate. Not only is this man extremely insecure (which calls into question his manhood), but some would call him imprudent.

Do Different Reactions Toward Their Spouse’s Contempt Mean One Is More Justified than the Other?

Do Different Reactions Toward Their Spouse’s Contempt Mean One Is More Justified than the Other?

Over the years, I have heard from many women who feel they have more of a right to speak harshly and disrespectfully to their husband than he does to speak unlovingly toward her.

When There’s Something Else Going On Behind the Conflict

When There’s Something Else Going On Behind the Conflict

A minor unannounced U-turn after church escalates into hours of tears and despair for one wife, revealing how everyday preferences quickly spiral into the Crazy Cycle of missing love and respect.

Profiling a Spouse: The Invitation to Unearth New Insights Explaining Their Behaviors

Profiling a Spouse: The Invitation to Unearth New Insights Explaining Their Behaviors

Most of us long for a better marriage, and that longing is to be applauded. However, how might some go about improving the relationship?

He Desires to Be First Among Equals, She Desires to Be First in Importance

He Desires to Be First Among Equals, She Desires to Be First in Importance

A husband has a need to be respected by his wife. That is what Paul teaches in Ephesians 5:33. As well, a wife has a need to be honored (respected) by her husband.

Profiling a Spouse: The Invitation to Unearth New Insights Explaining Their Behaviors

He Desires to Be First Among Equals, She Desires to Be First in Importance

Do You Jump on the Crazy Cycle?

Do You Jump on the Crazy Cycle?

Many couples seem to spend most of their time on the Crazy Cycle, which is summed up like this: Without love she reacts without respect. Without respect, he reacts without love. Years ago as I reflected on God’s clear command (which is not a suggestion that we can take or leave) in Ephesians 5:33, I unearthed what I came to call the ‘Love and Respect Connection.’

Speaking With Love and Respect Works!

Speaking With Love and Respect Works!

Emerson writes, “Husbands tell us they have learned what can happen when they use loving words to communicate with wives, and wives tell us they have been astounded at the difference it makes when they use respectful words to communicate with their husbands.”

Who is the Mature One in Your Marriage?

Who is the Mature One in Your Marriage?

I often challenge couples by saying, “The mature one goes first.” It is much easier to sit back and say, “Well Emerson, I would be more loving if my wife was more respectful!” Or, “Why should I show my husband respect when he is treating me in an unloving way?” Of course it is easier to be obedient to God in our marriage when our husband or wife is also being obedient. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.

Words Can Heal a Marriage

Words Can Heal a Marriage

The Bible says, “The tongue of the wise brings healing” Proverbs 12:18. Loving and respectful words not only have the power to create healthy communication but also to bring healing to the marriage. A wife says, “I start with an apology for my lack of respect.” Men, share why this apology for being disrespectful can heal the heart of a husband.