Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Focus

“Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21(ESV)

Devotional Thought

Before Paul speaks directly to husbands and wives in Ephesians 5, he establishes a principle that governs all Christian relationships: mutual submission. This call is not about weakness or inferiority but about humility—choosing to put the needs of others above our own out of reverence for Christ.

In marriage, this truth forms the bedrock. A husband cannot love his wife as Christ loves the church unless he first yields his heart to Christ’s authority. A wife cannot respect and submit to her husband unless she is first surrendered to Christ’s lordship. Marriage is not merely about romance, companionship, or even family stability—it is primarily about reflecting the character and love of Jesus.

That is why Paul begins with, “submit to one another.” In the Christian home, arrogance, selfish ambition, and self-rule cannot be allowed to reign. Both husband and wife stand under the authority of Christ. Both are called to die daily to pride and self-will. Submission to Christ frees them to serve one another in love, because their worth and security no longer rest on winning arguments, holding power, or seeking control.

When Christ is at the center, submission becomes beautiful rather than burdensome. The husband lays down his life in sacrificial love, mirroring Christ’s love for the church. The wife honors and respects her husband, reflecting the church’s devotion to Christ. Together, they display a living picture of the gospel—two lives united, not by self-interest, but by surrender to the One who gave Himself for them both.

Even beyond marriage, this principle applies. Every Christian relationship—friendship, family, church, workplace—flourishes when humility replaces pride and service replaces selfishness. Submission to Christ transforms the way we love, forgive, and sacrifice for others.

The foundation of a godly marriage is not human effort but mutual surrender to Christ. When both husband and wife kneel before His authority, their marriage becomes more than a partnership—it becomes a testimony of the gospel’s power.

Reflection Questions

1.  Do I see submission as weakness, or as strength under Christ’s authority?

2.  In what ways does pride keep me from serving those closest to me?

3.  How might my marriage (or future marriage) look different if Christ were truly at the center?

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, teach me the beauty of humility. Help me to submit to You first, and then to serve others in love. Take away pride and self-centeredness from my heart, and let my life—whether in marriage or in singleness—reflect Your example of sacrificial submission. Amen.