As we take note of the Shunamite woman in 2 Kings 4:8-37, we see that she was a prominent woman in her community. She was well respected because the Scripture says that she was “great.” Also, she was a woman of great faith who respected her husband as the head of the household. The Shunamite woman respected the man of God and believed that he was sent by God. This woman took pristine care of her family. There were times when she had to keep things inside so that the family would not fall apart.
That brings me to my discussion for this week: “Is the American Family of Today, as a Whole, in Need of Healing?” I want you to be the judge of that question. Please read and think with an open mind. Further, what I am saying does NOT apply to every American family.
When the Shunamite woman’s son fell ill, she said “It shall be well.” What strong faith, given the condition of her child! Well, what is going on in the American family today that doesn’t reflect the values that were once instilled in us? What is going on in the American family today that points to the fact that some of us have come down with a “serious illness” that requires “some medication”?
• Women, young and old, are in the streets looking for a husband or a partner.
• Our men have lost respect for our women.
• Parents are too busy being friends / buddies with their children.
• There are too many absent fathers and mothers.
• Children are not taught to respect their elders.
• There is a lack of value for a good education.
• Our children are not encouraged to work for what they want.
• We don’t vote as we should.
• Domestic abuse is on the rise.
• We are constantly blaming someone else for our downfalls.
• Crime and drug abuse are at an all-time high.
• We don’t go to church the way we use to go.
• “Family Feud” is no longer a game show; it is a real show!
“Is the American Family of Today, as a Whole, in Need of Healing?” In the words of former President Barack Obama, “Today, we begin in earnest the work of making sure that the world we leave our children is just a little bit better than the one we inhabit today.” Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
