The world is a circus full of LGBTQ+ Clowns and winds of change, and sometimes it feels like the core foundations of our lives are under constant attack.
As Christians, we hold the family unit as a sacred gift from God, a cornerstone of our society.
Yet, the truth is, the traditional family is facing relentless challenges. From the casual acceptance of living together without marriage to a blatant disregard for the husband's leadership role, it's easy to feel disheartened.
But we cannot, and will not, let these attacks crush our spirits! God's Word provides a timeless roadmap for building strong, Christ-centered families. Let's delve into these challenges and, even more importantly, into the immense blessings that come from following God's design for our lives.
The Attack on Marriage
The very essence of marriage – a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman – is being systematically eroded. The Bible warns in 1 Timothy 4:1-3 that forbidding marriage is a doctrine of demons, a sign of spiritual deception. Yet, instead of cherishing marriage as a divine institution, so many choose to disregard it completely.
God ordained marriage in those early days of Creation (Genesis 2:18-25). It was meant to be a glorious partnership where husband and wife unite as one flesh. Think about it – your spouse is meant to be your closest companion, your greatest supporter, your confidante. Ephesians 5:31-32 reiterates the sacredness of this union, a reflection of the love between Christ and His Church. And let's not forget Hebrews 13:4, a clear reminder that we must hold marriage in the highest honor and esteem.
Think about those beautiful wedding ceremonies where couples pledge their undying love before God and witnesses. Unfortunately, for some, the magic seems to wear off quickly. The pressures of life, career ambitions, or simply a lack of unwavering faith can lead to broken promises. It breaks my heart when I hear of a couple choosing to follow the world's ways instead of putting in the hard work of upholding their marriage vows.
We're standing in the Gap, and as a believer, it's crucial we remember the extraordinary joy and strength that come from living within God's design for marriage.
The Attack on Husbands
Society often sends a warped message about a husband's role. It downplays his Biblical position as the leader of his home. Ephesians 5:23 clearly states that a husband is the head of the wife, mirroring the way Christ leads the Church. This isn't about a husband lording over his wife or showing superiority. Rather, it speaks to his responsibility as a protector, provider, and spiritual guide. 1 Timothy 2:11-13 reminds us of the beautiful order God designed – Adam was created first, giving him a position of leadership within the family.
But leadership doesn't mean dictatorship! We husbands have a massive responsibility, outlined in passages like Ephesians 5:25 and 1 Peter 3:7 -to lead with sacrificial love and treat our wives with the utmost respect and understanding. Our love for them should overflow, just as Christ's love for the church does.
The Attack on Wives
Sadly, even the godly role of a wife is being relentlessly belittled. The world pushes the narrative that women don't need husbands, that they can succeed and find fulfillment on their own. However, Ephesians 5:22 guides wives towards submission to their husbands, a concept heavily distorted by modern society. Submission, within a God-ordained marriage, isn't about being less-than or being controlled. It speaks to respecting your husband's leadership and working together in partnership for the good of the family.
Let's turn to Proverbs 31, a breathtaking portrait of a virtuous wife. This woman exemplifies strength, dedication to her husband, wise management of the home, and love for her children. Her example might seem outdated to some, but in truth, the calling to put family first, especially as a mother, is one of the most noble and important callings a woman can have. Titus 2:4-5 encourages experienced wives to mentor younger women in the ways of godly homemaking and loving their families.