1 Peter 3:1-12 NKJV
3 Wives, 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, 2 when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. 3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. 5 For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, 6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.
7 Husbands, 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.
8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; 9 not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For
“He who would love life
And see good days,
Let him refrain his tongue from evil,
And his lips from speaking deceit.
11 Let him turn away from evil and do good;
Let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their prayers;
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
In 1 Peter 3:1-12, we find a rich tapestry of wisdom woven by the apostle Peter, offering guidance for living out our faith in the midst of various relationships and circumstances. As believers, we approach this passage with a deep reverence for Scripture and a commitment to understanding and applying its teachings faithfully.
Peter begins by addressing wives, encouraging them to demonstrate reverence and submission to their husbands, even those who may not believe. This call to submission is a recognition of God’s ordained order and a desire to honor Him in all relationships. Similarly, husbands are exhorted to honor their wives, showing understanding and care, recognizing them as fellow heirs of God’s grace.
In the broader context of relationships, Peter urges all believers to cultivate virtues such as unity, compassion, humility, and love. These qualities serve as the foundation for harmonious interactions within the Christian community and beyond. Peter reminds us that, as recipients of God’s mercy and grace, we are called to reflect His character in all our interactions.
Furthermore, Peter emphasizes the importance of maintaining a posture of righteousness and integrity, even in the face of adversity or persecution. Rather than retaliating or seeking vengeance, believers are called to respond with gentleness and respect, trusting in God’s justice and sovereignty.
Ultimately, Peter directs our focus to the pursuit of peace and the avoidance of evil, recognizing that God’s eyes are upon the righteous and His ears attentive to their prayers. As believers, we are reminded of our identity as children of God, called to live lives that bear witness to His truth and grace.
In conclusion, today’s verses serve as a reminder of our responsibility to honor God in all our relationships, to embody virtues that reflect His character, and to trust in His providential care.
Let us pray: O Lord our God, order the course of this world in peace that your Church may joyfully serve you in all godly quietness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.