F is for Family

Family is very important.

God established the family when He created Eve for Adam. Scripture tells us that from that time a man shall LEAVE his father and mother... which means to not let them make his decisions for him anymore, but to be his own man and make decisions for this new family... and CLEAVE or cling to his wife... which means to value his wife and her needs and opinions.

We have talked now about how Joseph was going to divorce Mary, but listened to the angel and had faith that he was supposed to stay with her... even though this would cause him and Mary to be excluded. He was a righteous man for doing what God said... and here, he sets the example of leaving and cleaving to his wife and their new family.

Another aspect of Joseph's leadership over his family is that Jesus was known as Joseph's son and as a carpenter by trade... just like Joseph. This tells me that Joseph was a good father to Jesus, and people could see that THAT was true.

*Action*- Let's practice cleaving... show value for the needs and feelings of a family member this week by doing something nice for them... or for part of your week, give each family member a day.