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When the New Testament writers deal with interpersonal relationships they call for mutual submission. Paul does this in Ephesians (5:21-6:4) and Colossians (3:18-25). And Peter does this in his first epistle (2:13-3:18), warning that submitting may involve suffering. This submission is voluntary, motivated by respect for God, acknowledgement of the other person's value, and your love for him or her.

1 Peter 3:1-7

1. What two things (v. 5) does Peter commend about the Old testament-era women?
   
   
2. Why would submitting to their husbands require trust in God?
   
   
3. Does Peter suggest (v. 6) limits to that submission?
   
   
4. In what senses (v. 7) is a woman more vulnerable than a man?
   
   
5. How does Peter rule out any notion of men that their assigned role means they are superior or their partners inferior?
   
   
6. What might be included in treating your wife with understanding?
   
   
7. If your wife works outside the home, how could you lighten her load at home?
   
   
8. Why would being inconsiderate of your wife hinder your prayers? (See Matthew 5:23-24.)
   
   

Ask God to show you how you can give honor to your wife by being understanding and treating her as your equal partner.

1 Peter 3:1-7

1 In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will be won over 2 by observing your pure and reverent lives.

3 Don't be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. 4 You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. 5 This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They trusted God and accepted the authority of their husbands. 6 For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do.

7 In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.

Copyright © 2009 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
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Prayer for the Week

Help me, Lord, to sacrificially love my wife in practical ways that will bind us tightly together.

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