Jesus @ Home | 1st Peter Week 5

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Scripture

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, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, 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.

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.

- 1st Peter 3:1-4,7

Observation

Paul instructs spouses how to treat each other in ways that show mutual honor and respect. He reminds them that they are  fellow heirs of God's gracious gift of life. At the heart of the passage is the idea that behavior speaks louder than words. How we treat the people closest to us is often the way people see Jesus through us. We are called to live in humility, honor, and care toward one another. Peter’s instructions show that the love of Jesus is meant to be visible and lived out in our actions.

Application

This week, choose to show love through behavior before words. When someone in the family is frustrated, respond with patience and gentleness instead of defending ourselves or winning the argument. You could choose to slow down, take a breath before answering, lower your voice instead of raising it, or let a snarky comment go unresponded to. Remember that being the one who is “right” may feel good for a moment, but it does not always show the heart of Jesus. Consider how your actions reflect your love for the other person and your love for Jesus.

Prayer

God, thank You for the gift of the relationships You have given us. Remind us that those we are in relationship with are Your children first. Help us this week to be mindful, gentle, honoring, and considerate of one another. Let the way we love, serve, and care for each other reflect Your love to the world around us. May our relationships be a representation of who You are and the way You love us.