Christian Family Services Ministry

1-12-2021 – A Word to the Wise – On Submission:

Submission is a conjunct of obedience. One under authority receives praise for obedience and admiration for their submissiveness.

Many view the marriage relationship for the woman as one of obedience. When the wife does not measure up to the husband he charges her with failing to be submissive. This kind of thinking reflects two major errors. First the woman is not a child that must obey her husband. The two are to be submissive to each other.

Furthermore, a husband should not charge his wife with failing to be submissive just because she has a different viewpoint. Submission is voluntary. Submission is a trait for which one receives praise not judgement. Something that is voluntarily given is not subject to the whims or demands of another.

Notice the traits of submission. Such traits are not things one demands of another. They are more accurately, a reflection of one’s strength of character. Submission is the little child who wishes to please—not the slave who is beat into submission. What is submission?

Submission is a reflection of one’s character.

• Submission is treating others deferentially.

• Submission is yielding one’s rights to another.

• Submission is voluntary obedience.

• Submission reflects a quiet spirit.

• Submission treats others better than self.

• Submission is non-resistant to evil.

• Submission displays patience in the face of adversity.

• Submission is preparation to invest in others.

Notice how each of these traits reflects a quiet gentle spirit. This is achieved internally, not by proclamation, commandment, or demand.