praying effectively: Work on Your Marriages (1Peter 3:1-7)

(1 Peter 3:1-7)  In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, 2 as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. 3 Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; 4 but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 5 For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands; 6 just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

7 You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.

 Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:

- that a woman should focus on having internal beauty, not just external beauty (3:3-4)

- that a woman should work on having a gentle and calm spirit (3:4)

- that a woman should do what is right, without being afraid (3:5-6)

- that a wife should demonstrate to her husband a respectful attitude of faithfulness (3:1-2)

- that a husband should be understanding towards their wife (3:7)

- that a husband should honor their wife as a fellow heir (3:7)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your love and grace.  May we practice these things among all people, especially towards fellow believers, and most especially towards our own spouse, because as we grow closer to You, we will grow closer to each other.  And as we practice what we believe, may unbelievers see Your beauty, strength and wisdom in everything we do.

Whether we are single or married, may we strive towards being everything You have designed and purposed us to be, so that we might have the best relationships possible.  And whether we are single or married, help use to be content, and feel complete in You!  Help us understand that no one else can save us, or fill us.  You are the ultimate soul-mate.  Literally!

Help us to be understanding and encouraging, respectful, faithful and gentle.  All to Your glory, amen.