Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #13 — Lead by Serving

Picture: Counsel #13 — Lead by Serving CR 276.1

In any Christ-centered marriage, male headship is all about service. Don’t get me wrong — this doesn’t mean the husband always gets to pick the restaurant or choose the paint color. It means he’s called to sacrifice his desires and lead the household with selfless love, not stern authority.^[293] CR 276.2

In the Bible, Jesus modeled this kind of leadership by washing feet, healing the sick, and sharing the truth with those that were lost. When Scripture calls husbands the “head,” it’s not a green light for pride. Instead, it’s a call to humility, patience, and spiritual responsibility. There may be moments when a man falls short of his duties as a husband and father and gives in to one temptation or another, none of us are perfect. But, as long as he runs back to Jesus, repents of his wrongdoings, and continues seeking God’s grace, when spiritual decisions must be discerned for the good of the family, he’ll be ready. As we surrender “self” daily, our Heavenly Father transforms us to become more and more like Himself, the ultimate Servant Leader. CR 276.3

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Ephesians 5:25 NIV CR 276.4

“Many a husband and father might learn a helpful lesson from the carefulness of the faithful shepherd.” Ellen White in Lift Him Up, p. 222 CR 276.5

Reflect: How is male headship reflected in your household? CR 276.6