I Corr. 7:3-5: God and Respect
The Bible tells us that a husband is responsible for treating his wife with respect and loving her “as Christ loved the church and gave himself for her” (Ephesians 5:25). A disrespectful husband is an insult to God and in direct violation of His laws. The Bible also tells us that husbands are “heads” of the home who are to provide for their wives and children’s needs (I Corinthians 7:3-5) and with the expectation that their wives will respect them in return. However, when the husband does not show the same level of respect for his wife, the home turns into a battlefield.
Instruction Manual: The Bible
The Bible offers a treasure trove of advice on marital relationships, including tips on how to keep a healthy and strong relationship. In Colossians 3:19, Paul encourages husbands to “love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” While the Bible does not provide a comprehensive “instruction manual” for how to treat a wife, it does provide timeless wisdom for navigating difficult marital waters.
For example, many of the Proverbs contain teachings on how a husband should treat his wife. In Proverbs 15:1 we read, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” This passage alone serves as a good reminder that a disrespectful husband can ruin a marriage by creating an atmosphere of anger and hostility.
Unconditional Respect
The Bible also reminds us that husbands should not only show respect to their wives, but to their children as well. In Ephesians 6:4, Paul urges fathers to bring their children up “in the training and instruction of the Lord.” The Bible, if taken to heart, will teach all husbands to be gentle, kind, and patient. A disrespectful husband is a sign of a broken home and, as Christians, it should be our goal to seek reconciliation and healing in our marriages.
It is also important for a husband to show unconditional respect for his wife and children. This means respecting them even when you disagree with them or find yourself in conflict. The Bible teaches that even in difficult moments, it is critical to uphold respect. In I Peter 3:7, we read, “Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
The Power of Positive Communication
The Bible speaks volumes to husbands and wives about the power of communication and how it can shape our relationships. In Proverbs 15:1, we read, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” The Bible keeps the importance of communication in perspective and tells us that we must choose our words carefully if we want to build strong, lasting relationships with our wives.
It is also important for husbands to express appreciation for their wives. Proverbs 31:28-30 reads, “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’” Expressing appreciation for our wives is an act of respect and an act of honoring God’s design of our families.
The Benefits of Taking Responsibility
The Bible also gives husbands advice on how to resolve conflicts and disagreements with their wives. When a husband has been disrespectful, it is important for him to take responsibility for his words or actions, apologize for them, and make amends. This will not only help to begin the healing process, but it will also show that he is taking responsibility for his part in the relationship.
In Exodus 20:12, God instructs us to “honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” This is a reminder to husbands of their responsibility to honor and respect their wives and to serve as an example to their children of what a loving marriage looks like.
The Real Meaning of Love
Finally, the Bible reminds us of the real meaning of love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 reads, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” Husbands must remember that love is not about dominating or disrespecting their wives, but about showing them extraordinary and unconditional love.
The Pursuit of True Holiness
Furthermore, husbands must also remember that part of their commitment to God is the pursuit of true holiness. In I Peter 1:15-16, we are instructed to “be holy in all our behavior…because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.” This means that husbands must strive to be men of God who are living examples of the Scriptures and teachings of Jesus Christ.
A disrespectful husband dishonors God and is in direct violation of His Word. It is important for husbands to remember that they, as the head of their household, are responsible for setting an example of love and respect. The Bible offers many examples and stories that serve as a reminder that a husband should always treat his wife with the utmost respect, no matter the circumstance.
How to Respond if a Husband is Disrespectful
If a husband is disrespectful towards his wife, the first step is for her to talk to him about it. She should express her hurt and anger, and explain why his behavior is inappropriate and harmful. She should also point out the Biblical principles and teachings that would encourage him to treat her with respect. If the husband is unwilling to listen or responds with more disrespect, it may be necessary to seek marriage counseling.
The Bible is replete with stories and teachings about how husbands and wives should act toward one another. A disrespectful husband is a violation of God’s principles and should never be tolerated. It is the responsibility of all husbands to be the loving and respectful heads of their households and to lead their families by example.
Starting a Conversation
When a husband is disrespectful, it is important that the couple start a honest and open dialogue. By discussing the issue, the couple can have a better understanding of each other’s feelings. This can also lead to better communication between them and help them work out their differences.
It is also important that a husband takes the time to sit down with his wife and assess the root of the problem. A husband must understand that disrespect is toxic and incompatible with a healthy marriage. If a husband is willing to be honest about his hurtful words or actions and take responsibility for them, that is the first step to repair the relationship.
Seeking Help
If necessary, a couple should seek professional help. This can be in the form of marriage counseling or therapy. The couple can discuss their issues with a trained professional and learn how to communicate in healthy ways as well as work out their differences. The Bible also speaks of reconciliation and conflict resolution and encourages couples to seek help if needed.
A disrespectful husband dishonors God and destroys the relationship between husband and wife. It is important for a husband to be mindful of his behavior and make sure that he is showing his wife love, respect and kindness. The Bible offers us guidance on how to be loving and respectful husbands, and how to navigate the challenges of marriage.
Putting God at the Center
No matter the difficulties that a husband and wife may face, it is important to always put God at the center of the marriage. By praying to God and seeking His guidance and wisdom, a couple can gain perspective and find the path of reconciliation. God always offers us a way out of any situation and it is our responsibility as His followers to seek His guidance and use it as a compass for our lives.
The Bible is clear on how a husband should treat his wife. A husband should show his love, appreciation and respect for his wife, and should lead his family by example. A husband should also strive to be holy, follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and put God at the center of his marriage. With His guidance and faithfulness, any of our relationships can be restored.
