Summertime is family time for many of us, with family vacations, reunions, weddings, and other events on the calendar. We thank God for the natural and spiritual families He’s provided for us to enjoy and lean on for support.

Families bring blessings, but they also bring not-so-great things, too — stress, conflict, pressure. The same goes for the family of God (we can sometimes be tough on each other!) When family time (or fellowship time) takes a turn for the unpleasant, just remember that God didn’t intend for us to live on an island alone. So, instead of “checking out” by turning inward, turning sour, or turning to your phone for escape, remember that the bonds of family are worth fighting for. 

And don’t forget about the solitary someones who always seem to be on the fringes for whatever reason. You be the one to peel them away from the wall and make them feel like part of the family. 

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.