The Bible is an absolutely phenomenal manual for successful marriage! Why? Because each command to either husband or wife reveals your spouse’s need.
When I was a young, high-energy, enthusiastic pastor I worked lots of hours. I started early in the morning and worked until about nine in the evening. 
One day Delores mentioned that she felt like a pastor’s widow. Immediately I recalled the command recorded in Ephesians 5:25. “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” I realized that my wife needed my love, which included spending time with her. The command to me revealed Delores’ need. That’s the way it is throughout Scripture. Commands to spouses reveal their partner’s need.
When I realized my error, I suggested that we begin taking Friday nights as a date night, a marital date. Delores was delighted. Our love and appreciation for one another blossomed more than ever.
One more thing about Ephesians 5:25. It not only tells husbands to love their wives, it tells them how to love them: “As Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” In other words, men, we can not be selfish and put ourselves ahead of our wives. Isn’t that how Christ loved the church? He gave himself up for her.
Ladies, your turn comes in the next blog.
Be greatly encouraged!
