“Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.” – Ephesians 5:22
Understanding Submission
When we think about being a submissive wife, it can sometimes be misunderstood. Submission is not about losing our identity or voice; rather, it is about supporting our husbands in a loving and respectful way. The Bible encourages us to share our lives with our husbands, honoring their leadership in the family while trusting during difficult times. As wives, we must prioritize mutual respect and collaboration, creating a partnership that thrives on love and guidance from God. True submission means working together towards a common goal—joy, peace, and fulfillment in our home.
Colossians 3:18
“Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.” – Colossians 3:18
1 Peter 3:1
“Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives.” – 1 Peter 3:1
Ephesians 5:33
“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” – Ephesians 5:33
Titus 2:5
“Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.” – Titus 2:4-5
1 Timothy 2:11-12
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.” – 1 Timothy 2:11-12
Respecting Our Husbands
As we discuss being a submissive wife, it is crucial to highlight the importance of respect in our marriages. Respecting our husbands goes hand-in-hand with submission. As we honor our husbands and acknowledge their role as our leaders, we also create an atmosphere of love and trust. Mutual respect establishes a foundation where both partners feel valued and cherished, fostering a healthier relationship. Together, let us be reminded that respect is the key to a successful union, allowing us to thrive as partners.
Proverbs 31:12
“She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.” – Proverbs 31:12
Ephesians 5:21
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21
1 Corinthians 11:3
“But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.” – 1 Corinthians 11:3
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” – 1 Peter 3:7
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” – Proverbs 18:22
Trusting God’s Plan
In our role as submissive wives, we must learn to trust God’s plan for our marriages wholeheartedly. Submission means placing our faith in our husbands, knowing they strive to lead us according to God’s guidance. Even if challenges arise, it is essential to rely on God’s wisdom and timing. Together, we can cultivate a spirit of faithfulness, allowing God to bless our relationships. When we trust God, we can experience the joy and peace that come from a God-centered marriage.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Communication in Submission
Effective communication is vital in any relationship, especially in our role as submissive wives. We foster healthy conversations by listening openly to our husbands and expressing our thoughts kindly. Instead of viewing submission as silence, we should approach our relationships with honest dialogue. This allows both partners to feel heard and valued. Let us commit to communicating our feelings, desires, and challenges while nurturing a loving atmosphere that honors God and strengthens our bond.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
Supporting Our Husbands
Being a supportive wife is an essential part of submission. As we uphold our husbands in prayer, encouragement, and love, we create a partnership built on trust and loyalty. We must strive to uplift and motivate our husbands, cheering them on as they lead our families. By being there for them during difficult times and celebrating their successes, we reflect God’s divine purpose in our marriages. Together, we can develop an unbreakable bond rooted in support and understanding.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” – Proverbs 31:26
Job 2:10
“He replied, ‘You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?'” – Job 2:10
Romans 15:2
“Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.” – Romans 15:2
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Pursuing Godly Character
To be truly submissive wives, we should focus on cultivating godly character. Submission is more than obedience; it requires spiritual growth and self-awareness. We can empower ourselves by immersing in God’s Word, seeking His wisdom and guidance. As we grow in our faith, we become more capable of fulfilling our roles in the marriages He has planned for us. Together, let us commit to becoming the women God has called us to be—nurturing, loving, and strong in faith.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” – Proverbs 31:30
1 Peter 3:4
“Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” – 1 Peter 3:4
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
Final Thoughts
Being a submissive wife is not about weakness but rather strength and love. It invites us to honor our husbands while building a loving partnership grounded in respect and trust. Together, as we rely on God’s guidance, we will grow stronger in our roles. Through communication, support, and nurturing a godly character, we continue to fulfill our purpose as wives.
Let us remember that submission is a beautiful reflection of how God designed our relationships. May we strive to create homes filled with love, honor, and understanding.
As we continue in our faith, let us explore additional topics such as love and encouragement and keeping God at the center of our marriage.