Recently, I was teaching from the story of Ananias and Sapphira. Most of us grew up listening to that famous Bible story. How both of them died because they lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:1-11). I told the church; “What if one of the spouses had refused to consent to lying? That would have saved their lives and marriage.” We must not submit in error.
Friend, submission is very important to the success of any marriage. While the Bible commands wives to submit to their own husbands, there is also the place of mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21-22). Mutual submission is necessary for a marriage to be strong and successful. There are times the husband has to submit to the wife.
Actually, in marriage, who we are submitting to is God, not just our spouse. What we are submitting to is the will of God, as stated in scriptures or as revealed by the Holy Spirit. What we are submitting to is superior idea, not superior individual (Genesis 21:12). If couples understand this, they won’t have a problem relating together. It is not about the person but the purpose.
Now, we need to realise that submission must not be done in error. There is a time to disobey your husband (Acts 5:29). There is a time to put your feet on the ground and refuse your wife to have her way. You must not submit in error or sin. Marriage must not take you to hell or make you forfeit your destiny in God.
Beware of blind fellowship. Beware of fake submission. Don’t let your spouse lead you into a ditch (Matthew 15:14). Don’t let your spouse make you do things that violate your conscience or go against the will of God. No man, husband, pastor, or friend is worthy of your submission if submitting will mean sinning against God (Daniel 3:16-18).
What do you do when your spouse tells you to do something that is against God’s will? Talk it over with him or her. Insist that you would follow God’s word. Pray for him or her, and on the matter. Speak with an authority figure over your life and marriage. Gently persuade him or her to reconsider the decision. Above all, make up your mind to stay with God and His word. Remember, God has placed you in that marriage to safeguard your spouse against error (1 Corinthians 7:16).
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria