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By Dean Kelly

A singer who goes by the name Jax sings a song that contains the lyric from which this article draws its title. While there are a couple of phrases in the song that I can’t approve of, the general sentiment is a good one. 

The song puts forth an unusually traditional view of the relationship between a man and a woman. As I listen, and these words are sifted through my mind, it causes me to think. 

My children are long grown, and now my wife and I have the great pleasure of enjoying our five grandchildren. I write these words to young folks, to those who have yet to step into the role of parents, and to those who have young children. 

Will you hear your daughter one day say, “I want a man who loves me like my father loves my mom”?

 

1. Remember that the first and most significant picture your children are going to have of marriage is you, Mom and Dad. What picture are you painting for them?
2. Do your children know, beyond a doubt, that you love your wife (Colossians 3:19)? We are not talking about words alone (1 John 3:1). Do you show your love for your wife in the way you talk to her, in your overall attitude toward her? Do your children see the respect and adoration you should have for her showing in your eyes, your words, your actions, in your soul? (Note: the same questions can be asked of the wife.)
3. Is that argument really important enough to make your children think that you hate each other? Do your words to each other tear and rip, not only each other, but the very hearts of those children with whom God has blessed you?

May those in your life, husband or wife, love you like your Father in heaven and you love them. We all need to meet that Father at the foot of the cross.

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.