"We're On the Same Side!" (Proverbs 31:10-12)

“Babe! We’re on the same side!”

My wife and I were engaged in a heated discussion over the planning for an upcoming family event. I had painstakingly planned everything on the menu  even designating where the guests would sit. Thus, I became offended when she questioned one of my decisions. We were at an impasse as I pleaded for her to see my point of view. I was raising my voice and my blood pressure. She knew I was agitated and I attempted to stay calm but I was certainly not helping the situation. Her interjection brought me back to reality.

“We’re on the same side! Just because I question one of your decisions doesn’t mean I am arguing with you.”

My wife then proceeded to calmly explain her point. Within a few moments, I saw the wisdom of her viewpoint. It did not dramatically differ from mine, only upon the points of emphasis. In fact, we were on the same side and her tweaking smoothed the entire plan. I was chagrined as I realized I should more willingly trust her.

Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.

The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.

She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.

Proverbs 31:10-12 (NKJV)

Sadly, this scenario has rerun with many different permutations during our marriage. I wish that these words from the Bible, extolling the godly and virtuous wife and woman, were etched upon my heart. It is my sinful pride and stubbornness that keeps dragging me down, blinding me to see my wife’s ideas as complementing, rather than attacking, mine.

My wife and I are on the same side. God created marriage to honor Him, not to exalt oneself and viewpoint. How I desperately need the grace and mercy of God in my life! How blessed I am to have a godly wife at my side to complete me and make me a better man, husband, and father.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.