Today we will talk about the important topic of putting your spouse first. This phrase emphasizes the significance of prioritizing our partners in marriage, as they are our closest companions on our journey through life. It can be easy to get caught up in daily routines, responsibilities, and distractions, but God’s Word reminds us that our spouse deserves our love, time, and attention. When we put our spouse first, we honor not just them, but God’s design for marriage. So, let us engage with Scripture and discover how we can embrace the idea of loving and prioritizing our partners in a way that could strengthen our bonds and reflect God’s love in our lives.
Put Your Spouse First Bible Verse
Love and Respect for Our Spouses
Our relationship with our spouse flourishes in an atmosphere of love and respect. Through our actions and words, we can show that we truly value our partners. The Bible emphasizes that love should be unconditional and rooted deeply in respect. Understanding this can lead to a beautiful partnership where both individuals feel treasured. As we look into scripture, we’ll see that making our spouse a priority opens the door for a lasting and fulfilling relationship.
Ephesians 5:33
“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” – Ephesians 5:33
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” – 1 Peter 3:7
Colossians 3:19
“Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” – Colossians 3:19
Titus 2:4
“Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children.” – Titus 2:4
Proverbs 31:10
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” – Proverbs 31:10
Understanding Partnership
Marriage is a partnership, and it thrives on mutual understanding and cooperation. When we commit to putting our spouse first, we are acknowledging that we are on the same team. This attitude fosters an environment where we communicate effectively and work together through life’s challenges. Recognizing that our spouse is our partner helps us to be supportive and encouraging in all aspects of life.
Ephesians 4:2
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.” – Proverbs 18:22
Communication
Effective communication is a cornerstone of a healthy marriage. When we prioritize our spouse, we open the lines of communication, allowing for understanding and collaboration. Listening to our spouse’s thoughts and feelings creates a bond of trust and love, ensuring that both voices are heard and respected. In doing so, we build a strong foundation based on openness and kindness.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
Ecclesiastes 4:9
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Quality Time Together
Putting our spouse first also means spending quality time together. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to forget to carve out moments for each other. However, by prioritizing shared experiences, we can foster love and growth in our relationships. The Bible encourages us to invest time and effort into our marriages, nurturing our bond and creating lasting memories.
Mark 10:9
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Mark 10:9
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
Songs of Solomon 2:10
“My beloved spoke and said to me, ‘Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me.’” – Song of Solomon 2:10
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Conflict Resolution
When conflicts arise in marriage, how we handle them speaks volumes about our commitment to putting our spouse first. Choosing to work through disagreements with love and grace showcases our willingness to prioritize the relationship. Addressing issues maturely and respectfully can lead to deeper understanding and reconciliation. It is healthy to remember that we are allies, even when we disagree.
Matthew 5:23-24
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” – Matthew 5:23-24
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” – Matthew 18:15
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” – Galatians 6:1
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Proverbs 19:11
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11
Faith and Prayer Together
As we engage in our spiritual journeys, putting our spouse first often includes praying and growing our faith together. Inviting God into our union aids in strengthening our bond and understanding of each other. Sharing our spiritual life reinforces the idea that we are not facing challenges alone, but rather together as a team. Making time to pray, study, and serve can greatly enrich our partnership.
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Acts of Service
Service is an extraordinary way to express love for our spouse. By putting our spouse first, we are encouraged to engage in acts of kindness, whether big or small. These acts create a stronger bond and show our commitment to each other’s happiness and well-being. Scripture calls us to serve one another selflessly, reflecting the true essence of love throughout our daily lives.
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
John 13:14
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” – John 13:14
Matthew 20:28
“Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:28
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Mutual Growth and Support
In marriage, putting our spouse first means supporting each other’s personal and spiritual growth. Through encouragement and motivation, we can help one another strive for our dreams and pursue God’s calling in our lives. When we invest in each other’s growth, we nurture a deeper connection, and our marriage flourishes. Let’s explore how the Bible guides us in uplifting our partners.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Philippians 1:3-5
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the importance of putting our spouse first, we can see that it’s about more than just loving each other—it’s about creating a real partnership that honors God. By prioritizing love, respect, and communication, we can cultivate a strong, lasting relationship. Throughout our journey, we must embrace challenges and prayerfully support one another in growth. Each small act of kindness, love, and service speaks volumes in our relationships. Let’s be intentional in creating an atmosphere of love and support that mirrors the love of Christ in our marriages.
As we grow together, let us remember that we are not just in the business of living with our spouses, but investing in a life filled with purpose and joy. By putting our spouse first, we create a legacy of love that mirrors Christ’s devotion to the Church. May we always seek to nurture this beautiful bond in both our lives and the lives of those we encounter.
In doing so, we reflect the heart of God’s design for marriage, a sacred union built on mutual love, understanding, and grace.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Blog
50 Important verses about marriage in the bible (With Explanation)