A note for wives
OK, ladies—this post is targeted to men, but I need your listening ear for a moment. All of us need to keep two key things in mind here: First, if your husband invites you to share with him, don’t take advantage of it and of him and unload every concern in your world at that moment. This is a sweet chance to connect with him, and I hope you’ll use your stellar ability to read facial and body language to know when he might be moving from “connection” to “overwhelmed.” Most of the time, the story won’t be as long and involved as he might think. (Many men are worried that such an invitation to “tell me all about it” will mean listening for an extra hour, when in fact it probably means they will end up hearing what we would have told them anyway, without the invitation!) But even when it is longer and more involved than usual, you can make it less overwhelming by inserting beats and pauses. (“Hey babe, I know this is a long story—should we get dinner fixed, and then maybe I can finish what I was going to say in a few minutes?”) Second, and most important, if your husband takes the risk and says, “tell me all about it,” do show how delighted he is making you. Give him a kiss and a hug and say “thank you.” Both of those things will encourage him to try it again!
So guys, how about giving this sentence a test drive: “Tell me all about it.” Take it out for a spin. Then listen to her. See whether she responds with delight. I hope you’ll see the benefit of making it a new habit! 
Read part 2 of The Sex & Conversation Series: Sex Creates A Powerful Connection With Your Man’s Heart
Find Christ-focused wonder in the midst of everyday life no matter what your situation might be. Pick up a copy of Shaunti’s latest devotional, Find Joy, available in major bookstores.
And check out her latest book (co-authored with her husband, Jeff), Thriving in Love and Money. Because you need a better relationship, not just a better budget.
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