Family in Crisis
The family was the cornerstone of God's original plan for man. The woman was created out of the man, but made different in form and nature. She was then given back to the man and together they made one whole person. “This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife in such a way that the two become one person.” (Ge.2:24) One completed the other. The woman was perfectly designed to carry the couple's offspring until the baby was mature enough to find it's way into the world. She was equipped with a softer, more nurturing character so the baby could feel safe and secure upon arrival. They were to teach their children about God and all his benefits so they could live happy, prosperous lives.“Teach a child to choose the right path, and when he is older, he will remain upon it.”(Prov. 22:6) According to the PEW Research Center, the traditional American family has taken a nosedive since the 1950's when 75% of all families consisted of first time married husband, wife and two children. Today, first-time marrieds with children are closer to 40%. People are choosing to co-habitat rather than marry with commitment. The result is an increase in single-parent households robbing the children of their two parent birthright.
To disobey God's advice in this matter can be a crushing experience. David, the great King of Israel, a man after God's own heart made a fatal mistake when he ignored God's trusted counsel. David took many mistresses and had children with them in his rise to power. The most famous was Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, a military officer. David ordered the warrior Uriah to the battlefront so he would surely be killed and then took Bathsheba for his own. It was a mistake that plagued him the rest of his life. Because of his contempt for family matters, David was beset with heartache the rest of his life, including incest and murder in his household. “Why, then, have you despised the laws of God and done this horrible deed? For you have murdered Uriah and stolen his wife. Therefore murder shall be a constant threat in your family from this time on because you have insulted me by taking Uriah’s wife. I vow that because of what you have done, I will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man, and he will go to bed with them in public view.” (II Sam. 9-11)
Any way but God's way, is the wrong way!
David paid a terrible price for disobeying God. His home was a disaster for as long as he lived. Strong families create strong nations; when the family breaks down, the nation is not far behind. The next time you hear someone ask, what in the world is going on? Look around, it is the breakdown of the God-ordained family unit. It does not take a village to raise a child, it only takes two God loving parents who are willing to follow His advice. “ And now a word to you parents. Don’t keep on scolding and nagging your children, making them angry and resentful. Rather, bring them up with the loving discipline the Lord himself approves, with suggestions and godly advice.” (Ep. 6:4) For more about Gods plan for families read “Beam me up Commander” its free!
