Grouch of a Husband?

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I just read one of the most amazing posts titled “Has Your Husband Been a Real Grouch Lately?” about how to respond to husbands when times are tough and our men are bearing the “burden” of providing for his family. Sue at Praise and Coffee has given me permission to post her link here for you to read for yourself.

It so impressed me because I can so relate to the ebb and flow of marriage.
I have learned to ask myself several questions while going through (and ultimately overcoming) the conflict of my marriage:

1) Am I making my husband my lord? In other words, am I depending on my husband to provide my needs more than the only God that will make sure I’m taken care of?

2) Am I relying on my husband to make me happy? Making me happy 24/7 is not my husband’s job!

3) Am I really walking in love and respecting my husband the way that I have been commanded to?
This brings a great reality check. When I get irritated with my husband’s responses or lack thereof, do I really believe that Love suffers long and is kind?

4) Are my words and attitude making it harder for my husband to like me?
Am I putting undo pressure on him? Is my timing off in asking him for things that can or should wait? Examples: new curtains, new computer upgrades, new cellphone, more candles, steak (instead of ramen noodles), etc…?

One verse that the Lord continuously brings me back to, in the good and not so good times, is, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.” Ephesians 5:22-24

The phrase “in everything” is usually the missing component when looking at this verse. “In everything” is not subject to feelings and emotions. It’s God’s plan.

We, as wives, have our part; to be submissive in everything. God’s part is being the Savior of the body (us!).

It would be wise to seek God first for every need and trust that He will provide it, whether its through our husband’s jobs/work or any other source that He so chooses.