Challenges to Family Unity
Family members outside of the home who participate in Christian values will bolster family unity. Those who do not will be a source of disunity by introducing ideas and concepts to family members (particularly children) that contradict Christianity. Conflicts over core values will inevitably occur. Spouses should discuss how these influences impact their children and talk about the differences in beliefs. Children will want to know why their relatives do not reflect the Lord’s teaching and example. Fathers are responsible to “bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). To maintain family unity, fathers must proactively teach Christian principles.
Family friends who are not Christians will also challenge family unity. Friendships should be chosen wisely. Parents should ask, “What will happen if children visit/stay over at a friend’s house? Will they be exposed to sinful influences?” Smoking, drinking, cursing, gambling, fighting, pornography, and other sins of the flesh leave an indelible imprint upon children who may not have the tools to appropriately respond, especially if an adult encourages such activity. 1 Corinthians 15:33 says, “Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.’”
Often, negative influences will be tolerated in our own homes through television, the internet, social media, texting, and other avenues of electronic communication. Remove negative influences from small children. Educate older children as to why Christians do not engage in those activities. Talk to each other about what the Bible says regarding sin. Such conversations are not easy to have but starting early by explaining to children why Christians do not do certain things will make it easier in the long run. Failing to have such discussions will surely bring disunity to the home!
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley