There are times when submitting to authority feels uncomfortable, even unjust. Our natural response often leans toward resistance, especially when we’re asked to do something we don’t want to do. Yet, in the kingdom of God, submission isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a reflection of Christlikeness.

Giving Thanks Through Trials (Ephesians 5:20)

“Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Ephesians 5:20 (NKJV)

Paul’s instruction to the church in Ephesians 5 sets the tone for understanding godly living: gratitude, even in trials. When we submit ourselves to God and to one another, it must begin with a thankful heart. Why? Because thankfulness acknowledges that God is sovereign—even over what we don’t understand or want.

Submission isn’t rooted in preference but in trust. It’s choosing to honor God’s order and believe His purpose will work through our obedience.

God’s Design for Leadership and Submission

Ephesians 5:21–33 lays out the beauty of mutual submission, especially within marriage. It’s not about superiority or control—it’s about servant leadership and godly counsel.

“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.” — Ephesians 5:22–23 (NKJV)

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.” — Ephesians 5:25 (NKJV)

Here’s what that means:

• Men are called to serve and lead with sacrificial love—the same way Christ laid down His life for the church.
• Women are called to offer godly counsel and submission—not blindly, but in reverence to the Lord and in alignment with wisdom and love.

This isn’t cultural oppression; it’s spiritual alignment. Both roles require humility. Both require a heart that seeks God’s glory over personal comfort.

Do It for God, Not for Man (Ephesians 6)

“…doing the will of God from the heart, with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men.” — Ephesians 6:6–7 (NKJV)

When you don’t want to do something, but you know it aligns with God’s Word—do it anyway, and do it with excellence. Why? Because your obedience isn’t about the task or the person—it’s about glorifying God.

Even submission to imperfect people, when done with a pure heart and faith in God, honors Him. He sees. He rewards. You’re not submitting to oppression—you’re submitting to His higher will.

What Character Do the Wise Need? (Colossians 3)

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering.” — Colossians 3:12 (NKJV)

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” — Colossians 3:17 (NKJV)

The character we are to carry as Christians mirrors Christ’s own. Wisdom is shown not just in what we know, but in how we live:

• Humility, because Christ humbled Himself.
• Obedience, because Christ submitted to His Father—even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:8).
• Meekness and patience, because Christ bore with our weakness without condemnation.

Being like Christ is not passive. It’s active obedience, deliberate surrender, and a deep desire to glorify God in everything.

Final Thoughts: God Will Take Care of You

You may be called to submit in a situation that feels unjust or difficult. But if it aligns with God’s Word and you’re doing it for His glory, He will honor your obedience.

Submission is never about lowering yourself—it’s about lifting up Christ. And when you do that, He promises to care for you.

“Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” — 1 Peter 5:6 (NKJV)

Written by Jeyran Main

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