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Words are powerful tools. But when you're married to an unbeliever, words can get tiresome, especially if your spouse remains unconvinced of the Christian faith. The apostle Peter suggested a different route: actions.

What kind of actions? Peter wasn't specific (which may be just as well for us who live some two thousand years later). But whatever you do, your spouse should be able to "observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear" (3:2). Peter's next statements about hair, jewelry, and clothes are confusing. Some Christian women take these instructions literally and practice personal grooming accordingly. Others assume Peter was teaching about a difference in emphasis rather than giving exact instructions. But whatever your interpretation, you are to develop inner Christian character. Verse 2 contrasts with verse 4, which says we are to be beautiful in "the hidden person of the heart." It's the same emphasis Jesus made when he complained to religious leaders, "You Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness" (Luke 11:39).

How can a Christian spouse put the other spouse first (without pulling himself into sin)? Focus on his favorites: favorite foods, favorite vacation place, favorite clothes, favorite way to spend free time, favorite place to life. Of course, it's important for you to convey your preferences as well—so that he can express his own love for you. But when you are "submissive to your own husband," you are honoring him—and God. (See also Genesis 39; 41:39; Song of Solomon 2:16-3:4; John 13:1-7; Revelation 21:9-22:21.)

Good Words to Remember:
Be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives. 1 Peter 3:1

Today's Challenge:
When was the last time you cooked your spouse's favorite meal, just because you love him?

Bible Studies on Marriage