Thank God for Family

Note to self,

Family is important. It is truly a gift to have people in our lives that know us like no one else and will stick with us through it all. Family often fills that role and it's beautiful when families can live together in harmony. But we also live in a world that's tainted with sin. And each one of us is capable of hurting the other. Unfortunately, the ones closest to us can cause the most pain.

As we look forward to Thanksgiving, let's find ways to show love to our families instead of focusing on ourselves and the minor inconveniences or irritations that may come with proximity to our relatives. Matthew 19:19 says,

honor your father and mother and love your neighbor as yourself.

Matthew 19:19 NIV

These words of Jesus are not the only time this command to honor your father and mother is given. It is given multiple times throughout the old and new testaments:

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

Exodus 20:12 NIV

Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

Deuteronomy 5:16 NIV

For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.’

Mark 7:10 NIV

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.  “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.

Ephesians 6:1-3 NIV

Strong words here! It is clear that we are to honor our parents. Whenever possible, I want to do my best to do what will bring the most honor and joy to my family and my in-laws. Of course, it is impossible to please everyone and especially around the holidays, it can get difficult to discern the best way to love our families, but that does not mean we should give up on this command to honor our parents. When we have to say no to a request, let's speak the truth in love. When we get to say yes, let's be present and willing to lend a hand and unplug for a while. My parents and in-laws are both new empty nesters and I want to love them by giving up my time when I can.

There is more to loving our families than just our parents, 1 Timothy 5:8 says, "Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."

Your family may not have physical needs that need to be met, but do they need extra love and affection? Are you too busy for your family? What things can you let go of to love and serve them well. Are your relatives difficult? How can you set aside your own comforts and desires to love them regardless?

Every individual in your life has been made in God's image (including you). And every individual is a sinner (including you)! Keep that in mind and have grace for your family. And express gratitude for the people you have in your life! Family is a gift, and it is a privilege to love them!

Thank God for those in your family this week and remember that each individual member of your family has been made in the image of God, and they are dearly loved by Him.