Devotional Day #25: 1 Peter 3:1-7

This Devotional message is part of the Clayton Church Value-Based Discipleship series, which was launched on Sunday 23 July 2017. View the series index here.

Passage: 1 Peter 3:1-7

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear — but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Scripture

From the context of our Clayton Church value of Connecting, this passage focuses on the the conduct of wives primarily, but in the context of husbands and wives together. I like the phrasing of the verse:

let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious

My Words

Both wives and husbands should submit to one another, particularly when one partner is not living according to the Word of God. Live your entire life consistent to the heart of God, focusing on the inner qualities of respect, gentleness and a loving disposition. Do not focus on the external looks and appearances – like braiding hair or wearing of jewelry or fancy clothes. Instead, let your heart and mind conform to the heart and will of God. Women who place their hope in God conduct themselves in this manner, through loving submission and obedience. Husbands should honour their wives and being understanding to their needs because we all share in the inheritance from God – his grace and love. May your prayers be effective and powerful.

What I Discovered

This passage has specific insights relevant to the Clayton Church value of Connecting:

  1. As husbands/wives, we can connect with each other in deeper spiritual ways, rather than the superficial outward appearances.
  2. God values our inner beauty; our heart of gentleness and submissive spirit
  3. Our humility is transformed by God’s grace into great worth

Obedience Step

“I Will”

I will work on my inner beauty and character, to foster characteristics of love, peace, gentleness, goodness, kindness and patience.

New XBOP Threadless Artist Shop Design