In one of his sermons Charles Spurgeon described a happy marriage and made this tribute to his wife: "She delights in her husband, in his person, his character, his affection. To her he is not only the chief and foremost of mankind, but in her eyes he is all in all. Her heart's love belongs to him and to him only. He is her little world, her paradise, her choice treasure. She is glad to sink her individuality in him. She seeks no renown for herself. his honor is reflected upon her and she rejoices in it. She will defend his name with her dying breath. Safe enough is he where she can speak for him. His smiling gratitude is all the reward she seeks, even in her dress she thinks of him and considers nothing beautiful which is distasteful to him. He has many objects in life, some of which she does not quite understand. But she believes them all and anything she can do to promote them she delights to perform. Such a wife as a true spouse realizes the model marriage relation and sets forth what our oneness with the Lord ought to be."
I can't read one sentence without thinking 1). I could never live up to her example and 2). I hope my husband doesn't get any ideas. But seriously, I'm sure Mrs. Spurgeon had her flaws and no doubt Mr. Spurgeon was intimately acquainted with them all. Based on his words of her, I can only imagine the sense of responsibility she felt and the seriousness in which she approached her role as a wife. It was even said of her that on the way to the church the morning of their wedding, she was not interested in being admired for how beautiful she looked in her gown, but on wanting everyone to know what a wonderful bridegroom awaited her at the altar. This woman was all about her man!
Happy woman and happy man! However, their view on marriage may seem quaint and strange in a world where most women are encouraged to find and have an identity outside of the home. Even as I typed that passage from Spurgeon's sermon, there is a part of me that wants to rebel and say, "Surely not." But look how beautifully Jesus shined in their marriage as they lavished such love on each other. Yes, people make disparaging remarks when the "S" word is mentioned. I swear some people think I am losing my individuality and am in servitude to my husband. Words spoken in my defense tend to fall on deaf ears. However, actions speak louder than words. Let your happiness in your marriage be the proof and do the talking that you are getting it right in a backwards world.
Noel- This was right on spot!! I so wish I was as wise as you at the beginning of my marriage. I felt like I was flying half blind. I know you will influence so many women for the good.
ReplyDeleteI have been told much the same when I talk of submission. "You are being a doormat." "Don't you have a say or an opinion?" "Why do you have to ask? I you want to do it, just do it." Ugh....Many comments from the same person. I am thankful for God's sanctification!!