Obviously we have a choice here - either we can follow the ways of the world (with a high percentage of divorces and many other problems) or we can follow God's directions - the One who loves us more than any other and wants ONLY what is best for us.
Here is what the Bible says on this topic:
"Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord." Colossians 3:18
"So that they (Older women) may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored." Titus 2:4 & 5
"In the same, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior." 1 Peter 3:1 & 2
"Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord." Ephesians 5:22
The meaning behind "Subject to" according to what I have researched would be: To rank under, to subject oneself, to obey.
Basically when we choose (and we do get to make this choice- we don't have to do what is right) to subject ourselves we our saying "Yes, I will let you be the leader in our home, I will choose to follow". This will be said more in our actions then in an actual declaration.
This is not always an easy choice and sometimes it may not seem that they want to lead but as much as possible we need to encourage them in leadership and step back so that they can have the opportunity.
Having been raised in a Christian home with parents who tried to follow the Bible (including these verses) to the best of their ability has made it easier for me to follow them as well but it is still something I need to work at all the time. Satan would like to see us mess up in every way possible and this is an area that he has tempted many.
Being subject to your husband does not mean that you don't discuss things or work on things together nor does it mean that you aren't a capable and competent adult - it simply means that ultimately your husband is the one that is in charge in the home. When people work at a job they are often quite willing to put themselves under the authority of a boss - and it would quite likely be chaotic if there wasn't a boss - yet so many hate the idea of this in the home. Why? I think it is because of Satan's lies.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this subject!
Being "subject" is so tough, but so absolutely necessary. I am grateful to the brave women of God who instilled this in me. Submitting to my husband can be downright trying at times, but I KNOW it is God's perfect plan for my life. The Saviour can work wonders out of our submission.
ReplyDeleteThank you for being bold enough to write about this, Abbi. I never fail to be challenged by such a reminder.
There is Peace in God's order. : )
ReplyDeleteWhat is sad to me is sometimes the generation above mine, the WWII generation, the ones we really want to look up to... Some of them almost have disdain or are even willfully bewildered of a home that is running in God's order, some seem a little manipulative or just plain take charge. It's a breath of fresh air to meet another sister of any age or generation who does understand true submission and the role of a loving husband. A gentle leader. I suppose some women have seen tyrannical men and that definitely seems to damage perception. So sad on all accounts.
I am blessed in this area. When my husband and I don't see eye to eye, as a wife I can pray and of course kindly share a concern of mine... and God will help both of us to see clearly. God's ways truly are best.