“Likewise ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; while they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.” 1 Peter 3:1-3
Today’s Christian daily devotional
“Just buy it anyway. When your husband gets the credit card statement, then he’ll deal with it.” Laura caresses the buttery leather. The metal-tipped tassels jingle from her touch.
This purse was gorgeous. It was elegant, beautifully constructed and practical. I kept circling around the display it seductively lounged on. If temptation had a brand name, it was Marc Jacobs. The spotlight illuminated this beautiful accessory as if it came down from heaven itself. I leaned closer towards the bag and reached inside to search for the price tag.
Oh, Laura’s words made me feel good. Maybe she was right. It has been a while since I treated myself… My thoughts started to spin in a whole new direction. I pictured myself walking down the street with my new purse, feeling confident and sharp with my amazing talent in accessorizing.
I look down at the number on the price on the tag. Instantly, my afternoon coffee churned away in my stomach. How I would explain away a charge that rivaled our rent? I thought about my husband and the trust that I had worked so hard to build. I saw that trust being broken the moment he got the bill in the mail. Suddenly, the angelic purse did not look as innocent or tempting.
“What’s the big deal? If I were you, I would just get it anyway.” Laura huffed as she rolled her eyes, moving onto the scarf rack. In my days as a single girl, I would have agreed with her. But, being married had its commitments; and I committed to submitting to the budget my husband had both of us on. I turned away from the purse on display and sighed as if I had just dodged a major bullet.
A few years ago, I wouldn’t have made the same decision. But, since that time, I have learned through trial and error, that 1 Peter 3:1-3 actually brings peace. Submission is not easy—especially for an independent thinker like myself. But, we must all submit to something. Society has its policeman and with our obedience to the law also comes the benefits of protection. Because of John’s wisdom and my restraint to obey his wishes, we enjoy the freedom of not going into debt because of my obsession with accessorizing. I cannot say this is true for Laura.
In the home, God designed a proper order as well. My husband and I are equal partners with different roles and needs that we both have to fill. No one is more valuable than the other. But, in order for things to run smoothly, there must be discipline, self-control and order.
It was hard at first, but as I started to listen to the wisdom of God’s word and submit to my husband’s leadership in the home, I actually enjoyed a greater sense of freedom. Under that leadership, I also had the pleasure of handing over much of the responsibility as well. This freed me up to worry less and also come under his protection.
In marriage you cannot have it all, and although I might have to pass up a few Marc Jacob’s purses, I have something much more valuable and fulfilling that makes it very worth it in the end, the respect and protection of my partner in life.
“Dear Heavenly Father,
Oh, how I love to have things done my way. This is common, but that does not make it right.
I give you my rebellious heart. It is a mad world out there. I know by following your wisdom and submitting to your way of doing things, the world would improve greatly.
Help me to submit to my husband with a joyful heart and give my husband a heart not to take advantage of the vulnerable position I am putting myself in.
Lord, you said you would be a defender of those who cannot defend themselves. If my husband goes out of line, I am counting on you to speak to his heart. Give him eyes to see me and take care of me, as he should.
In the meantime, as we are going through this transition period of doing things your way, give me the patience and good attitude that I need to build my home to be a happy one that is centered on you.
Lord all that I have is yours. This includes my marriage, my husband and my children. I freely give them back to you as I submit under the authority you have placed over me. In Jesus’ precious name, I thank you for your cover of protection over me. Amen.”
Thank you for reading today’s Christian daily devotional on verses: 1 Peter 3:1-3
Please check back and see what we have for you tomorrow!
Author: Julia Shalom Jordan
* This article was written as a special dedication to Pastor Thomas C. Terry and his wife Stella. Congratulations on your 32nd wedding anniversary!