"And my God shall meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 (NIV)
We have been taught that God will supply all our needs. For most us that faith is made sight through how our fathers and mothers took care of us. If those basic needs weren't met as a child it's hard for anyone to imagine a loving Heavenly Father caring for them. That is why it is critical for all family members to meet each others basic needs first.
I was reminded again this week that all our family members may not know Christ as their personal Savior. Our actions regarding their needs may pull them from Him, or they may lead them to Him. The way we care and love our family members may help them to choose life in Christ, or eternal damnation because they can't see the difference Christ makes in our life.
"Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. The widow who is truly in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and ask God for help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. Give the people these instructions too, so that no one may be open to blame. If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." 1 Timothy 5:3-8 (NIV)
"Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives."
Titus 3:14 (NIV)
How sad would you be to know a loved one went to hell because you neglected their physical, emotional and spiritual needs? Have you ever sought popularity in church, or cu dos from society instead of meeting a family members needs? Maybe we all have at one time or another, but God put us in the family we're in for a reason. Mend those family fences before it's to late. Family memories need to be seasoned with lots of love, grace and forgiveness. Start with the basic needs first. When the basic needs are met, then love and happiness will follow.
