“Women should be silent during the church meetings. It is not proper for them to speak. They should be submissive, just as the law says. If they have any questions, they should ask their husbands at home, for it is improper for women to speak in church meetings. Or do you think God’s word originated with you Corinthians? Are you the only ones to whom it was given? If you claim to be a prophet or think you are spiritual, you should recognize that what I am saying is a command from the Lord himself. But if you do not recognize this, you yourself will not be recognized. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and don’t forbid speaking in tongues. But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭14:34-40‬ ‭NLT‬‬

This passage is a controversial text to deal with. The views about women speaking in the church are varied in schools of thought. Without knowing the specifics that Paul (the writer) was dealing with in Corinth, it is difficult to completely interpret the accurate application of the issue. Regardless of the opinions on this passage of scripture, we must clearly understand that God has placed order in all of creation, including His Church. There is order in marriage. In fact, there are passages of scripture that compare the marriage relationship, and it's order, with the church (see Ephesians 5:22-end; I Corinthians 11:1-16). We need to submit to His order and allow the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom in all of our determinations and actions. It is imperative that we seek His face concerning all we do and strive to implement and practice the things that will Honor Him to the best of our ability. Just as God has created us all, there is a place for us all. Just as God has called us to His kingdom through salvation in Jesus our Lord, we all have a place in His kingdom. Knowing that place and fulfilling His design is the ultimate end. There must be order in His church just as there is order in all of life. We do not have the authority to decide this order. We are under God's created order. It behooves us to submit to Him in all of our ways. When we obey Him, we have the corresponding blessing of His favor and approval. We are accepted to God by Christ Jesus. We are approved in His service when we obey. Whatever we do in the church, we must be sure we are submitting to God and asking Him for His approval in all we do. After all, it isn't about us. It's about Him!!!

Prayer for today: Father, in Jesus name, help me understand your order and help me submit to you. I want to please you in all my ways. Help me advance your Church by behaving in an orderly manner.