I recently typed husbands and married and marriage into a Bible search engine, and what I discovered were the “7 Commandments for Christian Husbands.” If you’re a married man (or know one who needs some encouragement), here’s what our Father says to husbands: “Be considerate [of your wives]” (1 Peter 3:7). “Treat [your wives] with respect” (1 Peter 3:7). “Do not be harsh with [your wives]” (Colossians 3:19). “Love your wives” (Colossians 3:19). “Love your wives” (Ephesians 5:25). “Love [your] wives” (Ephesians 5:28). “Love [your] wife” (Ephesians 5:33). Apparently, we dudes depend on repetition!

I (obviously) am not a married woman, but I have counseled enough married couples to summarize most women’s wants in this way—wives want a husband who acts without being asked. Such men cover almost all the above commands at once.

No, men can’t read minds, but we can pay close attention to the data—to her schedule, to her goals, to her to-do list, to her frustrations, to her desires, etc. God will give a married man more than enough evidence to act on, and that action will mean the world to his wife.

Fellow husbands, marriage is work, but the work is worth it. When you fall short, run back to Jesus for mercy. When you need help, call on the Spirit for wisdom and your friends for encouragement. That’s how you can lead the way to a happier, holier home.