Husbands live with your wives in an understanding way,
as with a weaker (deeper feeling) vessel, since she is a woman,
and grant her honor (weigh heavy her input) as a fellow-heir of the grace of life,
so that your prayers may not be hindered.
Peter 3:7 (NASB)
Wives be submissive (show respect and support) to your own husbands.
Peter 3:1 (NASB)
So, you’ve been married a long time—you love each other—you provide companionship for each other—you know the rhythms of everyday life backwards and forwards. It’s all good!
But lately you have noticed a low level of anxiety—a little buildup of irritations—a little boredom with each other—and perhaps even just a little neglect of important priorities. It may be time for a marriage tune-up for your good marriage!
Here are some probing questions that work for our marriage when it needs tweaking. See if you agree.
If you are a husband, are you providing loving headship for your wife?
Are you protecting and honoring her?
Are you valuing her thoughts—ideas—desires—concerns?
Are you responding to her needs sacrificially?
If you are a wife, are you responding with loving submission to your husband?
Are you respecting and supporting him?
Are you helping him articulate his hopes—dreams—desires—fears?
Are you partnering with him to makes his dreams a reality?
If you are a husband, ask her—Is there more I could do to protect/honor you?
If you are a wife, ask him—Is there more I could do to respect/support you?
It is possible to revive your marriage by answering these questions honestly, by being teachable, and by turning away from old habits. Are you teachable?