Family Bond
Introduction
- The first responsibility is to Love and Honor God.
- Putting God first does not mean neglecting family responsibilities.
Objective
- God is the Captain of the family vessel.
- The Husband is the First Officer.
- The Wife is the Second Officer.
- Children are the Crew.
- Together, the family is to navigate toward eternal salvation.
Key Verse (Acts 10:2, NIV)
- "He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly".
- Fathers are encouraged to model faith, prayer, and generosity in the home.
Foundation of Family
- Psalm 127:1-5:
- Unless the Lord builds the house, all efforts are in vain.
- Children are a heritage and reward.
- Blessed is the man whose quiver is full.
Family Values Today
- The U.S. divorce rate for first marriages is 40-50%.
- Root causes for family distress include:
- Lack of commitment.
- Infidelity.
- Conflict and arguing.
- Financial stress and substance abuse.
- Poor communication, abuse, and unrealistic expectations.
- The Solution is to Build the house on Christ.
Roles in the Family
Father
- Christ is head of man (1 Corinthians 11:3).
- Direct children in God's way (Genesis 18:19).
- Love your wife and don't be harsh (Colossians 3:19).
Mother
- A noble wife is a crown (Proverbs 12:4).
- Bring children up in God's instruction (Ephesians 6:4).
Parents Together
- Practice love and respect (Ephesians 5:33).
- Train children in God's way (Proverbs 22:6).
Children
- Honor father and mother (Deuteronomy 5:16).
- Obey parents, which pleases God (Colossians 3:20).
- Listen to instruction and teaching (Proverbs 1:8).
Together
Family Together
- Love deeply and show hospitality (1 Peter 4:8-9).
- Live together in unity (Psalm 133:1).
- Love is patient, kind, forgiving, and enduring (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
For Those Without Complete Families
- God will receive you (Psalm 27:10).
- God comforts us, so we can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
Conclusion
- Family is not perfect—but God is.
- Fathers: Lead with humility and prayer.
- Mothers: Nurture with wisdom and grace.
- Children: Obey with honor and respect.
- Families: Love deeply, forgive quickly, and stay united in Christ.
Prayer
- "Lord, guide my steps and guide my stops. Be Captain of our home, and bring us safely to eternal salvation".
Daily Family Bond Practices
- Daily Prayer: Share moments of gratitude and guidance.
- Shared Traditions: Strengthen family ties.
- Family Bond: Building strong relationships through faith and commitment.
- Open Communication: Encourage honest conversations with love.