Issue 16 (21 August 2005) 

A Godly Family

What does a godly family constitute? Well, according to Romans 3, the people there were all sinners! Isn't this a good reminder of what our family is like? How else can we explain all the problems that we see around us? Adultery, love of money, pride, profanity [and] vain babbling, poor parenting and difficult children! Oh how great is our sin!  

How right was our Lord's words then when He said "verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."  In order have a godly family it would only be right to say that we need to be saved from our sins; i.e. to recognise our sinful state and be born again.   

Confess and repent are two precious words to guide us in the path of forgiveness (1 John 1:9). We must thank GOD that He is a loving Father who will give us no peace until we confess and repent (Ps 32:3-4). May the parents of our church not grieve the Holy Spirit but acknowledge their need to confess and repent of their sins.  

Let's start by asking the Fathers, how is your relationship with God?  When was the last time you prayed and knew that God heard you? Or have you been avoiding God as you are living a life of sins in secret? Do you have a problem with lust? Have you been neglecting your responsibilities as the spiritual leader or your home?  

Mothers, what about you? When was the last time you prayed and committed your husbands and children to the Lord vs. just grumbling and scolding them? Since we are just as sinful as them, should we not turn to God together?  How are you been putting your family needs for attention above yourself? Are you too occupied with things outside the home so that the family is neglected?  

Children, are you quick to listen and slow to speak? Are you a blessing or nuisance to your parents? Are you the sibling that your brother or sister wished they never had? Maybe you are a negative example to your younger siblings? Maybe you are not sure of your salvation?  

For a family such as this, is there hope? Indeed what must I do to be saved? What must my family do? Let's hear what God has to say.  

And he (Christ) said unto me (Paul), My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.   2Cor 12:8 

For a family to be godly, everyone must recognise their need for the Saviour. We all must believe that "the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ". Dad and mom, do you know if you are a child of God? If we are not sure of this, Godliness is meaningless and a mockery when we put up a front. Our religion is a scam and God's name is defiled when all we do is just lip service. Start making changes to your life by claiming upon God's promise "that I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me". Is it not wonderful when husbands and wives grow together in Christ?  

The same applies to our children. They too struggle with temptations and sometimes they fall. Do they know and believe with all their hearts that God will forgive them their sins if only they turn to Him, confess and repent? Do they have Christians friends in church to turn to and pray with?  

So, how does a family stays godly? How do they pray and worship together as a family? What about serving the Lord together? How do we do all that? We will do well to remember that these activities are not an end in itself. It's a result of a living relationship with the Almighty God. Dan 11:32. "the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits." This relationship draws us towards God when like Peter we keep on eyes on Jesus and not the things around us that so easily besets us. We do need to spend our time wisely. 

What about Phil 2:12. What does it have for us? "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." In humility, each and every family member must turn to God and be saved. Only then will we be able to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. And without putting on an act as it will come from the heart. 

Once in awhile, we will need to consecrate our lives to the Lord. May I suggest doing it during each Lord's Supper. This is a special time for us to remember the Lord's death on the cross for our sins. What better time than this to confess, repent and consecrate our lives. May God grant us our hearts desire for a godly family! 

Deacon Joel Seah 

Children Learn What They live

If children live with critisim, they learn to condemn.

If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.

If children live with ridicule, they learn to be shy.

If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.

If children live with tolerance, they learn to be patient.

If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.

If children live with praise, they learn to appreciate.

If children live with fairness, they learn justice.

If children live with security, they learn to have faith.

If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.

If children live with acceptance and friendship, they learn to find love in the world.

Annon.