Following Christ in daily living

Wives, particularly those married to unbelievers, may find their husbands refuse to listen to their pleadings regarding their souls. Peter says they may, though, be persuaded to obey by the good example they see in her daily Christian living (1 Peter 3:1).

“Observe” means, "to look upon, view attentively; to watch” (Thayer). The unbelieving husband is watching his wife to see what impact Christianity will have on her. Her reverent subjection to him will make a good impression (1 Peter 3:2). Verses 3 and 4 are a Hebraism, which is a figure of speech used to encourage others to do a good work (Woods). A Christian woman should be most concerned with her inward, spiritual beauty, not giving over much attention to outward appearance (Romans 7:22; 2 Corinthians 4:16). This apparel will not perish with this earth, but will last through eternity. Her jewelry should be a mildness of disposition and gentle spirit. A yielding and patient attitude will truly adorn her life. God counts such women a prized possession.

Faithful women of the past had placed their trust in God and hoped for his promises (Hebrews 11:11,23,35). They cloaked their lives in quiet subjection to their husbands and service to God. When Christian women put on a meek and quiet spirit and live in subjection to their husbands they became the daughters of women like Sarah. Christian women continue to be Sarah’s daughters as long as they do the Lord’s will and do not let someone terrorize them into failing to continue in calm obedience (1 Peter 3:5-6).

Unlike heathen, Christian husbands should have knowledge of God’s law and treat their wives with love and consideration (see 1 Corinthians 7:3-4; Ephesians 5:25-31; Colossians 3:19). They should count their wives as precious. Man is generally physically stronger than women, but they are also heirs to eternal life through Jesus Christ (Romans 6:23; Galatians 3:28). Thus, she is spiritually equal to the man and worthy of honor. Where Christianity has grown, women have generally seen their lot improve because of its teachings. Peter enjoins husbands to treat their wives in a manner that will not interrupt their prayers. Discord in the family can break into our prayer life, as can any wrong treatment of a brother (Matthew 5:23-24).

Every Christian should have five attitudes in their treatment of others.

1. First, Christ’s followers should be united in thought under the same Lord, baptized by one baptism into one body, through one Spirit, looking forward to one home in heaven, proclaiming one gospel and worshipping one God (Ephesians 4:1-6; 1 Corinthians 1:10; 12:13).
2. Second, a conscious effort should be made to feel with others in joy and sorrow (1 Corinthians 12:26; Romans 12:15).
3. Third, it is the duty of Christians to love each other as brothers (John 13:34-35; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 John 3:14).
4. Fourth, believers are to be tenderhearted, or pitiful (Ephesians 4:32). Christians should be especially sensitive to the suffering of others (Hebrews 13:3).
5. Fifth, God’s children are to be courteous, or humble minded, which is the opposite of a haughty, proud spirit.

The first concern should be directed to the needs of others (1 Peter 3:8; Philippians 2:3-4; Romans 12:10).

Christians should not seek revenge, or to pay someone back for a wrong they may have committed against them (Romans 12:19-21; Matthew 5:38-44). Neither are they to speak evil about someone who has spoken evil about them. Instead, they should speak well of them and call upon God to help them (1 Peter 3:9; Matthew 5:44; Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60).