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Being "one unit" shouldn't mean one member of a marriage does all the thinking and the other blindly agrees. Ideally both husband and wife give their best to the mix of marriage to create something better than either could do alone. And submission means working to bring out the best in the other. Submission is perfected as each partner imitates Christ, but jealousy, pride, and selfishness can get in submission's way. Rather than show jealousy, act out genuine joy for your spouse's accomplishment. And when you've messed up, admit your wrongs—then make an effort to do better next time.

Jesus voluntarily submitted to his Father. If each partner follows Christ's example of humility toward the other, submission in marriage isn't oppressive at all. It's beautiful—and freeing. (See also Proverbs 17:1; Ephesians 5:21-33.)

Good Words to Remember:
Fulfill my joy by being likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:2-4

Today's Challenge:
Do you and your spouse do what's best for each other? In what ways could you work better together?

Bible Studies on Marriage