“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.” 1 Peter 3:7
This verse and these commands, when applied daily, are meant to have a transforming effect on a marriage. John Piper said it well, “We don’t marvel enough at the wonder of our wives.” Peter wrote this to provoke fresh marveling in the heart of a Christian husband. If you’ve ceased marveling at your wife this verse can function as a spiritual defibrillator for your soul, awakening your soul to the wonder of your wife.
Think back with me for a moment. There was a time when it was obvious to everyone that you were uniquely passionate about your wife. You couldn’t stop thinking about her. You constantly talked about her and to her. You were always eager to spend time with her, going out of your way to delight and surprise her, and you regularly spent serious money on her.
Is your passion for your wife still obvious to everyone?
Most important, is it obvious to her?
If not, why not?
A temptation for every husband (and this is true of fathers, as well) is to view his home as a refuge for relaxation rather than a place where he is called to lead, serve, care and, well, marvel at his wife. This verse challenges that temptation and tendency.
So, my fellow husband, if it has been a while since you’ve marveled at her, and if you’ve forgotten you really don’t deserve her, then this verse and the application of these commands can restore this deep affection and appreciation for your wife. What does it look like for you to show her honor this week, and even this very day?
And if not, this verse, when understood and applied by the grace of God, can restore the appropriate marveling at the wonder of the wife God has graciously given—wives that we don’t deserve.
This post is based on a sermon I preached at Sovereign Grace Church of Louisville entitled, “A Humble Husband.”