Observation: Peter gives instructions to both wives and husbands, beginning both sets of instructions with the words "in the same way". This certainly begs the question, in the same way as ... what? Looking back, Peter has just discussed at length how to live in a pagan society, and specifically teaches the believers they are to live in a manner that is humble and peaceful. He specifically says to submit to government authority, to show respect to everyone, and if you are a slave (perhaps now days, an employee) be humble and obedient in your work. Peter points out that this was Jesus' own attitude, as he submitted to authority even unto the cross, and even as the 'government' and human officials crucified him, he entrusted his soul to the true judge of the world.
Therefore, as spouses live "in the same way" with each other, we are to live with peaceful respect for each other. Perhaps the husband has authority over certain aspects of the home, but the wife is to be respected for her contributions, for it is the wife who makes one's life a 'family home' if you will. In this manner, there must always be mutual respect, mutual peace, and mutual humility.
Application: I do know my wife is a gracious gift from the Lord, and that gift transformed my life. Just as I love Jesus and choose to be a disciple every day, I love my wife and choose to be considerate and kind and good to her every day. And just as I disobey the Lord from time to time, I get angry toward my wife from time to time. I dislike it when I do that, for I do respect and love her so much.
It is interesting that Peter ties all of this together ... the manner in which believers are to live as exiles in the pagan world we find ourselves, in peace and submission to worldly authority, is the same way we live in peace within our homes. It is a peace found in humble partnership, not angry opposition. It is a peace found in collaborating within a structure while holding firm to our faith and beliefs and knowledge of the Lord, instead of fighting and protesting and shouting in conflict to impose our ideals and desires.
The blessing that is upon peacemakers is simply the fact that you don't feel the anger that the world thinks you should have toward everything. And in that peace - where we maintain our humility and simply operate in obedience to the Lord - we find joy in our lives, relaxation in our days, and love in our homes.
Prayer: Lord, as I consider the life of a peacemaker, I see I am in fact making progress toward this. May that continue, and may it continue within my marriage and my home as well. I desire to show respect and honor toward my wife every day, keeping peace in our house as well as in the world. Amen.
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