
A LIVING HOPE
WHEN YOUR SPOUSE DOESN’T BELIEVE
1 Peter 3:1-7 (NKJV)
Submission to Husbands
1Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, 2when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. 3Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the [a]incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. 5For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, 6as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.
A Word to Husbands
7Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered. 1 Peter 1:3-7 NKJV
It’s an assignment given to every Christ-Follower – to be a witness in words & lifestyle to others. We are to share our faith with others. As difficult an assignment as that is, it gets much more difficult when you desire to share faith with a family member, and perhaps it’s never more difficult than when that family member is your spouse.
In this passage, Peter gives instructions on how to be a witness to one’s spouse effectively. Most of his counsel is directed to Christian wives whose husbands are not Believers.
Be a Submissive Partner. 3:1
• Submission isn’t for
• Submission is a
• Submission isn’t about
• Submission is recognizing God’s order in
Be Consistent in Practicing Your Faith. 3:1-2
• Communicate the Gospel by your
• Live in
Be Growing in Christ-likeness. 3:3-4
• Don’t rely on outward attractiveness
• Focus on real attractiveness - which is
The Point of Commitment. The job of a Christian spouse is to concentrate on being a faithful Christ-Follower. Love the Lord above all. Love and honor your spouse. Seek to have a home full of peace and joy. Pray for your spouse’s spiritual life … and leave the results to God. You are to be the Lord’s representative to your spouse.