Don't know what to do with my husband

Mojca - posted on 10/08/2010 ( 45 moms have responded )

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We've been married for 6 years and we have 3 little boys, one aged 5 and a half, one is 3 and a half and now we have a newborn baby boy. I've known things are not ok between the two of us for a while, but it really struck me when we were talking about how babies come into the world - when mummy and daddy love each other etc. And my oldest boy cried out: "But daddy DOESN'T love you!" I said he does sometimes, but it was a great shock to me.

The thing is that I'm alone with the kids most of the time. Now I'm at home on maternity leave, but even when I was going to work until recently, I've been alone for pretty much everything. Dressing up the kids in the morning, taking them to kindergarten, rushing off to work, picking them up later on, making lunch, playing with them, going out for walks, taking them to bed, plus cleaning up the house at the same time :) I'm also paying for most of the bills.
Plus he doesn't want to go anywhere with us - not to the seaside, for a visit or even for a walk! So I drive the kids to the seaside and visits myself, some of my relatives have never met him.

The sad thing here is that I was alone for everything even when he was at home (without a job) for 8 months last year. He's not willing to help me much even when I ask him real nice. He would swear back or something. It makes me sooo sad because the boys hear this :( And he doesn't want to play with them too, he would say leave me alone and swear. He wants to have peace because he's tired, 'working' on a computer or watching TV. THey don't even see him during the week because he's working now from 1 pm to 11pm or later, so he's always asleep in the morning.BUT he can be a great dad when he's in the mood, he would cuddle with them and kiss them all over - and it makes them so happy! And he's really gentle with our baby boy now and likes to cuddle him, too.

I'm trying my best with the kids, singing and playing a lot, but it's kind of hard at the moment with a baby who's hungry all the time :) I hope his attitude doesn't leave too much negative influence on them, but I see it does :( I have some discipline issues with my oldest one. Even my mother-in-law said he says some ugly words like 'you old woman' and that it's the kindergarten's fault. But he heard it all from his dad :( And he's saying it at school too - he's now in 1st grade.

He blames me for everything and critising pretty much everything I do, so in fact I'm happier when he's not here because he brings so much anger and negative energy home, I don't know what to do anymore. He doesn't want to talk, he doesn't even let me finish a sentence :(
At very rare oppoturnities when he's willing to talk he would say he loves me and that he says things he doesn't mean and how should I know this by now!? But I'm still hurt. I ask God for strength to carry on all the time. I'm so thankful for my kids and I'm praying for things to change for a long time now. But it's still the same :( WHAT CAN I DO?

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45 Comments

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Mirela - posted on 10/24/2010

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try to talk seriously with him its my opinion..if he doesnt help you at all with the kids , swear and doesnt help you with the bills either if i were in your place i wouldnt spend any more time complaining and leave him...womens were not made to suffer and dnt have their own life because they have a lazy husband who doest even give you the attention that u deserve

Summer - posted on 10/22/2010

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My husband and I had all these issues and more before we had kids, thank goodness! We seperated for a year and it was the best thing for us. We went to counseling and she said that if he wasn't ready to be married than he shouldn't get to be married. If he wanted to be single than he can. I wasn't going to be married to a man who clearly didn't want to be my partner. It was really hard, but I really feel God was working on him during that time. After several months my husband started trying to win me back and finally, I tristed him again. We are going on 6 years and have two beautiful boys now. We are still counseling off and on just to keep our heads about us (we have a lot to learn since we both came from divorced families). I would STRONGLY recommend counseling. Even he won't go, go by yourself. It is so helpful. And don't be afraid to shop around. If you feel like the person isn't the best, keep looking.

Blessings.

Carla - posted on 10/22/2010

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From the posts, many, many of us are going through/went through the same thing. As a lot of you know, our marriage was miserable for the first 30 years. Most people would have walked away, but, like you said, you love him, and pray for change. I can tell you for a fact, that trusting in the Lord to change circumstances works! My husband is now saved, and treats me very well. We love each other more now than we ever did.



Marriage is for a lifetime. We have to grow up and see what a good marriage is, to appreciate our spouses. I believe God smiles at us for hanging in through the rough times, and He rewards us with the desires of our heart.



God bless, sweeties!

