What Does the Bible Say about Neglecting Your Wife?

A husbands is to stay faithful to his wife and not divorce her.

“Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth…” (Proverbs 5:18 ESV)

Husbands are to be content and stay satisfied with their wives, even as they grow older and are less physically attractive, according to the world’s standards.

“Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.” (Colossians 3:19)

“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.” (1 Peter 3:7)

Husbands are to be understanding of their wives and respectful. This is so important that, if they are not, the Word says their prayers will be hindered.

“The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
(1 Corinthians 7:3-5)

Husbands should be physically attentive to their wives, with love and affection, and engage in frequent physical intimacy.

Remember, no husband is going to get these biblical commands right all the time. He is still a sinner, and deserves patience and grace from you, his wife. Just as you need grace for the times you fail and sin, so does he. Marriage is full of sanctification and opportunities to forgive. There’s a difference between a husband who loves you, loves the Lord, and is trying to please you, versus a husband who is shut down to the things of God and shows no interest in marriage. If the latter is your situation, it’s best to seek counseling (individually or together) and see what can be done to get the relationship back on track.

Don’t lose heart or be discouraged! Marriages are restored and revived every day. Pray for your spouse as you seek godly wisdom and trust the Holy Spirit to do the work that only He can do in your husband’s heart. In the meantime, focus on being discerning and wise like Abigail.

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