Me After You

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ," (Ephesians 5:21). Or, as the CEV puts it, "Honour Christ and put others first.” This is the principle underlying this passage. Radical stuff in a society marked by hierarchical relationships. Aristotle had emphasized the importance of hierarchical "household codes" as the basis of a stable society.

As Christians, we are to live out our personal relationships by placing the other person ahead of ourselves. This is how it works in the kingdom of God. Jesus tells us we are to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), love our enemies (Matthew 5:44), and that many who are last shall be first (Matthew 19:30).

Wives are to put their husbands ahead of themselves. Husbands are to love their wives and not abuse them. Husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the church, giving up his life for it (Ephesians 5:25). To be sure, these are high demands, but the Holy Spirit is alive in us, helping, encouraging, and enabling.

Children should always obey their parents, as this is pleasing to God. This comes with a promise: “…and you will have a long and happy life” (Ephesians 6:2). Likewise, parents are not to be too hard on their children, to stave off discouragement.

In the case of the Colossians, the principle applied to the relationship between slaves and their masters. Slaves, in their desire to please God, were to seek to obey and please their masters always, even when out of sight. Masters were to be fair and honest—they too have a master in heaven who judges righteously. In today’s world, employees should work diligently and honourably for their employers. Likewise, employers should consider the needs of their employees and act in their best interests. God is watching. The bottom line is a secondary consideration.

In all our relationships, we are called to place others whose lives intertwine with ours ahead of our own needs and interests. This is the way of the kingdom of God. As we seek to please God by being good citizens of the kingdom, let us call on him for the help we need.

Respond in Prayer

Father God, putting others ahead of myself is so hard. I want to be a good kingdom citizen today and please you in all I do, say, and think. Today, please fill me with the Holy Spirit to show me the way and give me the grace and power to act beyond my own self-interest. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

Rob Cornish

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).