Co-heirs of the grace of life Through history, and even today, in the fabric of many cultures and religions, women are regarded with degradation and as inferior to men. They are treated as servants and as instruments to gratify man’s passions. In our own country, for many years, women were not even considered capable of the right to vote. Christianity elevates women as co-heirs of the grace, hope, and promises of Jesus Christ! Our wives are to be treated with respect and kindness, and are to be esteemed, loved, and honored. Peter refers to our wives as a “weaker vessel.” Clearly our wives are not intellectually, emotionally, morally or spiritually “weaker” than ourselves! The woman is contrasted to the physical strength and power of a man’s frame. Generally speaking, our wives are more tender, delicate, and fragile of a structure than we are as men. On the other hand, how many of us men would volunteer to feel the pains of childbirth? I bet you are more than happy to pass on that one! Our marriages and homes can be unique places where the Biblical esteem for our wife becomes evident. We are to live with our wife in an “understanding way." We are to treat her with honor. Peter reminds us that she is a “fellow heir of the grace of life!” Now here is an important point. Peter connects our attitude and treatment of our wives with the success of our prayers. In fact, he warns us of “hindered” prayers! Our perspective and treatment of our wives has serious spiritual implications. Our wives are our most intimate fellow travelers on the journey of life. The Lord clearly calls us as husbands to grant them honor as a “fellow heirs of the grace of life.” Intentional and regular prayers as husband and wife enhances both our understanding and honoring of our wife. Our prayers together, guided by the Word of God . . . Covers our families and children with the Word and will of God. Engages the spiritual attention and mutual respect required for successful marriage. Brings relational contentment which an abundance of money and possessions could never afford. Strengthens marriage to face the realities of life’s trials, tests, losses and disappointments. How are you honoring your wife as a fellow heir of the grace of life? In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. (1 Peter 3:7 NLT)
Posted on: Sun, 06 Oct 2013 09:53:03 +0000
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