Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewellery, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.
Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honour 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.
Comment: In certain passages the Bible is clear in its command for believers not to marry unbelievers. But often a person was/is converted after marriage or sometimes disobedient to the Biblical injunction. Divorce is not encouraged in the Bible but if a partner will not accept a converted partner it is better to leave than go back on your new found faith. The opening sentence deals with this situation but also talks about a wife’s role in any marriage. They are not asked to run around naked with their hair uncombed but they are told that their chief beauty is to be a heart issue. In this day of rampant feminism this is not popular teaching but repeated many times throughout scripture.
Men are told, as the one to whom submission is due, to be understanding. Sadly this norm is not always followed. The ‘weaker vessel’ refers to physical strength not mental ability or spiritual standing, but is usually true of male cf female physical strength. Husbands are to note that both marriage partners are joint of God’s Grace! This Christian norm takes both partners to work to their roles for it to be a joy to both!
Prayer: Please help our family to live in such a way that we truly honour You, our God.
As I read it! 
Thank you Barry for your comments on this passage. Sadly, being submissive to anyone is, in society today, a big issue which is generally not well accepted. The feminist movement is not helpful to anyone, let alone in a marriage situation, unfortunately. We need to submit to Christ, and submit to one another, even as Christians, so why should it be any different in a marriage? God bless you.
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