In what ways can we prioritize family as Job did in Job 1:2? Contextual Snapshot Job 1:2 simply reports, “And he had seven sons and three daughters.” Even in this brief statement, Scripture spotlights family first—before wealth, reputation, or accomplishments (listed later in vv. 3–5). Job’s biography opens with his children because that is where his own priorities lay. What Job’s Example Teaches • Family is the primary blessing God highlights in Job’s life. • A large household required intentional investment—relational, spiritual, and material (see vv. 4–5). • Job actively safeguarded his children’s spiritual well-being, offering sacrifices “regularly” (v. 5). Practical Ways to Prioritize Family Today 1. Value Children as Gifts • Psalm 127:3—“Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from Him.” • Celebrate each child as a divine trust, not an interruption to personal goals. 2. Lead Spiritually • Deuteronomy 6:6–7—teach God’s words “diligently to your children.” • Establish family worship: Bible reading, singing, conversation about the day in light of Scripture. 3. Pray and Intercede Regularly • Job offered burnt offerings “over and over again” for each child (Job 1:5). • Philippians 4:6—lift every need to God; mention family members by name. 4. Be Present and Engaged • Ephesians 6:4—fathers are to “bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” • Set aside devices, guard mealtimes, and attend events that matter to your spouse and children. 5. Provide Responsibly • 1 Timothy 5:8—“If anyone does not provide for his relatives… he has denied the faith.” • Budget and plan so family needs—material and educational—are met before luxuries. 6. Cultivate Shared Joy • Job’s sons “held feasts in their homes” and included their sisters (Job 1:4). • Schedule regular celebrations: birthdays, milestones, simple game nights. 7. Model Integrity • Proverbs 20:7—“The righteous man walks in integrity; blessed are his children after him.” • Confess sins, keep promises, speak truthfully. 8. Foster Reconciliation Quickly • Colossians 3:13—“Bear with one another and forgive…” • Do not let resentment linger; practice apologies and forgiveness openly. Supporting Scriptures at a Glance • Joshua 24:15—“As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” • Malachi 4:6—turning hearts of fathers to children. • Proverbs 22:6—train up a child in the way he should go. • 3 John 4—“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” Putting It into Practice • Review your calendar: does family get prime time or leftover minutes? • Examine your budget: do spending patterns reflect a commitment to spouse and children? • Create a simple weekly rhythm—worship, work, rest, play—where every member knows they belong. Like Job, let the first line of your life’s story read: “He had sons and daughters”—and everything else flow from there. |
    |