But, Were Not a Perfect Family

1
But, Were Not a Perfect Family

• What to do when struggling with your family

2
Introduction

• Within a spectrum of families that enjoy the
  fruit of being biblically blessed, not one is
  close to true perfection.
• Husbands and wives dont always do what theyre
  suppose to for or toward each other or their
  children.
• Children are not always perfect in their
  obedience to parents or relationships with their
  siblings.
• In other words, biblically blessed families are
  made up of imperfect (sinful) people.

3
Introduction

• There are families within the body of Christ,
  however, where only one (or a minority) of its
  members strive to live according to Gods
  pleasure.
• These are family members who live with chronic
  heart-aches as their walk with the Lord clashes
  with other family members.
• Even in these situations there is hope through
  faith, helping brethren, and the loving
  providential workings of God.

4
Scenarios of Heartache For Many Christians

• Difficult situations brethren (as parents or
  children) experience
• Being married to a non believer or an unfaithful
  (to the Lord) spouse.
• Having children or parents who refuse to obey the
  gospel or one who fell away from the Lord.
• Having a spouse who doesnt his/her role(s) as a
  parent or spouse or one that is abusive.
• Having Christian parents and/or siblings who are
  far from being Christ-like in their daily walk.

5
Scenarios of Heartache For Many Christians

• In each of the above circumstances the often
  associated feelings take place.
• Guilt.
• Anger.
• Sadness.
• Depression.

6
Improving Your Family Situation

• Things that you can do.
• Consider your situation rejoice pray give
  thanks. 1 Thess. 517
• Ask your brethren for help (this may be hard when
  brethren dont appear interested in helping).
• Give up man-made solutions to your problems. 1
  Pet. 310-12
• Be patient with your family and God. Gal. 69

7
Improving Your Family Situation

• Things brethren can do.
• Pray for your brethren in difficult situations.
• Be a good listening ear or crying shoulder.
• Help when asked. Gal. 610

8
Improving Your Family Situation

• Things only the Lord can do. Isa. 558-9
• Gods ways are higher than yours. cp. Gen.
  151-4 1715-19 Gal. 427-31
• Gods timing may be different than yours. Cp.
  Gen. 5015-20
• Grow in your trust in Him for things to turn out.
  Rom. 828
• God will give the increase. Cp. 1 Cor. 36-7

9
Conclusion

• The family struggles that numerous Christians go
  through if we knew the details and emotions
  involved would be gut wrenching.
• We need to be able to share in each others
  burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ for
  the sake of having as many biblically blessed
  families as possible.
• In the end, all things work for good even
  families with various difficulties through the
  lives of those who love Him.