Now the title of this devotion is like stepping on a landmine. I mean, how in the world can a 60 year old grandfather know what it means to be a liberated woman? Well ladies, I could not agree with you more. But, what I am about to share with you this morning are not the words or opinions of a 60 year old man, but the words of The True and Living God (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Opinions are a dime a dozen, but God’s Word is not just some opinion; it is “living and powerful” and is His reality check on any given subject (Hebrews 4:12). When we open the Bible we are being exposed to Spirit-filled truth that is meant to bring about necessary reproof, correction and instruction in how to live a righteous, God-pleasing life (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God promises that those who seek His word with all of their heart will be blessed (Psalm 119:2). Thus we have God’s personal promise to bless those who fear Him and walk in His ways (Psalm 128:1).

I am sure all who are born again (John 3:3-8) would agree with what I have just said. But what makes it all happen is application of that truth (James 1:21-25). God’s Word must be mixed with faith if we expect to experience the fruit He promises. Remember how the Israelites wandered in the wilderness instead of entering into the Promised Land because of their unbelief and failure to act upon God’s word (Hebrews 3:16-4:2).

So as we begin to look at the God-given roles for the wife and husband, each spouse must first go before The Lord and make that decision to obey whatever He says, whether you feel like it or not. Our feelings can so easily get in the way of God’s blessing in our lives. Strong feelings of resentment or bitterness can build walls between a couple. To hold on to them is a mortal blow to your relationship. As I said a few weeks ago, when we choose to hold on to bad feelings, it is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 talks about two being better than one, and how a threefold cord is not quickly broken. This is a beautiful picture of a husband and wife, knit to Christ and one another in the covenant of marriage. Each “cord” in the relationship is responsible to fulfill his/her specific role for the benefit of the spouse, but ultimately for the glory of God. So precious wives, ladies and sisters, when we go through these passages in our study, remember Who has given them to us and what His purposes are for sending them to us. Our Creator knows the kind of woman that a man needs; and likewise, our Creator knows the kind of man that a woman needs. Resist the devilish voice that says, “Has God indeed said …?” (Genesis 3:1) God’s wisdom for the married life is profoundly simple. Hear, heed, and obey, and leave the results to Him.