Admonition for Christian Husbands

Commentary

Peter now has a serious word of admonition for the Christian husbands. He reminds them of four areas of responsibility in their relationship with their wives (v. 7).
Physical- “Dwell with  them."  The husband must make time to be home with his wife. So many times today we see Christian workers who get too busy running around trying to solve other people’s problems and then end up creating problems of their own at home. A recent  survey has revealed that the average husband and wife spent 37 minutes a week  together in actual communication.Intellectual- “According to  knowledge.” It is reported that Mrs. Albert Einstein was  asked if she understood Dr. Einstein’s theory of relativity, and she replied “No, but I understand the Doctor.” Ignorance is dangerous in any area of life, but it is especially dangerous in marriage.  “Speaking the truth in love” is the solution to communication problems (Ephesians 4:15).Emotional – “Giving honor unto the wife.” “Giving honor” means that the husband respects his wife’s feelings, thinking and desires. He may not agree with her ideas, but he  respects them. As the leader in the home, the husband must sometimes make decisions that are not popular, but he still needs to act with courtesy and respect.Spiritual – “That your prayers be not hindered.” Peter took for granted that husbands and wives would pray together. It is sad to see so many Christian homes today where the husband refuses to take his responsibility as the spiritual leader and have a time of “family devotions”.

Application

I need to be “thermostat” in the home, setting the physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual temperature. My wife needs to be the “thermometer,” letting me know what the temperature is.