Dear Riverside Family,
This past Sunday, Pastor Erick and I shared a message titled “Home Team” as part of our Raising Parents series, focusing on the essential building blocks of strong family relationships. The home is the most important team we’ll ever lead, and it’s our responsibility to ensure it thrives. We outlined six key principles for a healthy and God-centered family:
1. Direction
Every team needs clear direction. Proverbs 3:6 reminds us, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” In the same way, our homes must be led with spiritual vision, allowing God to guide our steps. As parents, we are called to set a clear path for our families rooted in God’s word, helping our children navigate life with purpose and intentionality.
2. Affection
Next, we emphasized the role of affection in strengthening family bonds. 1 John 4:19 tells us, “We love because He first loved us.” It’s crucial that our children experience the warmth of love in our homes. More than words, it’s our consistent actions of love that speak louder. Just as Christ’s love for us is unconditional, we must create an atmosphere of grace and affection where children feel secure, valued, and cherished.
3. Connection
Family is not just about coexisting but deeply connecting with one another. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “A cord of three strands is not easily broken.” We stressed the importance of intentionally connecting as a family, both spiritually and emotionally. Whether it’s through quality time, shared meals, or meaningful conversations, fostering strong relationships within the family builds a foundation that can withstand the pressures of life.
4. Protection
As parents, we’re called to protect our homes—both physically and spiritually. Psalm 127:1 declares, “Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” We must create environments that are spiritually safe for our children, protecting them from negative influences and helping them understand God’s standards. By setting boundaries rooted in love, we provide the security they need to grow confidently in their faith.
5. Correction
Correction is part of building a godly home. Proverbs 13:24 reminds us, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” We discussed how correction, when done in love, helps guide our children toward God’s best. It’s not about punishment, but about steering their hearts back to God’s truth with grace and wisdom.
6. Reflection
Lastly, we emphasized the need for reflection in the home. Deuteronomy 6:7 encourages us to, “Talk about [God’s commands] when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Reflecting on God’s work in our lives as a family deepens our faith and aligns our hearts with His purposes. Whether through prayer, worship, or simply recounting how God has been faithful, taking time to reflect helps us stay grounded in His presence.
Takeaway Challenge:
As we go forward, let’s reflect on these principles and ask ourselves:
- How can we bring more direction, affection, and connection into our families?
- What steps can we take to protect, correct, and reflect in a way that aligns our home team with God’s plan?
If you missed this powerful message, be sure to catch up here:
- Watch the full message: Home Team
- Download the sermon notes: Message Notes
- Listen to the MP3: Home Team MP3
Together, let’s commit to leading our home teams with love, faith, and purpose.
Blessings,
Chanel Penn
Communications Director, Riverside Church