Scripture: 1 Peter 3:1–12

Devotion

Many of us have heard it said that our first witness to the world is in how we steward our homes, marriages, and children, and today’s passage makes that truth tangible and literal. In these twelve verses, Peter presents a God-centered view of the home that could transform our world. The way we are called to live is radical and requires dedication. Peter even goes so far as to suggest that if husbands do not love their wives in a godly way, their “prayers will be hindered” (v.9). It should be no surprise that the way we love people impacts our prayer lives. Still, it seems especially true within the home and in our marriage and family relationships. For wives, Peter points out that their faithful witness may win nonbelievers over “without a word” (vv.1–2). How incredible! People are watching our marriages; if we want to have momentum in leading our neighbors, neighborhoods, and the nations, it has to start in our homes.

In verses 8–12, Peter applies this truth to everyone, married or unmarried. He reminds believers that our responsibility is to “not pay back evil for evil” but instead to “seek peace and pursue it” (Ps 34:12–16). Imagine what it would look like in our communities if this were true in our homes. What if our marriages, households, and friendships were not defined by impatience, revenge, or argument but by a pure and Christlike love that reflects the gospel to everyone around us?

A Personal Prayer

Father, make my home and relationships a reflection of Your peace and love. Teach me to seek harmony and humility in every interaction so that my life points others to You, without even a word. Whether married or unmarried, help me to cultivate godliness and grace in my home, allowing Your Spirit to bring flourishing and witness to those around me.

Pray for Our Neighbors: Napa Valley Life Church

Napa Valley Life Church in Napa, California, is one of Brentwood Baptist’s renewal partners, walking alongside one another to bring healthier churches everywhere. Pastor Eric Van Patton and his family are guiding the congregation into a new season of growth and renewal.

• Pray for Eric and Lydia and the rest of their family as they readjust to life in California and to a new church home.
• Pray for their members to grow and become disciples who multiply disciples.
• Pray for their members as they share Jesus with the lost and searching in their community.

Pray for the Nations: Mission Eurasia

Mission Eurasia is dedicated to training and equipping young Christian leaders for effective ministry across Russia and the surrounding countries of Eurasia. With over 180 people groups and a challenging landscape shaped by historical and political factors, there is a significant need for the gospel and for spiritual awakening in this region.

• Pray for an end to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine so the war ceases and peace is restored.
• Lift up the School Without Walls students and leaders as they share the gospel amid persecution, asking God to help them reach people in areas difficult for Westerners to access.