Husbands And Wives Need To Help Each Other Become Successful Series

Somehow and in some way, we need to give them specific words that deal with the particular problem they’re going through. Never in a condemning way of course, but the word of God is where the power to change comes from. My wife, Lynette, passed away and I became married to a fine Christian woman who I had known for over 25 years. Her husband also had died. Although she had been in our church for many years, she had no experience being married to a Pastor. She was surprised then, when I told her how much it meant to me that she would share a verse with me. She thought Pastors knew everything (well almost)! I’ve told her, if the day should come that I have to be in a rest home and become mentally incompetent, “I beg you, that whatever else you do, make sure that you read the Word to me!” I know that’s going to make a difference.

3. Praise Them

We all know that nagging doesn’t work, right? But how many of us still nag? That’s just human nature. I know they say that ladies nag more than men, but I’m not so sure that’s the case at all! Praising someone, however, is incredible! The power of praise lifts people. I’ve noticed that praise is a crucible that purifies and shapes the ore of character. Wise praise is powerful, “As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise” (Proverbs 27:21).

I so admire the story of David and Abigail found in 1 Samuel 25. In fact, this is one of the reasons why our youngest daughter is named Abigail. I was studying through 1 Samuel and absolutely fell in love with this amazing woman of God. Abigail had a rough go of it in her marriage to Nabal. Despite that, she was able to change a very angry and bitter man, David, through the power of praise. In the story, her husband dishonored and put King-elect, David, and his men into an unsafe scenario. This offended him, and rightly so, so David and his men set out to fight for the honor and safety of their country. Oblivious, Nabal and his men were just minutes from death at the hands of these angry warriors, when soft-spoken Abigail stepped up! She runs out and brings food to David and his men (smart lady to bring food). She speaks to him thoughtfully and wisely. When she meets David she doesn’t put up a sign saying, “I hate Israel, we have our rights.” No, she did the most amazing thing when she said, “David, the fact is, you are a bigger man than this…you are a way bigger man than to carry out selfish vengeance on your enemies. Fight the Lord’s battles. You are a man of God.” She buttered him up! By the time she was done, David melted. He packed up and went home. She did a work through praise. One woman through praise changed the course of a nation…amazing! I encourage every husband and wife to read that Bible story some time and meditate on the incredible principles of positive change.

4. Communicate to Your Mate Ways That They Can Help You