Protect Your Priorities

In recent weeks we’ve discussed the importance of priorities in the life of the family. Biblical priorities—God, Family, and Church—are crucial to a healthy home.

While it can be a challenge to establish these priorities if they’re not in place already, it’s also necessary to protect them once they are in place. Make a firm commitment to keeping your priorities in line.

This doesn’t mean sinking into legalism. You may miss church for a week or two because of vacation or sickness. That’s OK. Just don’t get into the habit of missing.

You may go through an extra-demanding season of work, requiring you to put in additional hours or travel over a weekend or two. Don’t stress about it, but make sure your employer knows that you’re committed to your family above your work.

Remember that our God is a gracious God. He doesn’t require legalistic conformity, but He does require honest commitment to do what we know is right—and to repent and change when we are wrong.

This week, take a look at the successful families around you. You’ll notice that they have practices, habits, and traditions that keep them on course. Their lives may look easy from the outside, but don’t be fooled: they require effort.

Successful families take daily pains to live correctly. These humble attempts bring God’s blessings and produce notable gains for a marriage and family. A successful family is no accident.

It sounds hard, but with daily dependence upon God and a solid commitment to never give up or surrender, I believe you can make it.

Why am I so optimistic? Because I made it.

Decades ago, Karen and I set out on this journey toward re-prioritizing our family. I was ignorant and immature at the time, but I made up my mind that I’d pay whatever price was necessary to make things right with God and my family.

The process started with my commitment and continued with cautious, consistent work. But the most important thing was that God sustained it. When I failed—and that was often—God was gracious to help me and pick me up. Today I’m happy. I’m different. I’m new, and so is our marriage.

The same God who transformed Karen’s and my marriage can help you, too! Make a commitment now to God and your family, then remember the powerful promise of Psalm 19:7–11:

The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever.
The decrees of the LORD are firm, and all of them are righteous.

They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb.
By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.