Word Night- November 13-19

-Ephesians 5:22-30
-I Peter 3:1-7

-What are the different definitions of "manhood" today?  (from media, music, academia, culture, family history/influence)

-Being a male is biological and happens naturally.  Becoming a man is "learned."  Agree?  Give examples.  Guys, who taught you to be a man?  Girls, who do you look to as an example in your life of what a man should look/act/talk like?

-Girls' List of Things to Look for in a Guy
OR
-Guys' list of How to Be a Man

1. Love Her and be Sacrificial for Her (5:25)

2. Encourage Her, build Her up, and Speak highly of her (5:26)

3. Take responsibility, know what to do, and do it. (5:27)

4. Put others before yourself (5:28)

5. Provide for Her, Protect Her, and Value Her (5:29)

-How does this list compare to the lists from question 1?  Girls, does your list look anything like this one?

Ways that you can work on these passages this week:

-Guys:

-Do you talk bad about your wife when you are joking around with your friends at work?

-Are you only focused on you and your wants and desires?

-Do you take responsibility for your actions, or are you always looking for a scapegoat?

-Do you have your own life in order?  Finances, time management, employment, etc.  Are you a man, or are you still a boy?

-My marriage counseling for guys simplifies down to three steps.  1. Shut-up.  Stop bad mouthing your wife in front of your friends.  Stop saying anything that does not edify her or build her up. 2.  Man-up.  Start loving your wife sacrificially.  Don't be so concerned with yourself.  3.  Grow-up.  Stop blaming your wife for what's wrong.  Stop making excuses.  It's your responsibility.

-Girls:

-Are you compromising in your relationships because he's cute, rich, or "better than nothing?"

-What's your criteria for relationships?  What/Who is the bar that is set for your man?

-If you are married, how do you encourage your husband to submit his life to Christ?  Submit to him when you know he is seeking Jesus?

-No man ever wanted to go to church or get closer to Jesus as the result of a nagging wife.  Don't try to guilt him into a relationship with Jesus.  Pray for your husband daily.