The Longing for Family

“God sets the lonely in families ” Psalm 68:6

The concept of family is one of God’s eternal ways.

It is God’s heart that each of us would know the love and strength that comes from living within a family where we are loved and accepted. The reality is that most people don’t. I was reminded of this so powerfully one night when I helped out at a coffee bar ministry that builds relationships with the marginalized and addicted. I sat down at a table with a young guy who was rather strung out. He scratched his legs and face and couldn’t sit still. God wanted to speak to his heart. We had been practicing giving ‘destiny’ words asking God for something from His heart to give to others. I felt God wanted to tell him how much He loved him and wanted to be a Father to him. God wanted him to know the love of a family. The words of life and hope were too much for this young man who had lived in darkness, desperation, guilt and loneliness for so long. When I mentioned the word ‘family’  he got up and ran out, back onto the streets. He couldn’t face the feelings it evoked and the deep longings it stirred within him.

We long to be connected, whether by blood or as part of the Christian family. One of our deepest desires is to belong and know that, in spite of what we do, we will be loved and accepted.   God sets the lonely in families. Today, how can you be someone’s family?

by Idelette McVicker
used by permission

FURTHER READING

• • Jesus says, “Come to Me”
  • Desire of Your Heart
  • Someone Needs Your Love

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The post The Longing for Family can be found at Thoughts about God.