Vital signs
“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.”
Psalm 127:1-5 ESV
God's Math isn't ours. 1+1= Growth and Fruitfulness
Family is the ultimate representation of how God works on earth. Out of love, devotion, and sacrifice, two people come together, giving completely of themselves until they become one. Out of that mutual love and surrender, fruitfulness happens. 1+1=1 but then 1+1= 3,4 a family
Similarly, unless we join with God, whatever we are building, growing, planning can only truly bear fruit if we surrender to God. In so doing, we are united with Him and, through Jesus, one with Him. We no longer need to toil in vain, but even as we sleep, He is providing for us and expanding His Kingdom in our lives.
As the flow of love, provision, and honor continues through the years, the blessing, favor, joy, and provision also increase. As children see the selfless love of their parents and learn how to love, a multiplication factor takes place once again. One family becomes many families, and God's truth and righteousness impacts their society and region.
God has intended the family to be one of the primary places of blessing, protection, and safety. However, many of us have not found that to be the case.
How has your family experience while growing up demonstrated God's unconditional love? How have they fallen short? Take some time and forgive your family, asking God to bring healing to your heart as well as theirs.
How about your marriage/family? (If applicable) Repent for how you have judged or misrepresented God's love within your family.
Receive His forgiveness and love.
Father God, I thank you that I am your child and you are my Father. I want to reflect your design for love and family every day with how I live. Show me how to walk in grace and forgiveness, patience and understanding, humility and honor with my family in good times and bad. Please show me how to live in intimacy with you and bear good fruit. Thank you that you know the beginning and the end of everything, and you are leading me into greater and greater levels of your presence and joy.
Phil, I appreciate you brother. Thank you for being obedient and letting God use you to encourage others.