People desire to feel respected, valued, loved, and appreciated. Certainly, men and women need and desire respect. I have learned that for men, respect is particularly important. The Bible commands in Ephesians 5: 33, “Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.”

Here are ways a wife can show respect to her husband man:

– Admire him. Men tend to really appreciate recognition and some praise for what they do. They seem to love to hear how well they are doing. I believe it inspires them to continue in well doing.

– Encourage him. This also gives him a boost and incentive to keep up the good work.

– Affirm him. A man should know his woman approves of and supports him in what he is doing and accomplishing.

– Appreciate who he is and what he does. Make it well known to him that he is appreciated. Thank Him.

– Speak calmly, kindly, to him. Men don’t like disrespect in the form of yelling or cursing at them.

– Never emasculate him. He may become enraged, vengeful, and or suffer long-term self esteem issues if his woman tears him down and belittles him.

– Never spotlight his weaknesses. Don’t address him publicly in a way that could bring him embarrassment, especially if it is something that could wait and be said privately. Concerns can be addressed respectfully and discreetly.

– Be cooperative. As much as possible, have a cooperative spirit. It doesn’t mean being controlled or always disregarding and not expressing one’s own desires. There should be mutual selflessness.

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Phillipians 2:3.

“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Matthew 7: 12.

– Don’t approve of him doing wrong. Never cosign when he is doing wrong. Care enough and respect him enough to hold him accountable to measure up to righteousness and to his potential.

Many men have a very hard time tolerating disrespect.

I have learned that many men are particularly sensitive about how they are perceived. It seems to be more difficult for them to experience disrespect, shame, and reproach. The Lord is working on me to help me be a peaceful and respectful woman.

I do believe men’s sensitivity about this is related to the understanding they have of the requirements placed upon them by Almighty God, and also the expectations of others. I think they feel the pressure- a lot.

This does not mean women should tiptoe around their men, afraid to breathe or to speak up. Rather, I understand the importance of being respectful, tactful, and a blessing to a man in how I address and treat him.