A Model for Imperfect People

Scripture – Colossians 3:18-21: ¹⁸Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. ¹⁹Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. ²⁰Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. ²¹Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This describes, it seems to me, a perfect household. The context for all family members here is a common Christian faith. I know very well some of these phrases are not popular in today’s culture – especially the one about wives submitting to their husbands. At the same time, as we all live under the wider experience of submitting to Christ, all these phrases and words are affected. So I see here a perfect outline for imperfect people. We all have our own responsibilities. As a husband and father, my job is not to focus on what the others are to do. My job is to love my wife and encourage my children.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will do that today. I’ll be intentional about it. It’s one thing to say, “I love you.” It’s another to demonstrate that.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you have always loved and encouraged me. As I have practiced (imperfectly as it may be) submitting to you and obeying you, you have never taken advantage of me. You’ve always done the best for me. Teach me to live out my faith at home. Remind me that this is a primary area of service and witness.