1 Tim. 5:1-2 Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father. Treat younger men like brothers, [2] older women like mothers, younger women like sisters, in all purity.

In First Timothy chapter 5, verses 1 and 2, the apostle Paul advises Timothy on how to relate effectively to individuals who make up various groups in the church. Paul’s advice was that Timothy handle people in various age groups as he would members of his own family. Once again, we see that the home is the training ground for relationships and ministry in the church and the world.

It is so important that we learn how to develop and maintain healthy relationships in our homes. If we fail to learn these lessons at home, it will greatly diminish our ability to relate properly to others. This is why we who are parents must faithfully teach our children these skills if we want them to succeed and prosper in life. I have seen very gifted and talented people fail to reach their potential because they could not get along with others.

This morning I would like to recommend an excellent resource that will help you in developing and maintaining healthy relationships in your families. It's entitled Peace Making for Families by Ken Sande. The book is primarily a Biblical guide for handling family conflict. More than that, it will teach you how to relate to your family in ways that are Spirit led and glorifying to God.

Healthy families are the foundation of a healthy church and they bring God glory. I'm praying for your families (LVCC). May God be glorified in your homes through healthy relationships!