THE HUSBAND AS PRIEST

In the Old Testament, priests were responsible to offer sacrifices, teach the people, serve as judges in resolving controversies, keep the fire burning on the altar, and keep the Tabernacle. The priest acted as a mediator, of sorts, between God and the people. Their role was totally different from pagan and Roman Catholic priests. Aaron and his descendants, the designated Levites, were responsible for oversight in worship matters. In effect they were spiritual and practical guides for the nation.

So in a sense, husbands as acting priests, are to GUIDE their homes for God. God works through leadership channels in the home, and the church as well. The scriptural order is clearly laid out in Eph. 5:22-33. Godly husbands are not Dictators, Diplomats, or Deadbeats. They are God’s designated Directors to lead their homes.

SPIRITUAL Guidance

It is your assignment to search out a GOOD church and get involved. Find one that reflects your beliefs. Choose a church that is pure and powerful—one that feeds, fuels, and fertilizes your hunger for God.

Read and pray with your wife. Instruct your wife from the Scriptures. Share what you are learning. Take time to discuss the Bible.

Assist your wife in developing her God-given gifts and abilities. Be a model to her by utilizing and developing your spiritual gifts. Remember an ounce of example is better than a pound of advice.

FINANCIAL Guidance

27% of Americans have less than $1,000 in savings. 43% of workers have less than $10,000 in cash for retirement. This gross negligence is inexcusable. It is not the will of God for able-bodied men and women to go on the dole. A poverty mindset has overtaken millions in recent decades. Young men should be challenged and taught to be providers.

Men are to provide for their families. This will require a plan.

God gave Noah a plan for the Ark.
He gave Moses a plan for the tabernacle.
Jesus Himself said, “For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?” (Luke 14:28). I knew a pastor who died unexpectantly leaving his wife and family penniless. Failure to provide for one’s own family is worse than an infidel (1Tim. 5:8)! Faith is not opposed to planning.
Heaven has been planned—“In my Father’s house are many mansions…”
A prudent man sees the danger and hides himself (Prov. 27:12).

Nobody can predict the future, but wise men look to the future and prepare. Preparation will require that you educate yourself in financial matters. There are scores of books and resources available to you. Perhaps you know someone who is well versed in economic knowledge. Seek help. Study. Talk with your wife. GET A PLAN!

EMOTIONAL Guidance

Over time, men have identified four basic temperaments, or personality types:

Sanguine—happy-go-lucky
Choleric—head-strong
Melancholic—analytical, pessimistic
Phlegmatic—laid back

All people have a mix of these characteristics. As the overseer in your home, you need divine insight to take advantage of your wife’s strengths and supplement her weaknesses. Wisdom and effort are required to provide security and stability.

Lovingly challenge your mate to realize her potential. Provide suggestions and opportunities. Set her up for success. She may be clueless as to how she can benefit others. Useful people are happy people. Think through this and do all in your power to foster contentment and happiness in your family.

INTELLECTUAL Guidance

Jewish men understood their responsibility to educate their families in the Law of God—“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up” (Deut. 6:6-7).

The New Testament was clear about the husband’s duty to teach his wife, “And if they (women) will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home” (1Cor. 14:35).

You have been put in an excellent position to influence your wife and children. The Bible, the books you read, the church you belong to, and conferences you attend will help you “grow in knowledge.” As you grow, you can assist those under your authority to grow with you.

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