The institution of the family is as old as the first man and woman created “in the beginning.” Every influence that weakens the family will ultimately weaken society. If the family fails, all the other institutions will fail. As the marital bond is nurtured, it reinforces a strong family foundation on which to build moral and spiritual principles.
The family is the institution that prepares children for life. The home is where values are taught and demonstrated, and character is either cultivated or destroyed. What are you teaching the children at your home?
Deuteronomy 6:6, 7
“These words, which I command you this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shall teach them diligently unto thy children.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
Children will not remember all of the “trinkets” their parents “second job” afforded them. They “will” remember if they were there or not. However, it isn’t only the quantity, but the quality of time that matters.
- Pray together. Someone said, “The family that prays together, stays together.” When it is possible, pray together before you leave the house in the morning and before you go to bed at night.
- Eat together. Mealtime around the table is wonderful, important opportunities for family interaction, conversation, and fellowship.
- Work together. It is a bonding experience of valuable teaching and training.
- Play together. Special celebrations, playing games, solving puzzles, snuggling around the fireplace or television, vacations, and family fun make memories that last a lifetime.
- Learn together. Homework, Bible studies and family devotions, communicating and discovering answers to questions all provide opportunities to grow together.
“If your children will keep My covenant and My testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon your throne forever.” Psalm 132:12
