Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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God’s Design for Love & Guidance in the Home

Bible Reading:  Ephesians 6:1-4

Key Verse: “ Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.: -(Ephesians 6:4)



DEVOTION

Paul’s letter to Ephesians speaks to the maturity and unity in Jesus that comes when people believe and follow Him. When that is followed, we find our purpose and do the work God calls us to. We are reconciled to the Lord and then can live in the will and holiness God calls us to. Paul’s instructions to the family are a charge that can be abused but needs to be understood in context. In verses 1-2 he challenges children to obey their parents for there was promise referenced in Deuteronomy 5 to live long if obedient to our parents as well. This was an exhortation to honor our mothers and fathers as we do it in the same light as the God who designed the home. This is also not disregarding the fact that our parents are sinful and broken people too, so that doesn’t mean we recklessly follow their instructions, especially if it is sinful- that would be an abuse of Scripture. Rather, as God is our Father and calls us to holiness, the prayer is that our parents will follow the will of God and will guide us in that and fulfill their roles God has placed them in.
There are many parents who will reference the first verse and not read the whole passage- a danger with any passage. There is a charge in the verse of focus specifically to fathers. As a leader of the household and one who acts as an earthly representative of our Father in Heaven, there is a heavy challenge Paul accounts to fathers. Fathers are not to be overly critical, unkind, and torturous of their children to discipline them well. Rather train, instruct and encourage them to be like Christ. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Parents are called to instruct humbly their children, not losing sight of their own fallibility and admonish their children in the ways of God. Parents keep in mind that most learn far more from humility, gracious actions, and a heart of that is evident of love than abrasive teaching.
"My prayer for you is to be holy as your Father is holy. Teach and instruct in the grace of God." Obedience is easier when the children know the character and trust the character of their loved ones. It is hard and difficult, but parents heed the call of the Father as He is gracious to you and laid down His life for you. Children, our parents are flawed, but there is divine blessing in following the counsel of our parents in humility, especially when it is of God. May there be mutual submission and love to one another, and may we model the love of Christ in our homes so that is a testimony and light to all those who meet us. Rather than a fancy house, let it be a gracious, loving home that serves God. Be blessed and do not forget your blessings- starting with the Father.


PRAYER

Lord God, fill me with Your love so I can fulfill the role of leadership You called me to. I am a child of You so help me to embody obedience. In the role of parent help me to show the love of God to those in my authority to guide. May I follow Your example and be filled with gratitude for your salvation offered freely to us sinners. Amen


Thought for the day

How can I be a better example of Christ in my role as mother, Father, or child in my home. How does God’s love shape my actions in these roles?
                                                        
Arun Chacko
The Statan Island Mar Thoma Church

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