Hindered

You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with a weaker vessel, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir   of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered. 1 Peter 3:7

 Are you aware that there are reasons that our prayers  are hindered? The Bible tells us that the following can hinder our prayers:  selfishness (James 4:3), unbelief and doubt (Hebrews 11:6), disobedience (Proverbs 28:9), loving sin (Psalm 66:18), wrong motives ( James 4:2-3), unforgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15), and conflict in marriage (1Peter 3:7).

Peter warns men that their prayers can be hindered if they do not treat their wives understandingly and love them as Christ loved the church. Men must understand that God has set them apart to lead their wives and families biblically. However, Satan has done an excellent job of destroying the biblical roles of men and women.

Even some Christian women who have been influenced by the world’s view find Peters’ writing about women offensive and not applicable in the 21^st century. Regardless of what the world would have you believe, women and men are not the same. Women cannot do everything a man does as well or better. Nor can a man do everything a woman can do. This does not mean one is inferior to the other. Men and women are created in the image of God and, therefore equal in the sight of God. However, God made us different for a reason.

While taking Shannon and Danielle Hurley to the airport, we were conversing about the role of a pastor’s wife.      She mentioned 1 Peter 3:7. She stated that many women have problems with this verse because of the perceived misogynistic implication. She went on to say that she tries to share with Christian women to accept God’s  design for their lives, that is, they are called to be the helpmate to their husbands.

She said that she embraces the role of Shannon’s helpmate and does everything she can to further his ministry. This      does not diminish her as a person or relegate her as some second-class citizen. Her joy comes from her obedience to God and accepting her wife, mother, and missionary role.

True joy and contentment for believers comes when we  understand our biblical roles and responsibility.

Your shepherd,

Pastor Mark