We look to God as our perfect parent to learn the characteristics of a good father and husband. Here are just a few descriptions of such a man who:
- Honors God (1 Samuel 2:30, 1 Corinthians 10:31, 6:20)
- Provides spiritually, emotionally and materially for his family (Matthew 6:32-33, Luke 12:32, Psalm 34:18)
- Inspires the family to grow (Hebrews 4:16, Isaiah 40:31)
- Keeps his word (Hebrews 10:23, Isaiah 55:8-11)
- Gives his family direction; guides the family (Psalms 32:8,9, 119:105,106; Proverbs 3:5-8, James 1:5-6)
- Loves the family (John 16:27)
- Demonstrates integrity in all circumstances (Proverbs 11:3, 28:6; Proverbs 12:22, 21:3)
- Knows the needs of the family (Philippians 4:19)
- Stable influence; knows how to keep peace and calm (Philippians 4:7, Isaiah 26:3, Exodus 33:14, Psalm 29:11)
- Protects (Psalm 59:16, 91:11
- Disciples in love (Hebrews 12:4-11)
- Wants his children to be united (Ephesians 4:3-6)
Ideally, the family sees such a man and respects his position as spiritual leader of the family for demonstrating such strong values. Setting boundaries is important early on. “Yes, I know you would rather go outside and play, but today we go to church at this time every week.” The lessons from church aren’t only for one day of the week. Christian principles can be taught in all circumstances, every day.
Meeting together with others in the faith is definitely a spiritual priority.
Hebrews 10:25: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some?and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
We can draw principles from the verses of scripture that show us the Christlike relationship that should exist between fellow believers and find a way to create personal goals and projects as a family.
From a practical standpoint, consider creating family projects. Hebrews 10:24: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
Maybe you can surprise someone with a special encouraging gift. Assess the talents in the family. Perhaps as a family, you could sing, play an instrument or read scriptures to someone unable to leave the house. Visiting and encouraging this sick, or sending cards or emails is a wonderful way to show your family the love and compassion of God and His son, Jesus. Does someone need work done around their house? Could they use an extra hand to get or prepare food? Could someone use a babysitter or someone to help feed animals?
Acts 2:42-43: “And they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and in prayer. And everyone kept feeling a sense of awe…”
Have in-depth discussions with your family. Suggestions include:
What important lesson can we get from our meeting together with other Christians today?
What can we learn about Jesus today?
How can we practice these lessons in our lives this week?
Let’s find someone to pray for and find out what to pray about that would be helpful to them in their experiences.
Galatians 6:2: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Notice when someone is having a hard time and find a way to make their burden lighter.
Philippians 2:1-2: “Think about what we have in Christ: the encouragement he has brought us, the comfort of his love, our sharing in his spirit, and the mercy and kindness he has shown us. If you enjoy these blessings…be of the same mind, by having the same love, being united in spirit and having one purpose.”
How can we encourage others by loving them with the same kind of Love that Jesus loves us with, showing them kindness and mercy?
Let’s look forward as a family to finding the treasure the Lord has for us in meeting together, and then compare the treasure we found.
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Blog Post: Does a Christian have to attend church every Sunday?
