An excellent wife is the crown of her husband … Proverbs 12:4

What does “shelter in place” look like in your family? While the scenario will play out differently in every household in the era of the Covid-19 pandemic, we’re all making the shift from normal to a state of high alert. For you that might mean more meals, more precautionary clean-ups, new homeschooling duties, more noise, an invasion of your space, and fewer resources including time to call your own. Always therapeutic when one is feeling stretched are Paul’s words from Philippians 2:4: Don’t think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing. (NLT)

Very likely, in one way or another, the new normal is having an adverse effect on your husband in multiple ways. At best, his work routine has been disrupted; but more than that, the burden of providing for his family, or even his own job security may weigh heavily on him. It’s at times like these that your words and posture can make all the difference. Our friend Sherry shared with us her list of husband-honoring phrases:

• I feel safe when you are with me.
• I like it when I dress up and you look at me that way.
• It means a lot to me that you work out regularly and keep fit.
• Being with you is comfortable—I feel like it is where I belong.
• Your sons (children) value your advice, and they love your approval and pride in them.
• Organization skills are a gift God gave you that blesses me.
• You vacuum the house so much better I than I do—I love it when you help me clean.
• So, when are you available?
• Hey, Babe, I’m home. I love you!
• I miss you on Mondays (when we have had a weekend together).
• I admire your inclination to give—to be generous.
• Umm, you smell good—and you feel good too.
• You always seem to enjoy what I cook; what a compliment that is to me.
• What do you want me to wear?
• I am glad you enjoy your hobby ____________. It makes you an interesting person.
• I think I am happiest when we are having fun together.
• I like to talk to you about the kids and how we are doing with parenting. You have different insights than I do.
• I think you look sexy in a suit or ___________.
• You are a good small group leader.
• I am impressed that you play golf with me even though the game frustrates you.
• I like it when you hold me and tell me how good it feels.
• I have been missing you. What would you like to do together?

Sherry’s list is a challenge to all of us to be more intentional and creative about choosing affirming words that build up and encourage our spouse.

What husband-honoring words can you add to your list?

… the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18b