Paul's example and his message provide reason for us to feel secure in God's hands, that we might not suffer discouragement before Him.

There is one common analogy used throughout the New Testament regarding the local church. It is not a business, farm, team, school, or hospital, though those word pictures are frequently used by us to convey various dimensions of congregational life. The most often used analogy is that of a family. God is our Father; we are called His offspring—sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, even fellow heirs.

The Apostle Paul prayed to God on the Ephesians' behalf that they would be filled with the love of Christ and the strength of His Spirit.

The Bible contains the secrets our Heavenly Father knows and little by little as you read His book, the more the secrets are revealed.

One definition for family is “a museum of memories.” As you think of your family, what pictures hang in the gallery of your mental images? What kind of memories are you creating for your family now?

The road to maturity is often long and difficult, but the rewards are well worth the journey, as you become a person who has a heart for both God and mankind.

Living harmoniously as a family is an ongoing, intentional journey. The beginning of that journey is marked by great anticipation and genuine excitement. A bride and groom have high hopes and great dreams as they start out life together. However, as in all journeys, unexpected challenges pop up, including the arrival of children, which requires the couple to cultivate valuable parenting skills—without a handbook! At each age, from preschool through elementary school, each child requires his or her parents to make adjustments along the way to keep the relationships harmonious.

A perfect family is not achievable. There will always be disagreements and the clashing of wills. However, through Christ a home filled with grace, forgiveness, and love is achievable.