There is nothing new under the sun, just as the Word tells us. And I have found that there are no new arguments among humankind either—year after year. The same verse, “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:22, NIV), continues to be a heated topic of debate, depending on interpretation, perspective, or culture. In this matter, I prefer to look at the character of God and the way He addresses it.

First, I like to look at the requirement given to the husband: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25, NIV) What does it mean for a husband to give himself up for his wife just as Christ loved the church? In the original Greek, it carries the meaning that a husband is to willingly and proactively hand over, surrender, and lay down his rights, reputation, and even his life—demonstrating sacrificial love for his wife, just as Christ did for His church.

Then I look at the character of God. There is no bitterness when His church does not love Him as He has loved us. There is no disappointment when His church does not reflect perfectly who He is. There is no giving up when we fall short in following, obeying, or responding to His love and truth. His goodness, lovingkindness, mercy, and grace continue to lead, shape, and prepare us throughout this life on earth.

So then, as a wife, what complaint could I truly make? What argument could I raise when the Word calls me to submit to my husband as the church submits to Christ Jesus? (If you are a wife and do not fully understand what “submit” means, I encourage you to read my previous articles.)

The conclusion is this: when husband and wife become one, how precious that relationship is! Therefore, husbands and wives, live to love—and love out loud—all the days of your lives.