Give me a word, Lord: FAMILY

Psalm 103:17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children.

Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.

Ephesians 4:2-3 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

Family has always been of great importance to me. Our ways are probably considered old fashioned, but we still gather together as one big family for Sunday lunches after church. We have our grown kids over for supper at least once a week, and we sit down as a family for our evening meal every day. This gives us opportunities to love on our kids, hear what is going on in their lives, and share what is going on in ours. I value this time with family. It is more precious that diamonds!

God created humans with the family unit in mind. He designed it so that we would have parents and grandparents to impart their wisdom upon us, children for us to love and teach and guide, siblings to enjoy times of togetherness and joy, heartaches and heart breaks, and spouses to share in all of life’s ups and downs. He knew when He created us that family situations sometimes will get messy, and He provided a means for guidance and wisdom for any and every situation we may encounter. We have His Word to stand on and to guide us, the Holy Spirit within us, and God is ready to protect and bless our families through any and every situation we may encounter.

My greatest desire and constant prayer as a parent is for all of my children to follow Christ, to desire a closeness with Him, and follow the path that He designed specifically for them. I am so thankful for the many family blessings that God has bestowed on me. I am especially thankful for each and every member of my family. Family is so important to Christ, and I am so thankful for the family God gave me! Praying for your families today!