Day 11

Today's part of the challenge is a subject that is often hotly debated...but I believe that most people who 'oppose' the concept aren't understanding it from the proper perspective. Here's the text for today:

"Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord." Ephesians 5:22

Women who are constantly negative toward their husbands - especially by speaking evil of them to others - show great disrespect. Determine not to do that today (or ever!). This challenge to encourage is closely connected to submission. Men respond to women who respect them. What do you respect about your husband? Part of that respect includes submission to his authority. Let your husband know how respecting him makes it easier to submit to his leadership. Show your respect in public by listening to him and smiling at him when he speaks. Place your hand in his as you walk together.

If you feel there is nothing to respect, search harder ...nearly every man has some core characteristic that can be nurtured and respected. In any case, you must still cultivate a submissive spirit to his position of leadership..."as to the Lord."

This is an area that I have only recently begun to understand and make a conscious effort to understand. So often people use the instruction for a wife to be submissive to their husband to excuse a domineering and controlling attitude. What such people leave out of the equation is the balancing instruction that the husband is to love his wife. If you love someone you don't WANT to control it. A part of honoring your husband is allowing him his place as the head of the home...and this is an honor that I want to give my husband.