Is there any such thing as a Perfect Family?

Prince William, Catherine Duchess of Cambridge with new son, Prince George

Since the beginning of the month of July, there has been this excitement about the birth of the future king of England, Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge.  The press from most parts of the world gathered for weeks around the St. Mary's Hospital, Paddington, in central London, in the same wing in which the late Princess Diana gave birth to William in 1982.

When the baby was first introduced to the world by the Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, I guess some people had wished that they were born in the royal family. Some might have thought, "Aw, what a perfect family." 

Some people do look at "perfect families", compare them with their families and feel they do not measure up to what they see. Though you might find out that it is often the average or "not so well off" families that compare themselves to the "rich families". However in some cases, some parents wish their children were either brighter or less troublesome.

We do have dreams of what our ideal family life would be. Sometimes these are prompted by “model” families that we have seen, or perhaps they are the dreams we had of what our own family should be like.

The Perfect family is a family of peace, love and harmony. The parents never argued and were always there for the children, spending time with the children and had abundant financial resources. The children were always obedient and never argued or fought. Their home was a center of orderliness at all times. Everyone saw them and felt they were the "Perfect Family".

Well, save that for the movies and come back to reality. Nothing is never as it seems. And if you wish your family was like the description above and begin to compare your spouse, your children or even your parents, be careful because looks can be deceiving and comparisons unfair.

Remember 2 Corinthians 10:12

"For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." (KJV)

Let us consider the "ideal family" for a minute. You would realise that oftentimes, we compare ourselves with just a snapshot of these families. But if we had the opportunity to spend time with them, we may find that they too have their own struggles - whether it be pride, dishonesty, anger or even laziness in the children.

The truth be told. No family is perfect and the individuals in the family are also not perfect. Every family is experiencing or will experience challenges, trials, character deficiencies, and more. Remember our creation realities - our Sin nature; the uniqueness of each individual; the influence of the world, the flesh, and the devil; trials and tribulations. 

I will implore you to change your attitude and celebrate your family, no matter how unique. Choose to love your family. You are in your family for a particular purpose. Find that purpose and enjoy it. Live life to the fullest despite the shortcomings.

As parents, our children should find the acceptance they have been looking for in their parents. They will know that we are there for them and they will be able to communicate with us concerning their deepest needs.

As young adults and children, know that you did not choose your family. So He who put you in this family has a very good reason that would have a beautiful ending provided you embrace your family and love your family.

I will like to conclude by saying God is not finished working with us, just as He is still working in our lives.  “He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).