For the next few days, let’s think about how we can be better at living in harmony with others. First, let’s look at harmony within our homes and families. Any time we find it easier to talk to outsiders than to our own family, we should use that as a warning that something might be broken, and urgently needs fixing. There are times when it’s not appropriate to talk to our family about something, or God’s put someone outside of our family to support us through a particular issue; but He designed families to be a support system, and a safety net to catch us when we fall, so if we find we’re always turning to others, we need to ask for His guidance to help restore His original design. (However, if your family is putting you at risk or you feel unsafe with them, make sure you tell someone you trust and get help.) God’s Word gives us the tools for creating harmony within our home: ‘Always be humble and gentle. Patiently put up with each other and love each other. Try your best to let God’s Spirit keep your hearts united. Do this by living at peace’ (vv. 2-3 CEV). There are four important words in these verses: ‘humble’, ‘gentle’, ‘patiently’, and ‘united’. Without those essential ingredients, it won’t work! One thing we can start doing immediately is to pray for every member of our families. We won’t always agree with them, but with God’s help we can learn to value, love, and respect each other. Every family has its ups and downs, but inviting God into our homes and families each day can bring a sense of peace, love and unity that completely changes the atmosphere.

What Now?

Take time today to pray for each member of your family individually. If you can, ask them if there’s anything in particular they would like prayer for, or just pray as you feel the Holy Spirit is leading you.