How can we apply Ephesians 5:29 in our family relationships? Understanding "Nourish and Cherish" Ephesians 5:29: “For no one has ever hated his own body, but he nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church.” • “ Nourish ” (Greek: ektrephō) pictures feeding, rearing, and providing every resource for healthy growth. • “ Cherish ” (Greek: thalpō) means to warm, protect, and tenderly care for—much like keeping a small bird close to the breast. • Paul’s analogy moves from the way we instinctively care for our own bodies to the way Christ unceasingly cares for His church. Families are called to imitate that same pattern. Seeing Christ’s Example • John 10:11—Christ “lays down His life for the sheep.” Nourishing love gives, even sacrificially. • 1 Peter 2:25—He is “the Shepherd and Overseer” of our souls. Cherishing love watches over and safeguards. • Romans 8:35–39—Nothing separates us from His love; therefore, our family care should be unwavering and secure. Practical Ways to Nourish in Marriage • Provide daily encouragement (Hebrews 3:13). • Invest time—shared meals, devotions, and unhurried conversation. • Support spiritual growth—pray together, read Scripture aloud (Colossians 3:16). • Guard one another’s rest and health—schedule, diet, medical needs. • Handle finances responsibly so needs are met (1 Timothy 5:8). Practical Ways to Cherish in Marriage • Use gentle words—“love is kind” (1 Corinthians 13:4). • Show affection—touch, eye contact, small notes. • Affirm value and uniqueness—Proverbs 31:28 highlights praise within the home. • Protect from emotional harm—no ridicule, sarcasm, or dismissiveness (Colossians 3:19). • Stand together in trials—“bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). Nourishing and Cherishing Children • Ephesians 6:4—“bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Nourish with truth; cherish with patience. • Proverbs 22:6—shape their path early through consistent teaching. • Colossians 3:21—avoid harshness that “discourages” them; cherish with encouragement. • Provide physical care—healthy meals, sufficient sleep, safe environment. • Model grace—quick confessions and forgiveness show Christ’s heart. Guarding Our Words and Tone • Proverbs 18:21—“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” • Ephesians 4:29—speak only what “is good for building up.” • James 1:19—“quick to listen, slow to speak.” Cherishing love listens first. Meeting Physical and Emotional Needs • Matthew 25:35–40—serving Christ by serving those under our roof. • 1 John 3:17–18—love “in action and truth,” not merely in words. • Acts 20:35—“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” A nourishing home gives freely. Consistency in Daily Life • Deuteronomy 6:6–7—teach God’s words “when you sit, walk, lie down, and rise.” Nourish through constant, everyday discipleship. • Psalm 119:11—store the Word in the heart; then family decisions flow from it. • Hebrews 13:8—because Jesus is “the same yesterday and today and forever,” our love can remain steady and predictable. Encouragement Toward Christlike Love Christ never withholds nourishment or affection from His bride. By drawing on His indwelling strength (Philippians 4:13) we can mirror that same nourishing, cherishing love—tending to the spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being of every family member until our homes echo the heart of our Savior. |
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