Mary Ann - posted on 10/21/2010

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I have been in a very similar situation for many years now (since my husband and I had children). We've got two teenage girls and our relationship completely changed after I had kids. He is a wonderful person who will do anything for anyone and he's always been a good provider for our famly, but emotionally is very hard on the people closest to him, especially the women (me, his mother and his sisters). He'll do anything for anyone and he's got a good heart, but he criticizes everything I do and even has started in on the girls as they've gotten older, which really frustrates me at times. To cope, I just tell him how this makes me feel and pray and hope that someday he realizes this is not how you treat those that you love the most. I've told him my feelings verbally, in writing and through family members who want to see us stay together. When I try to talk to him about it, he gets defensive and starts yelling at me, so I just shut down. When he does tell me what he wants, I make the changes the best I can, which doesn't help because when I do what he says he wants, I'm not doing it right or he can't deal with the changes. He says he's being neglected and maybe he is now that I have stopped fighting and learned to accept it for what it is. I've been ready to leave many times, but I love him and don't want to split up our family, so I pray and prayer keeps me sane through all this! I hope you can get through to your husband and can have the relationship and happiness you deserve. This is not a good place to be and I feel for you, but you will gain strength through prayer. God bless!

Adrienne - posted on 10/21/2010

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Prayer is powerful. It always has been. It always will be. But people are people. If he has no desire to change it will be hard to convince him that he should. Men struggle so much with being a provider and protector. That is their instinct. Maybe I misunderstood, but if he has been out of work, then that can be very hard on a man, spiritually and emotionally. Many times men- especially men who have a hard time expressing emotion, can't put that into words. And he surely probably does NOT want to admit that to you...That he's struggling with what he knows he feels that he needs to be and what he is. Do not feel that the problem is with you. Families were meant to be together. Ditch the TV- literally. Sell it if you must. Go to the corner cafe with wifi to get on-line. These things tend to get better- but it's a tough road, especially if he doesn't want to change and, worse, doesn't see the need to change. It's easy to say keep praying...but sometimes harder to find the motivation, the time, the energy....it's tough with three boys. I have three of my own and at one time had a 41/2 year old, a 1 year old and a newborn. I'll be thinking of you. Stand strong in faith. Find peace and rest in Jesus, and know that He takes great delight in you.

Kathryn - posted on 10/21/2010

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Great responses.....and it boils down to this...Prayer....Read....Counsel....Resources (not friends but real resources like fireproof video..Pastor counsel...get the Holy Ghost...get in church...) new husbands and then new fatherhood is quite a responsibility and alot of men have a hard time adjusting...refusing to share in the responsibility...they have to grow up..you had 9 months of pregnancy to learn to accept the baby...
remember to try to treat him as your best friend...talk talk talk...be kind...tenderhearted..forgiving
BUT do not become a doormat! Protect your children and yourself...if ever you feel endangered..please call for help or 911...

Katie - posted on 10/21/2010

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I wish I could give you a BIG HUG right now!! What a constant blessing you are to those children! I was in a similar situation. Three books I would suggest in order of priority (these will ALL help you realize that you aren't crazy and God wants your husband to love you and lead you in a kind and gentle way- 1. Understanding the Heart of A Man by Ken Nair 2. Love Must be Tough by James Dobson (it has more to do with affairs but it helped me gain the confidence to set boundaries 3. Boundaries by Townsend
It sounds like he is emotionally detached & verbally abusive... if he has ever pushed you, grabbed you, hit you, pulled you in anger- then he is physically abusive as well and I would suggest "Why Does He Do That (Inside the Mind of Angry and Controlling Men)" by Lundy Bancroft. This helped me see the different sides of abusive men, there are over 10 'types', they don't all look like the guys in the movies- and the meanest ones are the most sneaky and manipulative so that you end up blaming yourself for HIS behavior!!
Yes, our God is a God of grace BUT He is also a God of TRUTH and He wants you to continue to be honest with yourself and with your husband about how your being affected by his distant and cruel leadership. The only way to not be affected by him is to emotionally divorce from him- and then once you emotionally 'check out' it is MUCH harder to work on the marriage- get help now. Much love to you sweet sister!

Cecilia - posted on 10/20/2010

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Let go and let God pray but don't try and change him change what you do read the love dare book suggest counseling hope it gets better for you :)

Carrie - posted on 10/20/2010

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I immediately thought of substance abuse. I lived with someone with substance abuse and it sounds very similar. Not that you have to answer that, but that behavior sounds like it.

