How would you describe a family? Would it be based on bloodlines? Would it be based on location? Or interests? Woul
d it be based on beliefs, or religious views? How about wealth or what foods you choose to eat (or not eat)?
Having a difficult time narrowing your response? Well, you’re not the only one! Even the dictionary can’t give a clear description. Dictionary Online gives 15 definitions for the word ‘family’.
I’m going to say that a family is usually people who love each other DESPITE not liking each other at times. They often reside together, (nuclear) but have many people they consider family that don’t live with them (extended family.) Beyond these two sentences everyone’s ideas are subjective to their own experience.
Think about the people who you would consider family. What have you done to encourage or build them up lately, maybe within the last month? We should take time to encourage one another, not just sisters & brothers in Christ, but encourage your neighbor, your mailman, the grocery clerk, your child’s teacher, the cousin who you only see at Christmas, the nurse at the doctor’s office, etc. AND remember to encourage your brothers and sisters in Jesus (by the way, that part is a command! See 2 Tim. 4:2, Titus 2:15, Hebrews 3:13.)
It only takes a few moments to say something nice, or send an email, or a note snailmail.
But what a difference it can make to the person receiving the encouragement.
How good do you feel when someone compliments you, or just takes the time to say thank you?
Here’s a challenge:
Make a list of people you consider family. Over the next 4 weeks find a way to encourage every person on your list. It can be as simple as a compliment, or short email. It can be as complex as you want, BUT DO IT!
You will be amazed at people’s reactions. (Which tells me that there isn’t enough ‘good’ talk happening in the world today.)
Be a source of delight as you delight in your family!
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17: May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.