When we look at our family, we can often wonder why God put us together the way He did. Whether we have biological children, or they are a mix of biological, adopted or stepchildren, God intentionally chose our family. He gave us each member so “as iron sharpens iron” we will be conformed into His image (Proverbs 27:17). Whether we like it or not, God gave us our children to develop our character. (Some kids test that theory more than others, right?) Likewise, God gave us our family so we can help them develop the character that God desires in them.
When we view our families this way, we will see that the personality conflicts, the disobedience, the disrespect, the power struggles, and the like are situations that we can develop the Christ-like character within us or within our children. When we have a child who challenges your authority, do you get angry and yell? Or do you choose to show the fruit of the spirit and respond in patience and grace? Every day you are challenged to exercise the fruit of the spirit which develops character or neglect the Spirit and not grow in your character. God intentionally placed them in your home so with the power of the Holy Spirit you can all become the persons that He desires you to be.
It isn’t easy. Our flesh wants to win. We don’t feel like taking the time to discipline our kids. When we choose to invest in our family and take the time necessary to develop in them God’s Word, God is glorified, and our family becomes a blessing.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another,” Proverbs 27:17. In other words: as ion sharpens iron, so one family member sharpens another to make them more like Jesus.
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**God chose you for your family.. and your family for you!**
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