The other day we were talking about being obedient to God’s Word, particularly about submitting to our husbands. “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord… Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” (Eph. 5:22, 33). Today in my study I came across a question that caused me to look at my own interactions: “What kind of atmosphere are you setting for your home, and what are you modeling for others?”

One of the statements made by Kay Smith is: “I learned a great deal of respect for my dad through her [mother’s] example”. When I think about so much that is going on in our country at this moment–an attack on men–I wonder about the example that has been taught to the 20-30 year old women. Were they taught by example to respect their fathers and husbands, or were they taught by example that they are the enemy? I have to believe it is the latter not the former. Otherwise where would all this hatred come from?

I believe Satan and his minions have done a great job of setting up men as the enemy in many women’s eyes, which mocks God. We must remember with whom we are waging battle. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Eph. 6:12)

Even if you no longer have children in your home, what do your grandchildren see in the interaction between you and your husband? That’s the example that I can be now, and I must look to the Lord for guidance. “The tongue has the power of life and death” (Prov. 18:21). Are we mindful enough of that truth? Do we speak life to others with respect? Words can build up others or tear them down. How do we use our words? Wise are they that choose kind, tender words.

Our principal aim as Christians is to reflect God’s heart, not our own. God is a loving God. Are we reflecting that in our daily lives? Do our lives reflect this Scripture: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.” (Prov. 31:26) We are told to “practice tenderhearted mercy and kindness to others” (Col. 3:12).

I feel an urgency to take everything I feel, think and do captive to Christ. “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Cor. 10:5) To sit at the Lord’s feet at His throne and take what I’m led to leave there and wait while He shows me what else I haven’t yet been convicted of yet. Until I do, I’m not yet equipped to pick up my cross daily and follow Him. Is there anything you need to let go of? He promises if we do, He will give us rest (Matt. 11:28).