The  power of Submission

Author: Binny Abraham, PhD

Several months ago, our family went through one of the most difficult financial challenges we had ever faced. Despite careful planning, we found ourselves unable to pay our children’s school fees on time. Warnings from the school kept coming, and we had no choice but to use our credit card to cover the payment. We prayed earnestly for God’s provision, trusting that things would improve, but we kept our struggles private.

As the days passed, the burden grew heavier. Since we could not clear the credit card dues on time, we started receiving warnings from the bank, and for the first time, we faced mounting interest charges. Meanwhile, I continued using the card for other essential expenses, thinking we could manage until our situation improved. However, the debt kept increasing, and stress began to take its toll on us.

One evening, my wife and I sat down to discuss our finances. Gently, she suggested, “What if we stop using the credit card for now, at least until we clear all the loans?” My initial reaction was hesitation—how would we manage without it? But as I thought about it, I realised she was right. The debt cycle was only getting worse, and we needed a new approach.

Though I was supposed to lead our family in financial decisions, I saw that God had given my wife wisdom in that moment. Ephesians 5:21 reminds us to "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." True leadership does not mean ignoring wise counsel; it means recognising when God speaks through those around us. I chose to listen and submit to her suggestion, and together we decided to stop using the credit card and focus on repaying what we owed.

The first few weeks were challenging. We had to cut down on unnecessary expenses and trust that God would provide for our daily needs. But as we stuck to this plan, our financial situation slowly began to stabilise. We could finally start clearing our dues without adding new debt, and the interest stopped accumulating. Then, in ways we could not have predicted, God provided. Unexpected financial help came, and within a short time, we were able to pay off all our loans.

Looking back, I realise that had I ignored my wife’s advice, we might have fallen deeper into debt. But by submitting to godly wisdom, we experienced God’s provision and faithfulness. Many people misunderstand submission, thinking it is about control or weakness, but the Bible teaches that submission is a principle for all believers. Jesus Himself submitted to the Father (Luke 22:42), showing that true submission is about trust and obedience.

Understanding Biblical Submission

The word submission is often misunderstood. Some see it as a sign of weakness, while others view it as outdated. However, biblical submission is neither about control nor inferiority; it is about recognising God's order, walking in wisdom, and honouring one another.

One of the most overlooked aspects of submission is that it applies to both husbands and wives. While wives are called to submit, husbands are equally called to love sacrificially, which includes listening to and valuing their wives’ wisdom. When a husband refuses to acknowledge his wife’s counsel, he risks ignoring God's voice in his marriage.

The Biblical Scope of Submission

Submission is not just limited to marriage; it is a principle found throughout Scripture, applicable to all believers in different areas of life.

1. Submission to God

The foundation of all submission is our willingness to submit to God. James 4:7 instructs us, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

When we submit to God, we acknowledge His wisdom and authority over our lives. This means trusting Him even when circumstances seem uncertain. Our financial crisis taught us that submission to God sometimes involves recognising that His provision may come in unexpected ways—through wisdom, discipline, or the counsel of a spouse.

2. Submission to Governing Authorities

Romans 13:1-2 says, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established."

As responsible citizens, we are called to honour the laws of the land, pay our debts, and conduct ourselves with integrity. Had we ignored the warnings from the bank and school, we would have been acting irresponsibly. Acknowledging our financial responsibility and taking corrective steps was an act of submission to God’s principles.

3. Submission in Marriage

Ephesians 5:21-25 speaks of mutual submission in marriage. This passage does not promote oppression but rather a mutual relationship of love, respect, and godly leadership. Many assume submission in marriage applies only to wives, but husbands also demonstrate submission when they choose to love sacrificially. In our case, I had to set aside my pride and listen to my wife's wisdom. True biblical leadership does not demand obedience but seeks God’s wisdom through unity.

4. Submission in the Family

Colossians 3:21 warns, "Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged."

Parents are called to model godly submission by leading their children with wisdom and love. When children see their father honouring their mother’s wisdom, making decisions prayerfully, and trusting God in difficulties, they learn to submit to biblical principles in their own lives.

5. Submission in Spiritual Warfare

James 4:7 reminds us not only of submission to God but also of resistance to devil. When we were burdened with financial struggles, fear and anxiety could have taken over. But through submission—choosing to trust God and act wisely—we experienced His provision and peace.

Submission as Strength, Not Weakness

The world often sees submission as a loss of power, but in God’s kingdom, submission brings wisdom, blessing, and peace. Even Jesus submitted to the Father’s will, saying in Luke 22:42, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."

Through our financial crisis, I saw firsthand how mutual submission works—my wife’s wisdom led to a breakthrough, my willingness to follow stabilised our family, and ultimately, God provided.

Submission is not about giving up control but about trusting God's plan. When husbands and wives walk in mutual submission, love, and respect, they create a home where God’s presence dwells.

Walking in Biblical Submission

Our financial crisis was more than just a lesson in money management; it was a lesson in submission—to God, to wisdom, and to each other in marriage. I learned that as a husband, my role was not to make decisions alone but to lead in humility, love, and wisdom.

True biblical submission is not a burden but a path to blessing, strength, and divine provision. When we submit to God first, submission in every other area of life becomes an act of faith, trust, and obedience, leading to greater peace and direction.

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