What can we learn about family obligations from Judges 19:9? Text of the Verse “When the man got up to depart with his concubine and his servant, his father-in-law, the girl’s father, said to him, ‘Look now, the day is waning toward evening. Please spend the night. See, the day is nearly over; stay here and enjoy yourself. Then tomorrow you can get up early and be on your way home.’” (Judges 19:9) Family Obligation Principles Observed • Hospitality begins at home: the father-in-law sees it as his duty to provide food, shelter, and safety for his daughter and son-in-law. • Protection over convenience: traveling after dark was dangerous (cf. John 11:9-10). Insisting they stay the night shows family members must value one another’s well-being above schedules. • Respect for elders’ counsel: the visiting husband listens to repeated advice; honoring parental wisdom fulfills Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:2. • Joyful fellowship: “enjoy yourself” underscores relational warmth, echoing Psalm 133:1—family bonds thrive when time is shared, not rushed. • Provision of rest before duty: rest tonight, travel tomorrow. Family should encourage healthy rhythms (Mark 6:31). Linking to Wider Biblical Teaching • Genesis 18:1-8—Abraham’s lavish care for guests reveals hospitality as a covenant value. • Ruth 2:8-9—Boaz safeguards Ruth’s labor environment, a relative’s protective role. • Proverbs 6:20—“My son, keep your father’s command…” Family instruction is God-ordained guidance. • 1 Timothy 5:8—failing to provide for household members “is worse than an unbeliever.” Judges 19:9 models tangible provision. • Hebrews 13:2—“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers,” much more to one’s own kin. Practical Applications Today • Create margin in schedules so loved ones never feel rushed out the door; safety and relationship trump convenience. • Invite adult children and in-laws to linger for meals or overnight stays—hospitality honors God even when life feels full. • Heed the insights of older family members; their life experience is a God-given safeguard. • Champion one another’s rest: encourage family to pause, recharge, and start tasks refreshed. • Cultivate an atmosphere of joy—laughter, conversation, and unhurried time together testify to the gospel’s relational fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). |
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