In what ways can families honor God as described in Psalm 96:7? Setting the Stage: Psalm 96:7 in Focus “Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.” (Psalm 96:7) Grasping the Call to “Ascribe” • To ascribe is to openly credit, acknowledge, and proclaim. • Families are singled out—honoring God begins at home before it echoes through the nations (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4-7). • The two things to credit Him with are “glory” (His unmatched worth) and “strength” (His sovereign power). Honoring God as a Family: Practical Expressions 1. Daily Worship Atmosphere • Read or recite Scripture aloud together (Colossians 3:16). • Sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs as part of household routine (Psalm 29:1-2). • Keep a visible Bible open or displayed, signaling that His Word reigns in the home. 2. God-Centered Conversation • Link everyday blessings back to His strength: “The Lord provided this meal” (1 Timothy 4:4-5). • Celebrate answered prayer publicly among family members (Psalm 34:3). • Discuss current events or challenges through a biblical lens (Proverbs 3:5-6). 3. Intentional Instruction of Children • Teach God’s mighty acts and attributes at mealtimes, bedtimes, drive times (Deuteronomy 6:7). • Memorize verses that highlight His glory and might, such as Isaiah 40:28-31. • Model repentance and forgiveness so children see His strength perfected in weakness (Ephesians 6:4). 4. Serving Together • Visit the sick, prepare meals, or give generously as a family project (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Tie every act of service back to God’s strength working through you. • Keep records of God’s faithfulness; review them annually to “ascribe” glory afresh. 5. Stewardship of Resources • Budget around giving first (Proverbs 3:9). • Teach kids to tithe from allowances, reinforcing that all strength to gain wealth comes from Him (Deuteronomy 8:18). • Practice gratitude for every provision, big or small. 6. Household Decision-Making • Open and close family meetings with Scripture and prayer (James 1:5). • Evaluate opportunities by asking, “Will this magnify His glory or rely on His strength?” (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Share testimonies of how God directed decisions in the past. Sustaining the Habit of Ascription • Set annual family themes—e.g., “His Glory in 2025,” “His Strength in 2026.” • Mark milestones (birthdays, anniversaries, graduations) with a brief reading of a glory/strength verse. • Invite other families to join in worship nights, multiplying the call of Psalm 96:7 across homes and generations (Matthew 5:16). By continually crediting every good thing to God’s glory and strength, families fulfill Psalm 96:7 and become living testimonies that draw “the nations” to do the same. |
    |