Marriage is a covenant relationship that is binding for life between a man, woman, and God, the Author. God desires families to be a haven of His love, lives peacefully, and to bring up children that are well rounded, safe and secured like the days of heaven on earth. Each couple should ensure that the goal for their marital relationship is to love, serve and vice-versa. True love in marriage doesn’t just focus on meeting one’s needs, but eagerly seeks to meet the needs of our spouse. We concluded last week on a note that manhood is a strength given to every man to cover his family spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, and socially. This week, we will consider the 4 basic needs of every man. When it comes to marital issues, couples must be willing to learn, unlearn and relearn things that will add value to their relationships.

Accorded Respect: A man has a delegated authority from God than any other line of authority known, to cover his family. There is the need to defer to this role, as admonished in the Word of God. This implies that wives should treat their husband’s leadership as submission to God. Don’t do things that communicate disrespect, contest or competition with your husband openly, as the principle of mutual respect must be engaged Ephesians 5:21-24.

Sexual Fulfilment: We must never underestimate the role of sex in any marital relationship between a man and his wife. Sex and sexuality are a significant part of every marital experience. Aside reproduction, sex also spices up healthy intimacy and pleasure. Sexual activity offers many surprising benefits physically, intellectually, emotionally, psychologically, and socially in a marital relationship. Proper hygiene should be observed for a healthy sexual relation among couples.

Men are naturally more favourably disposed towards sex than the womenfolk Proverbs 5:20-25.

Giving Encouragement: Every man needs someone to confide in, who encourages him to solve problems. No man enjoys their ideas being run down, however, they are usually more open to constructive criticisms. Giving encouragement balances the self-esteem and emotional wholeness of the relationship, especially when one is married to someone who gives honour and respect because meekness is power under control.

Synergising: Every man needs his family to cooperate and work together in fulfilling the family vision in this changing world. Marriage affords couples the opportunity to cooperate, learn, listen responsively to each other and express themselves freely without fear. Embracing an open discussion style on any issue, regardless of the individual’s experiences in the past, can help in conflict resolution and should be employed to prevent unresolved issues.

Ayo Daniels is a healthy family passionate, who writes from Lagos and will love to hear your feedback, questions, and testimonies. Please send your counselling need to: [email protected]