Devoted To God's Family
When you think of family, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the image of people who care deeply, support unconditionally, and are always there in times of need. But what if your idea of “family” expanded beyond your last name? What if church wasn’t a weekly pit stop for spiritual fuel, but a living, breathing family—God’s family—meant to meet your deepest emotional, physical, and spiritual needs?
That’s exactly what Pastor Charlie Wallace explores in his inspiring sermon, “Devoted To God’s Family.” Through the closing moments of Mary’s story in John 19:25-27 and a glance at the early church in Acts 1:14, we’re challenged to reimagine church not as an event, but as a devoted family. Today, let’s dig into what that kind of devotion looks like, why it matters, and how it radically transforms both individuals and communities.
1. God’s Family Cares for Emotional Needs
If you’ve been in church for any length of time, chances are you’ve witnessed or experienced quiet moments of support—meals delivered in crisis, childcare in moments of chaos, a simple hug after a loss. Early in his ministry, Wallace witnessed this personally: a young couple facing overwhelming health challenges with both of their children. Their church family rallied around—providing meals, prayers, and practical help during hospital trips.
This isn’t just sentimentality; it’s biblical. As Pastor Charlie pointed out, one of the most moving scenes at the Cross shows Jesus in excruciating pain looking down and caring for his mother’s emotional future. With his final breaths, Jesus entrusts Mary’s care to John, the beloved disciple. Mary didn’t just need someone to pay her bills; she needed emotional support—someone who’d love her in her pain and help her heal.
How do we live out this kind of care?
Empathy: Romans 12:15 tells us, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” Sometimes, the best gift is simply presence—sharing tears, laughter, or just a shoulder to lean on. Don’t try to “fix” it or minimize pain with clichés. Just be there.
Comfort in Affliction: 2 Corinthians 1 reminds us that God comforts us so we can comfort others. That means taking extra steps to soothe anxiety, fear, or depression—often just by listening, praying, and expressing genuine concern.
Burden-Bearing: Galatians 6:2 calls us to bear one another’s burdens—helping others carry the load, whether through counseling connections, or simply showing up in practical, heartfelt ways.
Encouragement and Compassion: Speak life. Build others up (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Show compassionate hearts marked by kindness, humility, patience, and forgiveness (Colossians 3:12-13).
If you’re having a hard time or know someone who is, don’t hold back. Let your church know. That’s what family is for.
2. God’s Family Cares for Physical Needs
In today’s culture, “need” often conjures images of food banks or soup kitchens. And while those are needed, the first-century church took it further. The kind of care Jesus ensured for his mother wasn’t just about emotions; it was deeply practical. As a widow, Mary would need someone to provide for her physical security, daily living, and safety—a role Jesus ensured John would fill.
The Bible is clear:
Galatians 6:10 tells us: “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” The implication? We should be even more devoted to caring for those inside our faith family.
James 1:27 and 2:14-17 reinforce this: True religion is caring for widows and orphans—the utterly vulnerable. Don’t give empty promises or platitudes; give practical help. Faith without action is dead.
What does this look like today?
Answering a church member’s cry for help with a meal, a warm coat, a ride to a doctor’s appointment, or even a place to stay. Sometimes it’s collecting shoes for a child, or making sure a struggling parent has their utilities paid. Don’t underestimate the power of ordinary acts to communicate extraordinary love.
3. God’s Family Cares for Spiritual Needs
This may be the most vital of all. Where the world offers self-help fixes or “good vibes,” the church offers something the world never can: prayer, accountability, encouragement toward Christ, and the equipping for ministry.
After Christ ascends in Acts 1, Mary is seen among the earliest believers—devoted to prayer, unity, and encouragement. The family dynamic shifts from mere physical or emotional support to active spiritual partnership.
How can we care for spiritual needs?
Pray for Spiritual Growth: We’re quick to pray for surgeries or struggles, but how often do we pray for one another’s sanctification? For deeper faith, freedom from sin, and boldness in witness? The early church devoted themselves to praying together—a rhythm we desperately need to recover.
Gently Restore: Galatians 6 urges us to restore those caught in sin, not with condemnation, but with gentleness and humility. If you notice a brother or sister wandering, lovingly call them back—not to shame, but to health and wholeness.
Encourage Gathering and Growth: Hebrews 10:24-25 challenges us to stir one another up to good works and not neglect gathering together. Church isn’t just a personal discipline; it’s a community commitment. Give a friendly nudge, a text reminder, or a word of encouragement. It can make all the difference.
Equip for Ministry: Ephesians 4 lays it out clearly: The church’s leaders are called to equip every member for ministry. You don’t just “sit and soak”; you receive training and encouragement so you can serve others, both inside and outside the church walls.
Bringing It All Together: Be the Family
Pastor Charlie closes with a simple but profound challenge:
Don’t sit on your needs—share them. Don’t overlook someone else’s—meet them. Whether you need empathy, accountability, a meal, or a ride, God’s family is meant for more than Sunday mornings.
If you have a need—emotional, physical, or spiritual—reach out to a trusted church member or leader. If you’re in a season of strength, look for ways to support those around you. Every single person in the body of Christ has a unique part to play.
When a watching world sees a church that truly cares for people as Jesus did, they notice. They see a family unlike any other—a family devoted not just to God, but to each other.
Final Encouragement
Let’s be the church that cares. Not just in theory, but in action—loving with empathy, generosity, encouragement, prayer, and practical help. That’s what it means to be devoted to God’s family. As Jesus cared for his mother even in his own suffering, let’s care for one another—so the love of Christ shines through us and draws all people to Him.
If you’re not yet part of a church family, or if you’ve felt let down by one before, know this: There’s a place for you, and a people ready to love you. Because God’s family is big enough for us all.
