Looking at your Family

One of the most popular books on emotional health from a Christian perspective is Pete Scazzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. One chapter in this book is entitled “Going Back In Order To Go Forward: Breaking The Power Of The Past.” Scazzero addresses the reality that we are all born into a certain family of origin, and for some of us that can lead to a decent amount of “emotional baggage” we carry with us throughout our lives.

Consider this quote: “…We may choose to become Christ followers, but in reality we continue to follow, probably unconsciously, the commandments and rules we internalized in our families of origin. The great problem, of course, is when our family’s invisible scripts are contrary to Christ’s. And when the family commandments passed on to us are so deeply embedded in our DNA that we cannot even discern the difference, the result can be tragic.”

I invite you this week to consider what influences have impacted your development. What “family commandments” are you carrying that hinder you from moving forward. For some, these deep influences may not be immediate family, but any significant relationships. What narratives are eclipsing Christ’s narrative of redeeming work in your life? Identifying these “scripts” can be a wonderful first step in breaking free from being defined by familial expectation and moving into more of the life that Christ has for you.

It is worth noting that some people have a particularly messy past with regard to their family of origin. If so, it’s helpful to remember last week’s lesson that we are made for community. Healing may be found by discussing these hard topics with a friend, or even a counselor. It’s in the context of Christian community that we can truly break free from any false expectation or narrative in our lives. These trusted confidants can help us see our blind spots and help us walk more authentically with Jesus than if we tried to do it on our own.

First Baptist

First Baptist

Recent Posts

The Problem of Pain

By Curt Grice | May 17, 2024

Pain comes in a wide array of shapes, sizes, sources, and solutions. At some point, in some way, everyone experiences it. You could say that “pain” is one…

The True Meaning of Forgiveness: Don’t Give Up

By Ryan Chandler | May 15, 2024

Has anyone ever done something so terrible to you that you labeled it “unforgivable?” Then, today’s blog is for you. Forgiveness is one of the most challenging ideals…

10 Reasons Not to Go to Church

By Luke Stehr | May 14, 2024

Life throws curveballs, and sometimes that means missing church. But at FBC Arlington, we’ve got your back. Whether you’re in a hospital bed, lacking a ride, or welcoming…

Stewarding the Integrity of Our Christian Witness

By Ashley Berryhill | May 13, 2024

The Living Resurrection Hope  The resurrection hope of Jesus is not a political agenda. Nor is the resurrected life a mere state of existence. It’s an active embodiment…