Being a Supportive Wife

I was sitting at the piano on Sunday Morning, like I always do, and saw my husband coming towards me. 'Today's Sunday School lesson was on having respect for God's Word, and I feel like I need to stand up when the pastor reads from it.'
I wrinkled my nose and thought about all the people sitting, silently listening to The Word while my husband, by himself, would be standing. It would be weird. It would be awkward. It would have been different if the church did that (I know many churches do), but we didn't and I tried to explain to my husband just how 'different' it would be for him to stand. He did it anyway.

After church I felt bad that I hadn't shown support for something my husband was feeling led to do. Perhaps you've been there too. Perhaps your husband's ideas are much wackier or much less spiritual than my husband's. However, you would like to be less condescending and more supportive. What does that look like, and what are some ways that we can be more supportive of our husbands?

Listen to His Ideas/Goals/Dreams

No matter how silly! Just listening goes a long ways to show how much you care about your husband as a person, and friend. If every time your husband comes up with a plan or idea, you knock it down mid sentence, not only will your husband feel discouraged (and less likely to come talk to you!) but to him it's a show of disrespect. Which brings me to my next point.

Be Respectful in Your Response

I'm not saying you have to agree with everything he says! I am just saying that when we respond we do it out of grace and love.  Respect and submitting to our husbands is one of those things that goes against the modern way of thinking "However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." (Ephesians 5:33). The way we respond to the things our husband says can really have an impact on our marriage. Think of it this way: "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29). We are to respond with encouragement to whomever we talk to. Since that is the case, how much more our husbands. Sometimes a heartfelt, verbal 'I support you' can go a long way!

Pray for the Ideas your Husband has

This applies more to the major ideas your husband may have. Perhaps a major spiritual or ministry decision. You may or may not agree, but I am sure that deep in your heart that you want God's will in the situation. Pray for just that! 

So, I know I've applied this to wives, but it can easily be the other way around! I've done it from a woman's perspective, since I can relate more. A man who has to control every situation, and belittles the wife's ideas, is not only disrespecting his wife, but also shows a lack of love. Apply listening (this one for sure!), respecting, and praying, and you will be on your way to showing support for your wife!