The Strength in Submissiveness

​by: Keren May B. Busaing

In this age where the plight for 'equality' is intense, the value of submissiveness is among those raised into question, and many have taken it out of proportion. For many liberal believers of equality, being submissive is a weakness and a character that needs to be eradicated in favor of independence. Many approach this social issue with zeal and boldness, all wanting to advocate the full extent of self-dependency, which, along the way, counters the discipline of being submissive. Causes like gender equality, women empowerment, social inclusion, and discrimination are a few advocacies that may wholly or slightly eradicate submissiveness.

A British film director once said, "To be feminist doesn't mean you can't be submissive." In other words, our consciousness or confidence of being strong and independent isn't dwindled by the value of submissiveness. In fact, to those who are truly secure in their identity, restraining themselves from constantly asserting their positions is strength. The nature of submissiveness is not always dictated by whether we are right or wrong, and being right only sometimes means that we need to fight for it until the end. The strength in submissiveness comes when we back down and give way to the other party - for couples, the wife to her husband; for structural authority, the subordinate to their superior. 

Strength is only sometimes expressed by being loud and contentious. Whenever we submit, it doesn't mean that we are backing down from what is right. There are other avenues to stand up for what is right, and it begins when we make the choice (which is a strength) to preserve peace through submission. A peaceful atmosphere is perfect for the seed of righteousness to sprout. By being wise, we will eventually realize that the value of submissiveness characterized by humility is a strategy. It is not a power play where one will emerge as the winner. Being able to submit is an inner strength where an individual can demonstrate growth and maturity by seeing every situation beyond the now. It is an ability centered on security, confidence, and leadership. 

Submissiveness is inner warfare, and whenever we struggle and feel the desire to win, it lets us choose to be strong by being able to back down. It is always the one who can subdue his inner desires who can make the difference. It is always the one who is not particular about winning that is the real winner. On the other hand, those who are contentious are always loud and seeking to win or be above the others who are missing out.

Whether we are young and must submit to the elders, a wife and must submit to the husband, or subordinates submitting to superiors, let us choose to do so and always. Saint Paul, in his letter to the Romans, said, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." This principle is not contrary to the equality, equity, dignity, inclusion, and diversity advocacies we encounter these days. Instead, it is a foundational material that is necessary to address them. By fulfilling the ways and patterns of God, these issues are resolved by the ways of God. Submissiveness is a command that paves the way for Him to directly take control of every situation we are in. It is part of the pattern to success, and every rebellion (against authorities) causes delay and sometimes eliminates God's power to take over. Let us choose to be strong by being able to submit.