GREG LAURIE - Friday, May 31, 2019

Have You Told Her Lately?

And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

—Ephesians 5:2

In many marriages, men are spiritually passive at best. But to have a successful marriage the husband must love the wife as Christ loves the church. Ephesians 5:25 says,

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her” (NKJV).

I want you to notice that the man is called to take point here. It is what God requires, and it’s not easy.

This talks about expressing love. Women are far more social than men. They get together and start talking. Guys just kind of look at each other—especially if they have never met. I am amazed at how two girls who have never met can immediately become best friends.

The idea is that it’s easier for a woman, generally speaking, to express affection, and show affection. They hug each other and say, “I love you.” Guys are like, “Love you, bro,” and kind of hit each other—maybe give a sort of sideways hug.

But men are just as full of emotion as women are. We feel it. We just express it differently. So here is something: love your wife as Christ loved the church. Don’t just think it. Show it. Even better, say it. Proverbs 31 says,

“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her” (verse 28 NKJV).

Husbands, brag on your wives in front of your kids. Praise her in front of your friends. Do it in front of complete strangers. Say, “Let me tell you about my wife. She is the greatest wife ever!”

That is something husbands should do. Show affection to your wife. Verbalize it. Compliment her. Wake up, guys! Show her you love her.

This models the way that God loves the church and the church loves God.