What exactly do you look for in a man? Do you simply look at external aesthetics- that is, a chiseled chest, bulging biceps and triceps, great smile, etc? Or, do you place more emphasis on character? When external aesthetics fade away with the brevity of time, it is a man’s character that will sustain a healthy, long-term relationship.
If you are in a relationship, it is important to spend some time to discern whether your man has good character before progressing to a one-flesh union. Although the following list is not all-inclusive, it does represent some of the important character traits that women should look for in a prospective spouse:
1. Dedicated. It is absolutely essential to discern whether a prospective spouse is a dedicated and a committed man. Does he continually exhibit the willingness and dedication to continually improve your relationship? Oftentimes, marriages and relationships fall by the way side because of a lack of or lukewarm commitment by one or both partners.
2. Content. Does your mate consistently complain and grumble and display discontentment? It is very important to find a man who is not only content with what he has but also with your relationship. Relative to your relationship, a lack of contentment can certainly lead to your man jumping the fence to seek the greener grass (i.e., the lust interest who appears to be everything that he needs).
3. Diligent. Does your man continually exhibit slothfulness and sluggardness? It is imperative that your prospective spouse shows a sense of diligence and fervency relative to his job, as well as other responsibilities and tasks. Laziness will inevitably result in problems in a long-term relationship.
4. Prudent. Does your man frequently disregard constructive criticism? Is he quick to anger? A man who continually seeks wisdom and knowledge, defers anger, and is teachable should certainly prove to be an excellent mate.
5. Hopeful. When the “going gets rough” and trials arise, does your mate lose hope? Faith is absolutely essential for healthy relationships. When the inevitable bad days come, it is important to have a mate who will stick by your side and exhibit the necessary faith and hope that things will get better.
6. Perseverance. Does your prospective spouse regularly quit on certain endeavors and responsibilities? A steadfast and faithful man is necessary for the sustenance of a great relationship. Men who lack perseverance and faithfulness typically cause emotional hurt and pain by cheating on their partners.
7. Forgiving. Does your mate unforgiving and bitter? There will be certain occasions with the context of your relationship where you might say or do something that hurts your prospective spouse? A forgiving heart is absolutely essential for a healthy, long-term relationship.
8. Honest. Do you really trust your prospective spouse? Does he consistently lie to you? A long-term relationship simply cannot function outside of the context of honesty and trust.
9. Humble. Does your man consistently exhibit arrogance and significant pride? To be sure, confidence is an important quality that should be displayed by your prospective spouse. But, confidence and arrogance are not the same. Submission between both partners requires lowliness and humility and is absolutely essential.
10. Gentle. Is the speech of your prospective spouse seasoned with salt? Does he continually show kindness to others in deed and in speech and avoid strife with others? A tenderhearted man should certainly prove to be an excellent mate.
