By
Shelby G. Floyd
Titus 2:1-5
But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.
NKJV
A HAPPY HOME
In the office of a family counselor, I read these words on a plaque: “Let’s put the word ‘fun’ back in the word dysfunctional!” In functional homes each member of the family will have joyful fun in everything that is morally and religiously right.
A JOYFUL CONGREGATION
A joyful congregation is made up joyful people who have joyful homes. Most people want to have a happy home. To have a happy home is no accident. It involves work, planning and cooperation. Above all else, a happy home is a home that respects and abides by God’s instructions for each member of the fam¬ily.
A FUNCTIONAL HUSBAND/FATHER
A happy home has a father that loves his wife as he loves himself (Ephesians 5:25, 28). He provides for the material well-being of the family (1 Timothy 5:8), he also provides the spiritual training for the children (Ephesians 6:4, Proverbs 22:6). This involves correction and discipline (Proverbs 29:15, 17). His goal should be to govern his home well (1 Timothy 3:4-5).
A FUNCTIONAL WIFE/MOTHER
In a happy home the wife—mother also has responsi¬bilities. She is to be a virtuous and faithful wife (Proverbs 12:4; 31:10-30). She is to avoid a brawling and quarrel¬some spirit (Proverbs 21:9). As she matures, she is to teach and train the younger women to love their husbands and children (Titus 2:3-5; 1 Timothy 5:14).
FUNCTIONAL CHILDREN
It is also incumbent upon the children to recognize and carry out their God given responsibilities in order for the home to be all that it should be. From the beginning chil¬dren have been commanded by God to respect and obey their parents (Matthew 15:4; Exodus 20:12). In the ideal home a wise son or daughter will hear and heed the instruction of the father and mother (Proverbs 1:8; 3:1, 3). Paul states that this was the first command of God with a promise attached to it—long life upon the earth (Ephesians 6:1-3).
Copyright © 2011 2017 Shelby G. Floyd, All Rights Reserved
Shelby G. Floyd
Heartland Church of Christ
1693 West Main Street
Greenwood, Indiana 46142