Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Peter 3:1-7

"In like manner, ye wives, [be] in subjection to your won husbands; that, even if any obey not the word, they may without the word be gained by the behavior of their wives; beholding your chaste behavior [coupled] with fear. Whose [adorning] let it not be the outward adorning of braiding the hair, and of wearing jewels of gold, or of putting on apparel; but [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in the incorruptible [apparel] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner aforetime the holy women also, who hoped in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection to their own husbands: as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose children ye now are, if ye do well, and are not put in fear by any terror. Ye husbands, in like manner, dwell with [your wives] according to knowledge, giving honor unto the woman, as unto the weaker vessel, as being also joint-heirs of the grace of life; to the end that your prayers be not hindered." — 1 Peter 3:1-7 (ASV)

The wife must fulfill her duty to her own husband, even if he does not obey the word. We see daily how closely evil men watch the ways and lives of those who profess religion. The wearing of apparel is not forbidden, but vanity and costliness in adornment are. Religious people should take care that all their behavior is consistent with their profession.

But how few know the right measure and limits of those two necessities of life, food and clothing! Unless poverty is our carver and cuts us short, there is hardly anyone who does not desire something beyond what is good for us. Far more people are indebted to their humble circumstances than to their humility of mind; and many will not be so restricted, but instead lavish their time and money upon trifles.

The apostle directs Christian women to put on something incorruptible that beautifies the soul—namely, the graces of God's Holy Spirit. A true Christian's primary concern lies in the right ordering of his own spirit. This will do more to secure the affections and arouse the esteem of a husband than elaborate ornaments or fashionable apparel, when accompanied by a contrary and quarrelsome temper.

Christians should do their duty to one another from a willing mind and in obedience to the command of God. Wives should be subject to their husbands, not out of dread and fear, but from a desire to do well and please God. The husband's duty to the wife includes giving due respect to her, maintaining her authority, protecting her, and placing trust in her.

They are heirs together of all the blessings of this life and of the life to come, and should live peaceably with one another. Prayer sweetens their interaction. And it is not enough for them to pray with the family; husband and wife should also pray together by themselves, and with their children. Those who are familiar with prayer find such unspeakable sweetness in it that they will not be hindered in it.

So that you may pray much, live in holiness; and so that you may live in holiness, be devoted to prayer.