Biblical Answer

How should a husband love his wife biblically?

To love his wife biblically, a husband should prioritize her purity and sanctification, protecting her from sin and temptation. This means that he should be willing to make sacrifices for her, just as Christ made sacrifices for the church. In fact, the Bible commands husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25). This radical command to love is only fulfilled when a husband loves his wife in imitation of Christ's love, which is an incarnational love that gives itself up for the other.

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of mutual submission and respect in marriage. Wives are called to submit to their husbands, just as the church submits to Christ (Ephesians 5:24), and husbands are called to love their wives, just as Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:28). This means that husbands should be considerate of their wives and put their interests first. In fact, the Bible commands husbands to love their wives, honor them, be considerate of them, and put them first in their interests (Ephesians 5:25, 28, 33). This is a high standard of love that requires husbands to put their wives' needs before their own.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that true love is a decision of the mind and will, with feelings following behind. Husbands should love their wives with a sacrificial love that is willing to make sacrifices for them, just as Christ made sacrifices for the church. This love should be secure and not fade over time, but rather become more resolved as a lifelong commitment to love and cherish one's spouse. By following these biblical principles, husbands can demonstrate a love for their wives that is worthy of Christ's love for the church.