Focus on the Family

Scripture:

Deuteronomy 24:5  "If a man has recently married, he must not be sent to war or have any other duty laid on him.  For one year he is to be free to stay at home and bring happiness to the wife he has married".

Observation:

God set in order for His people to focus on the family.  In this passage He tells the people that when a man gets married, he is not to have any duties laid on him for a year so he can focus on bringing his wife happiness.  God wanted them to get their marriage strong before he would need to carry any other big responsibilities.

Application:

If God wanted his people to do this, it must be important.  He knows what He is doing.  It is somewhat impossible today, but to keep it fresh in your memory is good.  Young couples need to focus on getting their marriage strong before getting loaded down with lots of other responsibilities.  Older couples need to learn the balance of life and family so the family knows that life must be dealt with, but the family is number one priority.

Prayer:

Lord God, help me to be a better husband to Cheryl.  Help me be more focused at home with her and the boys.  Help me not to carry the weight of life and ministry into my home, but let my home always remain a place of love, joy and peace.  Let my home always be filled with laughter.

Yours,
Jeff