When Your Family Doesn’t Understand You
The Bible says: ‘Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see Him. They stood outside and sent word for Him to come out and talk with them. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for You.” Jesus replied, “Who is My mother? Who are My brothers?” Then He looked at those around Him and said, “Look, these are My mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is My brother and sister and mother.”’ (Mark 3:31–35 NLT)
One of your greatest tests of faith will be family members who don’t understand you or share your values and vision. And it calls for wisdom and grace on your part. Despite the fact His family didn’t understand Him, Jesus continued to care for them and respect them. However, He refused to let them dictate to Him or alter the assignment He believed God had given Him. His priority was the people who had gathered to hear what He had to say.
Are you feeling misunderstood and rejected by your family today? Then pray this prayer: ‘Father, help me to live as Jesus lived; facing head-on those who misunderstand me, hearing their words and feeling the sting of their accusations, yet learning to live above them. Help me to be gracious towards the one whose life is being consumed by resentment and crippled by fear. Bring me full circle to a place of peace, so that no matter who may misunderstand me, I’m able to go on like Jesus went on—all the way to the cross, the resurrection, and the prize. In Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.’