The Influence of Family
Our upbringing plays a significant role in shaping who we are. Many of our habits, beliefs, and struggles stem from family patterns. However, the Bible calls us to move beyond our past and embrace the identity God has given us.
"But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face."
1 Corinthians 13:10-13 (Amplified Bible)
Family as a Mirror: Seeing Clearly
Many times, our past and family experiences shape the way we see the world. Sometimes, these reflections are distorted by pain, expectations, or rejection. But when we turn to God, He reveals our true identity.
"Whenever a person turns [in repentance and faith] to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty [emancipation from bondage, true freedom]. And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit."
2 Corinthians 3:16-18 (Amplified Bible)
Breaking Free from Family Patterns
Moses grew up in a confusing situation—raised in Pharaoh’s palace, but belonging to God’s people. His past infl uenced his struggles, yet God still used him for great things. We, too, must recognize how family patterns affect us and seek God’s freedom.
"Do not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Romans 12:2 (Paraphrased from the sermon’s theme)
Choosing a New Spiritual Family
Jesus redefined family—not as those we are biologically related to, but as those who follow God. While we honor our earthly families, our ultimate identity is found in Christ and His Kingdom.
"Pointing to his disciples, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.’"
Matthew 12:49-50
Walking in Freedom
We are not bound by the mistakes or expectations of our earthly families. In Christ, we are a new creation, free to live out the purpose He has for us.
"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come."
2 Corinthians 5:17
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