Ephesians 5:28, 29
“So husbands also ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church.”
We’re still on the topic of husbands loving their own wives. Paul includes some self comparison. They are to love their wives as their own bodies. The end says “no one hates their own flesh.” There is much talk today about self hatred. I understand shame and how some are insecure. However, if one hated oneself, they wouldn’t care. But the fact that we are tortured, means that we actually do love ourselves.
We are to love our wives as we love our own bodies. I don’t think that’s possible. But the point is taken. That’s how much we are to love our wives. The self protection instinct, should apply to her as well. We will look in the mirror as if we’ve never seen ourselves. We should care as much for her. Give her that look of love so she feels special and desired.
Verse 28 says that he who loves his wife loves himself. By loving your wife, you are investing greatly and their will be much reward. She will respond with love and respect in return. As we are walking in Christ, He adds His blessing to our obedience and our lives overflow with contentment and joy. This couple will be happy beyond belief.
The world says we should take advantage of any joy that comes our way, even if we cheat on our spouse. I can hear the lyric of the old rock song, “If you can’t be with the one you love, love the one you’re with”. The message is to indulge in pleasure regardless of our vow. That is to hate oneself. We would hurt our wives and distrust and suspicion will reign and her respect for us will wither. We will have an opponent who would want revenge or out of the marriage. To love our wives is loving ourselves.
It comes back full circle to Christ and the church. He knew the whole concept of loving her brings great reward back to Himself. He didn’t have to remind Himself. He loved and loves. What an example. We see no wavering or indecisiveness. He loves.
He seeks to instill that in us, to love. That is His great summing up of the commandments. To love God and others. Even non believers know the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” He works that in us.
The wise one heeds this and loves his wife. Yes, it involves sacrifice. Matthew 16:24, ‘Then Jesus told His disciples, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.”‘ It’s a great investment to do this. God helps us. It’s His will, He gives us desire and joy.
Thank You, Lord, for Your commands and Your wisdom. Thank You for the blessing of a good marriage that You provide in response to obedience.