The Path I Walk: Guy Talk

Today we wrapped up the series at VPM, Different by Design. It was Pastor Steve's turn to talk about what guys need to know about the women in their lives. Last week, recall, we found out how important unconditional respect is in the relationships we have with the guys. We women need to feel loved above all else. Steve made the point that for women, this demonstration of love is never a "done deal", even after marriage. In fact, that is when it is most important for women to receive regular reassurance that we are loved by our men. This is especially true during times of conflict. Whatever is important to the woman should be important to the man. It is also crucial that guys listen to us. In particular, when we want to discuss the relationship. If it's valuable enough for us to bring it up, guys, you need to listen and to not be defensive. This is our way of telling you how much your relationship means to us. Ditto if we feel it is important to go to counseling. Steve encouraged the men to jump on the bandwagon and go. The next point, after regular reassurance, was persistent pursuit. That is the other ingredient that makes us feel loved, desired, cherished, and valued. We like to be chased~even after you think you've got us! The deal is never closed for us. These were all great points and I think that both of these messages have value in helping people relate better to their significant others. I'm so glad that I'm in a church that puts practical, real-life messages out there for us! The two books that these sermons were based on were written by a husband and wife team, Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn and are titled: For Men Only and For Women Only. They are both available at all the usual book sources but for sure at the Christian bookstores, they are fairly short books, and each costs approx. $15.00. Pastor Steve recommended that if you are married, read both books and read them together so you can have good conversations together about the content.Sounded like good advice to me!Let's face it, we could all stand to do better and be more successful in our relationships. Thanks, Steve!