Wise Words for Better Family Living
"Serve wholeheartedly, remembering that you are serving the Lord, not people." Ephesians 6:7 (KSB)
In Ephesians 6:1–4, Paul gives us wise words for better family living. He begins by referencing the Old Testament, reminding us of God’s command: "Children, obey your parents... Honor your father and your mother." This is the first commandment with a promise that life may go well with us and our days may be long upon the earth. Sometimes, we struggle with this commandment because of what our parents did or did not do. But the call to honor is not based on their perfection. It is based on the fact that God used them as vessels to bring us into this world. Whether raised by biological parents, adoptive parents, or relatives, we are called to honor them for giving us life.
Interestingly, Scripture says, “Honor your father and your mother.” Not the other way around. Some interpret this metaphorically father representing our thoughts and mother our feelings. Honoring both helps us find balance, for God created us male and female, embodying both strength and nurture. Paul also instructs parents, especially fathers: “Do not provoke your children to wrath.” Children are called to honor their parents, but parents are equally called to respect and nurture their children. Parenting is not about control but about training, guiding, and loving with patience and care.
This creates a beautiful picture of mutual responsibility, children honoring parents, parents respecting children, husbands and wives loving each other, teachers and students learning together. Every healthy relationship is built on both reverence and respect. Paul also reminds us that honoring comes with a reward: long life and well-being. Many people struggle in life because of unhealed wounds with their parents. Sometimes healing requires counseling, prayer, or even honest conversations. As we release bitterness and embrace honor, we position ourselves for peace and blessing.
Parents, too, have their reward. When you raise your children in the ways of the Lord, you see the generational impact of your love and faith. Even if children stray, the foundation you laid will remain, echoing in their hearts for years to come.
Wise Words for Better Service
Paul also gives encouragement for how we serve others (Ephesians 6:5–8):
1. Be Focused (v. 5) – Serve with a willing heart and attentive spirit.
2. Be Faithful (vv. 6–7) – Work with sincerity, as though serving Christ, not people.
3. Be Fulfilled (v. 8) – Remember that the Lord rewards every good we do.
📖 Reflection: What unresolved issues with your parents or family relationships might God be calling you to heal so that it may be well with you?
💡 Action Step: Take one step this week—whether prayer, conversation, or journaling—toward honoring your parents and strengthening family bonds.
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