How can we support family members in their spiritual journeys, as seen here? Seeing the Journey in Genesis 46:5 “Then Jacob set out from Beersheba. The sons of Israel took their father Jacob and their children and wives in the carts that Pharaoh had sent to transport him.” • Jacob’s sons recognize that their father has a God-given call to move toward Egypt. • They make the journey easier by physically lifting the burden—gathering the family, loading the wagons, steering the entire caravan. • Their support allows Jacob to follow the Lord’s leading without distraction, fear, or exhaustion. Practical Ways to “Provide the Cart” Today 1. Offer physical help – Drives to church or Bible study (cf. Acts 8:31). – Childcare so a spouse or sibling can attend a class or retreat (cf. Galatians 6:2). 2. Share material resources – A Bible, study guide, or devo app (cf. 1 John 3:17). – Covering conference fees or tuition for a discipleship course (cf. Philippians 4:15-16). 3. Give consistent encouragement – Text a verse or send a note after you see growth (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:11). – Celebrate each small step—just as the brothers surely rejoiced each mile their father advanced. 4. Provide a safe, godly atmosphere – Keep your home free from tempting influences (cf. Psalm 101:2-3). – Model worship, prayer, and Scripture reading so others taste and see that the Lord is good (cf. Joshua 24:15). 5. Stand with them in crisis – Fast and pray when they face temptation (cf. 2 Chronicles 20:3-4). – Remain present when doubts surface, like Barnabas staying beside John Mark (cf. Acts 15:37-39). Motivations that Keep Us Supporting • Obedience to God’s design for families—“But if anyone does not provide for his own…he has denied the faith” (1 Timothy 5:8). • Love that reflects Christ’s sacrificial care for the church (cf. Ephesians 5:25). • Hope of shared blessing—“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you and your household will be saved” (Acts 16:31). Encouragement from the Wider Story • Ruth walks with Naomi, pledging “Your God will be my God” (Ruth 1:16-17). • Jethro visits Moses in the desert, bringing wife and sons back into his arms and offering wise counsel (Exodus 18:5-24). • Cornelius gathers relatives to hear Peter’s gospel message, and the whole household receives the Spirit (Acts 10:24,44-48). Putting It Into Practice • Look around the dinner table—who needs a “cart” today? • Commit one concrete act of support this week: a ride, a resource, or a word of life. • Keep the goal in view: family members growing strong in the Lord, journeying together toward the promises He has prepared. |
    |