Love on that Man!

During the time that we got to spend with Jeff, Becca's husband, I was taught alot about what a love between a husband and wife should be. Jeff talked all the time about how Becca adored him, made him feel so special, and so deeply loved. And I know it was all true, because I know that was how Becca was - love overflowing. It really made me sit back and reflect on what my husband might say about the way I love him. He wouldn't grumble, and I know that he does feel loved... but I began to question myself - do I know that I love him with abandon? Do I adore him, cherish him, make him feel like he is the most precious thing on this earth to me? And I am ashamed to say... no! I have come a long way in the areas of respect and submission (and still have a way to go in those areas!)... but my expression of affection is very halting. I am fearful in my love, reserved and selfish. Toward my husband - the ONE very person created just for me to give myself over to and love completely!

Titus 2:4 instructs older women to teach the younger to "love their husbands and children"... and the interesting thing is the word used for "love" there is "philandros" - which specifically refers to a "friendship, companion" type of love. That has a different implication than the loyal, serving kind of love that I often associate with being a wife - and while of course that type of love has its need in a marriage, so, obviously, does a friendship love. When I think of a friendship type of love, I think of one that is playful, joyous, giving with a willingness and cheerfulness... filled with laughter, flirtatiousness, a desire to please, a longing to enjoy the other person fully, and to bring them joy in everything. Selfless, almost reckless love!

Through Jeff's stories, I saw how foolish it is to withhold this type of love from my husband. What is the point? Our time together will be too short, whether it be 10 years or 75... why waste those years loving reservedly? Do I really want to leave doubt in my husband's mind regarding how deep my love and desire for him really go? Furthermore, if the earthly marriage relationship is supposed to be an example of the relationship between Christ and the church, does Christ want His bride to be withholding from Him - too cautious and caught up in self-protection to allow Him to be united fully with them? So, then, what kind of example am I setting in my marriage?

My only conclusion is that I most certainly should be giving more of myself - ALL of myself - to my husband, and doing everything in my power to LOVE on him and really, truely treasure him - and show it openly! I will ask his (and the Lord's) forgiveness for holding back my affection, and through God's love within me, allow it to overflow to him, and let go of the fears that have held me back for too long. That man of mine is too precious for me not to let him know I think so!