Day 17: Like a Family
Why did God create the Church to be like a family? Right from the start, Jesus made His followers as special as His own mom and siblings.

Why did God create the Church to be like a family? Right from the start, Jesus made His followers as special as His own mom and siblings. “Pointing to his disciples, [Jesus] said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother" (Matthew 12: 49-50). That is why we can call each other “brothers” and “sisters” in Christ.

"And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10: 24-25

What is a Family?
Think about all the benefits of a family. A family provides a warm, safe place for you to call home. It gives you your sense of security and identity, and teaches you the difference between right and wrong. Your family feeds and clothes you. It is in a family that you learn how to love your siblings and respect your parents. And it is in a family that you discover who you are and how you can contribute to the world.

"I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD." Psalm 122: 1

We Need Each Other
God wants you to have a spiritual family in a local church. A young baby can’t be expected to feed himself, change his diaper, and teach himself all the things he needs to know as an adult. Just the same, God knows you need the guidance of a pastor, the care of other Christians, and the safety and support of a good church home to help you grow as a Christian. Listen to what the Bible says about it: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Take a moment and ask God to lead you to the right church, if you don’t yet have one. And if you do, ask God to speak to you about the church family you do have and how you can contribute.

"And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common." Acts 2: 44

What is your family like? How does it encourage you to know you're God's child, part of His forever Family?