4:353 – Can You Have Too Much Family Time

#faithbites #faithjourney family

Setting

Ahh, the holidays. A time when you travel, spend time with family, celebrate Christ, give gifts, and get to a point you want to strangle your children or family. Wait…. Did I say that out loud?

After two days in the car, the kids are done and everyone is at each other’s throats. How do you handle this? How can you love your family even when you need a break?

Today’s Questions: Have you experienced this? Is it because you don’t love you family? What does God tell us about this frustration?

Scripture

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Reflection

You are probably wondering why I would chose 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, called the Love Chapter, to talk about family issues and too much family time. The thing is, our family know us better than anyone. They love us no matter what, but can also drive us absolutely crazy, because they know us so well. These verses show us what love should be and how Jesus loves us. If we look at the opposite of this, w eknow what toxic relationships are. This #faithbites isn’t about that but just when the family is a bit too much.

We love our family. Just as Jesus sought solitude, so shall we. My wife used to joke that my Dad was great in small doses. I bet many of us can relate. It doesn’t mean we don’t love someone just we need time to rest, decompress, and be ready for more family time.

As we close, remember that it’s ok to get stressed out. It’s OK to step away from the family for a break. It doesn’t mean you don’t love your family nor does it make you a bad person. You need your own time as well and that, OK!

Prayer

Lord JJesus, thank you for our family and friends. You out them in our lives for a reason. Sometimes we get so frustrated and angry, and we are sorry. Please forgive us. Lord we pray that you help us balance family time with personal time. Help us to understand when it’s time for a break and when it’s time for more family. We thank you for all your gifts and pray this in your name, Amen.