A Good Wife

Mama, Tell Me A Story....

What does it mean to be a good wife? Well, first, the word wife means a married woman who is supportive and romantic, but that is only the beginning of the road to being a good wife. 

On my wedding day, June 12th, 2021, I had so many people offering me advice on how to be a good wife, but all the best qualities that make a good wife are universal. I am also finding that marriage requires both partners be committed to make it a healthy relationship. I like to think of myself as a semi-modern woman who doesn't fit the stereotypical image of a good woman. 

A good wife expresses her love to her husband. She show him how much he means to her. She doesn't just make elaborate expressions of her love every day, but also the little gestures such as a kiss or a peck on the cheek. She says I Love You every moment that it is true. 

A wife communicates with her husband. A husband cannot read minds, just as the wife can't. Open communication in a marriage means that you tell your husband what you think or feel and what you expect of him. Talk to your husband---ask, say, and discuss. Avoid the silent treatment, which can make things worse. Don't leave your husband guessing about what you want. It will be better to clear your mind, try to figure out what you really want while being honest to yourself, and then communicate to him. 

A wife is supportive. Be appreciative and praise him when he achieves a milestone, or when he overcomes his fear and tries something new. 

A wife is her husband's best friend. Nothing is better than being in love with your best friend, it is a love that is deep, strong, and genuine. Allow a healthy friendship to develop between you and your husband, and see what difference it makes to your life. 

A wife respects her husband for the person he is, not for what he does for you or your family. Your husband is his own individual, with flaws and all. Mutual respect in a marriage is a must, and this reflects in the way you speak and behave with each other. Do not belittle, humiliate, strike, or harm your husband, whether in private or public. A little teasing is alright, but insulting is not okay. So watch what you say and think before you speak. 

A wife shows interest in her husband's interests. She doesn't have to do the things he likes, but she does give him space to pursue those interests and she shows some curiosity about what he is doing. Ask him about his hobbies and interests; do homework and learn about the things he is interested in so you can have a conversation about them. Doing things you both enjoy opens up the chance for having an activity that you can do together. 

A wife respects her husband's needs for space. Space is a concept that few people understand. Even married men need space at times and retreat to their man-cave. Respect his needs and give him that, and allow him to pursue his hobbies and interests that are only for him. Restricting your spouse's freedom and space can be suffocating for them and have a negative impact on the relationship. 

A wife listens to her husband. She pays attention to him during a conversation. She puts down her phone, turns off the TV or music that could be distracting her. Giving your husband your full attention when he is speaking shows how much you respect him. 

A wife is appreciative of her husband. Men have this need to be loved, appreciated, and praised. Tell him: a simple thank you, how much you appreciate the little things he does for you, and for your home. Praise encourages him to do more for you, and also sends the message that his efforts are recognized. 

A husband and wife pick the right fights. Married couples fight and anyone who tries to tell you anything different is trying to sell you something. Marriage is about two different, unique individuals, who are going to have differences, coming together as one to start their own life and family together. Fights will happen, but do not let your ego get in the way of a happy, loving relationship with the man you love. Just ask yourself if this is worth fighting over? 

A wife is honest with her husband. He deserves honesty and truthfulness from you, just as you do from him. Being honest doesn't mean you have to say everything that pops into your head, just don't tell your husband you don't like his favorite t-shirt. Practice with little things. Being truthful won't always be easy, but dishonesty can damage a relationship so much that partners will have a tough time trusting each other again. 

A wife is true to herself. Be as you really are right from the beginning. 

A husband and wife have fun together. Do not let boredom creep into your relationship. Go on dates, picnics, road trips, and tours. Do something that will help you two get out of your comfort zones. 

A husband and wife step up the romance. Get creative in the bedroom. 

Ultimately, a husband and wife LOVE each other for exactly who they are; no refunds, returns, or exchanges. 

"I am Chosen."

(Colossians 3:12)