You might have also heard the word “submit” to describe the relationship between women and men (e.g. Eph 5:22; Col 3:18; 1 Pet 3:1). “Submit” — here is yet another term that tends to have a negative connotation, linked with a life of silent misery. Actually, the word is used in the Bible to mean giving way to each other out of love, whether they are your nearest and dearest, other Christians, or elders (e.g. 1 Cor 16:16; 1 Pet 5:5). Submission in this sense is actually a beautiful thing. In fact, Ephesians 5:21 calls on both men and women to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ”. Submitting doesn’t mean we are weak or passive and subservient doormats; we are actually displaying strength of will and character by choosing to yield to one another in humility and faith.

I recently completed a Bible study on the Book of Esther and noticed how she was never depicted as being brash or disrespectful to others. Instead, she was courageous, wise, strong, compassionate, and yes, humble. Although the king was caricatured as a drunken and almost ridiculous character, Esther still respected his authority. In addition, she obeyed her cousin Mordecai’s instructions by not revealing her background (Esth 2:10), and deciding to follow his instructions to appeal to the king for the sake of the Jews even though it risked her life (Esth 4:8–16). (Mordecai in turn follows all of Esther’s instructions in verse 17.) Some may tell us that only those who are aggressive and dominant can accomplish great things; however, we know without a doubt that “God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble.” (1 Pet 5:5). He desires that women, filled with the quiet determination, wisdom and strength that comes from loving like Christ, fulfil His purposes here on earth.