Today at church we had part two of Man vs. Wife, and today’s message was directed to the men for about 98% of the time. Our text was Ephesians 5:25-30, and Bob brought it today. I was convicted by his message. Even though I tell myself that I am doing all I can to love Nicole like Christ loves the church, I know I am not. I can do better. I can always do better.

The three takeaways and my responses to todays message:

1) I will love Nicole no matter what she does – always. I will love her based on her position, not her performance.

I don’t ever want to take my wife for granted. I don’t ever want her to feel that she has to do anything to earn my love – I love her unconditionally. She is a gift from God that makes me whole. I promise to honor her with my words and actions, and to love her until my last breath.

2) I will love Nicole no matter what it takes.

This should go without saying. When we made our vows 5 years ago, I never intended to take them lightly. I promise that I will pursue Jesus. If I pursue Him, I can act like Him. I will love as He loved. I promise that we will be better stewards of His money and property. And I promise to lead my family to church. These commitments are what Bob recommended, but I do believe that they are ones that need to be made.

3) I will love Nicole no matter what she needs.

I will love her like the precious and valuable treasure that she is. God has moved us from Iowa to Indy for a reason. He has now moved us to the St. Louis metro area for a reason. Through every move, Nicole and I have stood by each other while following God’s lead. I have done and will continue to do what I can to provide the love and support that she needs.

So peeps….I expect you to hold me to these commitments. I am not perfect. I will stumble and fall. Please, help me back up and keep these vows. I will do the same for you.

If you are a single man, then use this post as a signpost. Get to know Christ, pursue Him, and let Him mold you. Then pursue a woman like she should be pursued – biblically and wholeheartedly.

Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers. 1 Peter 3:7

This song captures Bob’s message really well.