The answer is: With honour

1 Pet 3:7

In 1 Peter 3:7, we find a powerful reminder about the treatment of wives that resonates beyond just ancient norms. Peter urges husbands to honor their wives; this call goes beyond simple courtesy, highlighting a relationship built on mutual respect and deep consideration.

Fun fact: This instruction is amplified by the cultural context of the time in which Peter wrote—Roman society often didn't place a high value on women’s equality. By suggesting that husbands treat their wives as "the weaker partner," he wasn’t implying inferiority but rather urging compassion and protection. This was revolutionary in calling for a partnership rather than subjugation.

This emphasis on honor reflects echoes of Proverbs 31, where the virtuous woman is described as a source of strength and value: "Her husband praises her." There’s a lovely synergy here between roles naturally rising to a collaborative understanding rather than rigid, hierarchical structures.

Additionally, Peter’s words bear significance for modern discussions on partnership. This notion of treating one's spouse with honor can inspire relationships exemplified by respect and love in our daily lives, where understanding each other's strengths and weaknesses leads to a healthier union. In this light, remembering this treatment as integral to both individual character and collective marital joy could transform how we relate to one another not just as husbands and wives, but as partners in life’s journey.