*The Power of a Woman’s Peace and Respect* Key Scripture References: 1. Proverbs 14:1 – “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” 2. Ephesians 5:33 – “…and the wife must respect her husband.” 3. Proverbs 31:10-12 – “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.” 1. The Woman’s Power to Influence Women are not weak; they are influencers. A peaceful and respectful woman does not lose power—she gains influence over her husband’s heart and mind. This is not about submission out of fear, but respect that unlocks love and action (Ephesians 5:33). 2. Competing vs. Complementing Many marriages struggle because spouses compete instead of complementing each other. In Genesis 2:18, God says, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” The word helper (ezer) means strong support, not weakness. Women are called to empower, not overpower. 3. Peace and Respect Move Mountains Men are created to protect, provide, and lead (Genesis 2:15), but they thrive in an environment of peace and respect. A man who feels respected and at peace will go to great lengths to ensure his wife is happy and provided for. Look at Abigail and David (1 Samuel 25)—her wisdom and peaceful approach turned away disaster and won David’s heart. Conclusion: Practical Steps for Women 1. Speak life – Words can either build up or destroy (Proverbs 18:21). 2. Encourage, don’t compete – Recognize your husband’s strengths and empower him. 3. Create peace in the home – A peaceful home makes a man want to stay, work, and build. 4. Respect does not mean silence – A wise woman shares her thoughts respectfully. Final Thought: A peaceful and respectful woman does not make herself less; she makes herself irreplaceable. She moves her husband’s heart so deeply that he wants to move mountains for her.