In other news, in my devotions today I was studying the very familiar passage of 1 Peter 3:1-4:
"Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, 2 when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. 3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.
A few things really jumped out at me, even though I've heard these verses many, many times. First of all, growing up Mennonite, verses 3-4 were always key in explaining why Mennonites do not wear wedding bands. Because as it clearly states, you're not supposed to wear gold. Or does it? *cue creepy music*
I don't know Greek, but it seems to me that the verse is saying that you shouldn't let your beauty come from things like braiding your hair, wearing jewelry, or fine clothes. Your beauty should come from inside, and from qualities like a gentle and quiet spirit. For some, strange reason, that verse is never taken to mean that you should never braid/arrange your hair or wear any clothes, just that you shouldn't wear gold. And it really misses the point of the entire verse. Are there other reasons I'm missing? I honestly don't know. Help me out here, people.
On a different note, I used to always inwardly cringe at the phrase "gentle and quiet spirit". Because mine always felt anything BUT gentle and quiet. I've always been loud, adventurous, tom-boyish, outgoing and at times (let's be honest) obnoxious. And that verse just felt so idealistic and unattainable for me. It wasn't until today, actually, that the thought occurred to me...it doesn't mean that you are supposed to have a gentle and quiet personality. It says a gentle and quiet spirit. And that is possible, no matter what your personality type. Because being a woman who doesn't talk much or try new things is not what we're aiming for here, folks. I've seen outgoing, bold women who are striving and grasping, and anything but gentle and quiet. However, I've also seen meek and mild women who are tired, discouraged, beaten-down and wilted, and that is anything but gentle and quiet too. So this leads me to believe that whether you're sanguine or phlegmatic, you can have a gentle and quiet spirit.
Still workin' on that.
There have been so many controversial topics running through my mind lately, one of which is vaccinations. Hmm, should I open that can of worms? I'm sure many of you think I shouldn't even go there. Well, here's my take on it. Things don't have to get ugly, and if you really don't want to get involved, it's simple. You don't have to. It's just a blog, no one's forcing you to read it. But like I said, it is something I've been thinking about alot lately, so I just might possibly "go there".
But not today.
Now, what do YOU think? If you read this post and you have a response tingling on your tongue, please give it. Comments will help shed light on these issues, and both educate and open my mind, so it's a win-win!
It's Friday people, let loose!
As for the vaccination issue, you should find a way to watch a Law & Order episode called "selfish". Law & Order has a great way of making you think both ways, on many, many subjects. Check it out!
ReplyDeleteAs for the "gold" issue, I totally agree with you that people overlook the true message in the verses. And in addition to focusing on a meek and quiet spirit, we are to be modest. After reading dictionary.com 's definition for modesty, I realized that even though I dressed modestly, my attitude, actions, feelings, etc... could be very immodest.
MODESTY: freedom from vanity, boastfulness, etc.
2.regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress, etc.
3.simplicity; moderation.
As always, Shelley, I love your blogs and the reason you had so many views on the last blog is because you are a very interesting and creative writer! :-)
I wasn't sure how I felt about shots either, but then a talked with my aunt, who has done a lot of research on the topic. My cousin has autism. And she gave me some great advice, give them all of the shots, but spread them out. There isn't any reason they need them so close together. And if they are scheduled to get a shot and they are sick or anything else is physically going on, them postpone it.
ReplyDeleteso I talked with her Dr. about it and she was fine with it.:) So that is what I am doing and I love it;)!Nikki H.
Interesting...I'm Mennonite too and never heard "not wearing of gold" as a reason for not wearing wedding bands! :)
ReplyDeleteReally? I'm so curious now...what were the reasons?
ReplyDelete- shelley