The Hardest Question: How Much Do You REALLY Love Your Spouse?

I’m going to ask you two questions. The first is the easiest question in the world, and the second is the hardest. The first question is: Do you love your spouse? Of course, the answer is yes. But with that in mind, I’ve experienced something really interesting with clients. Many men who married their wives because they love them have a revealing way of demonstrating how they feel about them within the marriage. I’ve seen men prioritize affairs, illicit materials, substances, their families of origin, their jobs, and even hobbies over their wives. But there’s more. I’ve seen men emotionally abuse their wives, gaslight them, and behave in downright selfish ways. I’ve even seen men whose wives are begging them to share affection and emotion, yet they neglect their wives week after week. What’s going on? In the Old Testament, Abraham isn’t willing to sacrifice for Sarah, and he distances himself from her whenever things become dangerous. Eventually, he learns that he needs to be willing to give everything for her. David objectifies Bathsheba early in their relationship and doesn’t treat her with the respect and human dignity she deserves. However, over time, he comes to value her immense wisdom, and she becomes the most honored person in the Davidic kingdom. Most notably, King Ahasuerus doesn’t pay enough attention to Esther. But when he accepts her influence, she saves him from deceivers who might have cost him the throne—and makes him look like a genius. In the New Testament, Jesus doesn’t need to learn this lesson for His bride, the Catholic Church. He gives everything. He gives His reputation, His possessions, and His time. He suffers immensely and finally gives His own life in the most brutal death imaginable. Why? He understands the value of His bride. She’s worth anything and everything. That brings us to the second question—the hardest question in the world. Sure, you love your wife—but how much? Would you give up drinking? Would you give up sex? Would you give up life itself? Jesus has already answered yes to all those questions. How about you? It’s your turn. May Mary, who doesn’t raise boys but only men, pray for us to answer well and witness manfully. Don’t forget to like and subscribe. I pray daily for my subscribers.