Respect Your Man: How to show respect even when you don't feel like it!


As told by Nancy, my friend.
According Nancy, her husband, Ron, admits that he used to be jerk, but she discovered a secret formula that turned him into a loving husband: she started treating him like a VIP! Ron always wanted her to respect him, but she mistakenly thought he had to earn it and she had to feel it, before she could do it. Wrong.

Women are very good at pointing out their husbands' faults and failures and punishing them for not meeting their needs, but that only leads to discontent and distance in their marriages. They all know that yelling, nagging, and belittling are disrespectful and ineffective. So she (Nancy) is suggesting a radical concept: Treat him like a king, and eventually, he will begin to treat you like a queen.

Instead of waiting for him to earn your respect, behave respectfully and watch him grow into the man God designed him to be.

Continuing, Nancy says twenty five years ago, her marriage with Ron was on the brink of divorce. She was controlling, critical and disrespectful so Ron was defensive and angry. There were both Christians but neither of them was living a sprit-filled life. she was letting her emotions determine her actions and thought it was Ron's job to make her happy. But through a series of miracles they made a decision to rebuild their marriage.

"Nancy, the only way you will win Ron back and stay married is if you begin to respect your husband." I knew he was right so I swallowed hard and came up with a plan.

Here are three of the ways she began to respect Ron: They are easy to remember because they spell out the goal-to treat him like a V.I.P.

Respect him verbally, intellectually, and physically.

Verbally
Cut out (ok.cut back) complaining and add in compliments.
If you want to have a peaceful, happy marriage, learn the art of the compliment. Compliments are like magnets and the more you compliment your husband the more he will be attracted to you. Begin to notice when he does it right and verbally encourage him by complimenting him at least once a day. If you are having a hard time thinking of anything to admire, consider these categories: physical traits, mental skills, financial strengths, spiritual growth, or healthy relationships with others (children, parents, or friends).

You may be asking "Hey, why should I compliment him when he NEVER compliments me?" Because, if you want your marriage to grow and bloom, you'll have to water it with kindness and encouragement. Then, as he sees your sincere efforts, he will begin to change too. Don't give up.

If you do need to bring up a difficult issue, place it between two compliments, also known as a "Compliment Sandwich." Here's an example, "Honey, I know how hard you work for our money and that Sally's braces will be expensive, but I need your decision before her appointment tomorrow. I hope we can do this for her, but if you want to wait, I trust your judgment. What should I tell the orthodontist? "

Intellectually
Men like to solve problems and fix things. So appeal to his intelligence by asking him to help you solve a problem. Instead of saying "Clean up your camping stuff, this garage is a mess!" Try, "I'd like your help with something. Could you figure out a storage system for all the camping supplies?"

Don't imply that he isn't smart. Instead of saying "I think you are wrong about.." Say, "I'm confused about.please explain it again." (Remember to keep your tone of voice free of sarcasm.)

Ask for his help on Spiritual matters too. Ask him to explain a passage of Scripture or ask him to pray for you when you are going through a difficult time. If your husband is not the spiritual leader in your home, continue to pray for him and ask him if there is anything you are doing that is hindering his relationship with God.

Men don't give a lot of weight to feelings-show them facts and they'll be more likely to listen. For example: if he wants to buy a car that you think is too expensive, don't launch into a hissy-fit, write out your monthly expenses and ask him what other things should be cut out in order to buy his car. Let the facts speak for you.

When you cannot reach an agreement, instead of trying to wear him down by nagging or crying ask him, "Is that your final decision or can I still try to convince you? If it's his final decision, then honor it. It's freeing-let him carry the responsibility of your family.

Physically
Physically-ask what he would like you to do and then, do it. Find out what his top three needs are. According to Nancy, Ron likes the laundry done, sex twice a week (guaranteed!) and he likes me to keep my "girly-make-up stuff" off of the bathroom counter. If these top needs are met, he's content and easy to get along with. I know it sounds simple, but each of us have different things that make us feel loved and appreciated.

Try Nancy's method if you have to but always make your man the king!

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