There is no neutral in marriage. When it comes to establishing the atmosphere in our homes, we as men must show up and do our part or our families suffer.
Photo by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash
When our wives ask us what we think about a particular situation, they are looking for us to provide some type of initiative and leadership in the situation. This does not mean, however, that every situation needs to be “fixed” per se.
Our masculine gift to marriage is a form of leadership similar to the riverbank. While feminine energy flows like the river, masculine energy functions more like the riverbank.
The riverbank supports the river, guiding its flow to maximize life. It is not abusive or domineering, but still helps to organize, giving direction and meaning to the river. A river doesn’t make sense without a riverbank, though, of course, the reverse also holds true.
In any case, when we show up as generous, creative, and passionate, for example, we establish an atmosphere in our marriage that allows our wives to flourish. When they know where we stand (the riverbank) they are free to feel the full range of their emotions without worry.
This full flow of the feminine is actually a gift to us men, though it does not always feel this way, especially when negative emotions surface. As such, we’re often tempted to diminish the feminine experience because we fear we lack the necessary strength of the riverbank to endure it all.
However, as we grow to do our part, everyone is blessed. Our strength allows our wives to radiate with all the splendor God has for them.
How are those within the realm of your influence doing? Are they thriving?
Do they have the support, encouragement, and guidance to become all that God has for them?
Are you doing your part to create an environment for them to flow to their full capacity?
Become the riverbank and let life flow.
