That Ugly Word Called Submission

Isn't submission such an ugly word in our modern day? Submission is hard to act out in a day and age of "watch out for number 1", but it is Biblical and necessary for a home, workplace, etc. to run smoothly.

I have been thinking about Biblical submission lately and thought of a few tidbits I want to remember. It is so easy to get out of line as a wife, Mommy, or employee, and it is good to be reminded at times of the importance of this underused character trait of submission.

My favorite wife book is, "On the Other Side of the Garden", by Virginia Ruth Fugate. She does a wonderful job of explaining submission and a godly wife's role. I've read her book and referred to it often. I know everyone has their favorite, I'd love to hear yours! :)

She uses the text in 1 Peter 3 about Sarah being a godly example of a submission wife. In essence, Sarah is our model of submission as wives.

"For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement." verses 5,6

When I do Bible study, I like to look up definitions of key words and sometimes read the passage with the definitions. Like this:

"For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted (expected, hoped, and confided) in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection (a subordinate in obedience and submission to) unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed (took heed and listened attentively to) Abraham, calling him lord (supreme and honored master): whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well (as a favor or a duty), and are not afraid (frightened) with any amazement (alarm)." verses 5,6

Who of us ladies can say that our hubs have always acted correctly? I know mind hasn't, and he would be the first to admit that...what a guy. :) Who can say that Abraham in the Bible did? He lied about Sarah being his sister, not once, but twice! Yet, Sarah submitted to him. God's order for our lives, especially as ladies is to put ourselves under the guidance of our husband, employer, pastor, etc., all of which are fallible people.

I think it comes down to the following truths for me.

1. We are to trust God's order (example: husband as head of the home), and rest in that plan. Yes my husband is going to do things that I may not agree with, and perhaps he is completely wrong at times, but if I don't respect and honor his decisions, then I am going to be wrong too. In trusting God's order of placement in the home, I don't need to worry if my man is doing everything perfectly. I just need to support, offer input when necessary and pray for the Lord to direct our family. It is really a very peaceful existence, this submission business! :)

2. I need to listen to those in authority and give great weight to their decisions and direction. As you will note, the definition of Sara obeyed, took heed and listened attentively to. I need not take my leader's words lightly.

3. Thirdly, Sarah called him lord. Lord meaning supreme and honored master. She gave great respect to her man or leader. 'Ole Abe was a scoundrel when he put Sarah in precarious positions twice by lying about her being his wife, but Sarah still respected him and his God-given office of leader of their home. No matter what your opinion of your husband or leader, it is never right to de-fame their name in a public or private manner, no matter what they have done, or you think they have done to you. Twisting of scriptures to indict them, rude comments are never scriptural or edifying to the brethren.

I am so blessed to have a wonderful hubs who has been patient and continues to be patient with me as I learn Biblical submission more fully. I must say, it really does work swimmingly! It's so sad that submission is such a bad word in our day and age, as it is really a wonderful thing. I find it very liberating! I don't have to worry about the details, I just need to make sure I'm in my place, encouraging, offering input and respecting my man. It's much easier than trying to be my own boss.

Thank you, Lord for your order for us as people. Help us to rejoice in your plan, respect and uplift our husbands and leaders, and in doing that glorify your name.