Paul, of Ephesians writing, states that women are to “submit to the husbands.” 

Over time that exhortation from Paul, born Saul, who persecuted followers of Jesus before his conversion, has been a divisive biblical verse. Some would say that since it is in the Bible, and the Bible is the true Word of God, it is a mandate to be followed. Others, who understand biblical exegesis, would say that was just Paul, a misogynist, putting his own views into play. He was expressing his views at a particular time in history when women in general were subject to men in this Mideastern culture.

So, how does Paul’s mandate fit into your life, Respected Reader? Those of you who are Christians, which side do you take? And why?

Those of you who are not Christians or frankly don’t give a darn, what is your stance and practice relative to a committed couple sharing life together? Is the woman in the relationship subject to the man, second class, or is she a full  partner?

In my practice I deal with this often. I try to teach principles by which good communication takes place, choices become clear, and joint decisions are made.

A committed relationship means a partnership between equals. Becoming a good team is the goal, while respecting and empowering differences. Decisions that affect both persons should be jointly decided. Unilateral decisions that affect both parties are not acceptable. 

Two people living together over time can be challenging. To the extent that each person is assertive, heard, respected, and compromise-capable, the opportunity for good decision making is optimal. 

Personally speaking, I am very fortunate to have the amazing partner that I have had for 42 years. Sherry and I are different in many ways. Yet we are synergistically in unison as we figure out how to best live out our years together.

I wish you a similar joyous partnership as you figure out how best to partner. The results are amazing!

Dr. Stathas can be reached at 706-473-1780. Email: jstathas13@gmail.com. Website: drstathas.googlepages.com. Blog: drstathas.com. Book: “A Successful Life – Guaranteed!” at Amazon.