Scripture Reading: Matthew 12:46–50
Introduction
A. It is so sad to think about the circumstances under which many people are born into this world.
B. Considering the dreadful state of homes in our culture, we should seek more than ever to renew our focus on our families.
Discussion
I. Even great people fail at times to focus on family as they should.
A. David had great failings in this area of his life (2 Samuel 12–18; 1 Kings 1).
B. Lot appears to have lost sight of what was really important for his family (Genesis 13:10; 19:8, 36).
C. If you want a picture of a dysfunctional family, just look at Abraham’s household (Genesis 16–37).
II. Our families can be beautiful if we focus on God’s instructions.
A. We have to make sure that our families are a high priority (Ephesians 6:1–5; 1 Peter 3:1–7; 1 Corinthians 7:12–14).
B. We need to remember that love is a verb (2 Corinthians 12:15; John 15:12–13; 13:1).
C. We need to teach God’s word both with our words and our actions (Deuteronomy 6:6–9, 17–20; 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14–15).
Conclusion
A. As bad as things are for homes in the present day, we need to remember that our families don’t have to become statistics.
B. Although neither we nor our families will ever be perfect, our homes can be beautiful if we will follow where God leads.