Family

— For the week of August 3, 2008 —

Nowadays you'll find almost everything in the home
— except the family.

He must manage his own family well and
see that his children obey him with proper respect.
— 1 Timothy 3:4

An interesting Newsweek poll showed 49 percent of American fathers do a better job of parenting than their dads did. A majority of dads polled (54 percent) say they share equal parenting responsibilities with their wives, and 24 percent felt they do more than their spouses (51 percent of the mothers claim otherwise).

Whatever the figures, the real issue is how much we are involved in molding our children and grandchildren. Balancing family and ministry can be a difficult task, and the demands of the ministry can easily eclipse the needs of a minister's family.

Paul's admonition to ministers clearly teaches us that our highest calling is to take care of our families.
To find that needed balance:

  • Make sure your children have fun at church.
  • Take a vacation!
  • Maintain regular office hours.
  • Go to your children's sporting events and activities.
  • Date your mate on a regular basis.
  • Make family altar time a priority.
  • Pray for your family daily.

Remember, your family is unique and God-given. Your first and foremost responsibilities of ministry are to them. They will be the greatest fulfillment and blessing in your life!

Taken from The Minister's Little Devotional Book.
Copyright © 1997 by H.B. London Jr. and Stan Toler.
Used by permission of RiverOak Publishing, Tulsa, Okla.
All rights reserved.