She Is A Part Of Me (Ephesians 5:28-29)

This morning, when my alarm clock awakened me, I turned to turn it off and then, like so many other mornings, shifted my position and looked over at my wife. She stirred a little as her slumber was interrupted by the noise. I snuggled next to her and our feet gently touched. This was our only physical connection and for a few moments, I was filled with the warmth of the contact.

 

In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church...

Ephesians 5:28-29 (ESV)

 

We have been married for 20 years, known each other for 21 years. We have two teen-age children. We have traveled the world together. And yet, in this moment, I truly understood the meaning of this verse that the Apostle Paul wrote. I viscerally knew that my wife was a part of my own body.

 

I know how often I fail to put this verse first into action and honor my wife as my soulmate and partner with whom God has blessed me. There are so many times I wish I could turn back the clock and begin again with her, not make the mistakes I did, and treat her with the respect and love she always deserves. As I reflected upon these thoughts, God gently reminded me that He gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for my sins-past, present and future. He knew the hurts that would happen and are yet to happen. But He also knows the joy and fulfillment that our marriage has brought to each of us and will continue to do so. And if I nourish and cherish her as my own flesh, He is honored.

 

My wife is a part of me.

 

Praise God that He reminds me of His perfect truth and love through the quietest and tenderest moments in life.

 

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.