I love singing together as a family; I love ministering as a family! Every single person brings a unique contribution to the task at hand with different talents, ideas, motivational gifts and personalities. When we learn to dwell with our siblings in harmony, and honor and submit to our parents joyfully, we are developing the kind of character that will bless all kinds of future life relationships. It starts in the home!
One thing my mom used to tell me often was, "Always assume you're being watched." People do notice how you treat your little sister(s) and whether or not you show respect to your brother(s). They will notice how quickly you obey your parents, and what face expression you make as you turn around. Testifying to others is so much more than singing or teaching! When I think back on various conferences I've attended, I usually can't remember exactly what was taught, but rather what the person was like who taught it. I remember their countenance as they spoke about the Lord, I remember discerning their level of sincerity as I observed personal life standards they took upon themselves; I watched for fruit. It means very little to sing and talk about the love of Christ to others, if we do not demonstrate it by lovingly interacting with each other.
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,
if ye have love one to another.
John 13:35
See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, . . .
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Ephesians 5:19
