Dear Hugh,
I enjoyed this article and several others that I have seen regarding this subject. However, it is rare that you see this subject discussed in reverse. I (the wife) am the prepper and the Christian in our home. My husband thinks I’m crazy. I have a small pantry, a small supply of gadgets and supplies, and have learned to can. I would like to do more with this, but my husband is already disgusted with all the space I have taken up. There are so many things that still need to be done, but many of them require building, power tools, and a little technical ability. My husband is excellent at these things, while I am not. I would love to hear from some ladies out there who are in the same situation and how they have handled their situation. – S.R.
Mrs. Latimer Replies: I encourage you to look for all the good things that your husband does and praise him for each one. Encourage him when he does take leadership to care for the family. In the meantime, the best thing you can do is pray and follow God’s instructions for being a godly woman and wife, even if your husband doesn’t follow God’s ways himself. Even when he doesn’t do what you think is “right”, show him respect. Your husband needs affirmation and respect. Be sure you are giving that to him, even if you disagree with him. There are two kinds of respect: one based upon position and the other based upon actions. Even if your husband’s actions seem wrong to you, he has a position in your home and in your marriage that you must respect. Believe me, I know it can be very difficult, especially when we are certain that we know what it best. However, God didn’t give us (the wife) the final say.
You may have read I Peter 3:1-7: “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; while they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.”
I have kept you in prayer throughout the day today and commit to continue praying for you and your husband. God has power to change our circumstances. Ultimately, He is the One in control, and He is trustworthy. Please keep us posted. I am hoping for changes to occur for the better in your home. God bless you, dear sister in Christ Jesus!