Sunday, January 31, 2010

Love and Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

Love and Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is not just a typical marriage help book, it is much deeper than that. This book's subtitle summarizes the book well: "The love she most desires, the respect he desperately needs." Throughout this book Dr. Eggerichs uses both scripture and practical experience to drive home his message. The core message of this book is taken from Ephesians 5:33 "Each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband". This is the key element Dr. Eggerichs suggests is missing from most marriages.
As I read this book I was struck with both the depth yet simplicity of the message. It was like a light bulb went off as I read. For example, Dr. Eggerichs describes the vicious circle most marriages are stuck in: 1. Without love - she reacts - without respect - he reacts, and round it goes. As I continued through this book I was encouraged by the personal stories and examples from other couples who were struggling with these issues of love and respect. I appreciated this book and the help it will be to many marriages.