Jesus knows what it is like to be ridiculed, abandoned, and humiliated. He suffered for us and by doing that, gave us a reason to live for Him, even when that is hard or means suffering for us. The first enemy we have to fight is our own sinful self. It craves things that God knows aren’t good for us. Let God change our hearts and minds – which will begin to change our behavior. The best way to do this is living with the end in mind – especially when the going is difficult. Living for God includes self-control, wisdom, loving, showing hospitality, serving, giving. We do all these things together as the body of Christ.

Christian husbands and wives are an object lesson to the world of Jesus’ love for us. They submit to one another and love each other the way Jesus loves the church. This isn’t always easy. And we don’t like to deal with words like “submit.” But there is a beauty here in how God uses husbands and wives, equal and joint partners, heirs together of his salvation and blessings, not only to love each other, but to share his gospel with the world. It is a beauty that never fades. It isn’t weakness – it shows strength. This lesson will help husbands and wives live out the calling God has given us.

We live in two different kingdoms – the kingdom of the world, and God’s kingdom. As citizens of this kingdom, we are called to submit to the governing authorities. It is part of how we honor God. But we do this remembering there is one true King, and He isn’t voted in. We honor our leaders, but we worship The King. Our submission shows worship to our heavenly King. The truth is, we are free. Free in Jesus – in the living hope of Easter. So let’s live as free people. But as servants honoring God. We aren’t the first to suffer. Jesus did for us. Let’s follow in his steps. We will never have to suffer what He did. And at moments of unjust suffering, we will discover whom we truly worship!