GIVING TO YOUR FAMILY

“But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” – 1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV)

It can be easy to lose sight of God’s priorities for our resources when financial responsibilities pull us in multiple directions. We have discussed giving to God, the church, those in need, and God’s servants, Yet, we must not leave out those closest to us – our families. God’s Word teaches that providing for one’s family is not just a noble act; but a divine mandate.

God established the family as the foundational unit of society wherein He embedded the principle of mutual care and provision. We must not neglect our responsibility to our families under the guise of religious or charitable duties. 

Jesus emphasised this when he rebuked the Pharisees, saying, “God commanded you to ‘Honor our father and your mother’; and ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is a gift to God” – then he need not honour his father or mother.’ Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition.” (Matthew 15:4-6).

Our first financial obligation after meeting our basic needs should be to our family. It’s so serious that Apostle Paul compares failing to do so to denying the faith (1 Timothy 5:8). Neglecting our family contradicts God’s character of love and care.

Financial stewardship is essential in ensuring that the home is a place of stability and peace. However, providing for our families goes beyond meeting immediate material needs, it includes emotional and spiritual investments and long-term support. We can enable the next generation to experience a better quality of life and do more for God and people. “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.” (Proverbs 13:22).

While immediate family is a priority, we are also called to extend help to our extended family when necessary. Joseph exemplified this by providing for his brothers and father during a famine (Genesis 45:11). His financial stewardship fulfilled God’s purpose for his position of influence in preserving the Israelites. We must see that family presents us an opportunity, not a burden, to fulfil His promise to make us conduits of His blessings (2 Corinthians 9:8-9).

Dear believer, understand that giving to your family, beyond a financial duty, reflects God’s love and His design for human relationships. 

You demonstrate your faith in action and align yourself with God’s priorities when you honour your household with your resources.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the gift of family. Teach me to honour you by providing for my loved ones in wisdom and love. Help me to be a faithful steward of the resources you have entrusted to me, prioritising my family while remaining generous to others. Amen.

Bible Reading Plan: I John 4

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