About thirty-five years ago, I remember hearing my Humanities professor say in one of our classes as we were studying the downfall of the Roman Empire that when the family system breaks down, the society soon follows.As an eighteen year old in the early seventies growing up in a rural Midwest community with a stable family, that seemed hard to imagine.I wondered how something like that could actually come about.Today, unfortunately, it is reality and fact.Over 50 per cent of those who marry end in divorce and many of the rest have dysfunctional homes.The government now defines a family as a group of people living in a location for a given amount of time.This is due to the roving family structure.
Yet, God intended one wife for one man as we read in Genesis 2: 24“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”While we read of situations of polygamy in the lives of Jacob, the Kings of Israel and Judah, and others, there was trouble in most cases.In the New Testament, the qualifications for a bishop and a deacon were to be a “husband of one wife.” Please see 1Timothy 3:2 and Titus 1:6.
Where are the men who, after making the vow, “for better or worse, sickness or health, till death do we part,” keep that vow to his wife?Where is the father who, once having helped bring children into the world, makes it his responsibility to train them up in the things of the Lord and to be a productive citizen?Men, whether you realize it or not, you are responsible to your children and your wife for God has put you as the head.“For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.”(Ephesians 5:23)You are responsible for the wife and children by taking them to the house of God and training them up in the things of God.Too often the wife is the spiritual figure in the family but this is not scriptural.It happens only because the man is not doing his part.
Wives, you are the “keepers at home.” (Titus 2:5)Without your touch in the home, it seems barren because God put in a woman that quality of creativeness, tenderness toward children, and the other attributes for being a wife.The children and grandchildren spend more time with you.Are you handing down to them a faith that will sustain them through trials and eventually give them an eternal home in heaven?
Let’s not forget those who are raising children in a one-parent home for various reasons.The LORD knows your need and will help you if you depend on him.Trust in him.As he says in Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
But what is a home without Christ?Fathers are commanded to “train up the child in the way he should go” as we read in Proverbs 22:6 as well as in Ephesians 6:4, “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Without Christ and the Word of God in the home, there is no axiom for right and wrong as governed by God’s Word.Without Christ and the church in the home, there is no long range goal for a family.Without Christ and the church and parents that are faithful to the house of God and living the Word of Life at home, children have no good example to follow.We have few really good role models today!
Sir, when is the last time your children or wife heard you pray or saw you read the Bible?Ma’am, when was the last time your husband or child saw or heard you pray or even give a table grace?When was the last time your family prayed together?I know, once they’re teenagers, it becomes very hard, but if you have little children, pray together with them now while you can because the day may, and probably will, come when you won’t be able to.I remember praying with my wife and children every night and while my children are all grown now, I still cherish those memories.All my children are attending church, three out of the four in mine.I’m not boasting as I’ve not done everything right as a father but I’m just trying to encourage you as God can help you too.
If you’re a grandparent, you can instill things of God in your grandchildren.Maybe your children have gone wayward but you can sometimes reach them through your grandchildren.Don’t give up!Keep praying and being a good example.
The glue that holds our society together is the fundamental teachings found in the Word of God, or the Bible. The oldest and most profound institution outlined in the Bible that can keep us as a nation is the family. The public schools can’t teach it.The media won’t talk about it.Some churches don’t even preach it.It’s up to you.How are things with you and God?For you’re children’s sake and your own soul’s sake, get Christ back into your heart and begin to live for him, seeking his strength through his Word and prayer daily.Then pass it on to your family.
Tif's Corner Tiffany Helpenspell
Growing up in the Purdy house was always a little hectic. Between nursing home services, radio broadcasts, and school, we were always on the go. My father was behind all these efforts to reach others. This being the month we honor fathers I just wanted to take a little time to tell you about my father.
A lot of people know dad as an accomplished horn player or musician, or a great preacher or teacher. To others he is known as a computer technician who helps rehabilitate others, helping them find their way during a tough period in their life. But to the Purdy children, as I know I can speak on behalf of my sisters and brother, he’s much more than a father. He is a role model. He truly believes in what he stands for. He has earned all of our respect, even when we clash with him. We know Dad is unchangeable. That’s been a major part of our life. Each day, when I was at home, he would get up to pray and read his Bible, not just on the good days but every day. He does not let emotions rule his life but practices discipline and love for God. He has been a great father to all of us though we have often let him down and don’t always agree! He still loves us and prays for us every day. I would have to say he is the backbone of our family, always reminding us no matter how life changes, he is not going to. This is a glimpse into the man behind the Purdy clan. Happy Fathers Day Dad!
My Dad Rose Purdy
My Dad He’s always there for me no matter what Even when I disappoint him He’s right there to throw the next ball Or wipe the next tear that may fall When I took my first step he was there As he was there when he walked me down the isle Thanks Dad. I love you!
Our heavenly Father Is always there no matter what Even when we disappoint him When our life turns upside down He’s right there to turn it right side up again When we step out in faith The Lord’s there to honor his promise Thank you Lord. I love you.
top