"Love is Honorable"

Think of the person you most respect in this world. Now consider how you would feel and act if you could spend a day with them. You would likely feel privileged, be polite, listen carefully when they speak and take their requests seriously. This is the definition of honor. You show respect, treat them special and do your best to accommodate them because of who they are. Honor is a noble word that describes how we should live.

The Bible tells us to honor our parents as well as those in authority. But it also tells husbands to honor their wives (1 Peter 3:7) and wives to show respect to their husbands (Ephesians 5:33). This is essential for a healthy marriage. Notice that we are not told to do so only if they deserve it. We honor our spouse because of their position in our lives. It is what God calls us to. This means we give them our attention and value their opinions. We choose our words and actions wisely. It shows that they matter.

The Kendricks draw attention to a similar word that calls us to an even higher place — holy. It means to be set apart for a greater purpose. Though we don’t often hear this used in marriage, each spouse becomes holy to each other through “holy matrimony.” Your relationship is like no other. They hold a special place in your heart that no other person can rival. You become one as you commit and share your lives with each other. This is God’s design for marriage and what each of us strives for daily.

Does this describe your marriage? Perhaps you don’t feel this way and think you have good reasons for that. Maybe only you know the level of disrespect you get from your spouse. You may even blame them for some of your attitudes and behavior. But love sees it differently. No matter what, it chooses to act positively and honor. Love continues to treat them respectfully, even when it is rejected and receives an ungrateful attitude in return. Remember, “God demonstrates His own love in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

It is beautiful and biblically correct when both partners honor each another. Romans 12:10 says, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” If your attempts go unreciprocated, be assertive and pursue resolution while continuing to be honorable. Under all circumstances, follow God’s plan for a better marriage by loving and honoring them. This will strengthen your marriage and create an atmosphere that leads your heart to truly love your spouse more. This is the beauty of honor.