Love and Respect in Marriage

Consider this date night discussion on your spouse’s greatest need.

Advance Preparation

  • Schedule a dinner or coffee date with your spouse.HP_Love_and_Respect
  • Watch a few of Dr. Emerson Eggerichs’ videos (available in Bellevue’s Library or Bookstore or on YouTube).
  • Each spouse should answer the questions below prior to your planned date night.

During The Date
Considering both before-marriage and after-marriage dates, reflect on some of your favorite times together. Enjoy the memories of your favorite dates while reflecting on these thoughts.

  • Discuss the location, atmosphere, and activity.
  • What made each one memory a favorite date night, and what makes the memories so special?HP_couple_sunset
  • Did your favorite date include conversation, physical activity, or experiencing something new together?
  • Would it be possible to a recreate your favorite date while making new memories?

Complete the appropriate category of questions prior to your date night discussion.

HUSBANDS:
Read Ephesians 5:25–28 and answer the following:

  • Do you agree with Dr. Eggerichs that your wife’s primary marital need is to be cherished by you?
  • What are some ways you try to show her sacrificial love and prioritize her above yourself?
  • What are 2–3 ways she needs or prefers that you show love to her but that you might find difficult?
  • What do you think your wife would say if invited to offer a few “baby step” suggestions on better meeting her needs?

WIVES:
Read Ephesians 5:22­–24 and answer the following:

  • Do you agree that your husband needs to feel respected?
  • What are some ways you try to show that you admire and respect him?
  • What are 2–3 things he would appreciate as respectful but that might be more difficult for you to do?
  • What do you think your husband would say if invited to offer a few “baby step” suggestions on better meeting his need for respect?

TOGETHER:
Read Ephesians 5:31–33. Ask God to help your marriage model the relationship between Christ and His Bride as you grow in mutual expressions of love and respect.

CLICK HERE for a printable file of this complete date night Faith Talk.

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