God's Value System

1 Peter 3:1-5

It should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. (1 Pet. 3:4)

MY HUSBAND WAS HAVING a difficult time with his job, so I decided to fast and pray for him. Imagine my surprise when, after a few days, I realized there was a lesson in this for me. I felt impressed that instead of bombarding him with questions and incessant conversation the minute he came home, I should allow him to eat dinner and watch the news undisturbed. The apostle Peter addressed a problem in the church at that time: women married to husbands untouched by the gospel. Rather than preach to them, Peter emphasized the silent teaching of a beautiful life. One of the goals of Christian women and men is the ability to use our tongues wisely. We want our homes and places of work to be calm, havens free from hurtful ranting, senseless complaints, arguments, nagging, and whining ways. Possessing a quiet and gentle spirit speaks of the character of a person. God values these characteristics, and we, too, see the importance of inward traits more than outward appearances. We are kind and respectful to those who treat us spitefully. When all is chaos around us, we maintain a peaceful demeanor. We don't lash out angrily at family members. While a quiet spirit may not be our nature, with the Holy Spirit's help, this attribute can be developed.

Jewell Johnson

Today choose to be controlled by God's gentle Holy Spirit.