Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her . . . ~ Ephesians 5:19
READING: Ephesians 5:21-33
Years ago I heard a young church planter admit that he had planted his first church “on the back of his wife.” He meant that he had neglected her and allowed her to take second place to the congregation he was starting.
Most church planters are highly motivated. We are often unusually dedicated, determined and devoted. But sometimes our spouses and children pay an unfair price for our calling.
Of course any family in ministry makes sacrifices. But when God calls us to church planting, we must not impose ungodly sacrifices on top of the costs that are already part of our ministry.
When a wife is expected to work as hard as another pastor, as well as taking care of the home and the children, it can be too much. The husband is a husband first, before he is a church planting pastor.
The Bible says that husbands are to love their wives with the tender, sacrificial love Christ displayed for His church. How tragic it is that the church itself can become the cause for husbands to neglect or mistreat their wives!
Take a day off. Spend time with your family. Treat your wife with respect, love, and kindness. Show her the affection and attention she deserves. The Lord will bless your marriage and your church.
In the end, you’ll have both a happy wife and a healthy church. And your marriage will become an example for others in the churches you plant.
Lord Jesus, Help me love my wife as You love Your church. And help me to demonstrate Your loving sacrifice in caring for my family. Amen.
