Harmony in homes and families is a priority to God. Colossians 3:18 – 4:1
“Going to church doesn’t interest me nearly as much as to see that CHRIST IS THE RULER IN THE HOME! THAT HE IS THE HEAD, that we have peace in our homes and that we have harmony, that’s where we can hear the voice of the Lord”. Lydia Prince, Mother In Israel, Part 2 YouTube.
Quoting again the above statement by Lydia Prince, whose home was her place of ministry, to her adopted children and to all who called there. Will the home and family become an important centre for ministry in the days ahead as the world seeks to bring greater restrictions on personal freedom? It wouldn’t surprise me that the true body of believers, will in places have to move out of public view.
Peace and Harmony between the two genders, husband and wife. The cornerstone of the family (Christ is still head over the entire household when He’s permitted).
18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
The first and most important relationship in the home is identified as that between husband and wife. Each of the relationships mentioned have two parts (nothing is one sided) and both need to be in place to bring peace and harmony.
Peace and Harmony between two generations, parents and children.
20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
21 Fathers or parents, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
Children are told to obey their parents but they in turn shouldn’t treat the children harshly or make their lives bitter. Again there two sides to every coin and every relationship.
22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favour, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favouritism.
The longest discussion of the three relationships mentioned is that of slaves and masters. Those serving must do it whether they’re being watched or not and with their whole hearts. This is way to ensure God’s greatest blessings on our lives, now and in eternity – serving with our whole hearts.
4 Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.
Even the most important rulers here on earth still have a master in Heaven (whether we know it or not) and so the section ends with this warning to treat those serving well!
It’s interesting that the next section of Paul’s letter begins with the admonition to, ‘Devote yourselves to prayer!’ Unless these key relationships are in order, our prayers may not be answered by heaven.