Everybody Loves Raymond was a very popular television show in America and it still is today although it is in syndication. My husband and I still enjoy relaxing together in our bedroom while watching it. We share our laughter because at times it reminds us of ourselves and our families. However, probably like you, I don't condone the way Debra disrespects her husband by calling him names like idiot and other things she does to him. But I am not totally innocent in the matter.

Early in my marriage I used to behave in a similar fashion and even call my husband names. I got married as a teen, knew nothing about the church, and I was raised by a single parent. So although I honored my mother I knew nothing about respecting or showing honor to my spouse. I used to embarrass him in public and even yell at him especially in front of my family. But today I take full responsibility for my actions. I appreciate him greatly and give him the respect he deserves and as God's Word instructs. Do I mess up sometimes? Yes, I'm still growing and fallible but my goal each day is to esteem him as head of our home. But I never ever disrespect him in public. Even if he doesn't do a job as well or the way I believe he should. I still recognize him as the husband God put in charge of our home and I honor him. 

Many married women refuse to submit to their spouses or allow anyone to usurp authority over them. It is good and we are blessed as females in the USA to have many liberties that other nations don't allow their women. This is particularly beneficial for those of us who may find ourselves in a physically abusive relationship. However, as godly women we are to be good examples at its highest. This is what Christianity is all about. We are to consistently show utmost respect and honor to our spouses and those in authority over us.

I know from experience that being submissive is not easy especially when our spouses (or others) consistently make poor decisions that may leave our families in trouble.  But there is one significant difference I have observed, since I began honoring my husband on a regular basis. I've noticed that Father answers my prayers more rapidly and he has showered me with many special blessings. However, one of the best things that have come from me giving respect to my husband is that it has led him to a close relationship with God. Today, he reads his Bible daily and now makes better decisions than he did in the past and he is even preparing to become a preacher! Now I can cheerfully and honestly say that he is the perfect husband for me and a special gift from Father.

Wonderful things like this happen to us when we trust and obey Father and allow him to have the final say in every area of our lives even those in which we are uncomfortable. We will begin to receive blessings, beyond belief, that enrich our lives greatly when we give due honor to our spouses, and those in authority over us, as commanded by our holy Father.