The Best Father’s Day Gift For Your Better Half
As Father's Day approaches, you may find yourself puzzled about the perfect gift for your mate. You may think he already has everything he wants and needs. However, there is one gift that every man wants, not just on Father's Day, but every day of the year, RESPECT, and it is free. From research and conversations with men, I learned it is valued more than material gifts. A man wants a woman who respects him-accepts him for who he is, supports him, honors him, and strokes his ego at all times.
As shocking as it was when my pastor friend candidly said, "a disrespected man will abandon you," every word resonated with me. He continued, "While he may be committed to his house, home, children, and other responsibilities, prolonged disrespect may cause him to mentally, spiritually, and even morally abandon you. His presence is no guarantee that he is present." I thought, so this is what the O'Jays sang about. He is physically here, but his mind is somewhere else- a place where he feels respected. This place could be work, long days of fishing and hunting, hanging out with his friends, coaching a little league team, working in the church or community, or, I hate to say it, with another woman.
Are you thinking, "What about me and my need to be loved and respected?" or something along these lines, "He does not deserve respect; he's not strong enough, not spiritual enough, not living right, or he doesn't pay all the bills." Your thoughts and feelings are valid, but you must realize that respect plays a significant role in how your husband or man loves you. James Howell says, "Respect a man. He will do more." This is echoed by Steve Harvey in Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man. Steve Harvey vividly explains that a man will profess his love, provide, and protect you when he is valued.
This Father's Day, I challenge you to reflect on your relationship with your husband or significant other. I have included five questions my pastor friend shared with me to guide my reflection.
How do I, as a wife, or woman make my husband or man feel honored and respected?
Do I spend time, each day, building and stroking his ego with positive words of affirmation?
Do I make sure that his children respect him and hold him in the highest esteem in the house and community?
Do I value his words and opinions to the point that I willingly obey his voice?
Do I validate his value as a man I have chosen to lead me physically, economically, morally, and most importantly, spiritually?
If you struggle to answer the questions or have responded 'no' to most, pray and ask God for direction and to show you ways to better respect and honor your husband or man. I also would like to share five recommended books to help strengthen your marriage or relationship.
His Needs, Her Needs by William F. Harley
Capture His Heart by Lysa TerKeurst
Loving Him Well by Gary Thomas
5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
4 Seasons of Marriage by Gary Chapman
The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian
