[Submitters note: Nancy Campbell runs the Above Rubies magazine and web page.]

On 2 March 2011 we [Colin and Nancy Campbell] will have been married for 48 years! ,...

The following are some of the secrets I have learned over the years. They are all biblical concepts.

I am sure you must be getting used to the fact that I always resort to the Word of God for the foundation of my life, so back to the Word we go. Here are seven "S's" for you.

1. SUBMIT TO YOUR HUSBAND'S LEADERSHIP
At fellowship time after church, a few couples were talking together about marriage. I asked the men, "What is the best way you like your wife to encourage you?" It was interesting that each husband replied, "I am blessed when she submits to me and allows me to be the head of the home." Gulp! I wonder why it is that the very thing that blesses our husband the most is the one we try to avoid! Perhaps we better find out what God says about the subject?....

C. Submission is for our protection

God did not devise submission to bring wives into bondage. No, it is for our blessing, protection and covering. God's ultimate plan is for His female creation to be under protection throughout their entire lives--under their father's protection as a single person and then under their husband's protection when they marry. We see an understanding of this in Numbers Chapter 30....

When you walk in a spirit of submission, you will receive seven blessings in your life. You will experience a...

1) Sensitivity to the work of the Holy Spirit in your life.

2) Serenity--Soul rest and peace in your heart. (Matthew 11:28-30).

3) Security and Stability.

4) Sweetness.

5) Soundness of doctrine.

6) Strength of character. And you will be...

7) Saved from deception. (Timothy 2:14-15).