LOVE AND RESPECT
Discussion guide to help couples be more intentional
meeting their spouse’s greatest need
Advance Preparation
• Schedule a dinner or coffee date with your spouse.
• Watch a few of Dr. Emerson Eggerichs’ videos as he
speaks to the value of love and respect in marriage. These
resources are available in Bellevue’s Library or Bookstore
or on YouTube.
• Each spouse should answer the questions on the reverse
size of this card prior to your planned date night.
During The Date
Considering both before and after marriage dates, reflect on
some of your favorite times together. Enjoy the memories of your
favorite dates while reflecting on these thoughts.
• Discuss the location, atmosphere, and activity.
• What made each one memory a favorite date night, and
what makes the memories so special?
• Did your favorite date include conversation, physical
activity, or experiencing something new together?
• Would it be possible to a recreate your favorite date while
making new memories?
Complete the appropriate category of questions prior to your date
night discussion.
HUSBANDS:
Read Ephesians 5:25–28 and answer the following:
• Do you agree with Dr. Eggerichs that your wife’s primary
marital need is to be cherished by you?
• What are some ways you try to show her sacrificial love
and prioritize her above yourself?
• What are 2–3 ways she needs or prefers that you show
love to her but that you might find difficult?
• What do you think your wife would say if invited to offer a
few “baby step” suggestions on better meeting her needs?
WIVES:
Read Ephesians 5:22–24 and answer the following:
• Do you agree that your husband needs to feel respected?
• What are some ways you try to show that you admire and
respect him?
• What are 2–3 things he would appreciate as respectful but
that might be more difficult for you to do?
• What do you think your husband would say if invited to
offer a few “baby step” suggestions on better meeting his
need for respect?
TOGETHER:
Read Ephesians 5:31–33. Ask God to help your marriage model
the relationship between Christ and His Bride as you grow in
mutual expressions of love and respect.