All the Difference

As I consider this idea, I think about all of the situations and relationships where this doesn't happen. I think of the times when I have dropped the ball out of fear, ignorance, or compromise. I think of when my stand firm was a little more wobbly knees than a strong back. I think of times at work, things with my friends, and seasons at home. It is when I think about those times that I am so grateful for my wife, Susan, who stands with me, supports me, and pulls that verse out of me, out of trust and respect, not nagging or complaining. The old saying that behind every great man is a strong woman is a biblical principle that all of us should heed. Check out the entirety of Proverbs 31.  

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness."

Whether married or not, all of us men have women in our lives to cherish and be thankful for. The women who bring out more of the good stuff and hold us accountable for the bad- mothers, grandmothers, teammates, friends, sisters, mentors. Women who are clothed with strength and dignity. Women who don't fear the future because they have worked hard to both provide for it and have the faith that it will be okay. Women with words of advice and perspective, we don't see as men. Women we should listen to.  

Keep your head out of the sand, straighten your back, and be strong.

Lead with courage, love like there is no tomorrow, and if you are blessed to have a Proverbs 31 woman by your side, praise her, honor her, tell her, and thank God for her. In my life, she has made all the difference.