Some of my extended family is not saved. We try to be good Christian examples, but fights and hurt feelings always seem to happen. How can we be better examples without looking as if we are attempting to be ultra-holy?
Families are interesting. They are the people who are the closest to us, yet we end up hurting them the most. Why, you may ask? Because we know them the most. After spending holidays, birthdays and even long weekends together, we know what makes them tick and what buttons to push. For instance: you know what really drives your brother crazy; you’ve most likely heard the same jokes from Uncle Joe a million times; and your cousin likes to make smacking noises with her chewing gum. See my point? Everyone’s family experiences some level of annoying habits and pet peeves. But that isn't to say we can't learn to get along, especially in front of those we want to influence.
As you may know, you can’t change people; only God can change their hearts. Begin by praying for your extended family by name. This will most definitely bring about peace in your heart and at family gatherings. Then focus on what YOU can do to better the experience. You cannot control the actions of others, but you can control what YOU say and how YOU act. Remain calm in the midst of things, and resolve to not let anything make you angry or upset. If the joy of the Lord truly is your strength, it will show during these times. After all, you are given only one family during this lifetime; differences are plenty, so don’t fret your Uncle’s old jokes or your cousins’ weird noises – love them for who they are.
God will be faithful. I don’t know what He has planned for their lives, but prayer is a very good place to start. James 5:16 says that "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” There is hope for your family, so never stop praying.
