Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand. Romans 14:4 (NIV)
As a member of your family, you are helping to create the culture of your home, whether you realize it or not. Is it an attractive culture?
Think of your favourite coffee shop or restaurant. It houses an atmosphere that keeps you coming back. You want to spend time there because of its culture.
Your home can have that kind of attractive culture as well—one that keeps family coming back for more. It can be an inviting place where, no matter what, everyone feels loved, accepted and forgiven. This is a great atmosphere for kids to grow up in because it gives them the freedom to become all that they were created to be.
If judgment and fault-finding are the norm in your home, no one will feel free to take risks. This stunts growth. However, when people are loved, accepted unconditionally and forgiven quickly, they become willing to try new things. Family members still confront and coach each other when necessary, but the job of trying to change someone else’s heart is left to Holy Spirit, where it belongs. It’s within this kind of atmosphere that close, loving relationships can develop and everyone has the freedom to grow and change into all that God has created them to be.
The best culture is one where you feel like you belong, just as you are. This week, look for ways to show your family members that they are loved always, accepted just as they are, and forgiven always. As you work together toward growth and change, make your home an attractive, inviting place for everyone to belong.