The Place Of The In-Laws! (2) By Pastor Faith Oyedepo
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Topic: The Place of the In-Laws! (2)
Dear Reader,
Welcome to another exciting week. Last week, I brought you the introductory part of this month’s teaching where I said: demonstrating love, patience, kindness, gentleness and respect for in-laws are ways of honouring them as one’s parents.
Today, I want to unveil to you some Vital Keys in relating efficiently with your in-laws.
Key of Acceptance
God’s Word says: And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me (Ruth 1:16-17). With this key, Naomi automatically became a member of Ruth’s family.
Although, there is a boundary to how far in-laws should get concerned about your nuclear family affairs, but that doesn’t mean they should be chased away. Accepting your in-laws as members of your household is very crucial. Despite the fact that many people see in-laws as members of their household, they still refuse to accept them. Viewing your in-laws as outsiders who are trying to interfere in your relationships will not help; so, accept and care for them.
By that singular act of Ruth, she became a reference point in the lineage of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, as a daughter-in-law, son-in-law, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, father-in-law or mother-in-law, you need to learn from the story of Ruth.
Key of Love
It is very important to walk in love. Love makes it possible for you to relate successfully with all categories of men including your in-laws –both the “loveable” and the “unlovable”. When Mother Theresa, a well-known Christian and Nobel Laureate winner of the Peace prize, was asked what the solution for world peace was, her response was: “Let everyone go home and love their families”. This implies that indeed, love is a vital force for growth and successful relationship with whoever you are dealing with.
Someone once said, “You can give without loving, but you can’t love without giving”. Therefore, loving your in-laws does not necessarily mean verbally saying, “I love you”. Put into practice the love of God by reaching out to your in-laws. This shouldn’t be limited to physical things, include your time, energy and intellect. Occasionally visit them, as this may be of value to them than sending all the letters and messages you can.
Key of Hospitality
Hospitality has great benefits, but brotherly love should be the reason for reaching out to others, your in-laws especially. Brotherly love is an apparatus that makes hospitality easy. God’s Word says: Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another. …Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality (Romans 12:10 & 13).
Brotherly love is what makes you want to give a helping hand to others. It can be expressed by sharing your food and drink with others. Remember, God’s Word says: The liberal soul shall be made fat (Proverbs 11:250). Therefore, be sold out to hospitality, because it’s the path to God’s presence in your marriage and home.
In the early days of our ministry, my husband and I had to share our home and toilet facilities with the whole church. We did it then without grumbling or complaining, knowing that it was just a phase. I believe that was one of the reasons God blessed us with a larger place.
We learnt early that a friendly and open home is commanded by God. In our home, we are given to hospitality and we enjoy it. In actual fact, it is our watchword! Genuine and sincere hospitality brings with it great rewards. You will not miss your reward! You also need to be connected to the God of love so you can dwell in love.
Connecting with the God of love entails confessing your sins and accepting Jesus as your personal Saviour and Lord. If you are set for this, say this prayer of faith: “Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins and cleanse me with Your Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the living God. I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Make me a child of God today. Thank You for accepting me into Your Kingdom.”
If you prayed this simple prayer, you are now a child of God. He loves you and will never leave you. Read your Bible daily, obey God’s Word and seek Christian fellowship (John 14:21).
Congratulations! You are now born again! All-round rest and peace are guaranteed you, in Jesus’ Name. Call or write, and share your testimonies with me through contact@faithoyedepo.org; OR 07026385437 and 08141320204.
For more insight, these books authored by me are available at the Dominion Bookstores in all Living Faith Churches and other leading Christian bookstores: Marriage Covenant, Making Marriage Work, Building A Successful Home and Success in Marriage (Co-Authored).
