Family Matters

My wife, Elizabeth, and I were discussing the other day how we often save all our anger and hostility for those we love the most: our families. And I don't think that it is just a singular incident. I believe that it happens in Christian homes across the U.S. Many times we are extremely patient and forbearing with our friends and acquaintances, but we let loose on our wives, husbands, siblings, parents, and children. Here is an excerpt from Night Light, a book written by James and Shirley Dobson, that addresses this matter:

Isn't it curious how in the midst of a nasty family argument we can shoke our bad mood the instant the telephine rings or a neighbor knocks on the door? Have you ever been brought up short by a small voice questioning such a sudden turn to peaches and cream after 20 minutes of fire and brimstone? Sometimes we treat those we love the worst, and kids are quick to recognize this hypocrisy.

Mark Hatfield, a longtime senator from Oregon and the father of four, said his wife once stung him by saying, "I just wish you were as patient with your children as you are with your constituents."

He isn't alone. We're all guilty, at times, of what might be called "split vision," treating acquaintances with forbearance while losing patience or even heaping contempt on those under our own roof. We assume the worst. We pounce on every shortcoming. We never miss an opportunity to harangue. In the process, we wound the people we care about most.

It's time we cut one another a little slack at home. If we say our spouses, children and parents are the most significant people in our lives, we can prove it by showing them the same kindnesses we would bestow on our most honored guests."

How are you when it comes to matters familial? Do you treat your family with the same patience and respect that you show friends? Are you an equal opportunity family member? Take a look and make sure that you are showing your love to the ones you love the most.