Biblical Teachings on Prayer
Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope,
patient in affliction,
faithful in prayer.
Pondering Point
One could apply these words of biblical instruction in many different areas of life; family dynamics is definitely one of them.
Since ideal is not a word most people use to describe their family situation, there is plenty of room for the practice of joyful hope, patience in difficult times, and commitment to be faithful in prayer over family matters.
Don’t accept despair or hopelessness over your family; pray about it. Pray to the God of hope (Romans 15:13); Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit who produces the fruit of love, joy and patience in us (Galatians 5:22). It can be had. Don’t buy the lie that your family can’t change or that you can’t change. As Romans 12:1-3 says, "offer yourself to God as a living sacrifice and let Him transform you as He reveals His good, pleasing and perfect will."
Prayer for the Day
Father God, help me maintain a practice of joyful hope, patience in difficult times, and a commitment to be faithful in prayer over family matters. Where changes need to be made, let me lead the way and trust that You will nudge others where needed rather than me pushing the issues. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.