A Strong Family 2

Memory Verse: …  “ But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15b (NIV).

Text: Deuteronomy 6:1-12

Spiritual Emphasis: God is the Creator of the family, God desires that it be strong and healthy. However, throughout history, families have experienced conflicts and brokenness. Cain, Adam and Eve’s first son killed his brother; and Abraham and Sarah made a mistake when Hagar became the third person in their life. Sadly, conditions have not improved with the passage of time. But there is hope because of Jesus Christ, and He has given us guidelines for strengthening our families.

      How to Strengthen and Uplift our Families

• Talk to your Family About God: Fathers, this is straightforward. If you ‘re already doing the first step mentioned last Sunday, putting God first in your life above all other relationships, now it’s time to have conversations about God. This will lead to a strong and healthy family. Please hear me on this: our children should know the gospel through-and-through from our influence. Remember, God has placed you in a position in your household to reflect who He is. What does that mean? It means to the best of your ability, with the help of the Holy Spirit, overflow with love, grace, patience, forgiveness, and joy – Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Ephesians 6:4; Philippians 4:9. 
• Healthy Families Serve Each Other: Jesus is our ultimate example. He sets an example for us. He didn’t come to be served by His creation, but instead to serve by offering Himself a sacrifice for the redemption of mankind. The world’s message is you are “great” when others are working for you. But this is not the Christian way. The message from Jesus is that greatness comes from serving others. Fathers, you want to be a great dad? Then serve your family. Reject selfishness and put on some humility, take on the role of a servant, and do what is best for your family. Out-serve your wife and kids – Mark 9:33-35; Mark 10: 41-45; 1 Corinthians 9:22.

Questions/Activities: What are those elements of building a strong family?

Conclusion. God Himself is the Creator of the family. He desires that the family be strong and healthy. So, when we put God first, the creator and builder of the family, He gives us the grace to build a strong and healthy family that will serve and remain faithful to Him.  We are also in a better position to not just talk about the gospel but model it to our families and the society at large.

Self-Study: Psalm 32:8; Psalm 6:9; Genesis 2:24; Psalm 68:6; Ephesians 6:4; Ephesians 6:1; Proverbs 31:25; Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 15:17; Romans 12:10; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Ephesians 5:25; Exodus 15:2; Psalm 18:32; Psalm 19:14 – Shalom!salm 127:3-5; Exodus 20:12.now and accept the Lord as their Savior – Shalom!