Family Is Everything

If you think about it, family really is everything to us. They are our relatives, our spouse, the ones who seek no gain from us. When we succeed, they will rejoice with us. On the other hand, they will be saddened when we fall and give up in facing life's challenges. 

However, sometimes reality does not match our expectations. There are many factors that can blur our view of family. I myself once felt bitterness and distance from my own family.

My Conviction That Family Is Everything

My status as the youngest child shaped my view of family. I do not know what it feels like to have a younger sibling or a close-aged brother or sister. Moreover, the age gap with my older siblings is quite large. Because I was always spoiled by my parents, I did not really need other people, even my own family. 

When both my parents began to grow old and experience health problems, I was the one assigned to take them to the doctor. I alone made sure my mother was cared for. On the other hand, my siblings seemed not to care. Sometimes there was a feeling of envy and annoyance, “Why can you laugh happily, while I come home late because I am waiting with Mother at the hospital?” Little by little, hatred arose toward my own siblings. I felt that family was no different from other people who might not care. 

That carried over into my marriage. I felt that my wife, children, and in-laws were a burden, not a blessing. Whenever there were complaints and needs, it weighed heavily on me. As a result, sometimes my attitude at home was very unpleasant. I wore a gloomy and cynical face. My wife and children became unhappy. I did not feel that family was everything. 

I forgot, how deeply my wife loves me. When I am tired and sick, she does not hesitate to prepare warm drinks and food for me right away. Without being asked, my wife will massage my body. She wants the best for me. 

Seeing how sincere my wife's love was for me, little by little my mindset about family began to change. I became deeply grateful for my wife. My gratitude increased when I looked at my adorable child. He comforts every sadness in my days. They are the ones who motivate me to work hard and give my best. 

Now I am convinced that family is everything. 

Our Attitude Toward Family

Family is the place where we find shelter and are refreshed again after our routine. More than that, they are the first ones who will be ready to help us in difficult times. Therefore, we need to be convinced that family is everything.

How can we do that? 

1. Accept and Appreciate  the Differences of Each Family Member

We need to realize, each family member is a unique individual. They each have their own differences. Some are brave enough to speak and express their feelings. Others find it difficult to express their feelings. One person may be patient, while another is impatient.

These differences require us to act wisely. How can we respect one another? How can we understand one another? This is the key to keeping a family warm and whole.

Romans 12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection and outdo one another in showing honor. 

The principle of the verse above is that, as family members, we need to value and respect one another. This includes appreciating every difference that exists. 

How? By building communication or holding activities together. These things will deepen relationships, so that one family accepts and loves one another. That is how we accept and appreciate the differences that exist. 

2. Family Is a Blessing and Precious

How very good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!

Psalm 133:1

Like it or not, we need to accept the family into which we were born and raised. Almighty God has appointed it. If so, then family is a blessing to us that He has bestowed. 

If you find it hard to love your family, look at Joseph's example. He was sold by his brothers and fell into a life full of hardship in Egypt. When Joseph met them again, what did he do? Take revenge? No. Instead,

”I am Joseph, your brother, whom you sold into Egypt. But now, do not be distressed or reproach yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me ahead of you to preserve life" (Exodus 45: 4-5).

Joseph could have become bitter and taken revenge. But he chose to love his brothers.

When there is irritation and anger, try to look again at our gratitude for the family God has given. If you are still single, your parents, older siblings, or younger siblings are a blessing to you. They are the ones on the front line, helping when you are in need. 

For those who already have a family, let us appreciate the presence of our wife and children. They are treasures God has entrusted to us. If we love them, surely we will work to provide for their needs, will we not?

Seeing family as a blessing will change our attitude and perspective toward them. May it be true for us that family is everything.

3. Take the Initiative to Love Our Family

How can family feel our love? Certainly not only through words, but through actions. 

1 Corinthians 13:1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

Love is clearly best expressed through actions. What can we do?

First, we greet each family member warmly whenever we meet. Next, we can create light conversation, even deeper conversation. We can also ask about how they are doing, their challenges, and their struggles. We can strengthen and encourage one another as well.

Second, we can actively organize and take part in family events. For example, if someone has a birthday, we can offer greetings and celebrate it together. We can also hold regular family gatherings, such as eating together, going on outings, or even holding a monthly family social gathering. 

Third, do not forget to help when our family needs it. These three ways are things we can practice and develop. Believe it! God will value every act we do in loving our family. It greatly pleases His heart. 

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Having the conviction and attitude that family is everything requires effort and struggle. I believe we can attain it. As long as we strive to love God, our love for our family will grow as well. 

Remember, when we fall, slip, and are unable to rise again, there is family ready to help us. Our family is the first line ready to support us. Therefore, let us love our family as God has so greatly loved us!

Related Articles:

• What Is Good Enough Parenting?
• Do These 7 Signs of a Happy Family Already Exist in Your Family?
• Effective Ways to Build a Close-Knit and Strong Family
• Building a Spiritually Healthy Family
• Parents' Affection: Prioritizing the Heart, Not Appearance

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