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Nurturing Faith for Family Balance in a Secular Society
In today’s fast-paced and increasingly secular society, families are often overwhelmed by the pressures of work, societal expectations, and digital device usage. These challenges can lead to a breakdown in communication, weakening the bonds that hold a family together. Many parents find it difficult to instill lasting values in their children, as the influence of faith diminishes in the face of competing priorities and distractions.
Building strong families within the church is just as crucial as maintaining my own spiritual health. Just as Nehemiah’s community rebuilt the wall of Jerusalem “each in front of his own house” (Nehemiah 3:28), I must also focus on nurturing my family in faith. However, in today’s world, many families, even within the church, struggle to keep their children spiritually grounded.
So, how do I ensure God’s word and blessing remain in my family for generations? The story of the jailer in Acts 16 provides insight. After facing a life-threatening situation, the jailer asked, “What must I do to be saved?” Paul and Silas responded, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household” (Acts 16:31). The jailer didn’t just seek salvation for himself; he gathered his entire family to hear the gospel, leading them all to believe and be baptized.
This account teaches me that Paul and Siles were great evangelists to spread the gospel, just as 2 Corinthians 5:20 describes “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” The first step in building a faithful family is ensuring everyone believes in God. While I may work hard to provide for my loved ones, the true and lasting inheritance I can give them is the hope of salvation through Jesus. Earthly treasures fade, but the joy of eternal life endures.
However, leading my family to Christ isn’t always easy. I might face resistance or feel discouraged by the lack of progress. But as Paul and Silas persisted in sharing the gospel, even when circumstances were difficult, so must I. It’s during challenging times that my family members might be more open to the message of Christ. “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2).
Sometimes, my faith might cause tension within my family. Yet, Jesus reminds me to take up my cross and follow Him (Matthew 16:24), even when it means facing opposition. I must be truthful about my faith, trusting God to work in my family’s hearts.
Ultimately, the jailer’s family experienced true freedom and joy in Christ. I must also strive to lead my family to this same freedom, ensuring that we all share in the eternal inheritance promised to those who believe.
I warmly invite you to join us at our church for the upcoming Fall Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation in September. Based on the event’s theme, “All Things Become New,” it is my hope that you will be motivated to embark on a journey of personal renewal and to foster the creation of more resilient and affectionate familial bonds.
Thursday, September 26, 2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, 2024 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, September 29, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
True Jesus Church
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
Google Maps
In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org