From the upcoming River Daily Devotional coming in June…

“Wives, submit… unto your own husbands…
Husbands, love your wives.” ~ Ephesians 5:22,25

Understand this: (1) Every gift from God will be contested by Satan. Satan was angry that Job’s family was a source of delight to God, his provider. Look out, god’s blessing on your home invites Satan’s attack. He’ll place thorns in your nest. He wants to be the third party in your relationship. He wants to agitate and disappoint, using your weakness. He inspires unreallistic expectations, diverts your focus from servant-hood to self-absorption. He fuels your imagination through television and unhealthy relationships, until God’s presence ceases to be the atmosphere of your home or the goal of your union. beward of his inroads. Become a watchman over your family. (2) Thoughts have presence. The moment you walk into a home you sense a conflict or contentment, jealousy or joy. Your attitude is contagious. Like a thermostat, it determines the climate. One husband noted that certain television shows nurtured a sexual restlessness within him. He was comparing his wife with the sensuality of the performers. A young wife identified the timing of unexplainable jealousy toward her husband, after watching her favorite soap opera. Every emotion has a birthplace. So be sensative to any changes in the enviroment of your home or inner life. (3) Love is more about listening than talking. Listen long enough for hidden emitions to be expressed. Listen carefully enough to gain understanding. Listen accurately, so you can assess the true needs of your mate that nobody else has been able to meet. Your questions reveal your caring. So ask them softly, ask them repeatedly, pray and process before you respond, and your marriage can become a masterpiece.