A Meek & Quiet Spirit

by Tiffany S.
from Virtuous Daughters, January 2015~Volume 14, Number 10

“Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word,
they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; while they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”—1 Peter 3:1-4

​Most of us are very familiar with this passage of Scripture, and probably even talk about it frequently. Yet are we asking the Lord to develop this beautiful quality in our lives? Are we seeking to practice this exhortation? As I thought and prayed about what to share in this article, the Lord brought to mind the following truths:
  
Trusting Submission. A wife is to submit to her husband, but as unmarried daughters, the Lord desires that we honor Him and honor our parents. Interestingly, Proverbs 1 tells us that hearing and applying our parents’ instruction adds ornaments of grace to our lives (vv. 8-9), just as a submissive wife is made beautiful by her trusting submission. As young adult women endeavoring to trust our parents, it is important that we are ultimately trusting the Lord. Their hearts are in His hand, and He is able to turn their hearts whithersoever He wills (Proverbs 21:1).

Humility. Pride desires attention for oneself through outward appearance, boisterous behavior, indiscreet attitudes, etc. Humility, however, focuses on Christ and allows His light and love to be shed abroad in our hearts. Humility seeks to be a blessing rather than to be blessed. Let us seek the Lord’s grace to help us to focus on Him instead of looking for ways to draw attention to ourselves. The Lord is able to make each of us beautiful by His love in our lives; as we draw near to Him and allow Him to transform our hearts, He will make our outward a beautiful reflection of the inner. This “hidden man of the heart” is incorruptible and will bring Him glory and bear fruit for all eternity!

Value System. What is our value system? Do we value the praise of men or the praise of God (John 12:43)? In God’s sight, a meek and quiet spirit is of great price. It is rare in this day of self-centered focus, but it is beautiful. We live for an Audience of One...may we constantly bear this in mind and allow this truth to penetrate the depths of our hearts!

The practical outworking of a meek and quiet spirit will come more naturally as we focus our hearts and minds on the Lord, seeking His glory, not our own. Also, focusing on the needs of others is an excellent way to ward off selfish or self-centered thoughts. May each of us seek the Lord and His strength continually!