A man can survive financial problems, business failures, and insults from the outside world. However, it is much harder for him to survive being treated like nothing by the woman he comes home to. Home is supposed to be the one place where a man can breathe, feel accepted, and know that someone believes in him, even if the rest of the world does not.

When a man comes home from a stressful day only to be welcomed with insults, arguments, and dismissal, something begins to die inside him. He may still provide and pay the bills, but he will no longer feel respected. When respect is lost at home, a man often talks less, laughs less, and spends more time outside—not necessarily looking for another woman, but simply looking for peace.

Respecting your husband is not about fear, kneeling, or worship. Real respect is much deeper. It is found in the way you speak to him, your tone when you are angry, and whether you choose to correct him with dignity or embarrass him with insults. You can disagree with him without disrespecting him.

The words you choose can either build his confidence or slowly destroy it. A man who is respected at home has the confidence to face the battles outside, while a house that loses mutual respect eventually loses its peace. Before it is too late, ask yourself honestly: when your husband comes home, does he feel like he is coming to a place of peace, or walking into another battle?

 Antony Francis, Chicago