In what ways can we support family members struggling with belief in Christ? Setting the Scene “ For even His own brothers did not believe in Him.” (John 7:5) Jesus knows firsthand what it feels like when family members wrestle with unbelief. That single verse assures us that our Savior understands the ache, and His later work in His brothers’ lives models hope for ours. Learning from Jesus’ Own Family • Unbelief can exist even in a home filled with truth. (Mark 6:4) • Persistent love and witness eventually bore fruit—James and Jude later became devoted followers and Spirit-inspired writers. • God’s timing differs from ours; the cross and resurrection were key to His brothers’ conversion. (John 20:31) Practical Ways to Stand With Loved Ones • Live the gospel consistently – Let your conduct preach louder than your words. (1 Peter 3:1) – Keep speech “gracious, seasoned with salt.” (Colossians 4:6) • Share Scripture naturally – Faith grows by hearing Christ’s word. (Romans 10:17) – Offer verses that comfort, not condemn. (Matthew 11:28) • Pray without ceasing – “The prayer of a righteous person has great power.” (James 5:16) – Intercede by name, daily, trusting God’s desire that “everyone come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) • Show mercy toward doubt – “Have mercy on those who doubt.” (Jude 22–23) – Create safe space for honest questions instead of shutting them down. • Engage, don’t isolate – Invite them into Christian community gatherings where love is evident. – Share testimonies of changed lives; real stories often speak louder than arguments. • Answer objections with gentleness – A “gentle answer turns away wrath.” (Proverbs 15:1) – When unsure, admit it and research together. • Guard against coercion – Love respects freedom; God draws, He doesn’t force. – Keep conversation relational, not merely theological. • Offer resources – Thoughtful books, podcasts, or videos that address their specific hurdles. – Encourage reading a Gospel together; start with John. • Celebrate small steps – Attending church, asking a question, reading a verse—all are progress. – Express genuine appreciation for openness. Guarding Our Own Hearts • Persevere in doing good; don’t grow weary. (Galatians 6:9) • Keep hope alive—love “believes all things, hopes all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:7) • Remember ultimate allegiance is to Christ, yet family bonds matter deeply. (Luke 8:21) Trusting God’s Timing • Salvation belongs to the Lord. (Acts 16:31) • Harvest often comes after unseen growth beneath the soil. • Stand firm, love well, speak truth, pray hard—then rest in God’s faithful character. |
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