It is delightful to see a vase of flowers, hand -picked, carefully selected and lovingly arranged to create something of beauty, which brings peace, joy and a sense of well-being to those who see it. It brings a lovely touch to any room.
Recently my husband and I celebrated our Ruby Wedding Anniversary. Our children very thoughtfully planned a surprise tea party and presented us with a stunning bouquet as a gift. As I enjoyed the flowers over the next few days a thought formed in my mind: the flowers made me think of a family or group of people. Each flower is unique, a masterpiece. Although lovely on its own, when it is one of a bouquet it is part of an overall effect. The flowers together complement one another to create a specific presentation or image. The designer has a purpose in mind and knows just how to arrange them so that none overshadows another, so colours blend well or contrast effectively, so each flower can be seen to its best advantage.
God is the master Designer. Each member of a family is unique and has a specific purpose which no-one else can fulfil. He planned the gender and unique character of each one, and the position of each one in the family is no accident. However, I also have a sense that the family as a whole has a God-given purpose and destiny; the individual members, like flowers which make up a bouquet, complement one another to make a strong and united unit which God can use for His purposes.
Choosing names for our children can be exciting but also quite challenging as we consider our preferences and also the meanings. In the Bible, great importance and significance is given to names. There are many instances when an individual is given a name which reflects their God-given destiny. Peter is one example of this, when Jesus says in Matthew 16:18, “Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.” (New Living Translation) Jacob, in the Old Testament, was renamed Israel, which means ‘wrestles with God’. (Genesis 32:28) If the names of individuals carry such significance, could it also be that the family name bears a similar meaning? That is an interesting thought, but suffice it to say that God’s desire is for families to be united in love, supporting one another in serving Him together and encouraging each individual to pursue their unique gifting to fulfil the purpose He has for them.
Parents, pray for your children and help them discover their God-given gifts and talents. Do all you can to nurture and encourage them. Pray for them to know and love Jesus as their Saviour, teaching and encouraging them in the ways of the Lord.
Seek the Lord for what is on His heart for your family. Are there hindrances to family unity and love? Pray for healing of relationships and allow forgiveness to flow between you. Examine your own heart for anything which may be preventing God’s love and healing from flowing. Call out the God –given destiny for each person and the family as a whole, that God may be glorified.
A prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for placing me in a family and for each member of that family. I offer each one to you, that we may all know You and fulfil the plans and purposes you have for us. May our family bring You joy and delight as we love and serve you individually and together. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.