1. '...for this pleases the Lord' (18-21)

Any society, including a family, needs spiritual order. Ordinarily, wives should submit to their husbands, and a husband has an obligation before God to love his wife; he must not treat her harshly. Children should obey their parents, and parents should not discourage their children, or embitter them by making unreasonable demands. Wives' submission and children's obedience should be tested by only one standard: Is it pleasing to the Lord?

2. Work with all your heart (3:22-4:1)

Rules for slaves and masters can be applied to employers and employees. When we make up our minds to work for God, we are freed from being 'eye-watchers.' Joseph in the Old Testament understood this principle. He was a slave, but he became Pharaoh's shepherd and father because he worked for God with all his heart. Employers must be just; for God is just. We have a Master in heaven.

Application: Lord, help me to keep spiritual order so that I may please you.
One Word: Try to please God