As we continue talking about thriving in your life, we want to focus on thriving with your family. Behind our relationship with Christ, our family is the most important part of our lives. Each family looks different; some families have children, some do not, some are big, and some are small, but having a family that helps, loves, and supports each other is ultimately what we strive for. The Lord wants us to thrive in the relationship we have in our family and grow together in Him. “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” Isaiah 54:2. Families are meant to grow, joining together through birth and marriage, and God wants us to help them to grow by strengthening the relationships in each family.

Family members are meant to be committed to each other. In expressing love for your family members, you may support, encourage, and be thoughtful of the needs of others. Romans 12:10 tells us, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” We are to honor one another and always respect each family member. Our family members are the closest people in our lives, and showing our family love just as the Lord instructed us is a way to let God’s light shine through us onto them. We must remember not to give up on the family relationships God has given us, as they are a commitment we are to uphold.

The Bible gives us many instructions on how the Lord wants families to treat each other if they want to thrive. We are instructed to honor our mothers and fathers (Exodus 20:12), love each other (1 John 4:19), treat each other with worthy and respect (1 Timothy 3:4), pray together (Acts 10:2), forgive each other (Colossians 3:13), and raise our children to have a relationship with Christ (Ephesians 6:4). Turn to the Bible to help your family build a solid foundation with Christ.

Spending time in prayer together as a family helps the children learn habits they can carry on for the rest of their lives. We want to instill in children from a young age the importance of turning to God in their time of need and not to the world. Parents being open about their faith and relationship with the Lord allow children to have a Godly example of how to grow their faith in Christ.

Sometimes, expressing love means putting your family’s needs before yours. If there is a misunderstanding or difference of opinion, follow the advice in Hebrews 13:1, “Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters.” We must honor our relationships by offering love and respect, even in complex family relationships. All relationships have ups and downs, even families. You can have thriving family relationships by choosing to see the best side of your family members and giving them the benefit of the doubt, even during challenging times. Remember, the Lord wants you to thrive in all areas of your life. A thriving family that honors and supports each other gives glory to God. Additional Resources: Coming Soon