submission

We serve God in our relationships by willingly submitting to others.

But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. (1 Corinthians 11:3)

I believe there is a common misconception about what it means to submit to somebody. I believe it's a word that is continuing to develop a negative connotation as the world continues to change. I view submission as completely necessary to how we as humans should live our lives on earth. 

Submission is a key element in the smooth functioning of any business, government, or family. God ordained submission in certain relationships to prevent chaos. It is essential to understand that submission is not surrender, withdrawn, or apathy. It does not mean inferiority, because God created all people in his image and because all have equal value. Submission is mutual commitment and cooperation. 

God calls for submission among equals. He did not make the man superior; he made a way for the man and woman to work together. Jesus Christ, although equal with God the Father, submitted to him to carry out the plan for salvation. 

Likewise, although equal to man under God, the wife should submit to her husband for the sake of their marriage and family. Submission between equals is submission by choice, not force. We serve God in these relationships by willingly submitting to others in our church, to our spouse, and to our government leaders.