There are so many decisions to make and so many factors to consider when it comes to families. Let us take a moment and see what the Bible teaches us about families.
We must start with two distinct individuals: a man and a woman. They are two people, two souls and two life stories. They have sin; they struggle, and they need a Saviour, like all of mankind (Romans 3:23). Will they obey God’s Word (Acts 2:38)? Will they be faithful to Him always (Revelation 2:10)?
Now we see a married couple. That which were two have now become one (Genesis 2:24). Husbands should love their wives as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25). Wives should submit to their husbands as to the Lord (Ephesians 5:22). The husband should be the head of the family as Christ is the Head of the church (Ephesians 5:23). Will they be faithful to each other (Hebrews 13:4)? Will they get a divorce (Matthew 19:9)? Will they love and submit?
A couple decides to have children. The family is to be provided for and given the proper care (1 Timothy 5:8). The Father is to still be the head of the family and to teach his children the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Both parents should actively raise and train their children in the right ways (Proverbs 22:6). Discipline should be used in the home because the children are loved, and it is important for their training (Proverbs 13:4). Will the parents provide the care, training and discipline that is needed in the Lord?
Then, we have the children. Children are to honor and obey their parents (Ephesians 6:1-2). They are to take the training they have received and be an example to other believers (1 Timothy 4:12). Children, just like their parents and every other individual, will fall prey to sin (Romans 3:23). It is ultimately going to be their decisions, which they make as individuals, whether they are going to follow the Word of the Lord. What will they choose?
The Word of God is pretty clear when it talks about families. God has always had a plan for families. The Bible shows us that families are important for so many reasons: faith, love, training, instruction, care, etc. It teaches us that it is up to each individual to choose to follow God and to fulfill his or her role in the family. The reality is that there is only one perfect family, and that is the family of God. As we live and work in our families at home and at church, decisions will come our way. Even when those around us choose the ways of the world, let us always choose the ways of God. May we always live as children of God.
