Wives are told to ‘be in subjection to their husbands in everything.’ But if the husband also follows the Bible’s counsel and ‘loves his wife as he loves his own body,’ if he shows empathy and consideration, then his wife will certainly find it a pleasure to obey him. (Eph. 5:22-28) To demonstrate: a husband who is bighearted, understanding and has keen mental discernment will couple his requests with appeals to his wife’s reason, her loyalty, her love. And he will not forget to praise her for her capable support as his helpmeet and her industriousness, even in small things.​—Prov. 31:10, 27-31.

Likewise, it is thoughtful and considerate to give reasons before making a request. For example, a husband may say: ‘Our expenses this past month far exceeded our income and if that continues we will not be able to go on vacation this year. So this month let’s try to live within our means​—right, dear?’ Not to be overlooked by the husband is reasonableness in making requests, keeping in mind the words of the apostle Peter: “You husbands, continue dwelling in like manner with [your wives] according to knowledge, assigning them honor as to a weaker vessel, the feminine one.”​—1 Pet. 3:7.

How can parents make obedience a pleasure for their children? Most helpful is for them to show empathy, for empathy is conducive to thoughtfulness and consideration. To be empathetic means for parents to put themselves in the shoes of their children, as it were. Commands to children should be given in terms that a child can easily grasp and from a child’s point of view. Important also is that a command or a request be given in a kind, loving tone of voice, and yet firmly if need be. Above all, never should a command be given in uncontrolled anger.