TEACH HOW TO LOVE. Titus 2:4 Many people see love as excitement, attraction, and passion. These aspects are true in marriage, but to “admonish” young women to love their own husbands suggests a duty to be fulfilled, which doesn’t seem very romantic. The reason behind the older women’s responsibility to teach younger women is that true love is much more valuable than just feelings. Love should be shown at all times, even when circumstances are difficult, distractions are many, and we are so busy that we can’t focus on anything else.
Older women possess many years of practical and valuable experiences that they should pass on, along with wise counsel, to those beginning married life. If the habit of reading, studying, and applying the principles learned from the Bible is handed down to the next generation, they can be protected from repeating the mistakes of others. If such teaching is not provided or is ignored, the next generation of wives and mothers will have to learn these lessons the hard way.
Building a strong relationship with one’s husband and children is not about romance or emotion but rather a woman’s commitment to doing what is best for her family, no matter the personal cost. That kind of love can be learned by listening to and heeding the advice of an experienced Christian woman who understands what is truly essential in life for her family. Her practical and thoughtful love is reflected in her support for her husband, the orderliness of her home, her self-care and family care, and her willingness to listen to her husband's guidance and follow his wise leadership.
She teaches her children by reading the Bible to them, praying aloud for them, and mentioning each of their names to God. Firm and fair discipline shapes their character. If she is home when her children come in from playing or school, they feel safe and secure because their loving, caring mother is there to listen to them with interest, compassion, and genuine love.