Each one of us is born into a family, whether we want to claim that family or not. Biologically we all have parents and because of that we automatically become part of a family. That small family of a child and parents is connected to a much larger family of grandparents, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins and so on. This family unit is there to give each of us a sense of belonging and an identity.

Spending the past few days with Jen’s family, and reflecting back on my own family upbringing, really has been an awesome experience. It’s great to see such a large family come together as one to celebrate the life of Grandpa Leo. The person who was no doubt the head of the family. It’s evident the love and spiritual guidance he poured into his family was received and is being poured out in the lives of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Isn’t this what family is supposed to be about? Families were made to love each other, be there to support each other and provide the safety net and belonging that each of us will need throughout our lives. Of course no family is perfect, we each have moments of family issues, discord or animosity. When you have a close knit family those times are few and far between and at the end of it all there is still the love of the family.

Unfortunately, not everyone has family memories like these. Many people can’t turn to their families for this type of love and support. For many, the cause of the pain and frustration they are feeling is their family. The unit that is supposed to be there for love and support is providing the pain and discomfort. The arguments and discontent within the family creates a hostile environment. Mark 3:25 (NLT) says, “Similarly a family splintered by feuding will fall apart.” Sometimes the biological family is not the answer to help us face the trials and tribulations of life.

This is why God gave us another family, where the members are joined together under the love and protection of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 5:9 (NLT) says, “Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.” God has given us a spiritual family to provide the ultimate level of support you need. The times when your biological family is not there for support, your spiritual family is there for you. God will never leave us to face our problems alone, this family of believers has been placed in our lives to help us make it through.

The spiritual family I have in my life has been such an important support system. This family stretches to many parts of the world and has been there when needed. My family of believers in Arizona was there during one of the toughest parts of my life and helped me through. They also guided me to my baptism where I was born again in Christ. My family of believers in Virginia is there to love us, pray with us during tough times, support and take part in our ministry and provide gentle correction when needed. The spiritual family provides the safety net needed when life has you down and doubting God. Through their love and support you start to see the love God has for you. Their unconditional love is a shining example of the unconditional love God has for each of us.

There is a support system God has provided for each of us, whether it’s your biological family or the spiritual family. As I’ve said before, we are not made to tackle the problems we face on our own. Community is what we are made for and what better community than a family. Today strive to make your family the safety net it should be for all it’s members. In your biological family and  your spiritual family create an environment where unconditional love is at the center. Provide a family where everyone can feel safe, protected, loved and energized to fight the battles of life and become who God has called them to be.

Truth in Love! ~ Chuck