“What age, what place was there ever, which has not just cause to complain of subjects’ rebellion, children’s disobedience, and wives’ presumption? Therefore, the apostle does not without cause first declare the duties of subordinates [see Ephesians 5:22ff]. Besides, the apostle teaches those who are under authority, how to influence those in authority over them to deal equally and kindly, not harshly and cruelly, namely, by endeavoring to perform their own duty first. For what provokes wrath, rage, and fury in governors? What makes them that have authority deal roughly and rigorously? Is it not for the most part disobedience and stubbornness in those that are under government? Though some in authority are so proud, so savage, and inhumane, that no honor done to them, no performance of duty, can satisfy and content them. They will reward evil for goodness, like David’s enemies (Ps. 38:20). Yet, the best general direction that can be prescribed to subordinates to provoke their governors to deal well with them, is that subordinates themselves be careful and conscientious in doing their duty first. Even if their governors on earth are not moved by that, the highest Lord in heaven will graciously accept it” (William Gouge, Building a Godly Home, Vol. 1, 26).