Family Life That Pleases God

A husband’s position in the family

The Bible says that a husband is the head of the family (1 Cor 11:3). A husband should have only one wife and they should be properly married in the eyes of the law (1 Tim 3:2). Likewise a husband should love his wife, just as he loves himself. He should treat her like Christ treats his church. He should never mistreat her but rather show her respect and honour (1 Peter 3:7).

He should work hard to care for his family and must provide food, clothing and housing; he takes a lead in helping his family to learn about God and His purpose.

A wife’s position in the family

A wife should be a good helper for her husband and should assist her husband in teaching and training their children. They deserve loving care from her. A wife should have a deep respect for her husband.

God requires children to be obedient to their parents. He expects parents to instruct and correct them. Parents should spend time with their children and study the Bible with them, caring for their spiritual and emotional needs and should never discipline them in a harsh or cruel way.

When married, if mates have problems getting along together, they should try to apply biblical counsel. The Bible urges us to show love and forgiveness; God’s word does not encourage separation as a way of solving minor problems.

A wife might choose to leave her husband if he stubbornly refuses to support his family, or if he is violent so that the wife’s life is in danger, or gives so much opposition that he makes her worship impossible (1 Cor 7:10-12).

Bro Nelson Anyals (Amero, Kenya)