Marriage & FamilySample

God's first household

‘She’s not very maternal.' These were the words of my now mother-in-law after she met me. It’s true. Being motherly is not my natural state. Nonetheless, in my late twenties, family changed from being just me as a daughter and sister, to me also becoming a wife and later a mother of three.

God has a deep love for the family unit. We all belong to a family – as children, siblings, parents. And it’s in this space that God grows and develops our character to become world changers. In 1 Timothy 3, Timothy outlines the kind of people who should be sought after to lead the church. He states they should manage their family well, and then throws in this: ‘If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?’

It could be a critical line, to feel the need to do whatever it takes to get your family to behave in a dignified way. But to me, this little aside is an encouragement. So much of my life is devoted to my home. Supporting my husband, raising our sons, and now supporting my parents in their later years has led to difficult decisions to not continue areas of ministry outside of the home. It’s not uncommon. Loving family requires sacrifice.

This verse, however, encourages us that to make good choices inside the home will position us well to serve Him outside the home. It’s not just good work, but it’s God work to love your parents, siblings, spouse, children, and those we choose as family. How can you love your family well today?

Written by SUSIE HOLT