Tuesday, 28^th November 2023

Andrews Ampomah 

TOPIC: ORDERLINESS IN THE HOME

THEME SCRIPTURE: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” – Colossians 3:23

PREPARATORY QUESTION:

1. How well does your home reflect Christ and His authority?

 

In Colossians 3:18-25, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, provides a set of guidelines to ensure order and godliness in every Christian home. Every Christian home should reflect the faith to please God. This is why, in every home:

Wives should submit to their husbands, as is fitting in the Lord (Col 3:18). Paul begins by urging wives to submit to their husbands as the Lord requires. It means to accept or yield to authority and leadership, specifically your husband's. Your husband is God's chosen leader for your home. This submission is respect, not servitude.

God made only one leader at home—your husband. God ordained this structure, so your submission is fitting.

Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them (Col 3:19). Paul urges husbands to love their wives. He also advises loving her as Christ loved the Church and sacrificed for her (Eph 5:25). It means don't beat her, abuse her, or mistreat her. Rather, sacrifice for her and let nothing come between you and her. It also means don't cheat on her but be faithful to her alone. You should be willing to die for her. Beloved husband,

Paul says to study Jesus Christ and how he loved the church and do the same to your wife. Failure to do so goes against God.

 Children obey your parents in everything (Col 3:20). Paul urges children to obey their parents. It pleases God, and he says it is the only commandment with a promise. In Proverbs, the one who curses his parents will have his lamp put out in utter darkness (Prov. 20:20). Disobedience to parents causes many terrible things to happen to children.

Let children go back to apologize to their parents and any elderly person they have mistreated.

Fathers, do not provoke your children (Col 3:21). Fathers are pivotal in their children’s lives. Paul warns fathers not to provoke their children lest they become discouraged. Fathers, spend time with your children, love them, reassure them, and be role models. No father should ever curse his child.

 Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters (Col 3:22). Nowadays, we’ve housekeepers who do eye-service but are terrible when their masters are away. That's ungodly, Paul points out. This is why, after converting Onesimus, Paul sends him to Philemon to make peace. Respect and obedience are required of Christian housekeepers.

 Beloved in Christ, let us examine our ways and resolve to be better at home, following God's word, and putting Jesus first. God bless you.

 

 FURTHER READING – Colossians 2:8-15

 Call to Salvation: If you have not received salvation yet by turning over your life to Jesus Christ, today is your day. Click here to do so. 

 

QUESTION TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. What can you do to keep the peace at home??

 

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, help Christian homes across the world to be strong and to make Christ Jesus central in the home life. I affirm that I will from hence ensure my godly contribution in maintaining the peace, and ensuring my home reflects Christ Jesus in all things, Amen.

 

 1-Year Bible Reading Plan

 Esther 3; Esther 4; Amos 8; Philemon 1