“Children, do what your parents tell you. This is only right. “Honor your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise attached to it, namely, “so you will live well and have a long life.” Fathers, don’t exasperate your children by coming down hard on them. Take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master.” (Ephesians 6:1-4; The Message)
God values relationship, whether it is our relationship with Him or our relationships with those within our family. In concept we would all agree that relationship is important to us. We may even say that it is our top priority. Somehow the practical application at times is lost; we assume that our relationships are strong to many times our own detriment and that of our family. I guess I view relationship like a delicious meal that has all the right ingredients. It is so amazing and you enjoy it so that you want everyone to try it. There was a day when I would be satisfied with just any dish thrown together that was edible. Now however thanks to the Food Network I want to taste an explosion of flavor in a meal. In every meal you have to have the right ingredients, some spices you just shake on, and others may take time to prepare, it may even take longer than it would to make the meal itself. Though time consuming the ingredients make the meal and bring people back. Throughout the scriptures we find numerous examples of relationship both given in the form of a command, as found in the commandments that were given to the nation of Israel, to those numerous life lessons that we learn from Jesus. The scriptures give us truly a number of examples or ingredients that we can add to our lives. In Ephesians, children are reminded to honor their Father and Mother, and Parents are reminded not to crush our children’s spirit. We are also reminded of the promise of how to live a good and long life. A number of years ago I committed to add the right ingredients to my relationships. I couldn’t rely on my limited knowledge and experience to define my relationships. I didn’t go out and buy the latest best seller on the topic. I began by reaching out to God in prayer. Next I began to add other ingredients such as the lessons found in the scriptures, to the practical examples learned from others to the countless resources that are available to us today. Relationships will not happen via osmosis, just like a delicious meal won’t just happen by chance. It takes work, but if you make it a priority you will enjoy an irresistible relationship with God, family and friends. “Lord, I ask that you give me wisdom that I would add the right things to my life and my family that we would be irresistible and bring honor to you.” Amen. -DR
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