How we speak to our spouse on a daily basis will make or break our marriage. There is such power in our words. However, many husbands aren’t sure what to say or what their wives long to hear. Well, Husbands, it’s your lucky day. Here are 10 phrases that every wife wants to hear from her husband, in no particular order:
“You are my favorite person.”
A great friendship is at the heart of every great marriage. With so much vying for your attention from kids, to work, to hobbies, to bills, and everything in between, it’s important that you let your wife know that she is never an afterthought in your agenda. Let her know that she’s your favorite part of your day, and your day is better and brighter because she is part of it.
“You are so beautiful.”
You probably said this to your wife all the time when the two of you were dating. However, we need to hear this even more the longer we are married. Be specific about what you love about her beauty–not just her physical beauty, but everything you find to be beautiful about her from her laugh, to the way she loves you and the kids, to her gorgeous eyes. She will cherish what you have to say.
“Thank you for…”
A simple “thank you” goes a long way. However, the longer we’re married, the less we tend to thank our spouse for all they are and all they do for us. Husbands, think about all the things you are thankful for when it comes to your wife, and offer her a specific “thank you” every day.
“I love spending time with you.”
Your wife doesn’t want to feel like you are spending time with her just because you have to. She wants you to want to spend time with her, and your desire is displayed through your words and your actions. Let your wife know that you love spending time with her by calling her or texting her throughout the day. It’s also important to prioritize having a regular date night together. One simple way you can let your wife know that you love spending time with her is to give her your best attention by putting down the smartphone or other devices. Ask her how her day was and be willing to answer any questions she asks you. Tell her how much you love being with her. She will see how much you truly care for her through these thoughtful words and actions.
“I’m so glad you are my wife.”
This is huge. Your wife wants to know that you view marrying her as one of the best decisions of your life. She doesn’t want to feel like you see her as the old “ball and chain.” I think I could do a whole blog on how much I loathe that expression. I know it’s an older phrase, but I still hear some husbands jokingly use those words to describe their wife today. Then, I see the wives cringing on the inside while they force a smile. It’s just terrible. Be sure your wife knows, by your words and actions both privately and publicly, that you feel like you hit the jackpot when you married her.
“I want you.”
A wife wants to know that her husband is still super attracted to her. She wants to know that he finds her desirable. For a woman, foreplay is an all-day quest. So, husbands, woo your wife by taking something off her plate that might be stressing her out like laundry, picking up the kids, or putting away the dishes. Rub her feet. Hold her close. Run your hands through her hair, and stare into her eyes. Tell her how beautiful and sexy she is, and let her know you’ve still got it for her.
“You can do it!”
Take a little time each day and let your wife know that you are her biggest fan, and you believe in her. Be her biggest cheerleader and encourager. This will raise her confidence and encourage her to push forward.
“You can always come to me, and I will be here for you.”
Marriage is a partnership, yet many spouses aren’t sure they can bring their concerns and problems to their spouse without receiving some pushback or even a cold shoulder. That hurts deeply and often leads to an empty, lonely marriage. Husbands, whenever your wife comes to you with tears in her eyes and concern all over her face, be willing to stop whatever you are doing and listen to what she has to say. It will mean the world to her, and it will bring the two of you closer
“I trust you.”
As much as you need to let your wife know that you are trustworthy, you also need to let your wife know that you trust her. One way you can do this is to open up emotionally to your wife. Be willing to talk about the hard stuff with her. Be vulnerable. Don’t hold back. Tell her that you trust her with your fears, concerns, and worries. The more you do this, the more connected the two of you will be.
“I’m praying for you.”
As a Christian, I believe in the power of prayer, and I love knowing that Dave is one of my biggest prayer warriors. I love it when he tells me that he is praying for me, and I wholeheartedly believe that he is. The strongest marriages are built on a firm foundation of faith, and prayer is a big part of this. Husbands, let your wife know that you pray for her, and when she asks for a specific prayer request, follow through and say that prayer for her. You’ll be amazed at what God will do through those prayers.
For more on how to cultivate a thriving marriage, be sure to listen to The Naked Marriage podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also, check our resources by going to XOMarriage.com. Be blessed!