Betty - posted on 10/20/2010

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I am sorry to hear that you are going through this matter. I can only tell you what I think. You are at the seven year mark and from experience any and everything can be going though a man head. Is your husband happy with his job? If he is not then that could be one of the problems because he can take out his angry at who he really want to take it out on. He may feel like he's not at the point in his life where he want to be financially, or even by being married. He may not see you as the person you was when he married you. You now how men can after we have babies. You have to make a decision being a mother and not a wife that this is not what you want your children to see. When children see behavior like this then they think that it is okay to treat people like this. They are at a stage now where the behavior is learned and they are going to say and do what they see mom and dad do. You see that is already going on now with one of your kids. I feel that kids are a gift from God and it's our job as mothers to protect them if we don't who will. You have to let him know that you are tired of what is going on and put down some demands. Let him know the relationship can not keep going on like this because it's hurting you and the kids. Let him know how you feel and that you all need to seek some help. You have to stop allowing him to take advantage of your love, kindness, and the fact that you are going to be there always. He know you going to do it and that is why he is not worrying about nothing. you have to show him that you are not going to always be there. You need your me time from the kids because if not soon you are going to lose control and start taking it out on the kids. I have been where you are at and I had to show him that I am not promised to be here to keep the family together. You is what holding the glue to the family if you fall the family falls. Pray and ask God to show you the right way to go with your marriage and when you do pray I need for you to do somethings for me. First, God say somethings only comes through fasting and praying. I want you to give up something that you really like to eat, drink, watch, or go for about a week. And I want you to sit down and write down what ever date it be and list somethings that you want God to do for you. keep adding to the list at any given time and when something comes to pass on that list put the date on it. trust me you will get your ans. If you need me I am here. I will pray that God give you the ans he wants you to have.

Tracy - posted on 10/20/2010

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First Pray. Second pray for God to open the right doors.
I went thru something similar 3 years ago and I put up with it for 3 years before my husband's stress, depression and substance abuse put him in the hospital. I felt alone, isolated and trapped. What I learned is that you are never alone. When I needed them my family and friends marched in like an army and gave me the support while I found my backbone. I sought therapy which really helped. You both need counceling (together, and individually). My therapist suggested I take a vacation without him where I could ponder my options and get my kids into a more loving and possitive atmosphere.....
I cannot say that everything is perfect and it was a lot of work but we are much better today. He and I work on strengthening out relationships with God and invite him daily into our relationship.
BUT, you have to make sure that you and your children are safe, if you don't have a place to go, contact your local Safe Place, should be in the yellow pages. Keep track of his behavior but know that nothing you do will change him, only he has to be willing to change and put the work into it. There are so many resources out there for both of you, your church can start you in the right direction and/or refer you to a counselor. Use your resources, if not for you for your kids. My now 8 year old shows only a little effect for our three dark years but my now 6 year old shows definate Post Tramatic Stress Issues.

Hugs, prayers and love.......give them to your kids receive them from your friends and family.

Amanda - posted on 10/20/2010

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Sorry to hear that, it's time to at least separate and have him see how it is to not have his family when HE wants them. If nothing gets better, just call it a day and get over him. No mother or wife needs the abuse like that from their husbands.

Jennifer - posted on 10/20/2010

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What city and state do you live in? I'd love to meet up with you and/ or talk on the phone if you want. :)

Jennifer - posted on 10/20/2010

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Oh, I feel for you honey! I have a very hard, sad marriage situation myself. And, I've found that I don't even want to pray for him or our relationship. Deep down I know we're not meant for each other. I think it helps to have TONS of other people praying for you!! I got that book- the power of a praying wife.. but going to bible studies, having a babysitter- a close friend or family member preferably, and having people you are close to who lift you up- will keep you happy, strong, and loved- so that you don't fall apart. And, hopefully through all the church's peoples' prayers He will get better, apologize, etc. But, don't ever fall short yourself because of him bringing you down- because then you'll have guilt, regret and be bad. So, get in a mother's group through meetup.com or las madres or mops. That helps!! I'm praying!!!!!!!!! LOVES. ♥

Ashley - posted on 10/20/2010

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Pray that God will change his heart. When my husband & I had to face adversities, I began to make him study the Word of God with me every night and pray with me and the kids daily and eventually his heart was convicted because of what he was doing & what he could have done better. Also, I began to think of things that I could stop doing to make him want to be at home more like nagging and fussing.

