Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. – Colossians 3:18-19
Bible Verses About Submission In Marriage
Understanding Submission in Marriage
When we talk about submission in marriage, it might bring different thoughts to our minds. As Christians, we look into the Bible for guidance on how we can have harmonious relationships. Submission in marriage is not about losing our voice or identity but rather a way to show respect and support to our partner. This is a two-way street that calls for mutual love and understanding. The Bible outlines this beautifully, showing us that submission complements love, creating a foundation of trust and partnership. Also, it’s essential to remember that God doesn’t see one partner as above another, but He teaches us to care for and cherish one another in different roles. By embracing our roles according to biblical teachings, we promote unity and a deeper bond.
Colossians 3:18
“Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.” – Colossians 3:18
Ephesians 5:22
“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as you do to the Lord.” – Ephesians 5:22
1 Peter 3:1
“Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives.” – 1 Peter 3:1
Proverbs 31:12
“She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.” – Proverbs 31:12
Ephesians 5:24
“Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.” – Ephesians 5:24
Mutual Respect in Marriage
In a loving marriage, respect is crucial for both partners. Submission shouldn’t create a hierarchy where one is dominant over the other. It represents a unique harmony and partnership. The Bible teaches us that mutual respect serves to uplift our relationships. By honoring one another, we cultivate a love that reflects Christ. This encourages us to support and cherish one another’s feelings and perspectives. A marriage rooted in respect fosters an environment where both partners can flourish, knowing they are valued and cared for. Together, we can build a nurturing space that promotes spiritual growth and understanding.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Ephesians 4:2
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” – Proverbs 18:22
The Role of Love in Submission
We often hear that love is the foundation of marriage, and rightly so! For a marriage to thrive, love must be at the center. This love governs how we submit to one another. It is a divine love that mirrors Christ’s relationship with the Church. When we put love first, the idea of submission becomes beautiful instead of burdensome. Love moves us to act selflessly, considering the needs and preferences of our partner. When both partners genuinely love each other, submission isn’t a command, but a natural expression of that love. Our focus should be on building up our spouses and creating an intimate bond where both partners feel secure and cherished.
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
John 15:12
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:12
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25
Submission Success Through Faith
It’s important to have faith as the backbone of our marriage. When we embrace the concept of submission, it invites God’s divine guidance into our relationships. Faith allows us to trust that God has a purpose for our lives together. By leaning on Him, we find the strength to submit, love, and nurture our marriages. We cultivate an atmosphere of peace and understanding that reflects our commitment to God and to one another. With faith, we can face any challenges that arise within our marriage. We can rely on God’s wisdom and grace to help us navigate through any tough moments. Together, we can grow in faith, drawing nearer to God and to each other.
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Do everything in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
Communication in Marriage
Our ability to communicate effectively radiates in every aspect of our marriages, especially in the context of submission. Open, honest communication helps us share our thoughts, feelings, and perspectives, making it easier to support one another. God values unity, and communication nurtures that. When we express ourselves, we show love and respect to one another. This open line paves the way for understanding, which is vital for successful submission. Being considerate about how we present our concerns fosters a relationship where both partners feel heard. Together, we can create an atmosphere where submission is not merely accepted but celebrated as part of our love.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” – Proverbs 25:11
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Prayer and Submission
Praying together is a powerful way to enhance our marriages. It brings us closer to God and each other. When we incorporate prayer into our daily lives, we invite God into our relationship, making it stronger. As we pray, we can express our hopes, fears, and desires, allowing God to guide our journey. By seeking God’s will together, we are reminded of our commitment to submit and serve one another. Through prayer, we can find peace and assurance in our roles, understanding that submission flourishes under God’s grace. By leaning on Him, our union grows healthier, stronger, and more aligned with His divine purpose.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Mark 11:24
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on submission in marriage, we see that it is about much more than just tradition or roles. It’s a beautiful dance of love, respect, and service that requires both partners to contribute wholeheartedly. By embracing our unique positions, we honor God and each other. Submission is akin to a journey where we learn to communicate, respect, and uplift one another. We have discovered the importance of mutual love and faith, which underpins our actions. In exploring biblical teachings, we can strengthen our marriages and nurture the bonds we share.
If you want to look deeper into this subject, consider the Love and Respect dynamic found in Ephesians 5:22-25, or the commitment we make in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11.
Let us seek God’s guidance together as we embrace our unique roles, knowing that through Him, our marriages can flourish.