Tuesday, November 13, 2012

"A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day; restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand." -- Proverbs 27:15-16

Oh my how times have changed!  This proverb clearly displays a cultural dynamic that was in play thousands of years ago.  It was a time when women and children were property of the husband and father.  They had no vote, no say in policy or politics.  But they had power... and they used it in the context of their relationships.

Today, the proverb should not read in a way unique to women.  It should read "quarrelsome people"... because it takes two to tango, and relationships are never one-sided.  So men and women-- husbands and wives-- be kind to each other.  When you disagree, debate around the issue and protect one another's dignity and guard each one's pride.  You'll be stronger for it.

Readings:  Ezekiel 27:1-28:26; Hebrews 11:17-31; Psalm 111:1-10; Proverbs 27:15-16