Inhye - posted on 10/20/2010

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I'm so sorry to hear that you are hurting so much. It is definitely unhealthy for you and your children. It is clearly a personal issue for your husband and he should really seek professional help. My husband has a problem with anger and cursing as well and we fought in front of our son too. My son is 8 now and I can see how it has affected him growing up. It hurts to see that we've caused permanent damage to him.

I hope that your husband gets the help that he needs. Obviously he loves your children VERY much. I wish you the very best. And as a woman who occasionally deals with verbal abuse, i know it's hard and you are doing a great job!

Priscilla - posted on 10/20/2010

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Have you thought that maybe hes depressed? He sounds like he has some mental and psychological issues there. If not then...I'm sorry for what your going through. I can honestly just tell you to do what I did with my husband...SHOCK him! My husband comes from an abusive family and shouting and yelling over each other was the norm. In my family I NEVER EVER heard my parents have a fight. They talked. So he would just run me down with words and I would just sit there crying. One day I got fed up...we were arguing and just like your husband wasn't letting me finish what I wanted to say so I said in the loudest voice I could bring myself to do "HEY!!!!!!! IM NOT DONE!!! YOU WAIT TILL I FINISH WHAT I HAVE TO SAY!" Trust me that was just like a slap in the face to him. When you have his attention you let it pour out. DH and I have had a rough marriage, he may not think so , but I do. Men forget easy about things done or not done. Dh and I are at a better place but a lot of it is because I had to grow a VERY VERY THICK skin and really bring out the B**CH out of me...something I never was like. Even dh told me once "Your mean...what happened to the sweet girl I married?" I told him "When you get treated bad for so many years and your forced to fight back with words, this is the product...you did this to me" he didn't like that but he knew I was right. He has apologized to me and recently he was even crying being very very sorry about anything he has put me through. Good luck!

Tricia - posted on 10/19/2010

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I'm so sorry you're going through such a rough spot. Before writing any letters or anything - I highly recommend the book "Love and Respect" by Dr. Emmerson Eggerichs. This teaches women and men how to communicate with each other in the way that the other will be most able to hear - and it is biblical as well. I believe that with God's help, through your prayers and carefully chosen words and attitudes, you can help improve the relationship you have with your husband. Perhaps when he sees (rather than hears) you making a effort he will be willing to put more effort in as well.

You also mentioned that he is good with the kids at times and does talk with you at times. And you obviously have made children together recently. So I would encourage you to try to remember what led up to the good times and compare them to what happened or was said that leads up to the times when he seems less involved or more cranky.

Will be praying for you and your family.

Ali - posted on 10/19/2010

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Would he read a letter if you wrote it to him? Say all the things you want to say there, and start some communication maybe? Ask him when he stopped being happy? See if he realizes he is unhappy and if he will give you any reason(s). You may not like the answers, but if you're already doing everything on your own anyway, causing a confrontation cant hurt.

Melinda - posted on 10/19/2010

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Girl, we are in the same shoe!!! I have written my husband letters and he would change some, but within 2 weeks it was back to the same old stuff. If you get an answer let me know. I will pray for you as well as I pray for myself. I have a 14 year old daughter and almost 4 year old son that really would like to have family time, but dad want see to that. Sorry and I hope things get better.
mewilson9131975@gmail.com

Shaunta - posted on 10/19/2010

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Praying for you and your family. Marriage is tough, but God can fix anything! Stay prayed up!

Meghan - posted on 10/19/2010

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I would seek counsel from your spiritual leader/pastor and ask for prayer support first. Obviously i don't know your husband but it sounds, from what you wrote, like he is either hiding something in his life, depressed, or suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. The sad thing is, you can't fix someone who doesn't want to be fixed. But if you ask your pastor to maybe organize some other men in the church to try to take him under their wing, develop a relationship with him, and give him the opportunity to see how they talk about and treat their families, it might be a place to start. I am so sorry for you. It sounds like the Lord has given you a lot of strength and grace to parent your kids during this, but I know we can only hold up emotionally for so long. Seek help from people in your lives as a couple and go from there.

Katie - posted on 10/19/2010

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I noticed that a few people posted to get "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian. Get it!! I have it right here and it is a great resource for HOW to pray. God hears all of our prayers - even if it's just one word you've shouted in you head. But there is something miraculous about the focused prayers she provides in the book. I am so sad for you and your children that they notice that he doesn't love you the way he should.
Josia said it perfectly "to jesus and heavenly father - you are a princess. You're a daughter of god and he loves you. He will never fail you, never leave you, never disappoint you and will always be there for you."

