Many years ago in a high school history class, I learned what an upper class family of nobility living in the middle ages of Europe would hope to achieve if they were fortunate to have three sons. The first was formally educated and would inherit and continue the family business. The second would enter the military. The third would enter the priesthood. Of course, there was no mention of daughters who were expected to marry into a family of equal or greater status than their own. Having a member of the clergy within one’s family reassured them that their prayers would be answered by God. However, it also was a connection to powerful leaders since at that time, the church controlled much of the power and wealth of European society. Nonetheless, having a member of the clergy in one’s family was regarded as a sign of God’s blessing, a tradition that continues even to this day. I wondered if the Bible supports such a notion? The beautiful story of Rahab’s faith gives us some insight.
However, Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, her father’s family, and all who belonged to her, because she hid the messengers Joshua had sent to spy on Jericho, and she still lives in Israel today.
Joshua 6:25 (CSB)
Rahab’s faith preserved and protected the Hebrew spies that Joshua had sent to spy on Jericho before their conquest of the city. Her faith saved herself and her family. Did the rest of her family exhibit the same strong saving faith that she demonstrated? The Bible does not give us this answer. It is important to note that while God’s provisions will protect and bless a family through the faithfulness of one member, ultimately salvation is an individual decision.
A wise person once wrote, Christianity is one generation from extinction. Families may be blessed by God through the actions of one of its members but ultimate responsibility rests upon each individual. If your family has been blessed by God by having a member who serves in the ministry, be thankful but do not take your salvation and blessings for granted. Each person must come to God by their own volition and confess and repent of their sins and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Amen!
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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