A Family Compass
God knows what is best for families. He created “woman” in the garden to be with “man” and instituted the basic structure of the home at the very outset of humanity (Genesis 2:18-25). Some believe the principles of Genesis 2:24 were simply for the first couple. However, the very wording of Genesis 2:24 suggests God’s anticipation of the replication of this familial formula throughout all time. The text says, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother…” What “father” or “mother” did Adam or Eve leave? None. This passage looks forward to all families after Adam and Eve who must “leave father and mother” to “be joined” to their spouse.
Over the course of history this family paradigm has not grown outdated. Jesus Himself quoted from Genesis as He was questioned about marriage (Matthew 19:4-6). In harmony with the Savior’s teaching, His apostles taught about marriage and each person’s role in family relationships as well (1 Corinthians 7:1-3; Ephesians 5:22-6:4; Colossians 3:18-21).
Sadly, we live in a world which has decided God’s way is no longer relevant. Many start families before or without marriage—a reversal in order of the Biblical pattern for procreation (after marriage, not before or without, leading to fornication). Others end their marriage by divorce and begin a new marital relationship for any reason (ignoring what God says about being “joined together” and often committing adultery). There is a growing push in the United States to legalize same-sex marriage (violating the Scriptural precedent of “male and female” and resulting in homosexuality). These trends are becoming so common it can be difficult to find a family built on God’s standards.
Yet, as we are awakened to the fruits of our self-inflicted family wounds we will see why our families need God’s guidance so badly. Men and women are hurting. They are depressed and broken-hearted to see their marriage, security and years of their lives wasted by the pain of sin in marriages. Others are dealing with the guilt connected to the wreckage of their sinful pasts. Children are lonely, unguided and morally confused. Some in single-parent homes are rarely able to spend quality time with their parents. The family burden is unshared and the children often carry the heaviest of loads. They are left to learn morals by themselves, learn how to be good husbands and wives with little example. It is taking its toll on our families.
We need to get back to God’s basics for the family. He knows best. Follow His plan for your life.
“...as we
are
awakened to
the fruits of
our self-inflicted
family
wounds we
will
see why our
families need
God’s guidance
so badly.”
January 2009