Tammy - posted on 10/19/2010

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Does he go to church with you? A foundation in Christ is the first positive step, but it's not something you can make him do. There is a ministry that deals with inner healing and that sounds like what your husband needs, you can look it up on the internet. If I were to guess, I'd say he has a bad retalionship with his father. This results in an awful relationship with his own family. Prayer is needful, but I must warn you the more you pray the worse it will get, but don't stop praying. Because that is the enemy's counter attack. It is also a sure sign that your prayers are working. And when you pray, pray love prayers for him and pray prayers of thanksgiving for him. Pray about the things you saw in him that made you fall in love with him in the first place.

Josia - posted on 10/19/2010

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Carla that was beautiful :) And you hit the nail on the head. The fact that your little ones notice is heartbreaking. Every woman deserves to be loved and cherished and every mother deserves to be appreciated by their husband. You are so strong because you handle your situation with grace and i have to say i admire that. I dont think i could cope if my husband did that to me. You do so much - and you should be treated like a queen. I get cranky when people say 'Its all your fault' if someone has an issue in a marriage it is everyones problem and it is up to both to find a solution. You both deserve happiness. Marriage is a partnership not a dictatorship.

I will add you in my prayers too.Is he active in your church? Perhaps he might also need an outlet like a hobby or sport or something that will allow him to channel and focus energy into. But that would come later right now the focus is you. I know that he doesnt want to go to councelling so i wont suggest that. What i will say is that to jesus and heavenly father - you are a princess. You're a daughter of god and he loves you. He will never fail you, never leave you, never disappoint you and will always be there for you. I know it is hard and the fact that your beautiful children see how he treats you must be heartbreaking but remember that god is in control, god is guiding your steps. He will use what you're going through for the greater good. Things will change - you just need the faith to believe god has a great plan for you. Pray pray pray and praise his name.

I will keep you in my prayers.

Terri - posted on 10/19/2010

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Read the book "Change Your Brain Change Your Life" by Dr. Daniel Amen. Sounds like your husband might have an issue like ADD. Get counseling and support ASAP!!

Latonya - posted on 10/18/2010

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Sorry that you are going through with your husband but you have 3 little ones that really depend on you prayer will get you through your trials and tribulations.

Toni - posted on 10/18/2010

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I have been married for 8 years with three boys. (7, 4, and 7 months) We went through something similar after my second. I finally had enough, and left. I came back later taht evening to get my boys, and we talked and things changed. He knew I had had enough, and that I wasn't going to deal with anymore, and more importatnly, not going to put my children through it anymore.
Good luck, I hope things work out for you.

Kat - posted on 10/18/2010

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Hi, Depression doesn't always occur suddenly I wouldn't rule it out. I have experienced some similar issues with my Husband that you have described. Things have slightly improved. I find things are best when I am diligent in my prayer. I never asked the Lord to keep my family together I just asked him to work his will in my life & give my courage & strength to fulfill his will. I always had this feeling inside that God didn't want me to leave my Husband. So with each issue & problem that came up I had to ask myself "What would Jesus do in this situation"? I call this 'my channelling Jesus'. So several times a day I had to remind myself "what would Jesus do?". And that really helped me. I also read a book "The Five Love Languages". I found it really helpful. I'm not sure how you can manage this but I also found my Husband was better to be around when he exercised at least 3x a week. When he exercised & ate better he was much better to be around. Sounds simple hey but not always that easy.
I pray for the Lord to work his will in your life. Amen

Carliena - posted on 10/14/2010

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THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH ..I WILL DO ALL OF THIS ...AND AGAIN THANK YOU ....

Mallorie - posted on 10/14/2010

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Most definitely pray! But I would also talk with a pastor if I were in your position. Perhaps you could get your husband to go with you. I think it would be beneficial for both of you. Many churches also have ministries or small groups within the church that you can join for support while struggling in marriage. You are not alone. You are doing the right thing by making sure you bring as much happiness and love for your children as possible. Pray for your husband and the strength and wisdom to reach your husband. stay strong and stay in God's word.

Koren - posted on 10/14/2010

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PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!!!!!!

