We can't do that! Of course, that is precisely the point... and yet that is not the point at all. Let me explain...
It is the point that Christ is the Perfect Lover of our souls, the Perfect God-Man, and therefore the Perfect Groom. We cannot hope to love our brides as He does, and it's foolish to say we can. Even when we try we will absolutely fail...and frequently. It is simply not possible for us to achieve Christ’s standards on anything.
On the other hand, we are yet most definitely called to love our wife as Christ loved the church - meaning, as husbands we should be constantly showing up and showing love – constantly giving ourselves up for our bride. And listen - even (especially) when our "better half" isn't acting the part.
Let us not forget - we are part of the Bride of Christ, men! Does He not love us even when we are at our ugliest? Does He not forgive the unforgivable? Did He not give Himself up for us, even though we were completely unworthy of such an effort? Go, and do the same.
How do we do the impossible? Well of course, there is only one way to do it:
Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. (Hebrews 12:2)
Don’t forget what he did for you!
For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:3)
When have you done enough? When was it enough for Christ?
In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (Hebrews 12:4)
When we have put up with more than Christ did from His Bride, then we can give up!
NOTE: Due to Spring Break vacation, there will not be a Thursday post this week. Thank you!
#LoveMatters