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There has not been a single family in the world that was perfect, and sometimes it may seem that the problems outnumber the blessings. We all know of things we could be doing to make our own families better, but even when our family problems are the most worrisome, the fact remains that our families are good gifts that God gives to bless us. God instituted the family relationship in the beginning. It was His idea — and it was an exceedingly good idea. At its worst, the home still has the potential for great and good things. That being true, we need to be careful not to give up on our homes when problems arise.
We are living in an age when the very notion of the “traditional” family is scoffed at. The idea that a husband, a wife, and their children can live happily together while each fulfills the different roles given in the Scriptures is an idea that many think has outlived its usefulness. But we believe differently. We have the conviction that, God having ordained the home and having laid down the principles for its joy and fulfillment, He is still willing and able to bless those who obey His will regarding the home. God’s plan is not only right, but it is good! And as those who believe in God’s will for the family, we need not only to be teaching it, but also showing in our own families that it is a workable plan that yields positive results.
God will help us build better families. We can take it for granted that He wants our homes to be joyful and fulfilling to us. That obviously being His will, we need to pray regularly for the help of our Heavenly Father in improving the quality of our family relationships. He can render aid to us that will actually make a difference for good. Husbands and fathers, especially, ought to make fervent prayer for their families an important part of their leadership in the home. God has not only given us our families, but He is ready to bless those families.
This week, let’s concentrate on our families and how we may improve them. Let’s devote some serious consideration to the good things about our family relationships, and be thankful for every blessing God has given to us in our homes. And let’s work on showing our gratitude for those who are our own flesh and blood!
Monday: Genesis 2:18–25
Key Idea: It was God who created the first family.
Questions for Family Growth: What need did Adam have for a helper? What did God do to provide such a helper for Adam? If it was God who made the family in the first place, what should be our attitude toward our own family?
Wisdom for the Day: Proverbs 12:24.
Tuesday: Ephesians 5:22–33
Key Idea: A husband/father ought to love his family.
Questions for Family Growth: In v.23, what does it mean that “the husband is the head of the wife”? In practical terms, how does a husband show that he loves his wife? What are some attitudes and activities that make a man a good husband in God’s eyes?
Wisdom for the Day: Proverbs 12:25.
Wednesday: Ephesians 5:22–33
Key Idea: A wife/mother ought to love her family.
Questions for Family Growth: In v.22, what does it mean that the wife is to “submit” to her husband? In practical terms, how does a wife show that she respects her husband? What are some attitudes and activities that make a woman a good wife in God’s eyes?
Wisdom for the Day: Proverbs 12:26.
Thursday: Ephesians 6:1–3
Key Idea: Children ought to obey their parents.
Questions for Family Growth: What is the most important reason why children should obey their parents? In v.1, what does it mean that children are to obey their parents “in the Lord”? How should children be taught to obey their parents?
Wisdom for the Day: Proverbs 12:27.
Friday: Ephesians 6:4
Key Idea: Parents ought to teach their children to love and obey God.
Questions for Family Growth: What does it mean that fathers should not “provoke” their children to anger? What is “the discipline and instruction of the Lord”? What are some ways that parents can teach their children about God?
Wisdom for the Day: Proverbs 12:28.
Gary Henry — WordPoints.com + AreYouaChristian.com
