Laying Down Our Lives

Jesus was the classic example of what we were to be and how we were to be. He loves us regardless of how we treat Him, regardless of the respect we show Him. Can you imagine that? We are called to that as husbands to lay down our lives for our wives. We are called to be just as Jesus was and is, but we are so quick to point the finger if only she would do this, but does God say that to us? No, He doesn't, He laid down His life for us, with no regard, He stood in our place and He walks each day with us, but how are we to Him?

I am a husband, father, and step father, I have fallen down to this very point, that I am to be just like Jesus is and was. I am to represent my family regardless of the cost. I am not saying it is easy to do, but God has written about it in the bible about how the husband is to be the head of the home, just as Jesus is the head of the church. It is so easy to say, but and if, but does Jesus do that? Does Jesus say if they treat me better, I will be a better Jesus, I will love them more or any of that? He doesn't, He loves us unconditionally just as we are called to love our wives, our kids, our step kids. We are to teach them in God's way, not our own way.

Yes it is easier not to do this, but what kind of example are we being to our family, if I were to say if my wife treats me better, then I will. The if and then statements do not work in marriage. We are called to love regardless of how we may feel, regardless of the circumstances and we are called to lay down our lives for them. Are you willing to lay down your wife for your spouse unconditionally. I don't think this is an easy task, but it is what God calls us to and it is written that He will give us the strength we need. We need to lay down our lives for Him, that includes our wants, our expectations, our desires. We need to lay down our lives for Jesus and in that we are allow Him to take control. Who is captain of your ship? It can't be me and it can't be about me, it has to be about Jesus first.

3 strands, He is the center and we are woven around Him, He is leading and we are growing closer together, not pulling apart. When I say I want my way, we are pulling away from Jesus and when we fight for control we are pulling away. If Jesus is the center, allow Him to lead. Men we have been called to live by example, but if we are unable to love unconditionally, what kind of example are we being?

Food for thought, are you in control or is God? Who is captain of your ship? Put on Jesus Christ allow Him to guide you in the steps of marriage. I know I need His help, His patience, His wisdom and even though difficult He is in it all. He knew and knows just what we would be going through nothing is a surprise to Him. Isn't that an amazing thought?

Have a good night.