DAY 22 - FAMILY LIFE

Image by Wix

DAY 22 – Family Life by Pastor Dick

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them. — Colossians 3:18-19 (NKJV)

Christ Shapes the Family

When Jesus moves into a life, He shakes things up—in the best way! Every part of life gets touched—work, friendships, choices... and especially family.

Paul takes a moment here to show us what a Christ-centered family looks like. Not perfect (that’s for sure!), but ordered in a way that honors God.

Wives and Husbands: Like a Well-Conducted Orchestra

Paul starts with the marriage relationship. He tells wives to “submit,” which in the original Greek means “to place in order.”

Think of it like an orchestra. Every instrument plays differently, but when they follow the conductor, the music is beautiful.

Submission isn’t about who’s more important—it’s about harmony that lets love and respect flow freely.

Husbands, Paul says, must love their wives with agape love. That’s the sacrificial, unconditional love God shows us.

It’s choosing her well-being every day, protecting and honoring her—not taking control, but partnering in love.

Parents and Children: Listening and Leading with Love

Now children are told to obey their parents, which literally means “to listen.” And parents? You’re not perfect either!

But God’s plan is for children to respect their parents’ guidance, and for parents to love and be patient as they lead.

This family dance reflects how Jesus honored His Heavenly Father—a tender picture of love and obedience.

Why Did God Design It This Way?

Paul’s family order brings stability. Families that follow God’s wisdom are stronger, healthier, and more life-giving. It’s not about perfection—it’s about strength.

Such families shine a light for the world, showing love, respect, forgiveness, and unity—the power of Christ at work.

Reflection Questions

• How does knowing Christ change the way family relationships look and function?

• Why is it important that God set a specific order for the family unit?

• Reflect on your family life. Where are you following Paul’s teaching? Where could you grow in Christ?
  

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for caring deeply about our families. May love, respect, and honor flow through my closest relationships in a way that reflects You. May my family bring stability, blessing, and glory to Your name. Amen.

Blog

New Hope Church of God

1250 Waggoners Gap Rd

Carlisle, Pa

(717) 241-5544