Wendy - posted on 10/14/2010

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Oh my dear. I know what you are going through, my husband has been there a few years ago, and it lasted for years. I felt so alone. I would cry myself to sleep at night because of the person he had turned into. He either never wanted to leave the house or couldn't due to health/financial problems. I'm not saying that it's all sunshine now, but I found the book The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie O'Martian at a yard sale and I latched on. Each chapter covers a different topic and has a prayer. I took each part of the prayer that I wanted to see fulfilled and typed them into a word document that I printed out and put on my bathroom mirror so I could pray and speak forth life where there was none. Things are better, but I did have to give him something to think about 6 months ago. You just have to be the best influence and do the best you can do for your children. Remember right now you are the spiritual head of your household so you are responsible for their spiritual growth. Since you don't have a good church to go to, check into cable or satellite channels for Christian programming. It really does make a difference. There is VeggieTales, SuperBook, Flying House, along with entire Christian channels with children programming all day long. See what you can find for them. I will be praying that God gives you peace and blesses your marriage for the better. Find someone who you can confide in and share some time with so you don't feel alone. Read Psalms 20.

Abo - posted on 10/13/2010

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Sorry about ur ordeal :(. Continue to do good and be good to him ; pray without ceasing!! Hugs and peace to your soul :-) remember - God loves you!

Carla - posted on 10/13/2010

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@Carliena, marriage is rough. Don't we wish that it was like a soap opera? Flowers and dancing, house always clean and NO ONE seems to work on those shows! Unfortunately, that is fantasy, it isn't life.

All through the NT we are told that we will have trials and tribulations. Some are of our own making, and some are to purify us. We get ourselves into horrid messes, then can't figure out why God isn't getting us out of it!

What I CAN tell you is that Jesus is there with you. He cries with you when your husband doesn't treat you the way He has commanded husbands deal with their wives. I prayed and fasted for my husband seriously for about 2 years before I started seeing a true change. It took another 4 years before he re-dedicated his life to the Lord; the end result was WELL worth the wait!

We look at time through human eyes, and mourn for the 'lost years'. God, however, views time as a linear thing, and knows that after this life is over, we will live forever. So, pray, pray, pray. Make sure you are being a good witness to him and to your child. Show them what a woman of God is like. Give him such a good example that he can't help but give his life to the Lord and become like you!

I pray faith, strength and endurance for you, honey. We DO win. Hold fast.

Carliena - posted on 10/12/2010

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I am going through a similar situation and I have the book the power of a praying wife , It's helped me....It's hard and sometimes it's good , but it's mostly bad and sometimes I feel like giving up too but I really want our family to work.......and I love him with all of my heart ....but I am soo sick of being cooped up in our home with our son while he is here with us and he never interacts with us , and we fight and he says that 'he says things that he doesn't mean' and 'I should know this by now and be okay with it' and he lashes out and I have to do everything alone it seems ...hell he's been sleeping on the couch so he doesn't get bothered by our son-that's the excuse today ...but that will change to meet his need the next time I ask why..I am soo tired of being in a relationship with myself ... we don't need him in our lives ...we want him in our lives and he has never experienced that before...I am trying to show him that there is more to life..... and that you shouldn't just settle ....'look where it has gotten you thus far' i say ...and still he belittles me and patronizes everything I have to say, he basically chalks up his have 4 children and his life of hardship to my life and our one as my fault- my inexperience in life - which translates to my in ability to give advice, have an opinion on what we should or shouldn't do -hell speaking at this point is becoming something that I am doubted for doing..... and I don't know how much more I can handle ...But I do Know that GOD put me in his life for a reason and him in mine......so coming from someone who's relationship is on the rocks right now ...without god i wold have given up already and he would be lost in the same mess i found him in only knee deep this time.....all I can say is that you should pray about it and know that everything happens for a reason , things will get better or worse and you have to decide which hurts more...him being around or him being gone....sometimes I miss the fact that he was gone all of the time ...at least then when I was being scolded by family and friends behind his back - ((b/c the were too scared or incapable of saying these things to his face - they had to harp to me - )) he was criticized by everyone we knew...But I could defend him...... I could say it was b/c he wasn't here ...that if he were home more he would do all of the things he should ...and now I can't say that ...I just know that if you pray , God will answer you ...

Sheri - posted on 10/09/2010

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i'm not sure why i'm throwing this out there but is there any chance he could be struggling with substance abuse? i'm not asking for an answer...just a thought. i'm sorry you're going through this.

