By Catherine Karnbo
When considering the application of our faith in God, we need a structure. The primary framework for our social and spiritual development in Christ is the family. Family originates from God Himself, and His intention and purpose extend beyond human social interaction and community; it is also a foundation for faith in God and communion with Him. The family is a reflection of God’s divine plan, mirroring our relationship with Christ. Just as Christ is the head of the Church, a father is the head of his family. The presence of a father in a child’s life serves as a reminder of Christ being our heavenly Father.
As we reflect on Christ this season, His death and resurrection stand as the ultimate sacrifice and victory. It is through His love that we are able to love others, for He first loved us. Christ brings the spirit of unity, love, safety, and hope within our families, drawing us closer to His divine plan.
At the core of family life
At the heart of family life lie the principles of relationship and service. Scripture offers clear guidance on family dynamics. Genesis 2:24 speaks of a man leaving his father and mother to be united with his wife, becoming one flesh. Colossians 3:20-21 instructs children to obey their parents and urges parents not to provoke their children. Ephesians 5:25-29 calls on husbands to love their wives just as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her, while wives are encouraged to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord. Further, Ephesians instructs parents to raise their children in the training and instruction of the Lord, while children are commanded to honour their parents. 1 Timothy 5:8 highlights that failing to provide for one’s family is akin to denying the faith. These biblical principles establish a model of servanthood, exemplified by Christ, as a guide for family relationships.
Training ground for faith
Families serve as a training ground for discipline and discipleship. It is within the family unit that we learn to serve one another, prioritise the needs of others, support and honour each other, comfort, love, cherish, obey, forgive, trust, and nurture relationships. These virtues, exemplified by Christ as our source, provide a moral compass for daily life within our families.
Christ the hope for fractured families
Family is a fundamental pillar of society and must be safeguarded. It is within the family that we are called to live out God’s purpose, following the example of Christ. Yet, some families struggle with division, pain, and loss. The enemy seeks to disrupt God’s plan for the family, robbing individuals of the joy and unity intended by God. However, as Christians, we find hope in Christ, who completes and restores the family. When Christ is placed at the centre, He has the power to heal and strengthen familial bonds.
Strategies for thriving families
As we seek to mirror Christ in our relationships, here are some key strategies to help families flourish:
- Forgiveness – Family relationships are close-knit, making conflicts inevitable. However, forgiveness should mirror how Christ forgave us.
- Modelling behaviour – Just as Christ set an example, parents have the opportunity to model virtues such as patience and kindness.
- Parental love – A loving parent-child relationship reflects God’s fatherhood, providing security and comfort.
- Humility and repentance – Parents should be willing to acknowledge mistakes and model repentance, building stronger relationships.
- Open and honest communication – Families should be safe spaces where members can listen and speak without fear of judgment.
- Healthy boundaries – Establishing clear, respectful boundaries ensures harmony within the family.
- Worship and prayer – Praying and worshipping together as a family fosters spiritual growth and places Christ at the centre.
- Seeking pastoral or Christian counselling – Speaking to wise and spiritually mature individuals during life’s struggles can provide guidance and encouragement.
- Fellowship – No family should navigate life alone; being part of a community of faith strengthens and uplifts.
- Strong value system – Establishing and upholding family values that reflect Christian beliefs creates a strong foundation.
- Service – Serving one another within the family and extending that service to others cultivates a heart of compassion and humility.
- Healthy marriages – Marriage is a symbol of Christ’s relationship with the Church. A healthy marriage, marked by respect, love, and unity, serves as a powerful testimony to the world.
Christ at the centre
Let Christ be at the centre of your family, your church, and your work. His love has the power to mend broken relationships and bring families together. When we align our relationships with Christ’s teachings, they become living testimonies of His grace, love, and faithfulness.
The writer is the co-founder of Comfortmum
