If Jack Goes…So Does Jill!

Jack and Jill went up the hill to fetch a pail of water. Jack fell down and broke his crown and Jill came tumbling after. If you're like me, I'm often the one who breaks Jack's (i.e. my husband’s) crown, then like Jill, I come tumbling down after.

As women, we can be so critical. I'm sure men can be too, I just happen to be married to a guy who isn't terribly picky. Instead of helping him carry the water down, I, too often, push him down the hill with my words, eyes, or how I prioritize my time. He stumbles in confidence or with leading our family, and what seems like the right thing to say or do at the time can actually cause me to skin my knees, too.

Enough with the nursery rhyme. . . . Here are some real life issues:

1. Instead of griping at my husband about leaving his clothes out, I can first look to see what I haven't cleaned up (there's always something). Then, when I'm putting his clothes away, I can pray for him. (Sounds odd, but it really helps my perspective.)
2. Rather than complaining about a lack of funds, make a big deal about what you do have. (Be creative!!)

The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down. (Proverbs 14:1 NIV)

We have a choice. A Wise one or a Foolish one. . . . We don't have to knock him down. It doesn't do either of us any good. Maybe you didn't push him down, but he's down none-the-less. Struggles at work, wishing he could do more for the family, or frustration with himself can yank the rug out from under our guys. Our impatience, lack of respect and cutting words won't help him get up. But, our support will.

So, today, when you feel a negative thought coming on, let it be your cue to make yourself think about what he does right. . . . Then brag on him about whatever it is.

There's nothing better we can do for our guys than let them know we think they are great and that we can see how they’ve grown. Jack really doesn't want help carrying the water down the hill. He just wants to know that Jill thinks he can do it. And when he falls, he likes to know that she's right there beside him, cheering him on as they traipse back up the hill to fill the bucket again.

Lord, please help us see the good in our guys. Give us the courage to clothe ourselves not with great clothes and jewelry, but with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience for our men. (Colossians 3:12). Thank you for showing us compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience first. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Sharon