One of the one-another commands found in the New Testament says, “Exhort one another daily” (Heb. 3:13).
This applies to the entire body of Christ—but it MUST be applied in the home first. Your wife needs your encouragement.
How to Encourage Your Wife
- Become her number one cheerleader! People thrive where there is praise. God loves to be praised. He reveals Himself to those who praise Him. You can win your wife’s heart through praise and enter new levels of intimacy.
- Speak words of life. Jesus said “The words I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are LIFE” (John 6:63). Speak blessing, affirmation, acceptance, empowerment, and encouragement into your mate. Words are extremely powerful. Life-giving words impart life. Jesus spoke words and Lazarus came back from the dead. Your words can resurrect a fainting heart and a failing relationship.
- Show “Favor” to your wife. Favor means “an attitude of liking, to show approval.” Focus on her positive qualities instead of her weaknesses. Favor must be demonstrated. Don’t wait for a lightning flash from heaven. Follow every prompting to minister approval. Jacob was partial to Rebecca and it was obvious.
- Show interest in her world. Discern her concerns. Of course, you are tired when you get home from work, but go the extra mile and minister to your wife by asking questions that are of interest to her. Notice the contributions she makes and the tasks she does. Taking an interest in someone is like a tonic. It boosts their spirits and validates their worth. Simple things instill validity and value.
- Listen to your wife. Don’t dissect everything she may “say,” but pay attention to what she “means.” When she needs to talk, you need to listen. Cut off the television. Put down that book. Give her your attention. Don’t interject every bit of wisdom you possess. Learn to keep to your mouth shut and just LISTEN. By allowing people to speak from their heart, you will get credit for being a wise person. All you need to do is keep quiet!
George Adams said, “Encouragement is oxygen to the soul.” People are suffocating because they seldom get encouragement. Think of ways to encourage your family, especially your wife.
This chapter was written by Evangelist Harold Vaughan.
This chapter was taken from The Extraordinary Husband. CLICK HERE to learn more about the book and to place your order.
