My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6

I believe marriages, friendships, and business relationships are destroyed due to men and women not understanding the differences that make us unique. In our pride we usually think that we are a shining example of what is right, and we expect everyone to act as we do and like what we like, but that is fantasy, not fact.

In his best-selling book Love and Respect, Dr. Emerson Eggerichs points out that the obvious differences found in men and women can be seen in something as simple as looking into a closet. Eggerichs writes about a couple getting dressed for the day: She says, “I have nothing to wear.” (She means, she has nothing new.) He says, “I have nothing to wear.” (He means, he has nothing clean.)

God made men and women to be different in many different ways. Whether you are married or single, you will encounter and need to deal with men throughout your life. I believe it is important for our confidence level as women to understand ourselves and the differences between us and men. We need to remember that those differences aren’t better or worse, they’re just different. Once we accept those differences, we can understand and appreciate what each gender offers.

Lord, I ask You to help me understand myself as well as to understand men in general. Then help me apply that understanding in practical, helpful ways in my relationships. Amen.