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 (ESV) . I Pet 3: 7

Relationship is an universal happening instituted by the Creator. He did not choose the angels, but created man to share His love with him. Then he made a woman to be his partner thus a relationship as husband and wife was established. All that is created in the universe have a relationship unique to their kind. Today, I would like to share few thoughts on husband and wife relationship from the perspective of the Word of Truth.

In I Peter 3-7, 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 (ESV translation).

I just want to share a real story. One Sunday morning, the Reverend of the church called an elder to lead the congregation in Prayer. The elder came and said today I am not worthy to lead the prayer; we had a heated argument between me and wife   while driving to the church. Then he prayed. But the Rev. was in a state of shock over the confession of the elder. That day he decided to call people only after talking to them. It may sound real as we also quarrel with our wife or the other way round.

But the Lord spoke to me about 3 things from 1 Peter 3-7. The underlying principle of this verse is that our relationship affects our ‘prayer life’. I would like to focus on husband and wife relationship. In the Amplified version we read, otherwise you cannot pray effectively applies to both husband and wife. Many times we feel I have been praying for years for this particular thing but I have not received an answer. We look all-around us for why but least we look inwards what is our relationship with one another. If it is not right then God cannot answer the prayer of both.

• Do we forgive each other as Christ had forgiven us or we nurse anger and bitterness in our heart against each other? (Col 3:13c).
• Are we living in peace with self and our wife?

 Paul says live peaceably with all (Rom12-18). In Colossians 3:14 above all these put on Love which binds everything together in perfect harmony (ESV). If you practice these things your family prayers will be answered immediately.

Secondly, Peter counsels, live with your wife in ‘understanding’ so that devil cannot play mischief by misunderstanding and division. He will make every effort to sink the ship of faith in your family life and connect with God.

Thirdly, ‘honor’ your wife in your words and deeds; especially before children, family members  and friends. Likewise wives honor your husband in every walk of life. This honor is defined in Ephesians 5: 21, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. The first enemy to be destroyed in a happy married life is Pride and Ego.  He who loves his wife loves himself. Then you will enjoy heavenly Joy in this world.

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.

May God bless your walk with your husband or wife in your married life.

This message is written by Bro. Eric Sundararaj, New Hope Ministries, Chennai