To catch up on our adventure through 1 Timothy, click here and read from the bottom post up.
"Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame. [8] If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."
I think these verses are pretty clear. Caring for your family is one of the basic fundamental ways we live out our faith as Christians. In fact, Paul even questions your salvation if you don't care for your family! Even most unbelievers know to care for their own!
It reminds me that no matter what my ministry is, no matter what my spiritual gifts and strengths and personality traits are, no matter what my job description is as a "professional minister" (or as a volunteer minister)...one of my main responsibilities is to lead and take care of my family--including spouse, children, parents, and extended family.
One good reason to take good care of your parents is that your children are watching your example, and before you know it, you will be the aging parent, and your children will treat you like you treated your parents!
As a footnote, I think these verses can also serve as a warning to divorced couples, especially to the divorced dad who refuses to pay child support. Deadbeat dads who call themselves "Christian" are a disgrace to Christianity!
So don't deny the faith...take good care of your family!
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