How long has it been since you contacted certain family members because of squabbles? Who in your extended family do you miss?
We are so busy that we often take family for granted. In our minds they will always be there for us even though we have neglected to nurture the relationships. Some family members are “toxic” because of past issues or personal problems, and we’d rather not contact them even though we do love them because they are family.
The biblical account of Joseph gives us some guidance about dealing with difficult family relations. Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery because of his arrogance and their jealousy. God trained Joseph through some difficult circumstances then made him a powerful ruler. When his family needed him most, Joseph had a forgiving heart and provided for them.
Then Joseph settled his father and his brothers and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land… And Joseph provided his father, his brothers, and all his father’s household with food, according to the number of their dependents. Genesis 47:11-12
I admire Joseph because of his ability to forgive and extend love. May I be as forgiving as Joseph for real or imagined offenses from family members. It is my desire to never hurt nor neglect my extended family members.
Which family member do you need to contact today?
Resolved Day 10: I will express my love and concern toward one or more extended family members today.