Rebekah - posted on 10/08/2010

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Wow, I can relate the opposite way. I work all the time and my husband is at home... but here is how I feel. I feel like I'm missing out on everything, so it's easier to get lost in work and want to "wind down" when you come home because work is demanding and you feel like you have to provide for all the things at home, not an easy place to be. And when you feel like you are missing out, people can do one of two things, either withdraw or make time. I happen to do both, at times I withdraw because it depresses me and at times I make time because I don't want to miss the time anymore... but then work can stress me even more. It's not easy to have one at home and one working, but I believe it's healthy because children get raised with the beliefs and values you want them to have. I think it's time for you and your husband to remember as well, what it was like before kids, before stresses, before chaos... be spontaneous, send the kids to stay the night somewhere, and do something special. Call your husband's boss to get him out of work early... and go be that couple when you first met! :) And if you want things to change, it starts with you... you can't remove the log from one person's eye, if you can't remove the log from your own. I don't believe he is the only one to blame. When a marriage goes sour, it is because of BOTH, not one, two. Ask God to reveal your weaknesses and where you need to improve as the wife God created you to be for your gift, your husband... and when you start changing, you'll realize God will move on your husband too. Seek out what it means to be a "wife" in the Scriptures. Live out Ephesians 5 and cover your husband in Scripture - that doesn't mean pray to God saying that You give me the desires of my heart and I desire for my husband to change! That is 100% selfish and is not a prayer God would answer. We need to really discover the truth of Scripture and cover our husband in it daily... you'll find this alone will change you and your husband. If change hasn't come about in a long time either, then I think I would ask you, where is your faith?! What are you doing to change? And how are you loving your husband as Jesus?

Dara - posted on 10/08/2010

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I would seek professional help. Go see a counselor together if you can get him there. He needs to know how he is affecting everyone else in the home, and you need to let it out in a safe and constructive way. This sounds like such a difficult situation, and I'm so sorry to hear you have to go through this, and with kids as well. I really think you need some outside help - be it a counselor or a pastor or something.

Sheryl - posted on 10/08/2010

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it sound like you need to maybe go to some type of marriage concl. with him! maybe just even him his self. sound like somewhat that he want to be a dad but then on the other hand that his not ready to be a dad. and if talking to him don't work then maybe put your words in to action. by maybe going to see family for a lil bet and till him he need to figure out if he wants to grow up and be for his kids or not. so the kids don't have to hear it i would or you two fight. mayeb writing him a letter. after you and the kids go there or leave the house. one thing though we all got to kept in mind god never promise marriage would be easy and growing togather would be easy. i till my husbend it feels like we've been married for more then 5 years it feels like 20 sometimes. cause of some much stuff i have been through with him. i even have my days where it like do i really love him or i i here just for the kids. or does he even love me. so don't feel bad in that aspect i think all women from time to time think that. best of luck.

Mojca - posted on 10/08/2010

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Thank you so much for all the encouraging words and prayers! It makes me feel loved :) And I know God loves me because He fills my heart with peace when I need it.

My husband used to be a very good football player when he was younger. But now he's so tired of working behind the machines he would like to retire already. He's now 35 and he's been a physical worker since he was 18. I can understand that. Otherwise his interests are computer and TV.
I am encouraging him to teach the boys some football, maybe next year :)
He didn't have a good father figure. His dad was a truck driver and was away for a whole month or more. His mum is a housewife and she never left their house and they never went anywhere. We come from a totally different families. We went to the seaside every summer, skiing every winter, hiking the mountains, going for trips. I love travelling to foreign countries as well. And he doesn't have this desire, I understand that too. But I still believe he could make some effort to go somewhere as a family at least once a year.

I would love it if he wanted to get into counselling but he doesn't want to (he says the problem is in me not in him). We met a very good Christian man once at a weekend conference for Christians (I forced him to go 3 years ago) he really liked and I know him from before. If I could only take him to his place somehow.. We don't have pastors. We have a priest in the village though but he's 80 now and not a very positive figure - he used to hit children :(
I'll try to find those books and go through them. Writing a letter sounds like a good idea, too - thank you, Anne. It's probably not depression, I already contacted a specialist, he said that depression means a sudden change to worse - which isn't the case, his attitude gradually changed to negative.

I'll keep praying. Something has to change. Or as Carla put it nicely - I know that things WILL change.

Carla - posted on 10/08/2010

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Oh, honey, I am so sorry. I know the devastation having a distant husband brings to a family.



