St. John Chrysostomos On Marriage

Marriage is a great mystery because two join together and become one. But it is also a sign of a greater mystery, that Christ became one with the Church . The unity of husband and wife extends to their children. The man who properly oversees his whole household can make it a little church which will promote the spiritual growth of all its members. Husbands and wives should trust each other and not believe unsubstantiated accusations made by a third party. A husband should not mind if his wife demands more of his time, because this shows her love for him. A wife should not nag her husband for not making enough money, but should value his company. A husband should use gentle words and his example to teach his wife to be virtuous - not to desire high social position, expensive clothes and jewelry or extravagant furnishings in the house. A wife may also teach her husband virtue by her example. A husband should always begin his admonitions by telling his wife how much he loves her. He should enjoy being at home with her. He should praise her in front of others but advise her privately and patiently. Husbands must be as faithful as they expect their wives to be. They should pray together at home, attend church together, and at home discuss the readings they heard in church. A husband and wife should consider both their bodies and all their possessions common property. Neither should speak of "mine" and "yours". If they must endure poverty, they should accept it with courage and trust in God. Married people who live like this can become as holy as any monks and their children also.