1 Peter 3:7: Likewise, Husbands, Live With Your Wives In An Understanding Way, Showing Honor To The Woman As The Weaker Vessel,

1 Peter 3:7

[7] 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. (ESV)

The last few verses have been a little hard for most wives to read. They speak of submission to their husbands. Their beauty was to be their gentle and quiet spirit. They were instructed to look at the model of Sarah, Abraham's wife, who obeyed her husband, and even called him lord. It would be easy for a woman to be thinking, "Ok, how about the husbands?"

Peter has plenty to say to the husbands. Men are to show submission, as well. They are to look at their wives as a weaker vessel, and submit to caring for their wives and meeting their needs. This idea of the women being a weaker vessel is a statement about their physical strength. They are, in no way, inferior to man, either spiritually or physically.

What is the way a husband ought to treat his wife? With honor. When Scripture describes the roles of husband and wife in the Scriptures, it speaks of the man's role as a leadership role. Even in the book of Genesis, we find that, before the fall of mankind, Eve was created to be a suitable helper for Adam. The role of the husband is a leadership role. The wife is a helping, supporting role.

Because of sin, the roles of male and female have been under attack by the enemy of our souls. Women are encouraged to rebel against God's order and try to rule their husband. Men, are encouraged to be abusive in their leadership of their wives. The Apostle Peter says that if men decide not to show honor to their wives, their prayers to God may be hindered. Husbands, be submissive and humble in your leading.

Husbands, if you are reading this, be sure that you are humbly submitting to your wife. Care for her needs and show her honor. Wives, show respect to your husband, and pray for him. It is in your best interest for him to lead your marriage well.