“Family Practice” generally refers to the work of a doctor providing continuing and comprehensive health care for individuals and families within a community. However, let us consider “family practice” as it would relate to our spiritual health; our family connection being revealed in the actions of our life.
Perhaps there are activities which readily come to mind that are customary within our immediate family. There may even be specific practices an individual family might become known for. As we consider to whom our life is truly connected, we must understand how that will directly impact our life practice. What is that family of which we are children?
During interaction with some who claimed their link to being children of Abraham (John 8:39) and then children of God (John 8:41), Jesus drew attention to a “family practice” of a different connection. We read. . .
“(42) Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. I came not of my own accord, but he sent me. (43) Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. (44) You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”” (John 8:42-44 ESV)
Jesus noted their actions were neither in line with either Abraham (John 8:39-40) nor God. Rather, their actions were in harmony with the desire of the devil.
John also noted this contrast in “family practice” in writing. . .
“(7) Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. (8) Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. (9) No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. (10) By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” (1 John 3:7-10 ESV)
Whatever marks the practice reveals the family connection. Regardless of verbal claim, our actions will speak for themselves. It is in living as children of God that we will be drawn into living a healthy life of righteousness. May we surrender to the will of our Heavenly Father and so be clearly identified as His children.
Have a great day WITH THE FAMILY LINK CLEARLY WITH GOD!
Carl
