We see it all the time.
We see it on television, in movies, and all over social media.
It has permeated our social circles, and left a common line of conversation that many women default to as we commiserate with our friends.
It’s something that I have even found myself sucked into, and then later felt ashamed of my words. And I have had enough.
When in the world did it become the norm to make idiots out of our husbands?
I’m not sure when this happened, but it’s been around for as long as I can remember. Sitcoms especially are filled with women who are strong, independent, and have no shame in proving their husbands out to be bumbling dolts. It has become a common source of comedy, and many women worldwide relate to the jabs and digs that are thrown in the men’s direction.
And now, we are seeing shows aimed at an audience of children where the father is displayed in the same way. The mother will make backhanded comments and the children will roll their eyes, and in a moment, his level of respect and authority dissolves before their very eyes.
This all just makes me so sad.
As I said a little bit earlier, I have often found myself caught up in this same kind of conversation myself. What I had made out in my head to be harmless teasing was truly harmful and unkind. I have laughed along with other wives as they have belittled or mocked their husbands, and then regretted my laughter.
Why? Because I truly believe in the honour that God bestowed upon men. Because I know that in the same way that I, as a woman am desperate to be loved, men are desperate to be respected. And I also know that for men, being mocked, teased, belittled, or disrespected, is nothing short of a slap in the face.
When I married my husband, I made the choice to leave my family and honour him above all others here on earth. And being a mom, I have started to see things even more clearly as it pertains to the importance of respect.
How can we expect our children to be responsive to the authorities in their life if we, as their mothers, are belittling half of the authority in our home? How can we expect our children to grow up and be loving and faithful spouses if we ourselves are setting this example of disrespect?
I can tell you one thing for sure: I certainly don’t want either of my sons to grow up thinking that it’s okay for men to be treated like they are stupid, just because they are men. And if I set that example by the way I treat their daddy, it is very likely that that is exactly the kind of woman they are going to end up married to.
I don’t want that. I can’t imagine that any mother wants that for her children.
Moms, be mindful of the way you speak to and about your husband. Your respect for him goes a long way. And even if you feel that he doesn’t deserve your respect, try respecting him anyways. You might just see a change in him you never expected to see. I heard it said once, when we show our husbands respect, we are giving them a launching pad to be all that God has purposed them to be. We have the chance to be their biggest cheerleader, greatest encourager, and most faithful friend. You’d be amazed what a little respect can do.
What do you think? Do you think respect is important in marriage and parenting?
