DAUGHTERS OF SARAHExtra from Volume 8#4 by Amanda S. |
"Whose adorning let it not be that outward…but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement."[1] This passage of Scripture talks about God’s call for women to be subject to their husbands, but I think we as daughters can also apply it to ourselves as we seek to submit to the leadership and guidance of our father. How we submit to our father now will be an essential part of how we submit to our future husband, if it is God’s will for us to marry. 1. Subject. We are to recognize that our father is the leader and seek to put our self under his leadership. We should not try to figure out what we think needs to happen. Quite a few times I have found myself trying to assert my opinion over my father’s, thinking that my way was the best way. In talking with my mom about this, she told me that women tend to be naturally controlling and that learning to submit is a daily battle. The feminist movement has told women that they do not have to submit, denying God’s authority structure that He has set up.[2] The Scriptures tell us that women are to be obedient to their husbands[3] and that they are to be subject to them just as the church is subject to Christ.[4] 2. Respect. It is very important to convey and attitude of respect towards our father, and to realize the great responsibility that he has in caring and providing for a family. My mom shared with me a few things about this area: “In respecting your father, it is important not to question things that he says. You can give your opinion in a respectful way, but try not to argue. Before you share that opinion spend time praying about it, and then ask him if you could share how you feel about a certain situation.” Another way to respect your father is to look for ways to serve him. You could ask him what would be the best way for you to help him. 3. Obey. We should not only obey our parents, but we should do it cheerfully and with a good attitude. Even if we do not agree with what he says, we should obey the final decision of our father. We should do what he says first, and then ask questions later. The fifth commandment says, “Honor thy father and thy mother”[5] and in Ephesians Paul tells children to “obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.”[6] May the Lord bless you as you strive to be daughters of Sarah and seek to build your relationship with your father! notes · 1 - 2 Peter 3:3a-6; 2 - 1 Cor. 11:3, Eph.6:1; 3 - Titus 2:5; 4 - Eph.5:24; 5 - Ex.20:12; 6 - Eph.6:1. Amanda (18) resides with her family of nine and enjoys serving her family, spending time in the Word, singing with her family, playing the violin and piano, decorating cakes, being in the kitchen, and most of all seeking everyday to glorify her King. |
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