Father, Mojca needs help! Women go into marriage thinking we are going to be loved and cherished, and find our husbands emotionally incapable of this! We read Your Word that says a husband is supposed to cherish and care for his wife as Jesus does the church. We long for this, oh, we long for this. Father, please, we beg, speak to Mojca's husband! Whatever has happened in the past to shut him off so completely from the outside world, we ask that You start speaking to him about this. Wounds of the childhood cause lifelong damage. Men don't know how to verbalize these, so they internalize them instead. You are the Great Physician! You made him, You were there when his soul was wounded. We pray, Lord, that You heal his heart and mind. Bring a loving Christian man into his life to teach him how to be a daddy and husband. We pray that You show him how precious his family is, and how much they just want him to BE with them. Lord, don't let him waste this time that he will never get back! Don't let him live his life with regret! Don't let these children grow up without a daddy active in their lives, and don't let Mojca cry at night for a husband to hold her. Take this situation and turn it around for Your glory. Nothing is too hard for You! Help, Lord! We will give You all the praise for this marvelous thing in the Name of Jesus, amen



Darling, I pray God's peace on you, so you will know that things WILL change.

Stephanie Jo - posted on 10/08/2010

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Have you tried talking to your pastor? Maybe you and your husband could get into counseling. I am so sorry you are going through this. Have you tried the book fireproof? keep praying and if you need someone just to talk to you can message me.Praying for you!HUGS!

Della - posted on 10/08/2010

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Oh I feel for you. You sound like me when we were younger. However, my husband of 39 yrs. of marriage, was one of those sports type, played fastpitch softball every weekend. He didn't have a good role model as a father but before we got married, I told him several things I expected of him, one was to be a good father to our boys, of which I have 3 also.

My "3 Son's" grew up on a ball field literally, we had one of those full size vans, and packed them up every weekend for a tournament. Sounds like your husband has no outside interests? What does he like to do? One thing I told my husband when we got married was that I wanted him to be happy, work hard for us, and he could do whatever he wanted to do on the weekends, but that we would do it as a family. Hence, the fastpitch softball career, until his knees gave out. Sounds like you husband may have some low self esteem issues, maybe a abusive dad? Does he go to church with you? Mine didn't and still doesn't, however when our son's reached their teen years, they chose to go to church themselves. They were all different denominations, but they went. My mom and Dad were saved, they prayed for their grandchildren to serve the Lord, and those prayers were answered.

You just have to be the cheerleader for your son's, get them involved in sports, like thru the YMCA, etc. Maybe your husband could coach them.....he needs to find something to do for his down time, which involves the family.
If his parents go to church, ask your mother-in-law to pray for her son's relationship with his boys. Try to be as positive about your husband as you can, go garaging or to the library and get some books about self esteem, our husbands are to add to us, not take away. As the lady stated before, we had our share of bad times, but the good outweighs that. Oh, by the way, my husband is a alcoholic.

The book recommended is also good, I have prayed those prayers myself many times. Just remember that God wants better for you and your son's than you do and for your husband also. Look up the scripture of returning the hearts of the Father's to the Son's....and pray that.

God Bless you and I will keep you in my prayers also.

Anne - posted on 10/08/2010

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Mocja I am so sorry you are going though this. It sounds to me like your husband may be dealing with depression. I am not a Mental Health Professional, but I know from personal experience that depression can cause the mood swings. I would suggest getting the book "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian. Now the first time I started to read this book i did not read the forward. BUT I should Have. She explains so much in the forward of the book that I missed the whole purpose of the book the first time. The Love Dare book based on the movie Fire Proof is another good book. If you think your husband would read a letter from you maybe you could but it some where that he would see the letter when he is not at home. If he takes his lunch maybe you could make some of his favorite things to take to work for lunch and add the letter. Men tend to be more effected by words that cause a word Picture. Where we may get "I feel disrespected when you talk to me that way" our husbands are more likely to get it if we word the sentence some thing like this. " When you call me names and then when we do talk and you tell me I should know you love me I feel like an old car that you only change the oil when you feel like it and yet you expect it to run like it did when it was new" In your letter you may want to address the fact that your son is being effected by what he hears also. My husband and I have been married over 30 years and when we were younger we went through a rocky patch. Prayer really helped. I am sure you know this but It is good to hear it again. I will keep you and your family in my Prayers. I hope this has helped.