A few weeks ago, I was preparing my notes for our home fellowship Bible study. One of the verses that I tied into our study was 1 Peter 3:7.
Over the years, I’ve often turned to this verse when teaching or counseling about the husband’s role within a marriage. Yet, it wasn’t until this past week, that I was so profoundly “smacked” with a truth!
A biblical truth I hadn’t previously embraced quite as deeply as I now realized I should have over the years.
Let’s examine what the apostle Peter wrote, because the truth contained within this single verse is radical!
1 Peter 3:7 “In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker that you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.”
Now, let me draw your attention to the last sentence. I would ask that you read it a couple of times… slowly.
You see, what hit me like a ton of bricks was that my actions, the way I treat my wife, the way I treat those around me, the things I do, the words I speak, the thoughts I think… well they might just be the source hindering my prayers!
“Treat her as you should”… “Love one another as I have loved you.”
Paul didn’t write these words as suggestions or encouraging sentiments to the body of believer’s.
These are our marching orders, our commands… and for good reason!
God wants to answer the petitions of our hearts as they’re poured out before Him, for His glory according to His will.
I recall reading a story about a man who said, “I like being the only one in attendance in a church service. That way, when the preacher points and says, ‘you are then man,’ I know who he’s talking about.”
“… so your prayers will not be hindered.”
“Lord, show me what I might be doing, saying or thinking, so the my prayers will not be hindered.” Amen!