Question:
Dr. Lindstrom, Do you have any practical suggestions of how I can motivate my husband (who is a Christian) to become the spiritual leader in our home and with our kids? When I suggest that we start a family devotion, he says “You don’t have to remind me of how I’m failing in this area.” The same thing goes with his personal spiritual growth. When I am growing spiritually, and he is stagnating, it’s hard to know how to encourage him. I do pray for him. I’d appreciate your suggestions.
Answer:
I believe the answer is found in I Peter chapter three. “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.” You must be patient and let God work.