Day 1: Submit to One Another

Reading: Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3-8

Devotional: Before Paul addresses husbands and wives specifically, he establishes a foundational principle for all believers: "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This isn't about hierarchy or control—it's about humility. Biblical submission means putting others' needs above our own because we love Jesus. When we look at Christ, we see the ultimate example of submission. Though He was God, He humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant. Today, ask yourself: Am I approaching my relationships with a heart of humility? Who needs my consideration, honor, and respect today? Submission isn't weakness—it's the strength to love like Jesus loved.

Day 2: The Husband's High Calling

Reading: Ephesians 5:25-30; John 15:13

Devotional: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." These aren't light words. Paul spends three times more verses addressing husbands than wives because the calling is profound. Christ's love wasn't passive or conditional—it was sacrificial, costly, and complete. He endured the cross for His bride. Husbands are called to this same self-sacrificing love. This means dying to selfishness daily, serving without recognition, and putting her needs first. But here's the truth: every Christian is called to Christlike love in their relationships. Whether married or single, ask yourself: How can I lay down my life—my time, preferences, and comfort—for someone else today?

Day 3: Headship Means Servanthood

Reading: Mark 10:42-45; 1 Peter 5:1-3

Devotional: When Jesus spoke about leadership, He turned worldly understanding upside down. "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." Biblical headship isn't about authority or control—it's about spiritual servanthood. The husband who leads well is the one who prays faithfully, listens attentively, serves sacrificially, and points his family toward Christ. This kind of leadership doesn't demand submission; it inspires it. The same principle applies in all our relationships—in the church, workplace, and community. True spiritual leadership looks like Jesus washing feet. Today, consider: Am I leading by serving, or am I seeking to be served? Take initiative to meet a need without being asked.

Day 4: Active Listening as an Act of Love

Reading: James 1:19-25; Proverbs 18:13

Devotional: "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak." Active listening is a rare and precious gift. It means silencing our internal dialogue, setting aside our need to respond, and truly hearing another person's heart. The sermon illustration about the husband who thought his wife was deaf reminds us how often we fail to truly listen. When we actively listen, we communicate value, respect, and love. We create safe spaces where people can be heard without judgment. This week, practice active listening with someone—your spouse, child, coworker, or friend. Don't formulate your response while they're speaking. Simply listen. Seek to understand their perspective. This is how we love like Jesus.

Day 5: Willing to Die Daily

Reading: Galatians 2:20; Luke 9:23-24

Devotional: The story of the Persian general willing to die for his wife illustrates the kind of love Paul commands. Most of us won't face literal death for our loved ones, but we're called to die daily—to our selfishness, pride, and comfort. Paul writes, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." This is the Christian life: daily crucifixion of self so Christ can live through us. In marriage, parenthood, friendship, and every relationship, we have opportunities to die to ourselves—to sacrifice our preferences, time, and desires for others' good. This isn't natural; it's supernatural. It requires Christ living in and through us. Today, identify one area where you can die to self and live for another. Let Christ's sacrificial love flow through you.