Tenderness Among Familiar Faces

My dear son,

I want kind words to reach even the people whose names are most familiar on your lips. Being close does not make harshness harmless. I desire a love within families that helps each person's spirit flourish.

It is precious when spouses are cherished, parents respected, and children heard without having their tender hearts crushed. May your words carry the warmth of being comfortable with one another while still treating each other with care.

If you felt grateful for something today, tell someone close to you. Kindness can begin without elaborate preparation. Your Father wants you to live peacefully, respecting the people beside you as someone who has also received love.

With all my love,
Your Father

Colossians 3:19–21

WEB

19Husbands, love your wives, and don’t be bitter against them.
20Children, obey your parents in all things, for this pleases the Lord.
21Fathers, don’t provoke your children, so that they won’t be discouraged.

A short reflection

Paul gives counsel for family relationships, telling husbands to love their wives without harshness and parents not to provoke their children into discouragement.

World English Bible (WEB) · Public DomainRead the chapter