A Gentle and Quiet Spirit

“Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. 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. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They put their trust in God and accepted the authority of their husbands. 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.” ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭3:3-6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

A godly wife is more concerned about the condition of her heart than the outward beauty of her body. Expensive clothes and jewelry, as well as fancy hairstyles may make a woman feel outwardly beautiful, but they don't identify who she is. God sees the condition and attitude of the woman's heart. He is most concerned about her submission to the Lordship of Christ and the corresponding behavior that results. When Jesus is Lord of one's life, there is a mark of respect and an implied pledge of obedience that is declared by that admission. When Jesus rules and reigns in one's life, the conduct will match the profession. God's order of authority is one of the things that come in line when we are truly disciples of Jesus Christ. It is very important that the wife reverence the place and position of authority that God has given the man in the marriage relationship. This isn't to be done out of sheer obligation or forced compliance. God is watching for a heart that desires to please Him willingly. Men are human beings, just like women, and have their faults and quirks. The issue is the proper understanding and practice of God's created order. This is not about personal preferences or comparison. Sarah called Abraham her master (lord-KJV). In ancient times, this was a mark of honor and respect. The position of authority that God has given the man is to be honored and respected. Men, may I call you out for a moment? God has given you a tremendous responsibility. Do it right!! Lets's give our wives a man who, not only wants respect, but lives a life deserved of that respect. Our wives are not our slaves. They are part of us. We, ourselves, are under authority too. But there is one thing I want you to know: The head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.” ‭‭1 Corinthians 11:3 NLT God created marriage. He is the designer. Wouldn't it be foolish to ignore an engineers specifications in the construction of a building? God is the architect, engineer, contractor, carpenter, and all the other categories combined. He has given us clear specifications in His Word about the marriage relationship. Marriage is the bedrock of all society. It is of utmost importance that we obey God's design. When we do, it is beneficial to all of us. God knows what He is doing!!! We must not succumb to the cultural opinions or political correctness of the times. It is God that we must please!