In the sixth chapter of Deuteronomy, Moses through inspiration gives us a description of a godly home in verses 4-18. As the children of Israel prepared to enter the land of Canaan, one key ingredient necessary to their success was a stable, God fearing home. We will examine God's keys to such homes.

First, a godly home is a home that Hears God. In 6:4, Moses said, "Hear O Israel. The Lord our God is one God." A godly home is centered on hearing the word of God. Jesus in Revelation chapters two and three urged the churches of Asia to hear what the Spirit says (2:7, 2:11,2:17, 2:29, 3:6, 3:13, 3:22). It is important that we as Christians are good listeners. Children must listen to their parents and parents must also listen to their children.

Second, a godly home is a home that Loves God. We are commanded to love the Lord with all our heart, soul and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5). Jesus called this the first and greatest commandment (Mark 12:30). Loving God is obeying God (John 14:15). A true love for God will result in a true love for one another within the home.

Third, a godly home is a home that Teaches the Word of God. In verses 6-9, Moses admonishes Israel to commit the word to their hearts, to teach their children diligently and to write the commands of God. It was a lack of knowledge of God's word that would later lead the Israelites into captivity (Hosea 4:6). In order to raise our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4), parents must begin to teach their children at an early age. The Psalmist, in Psalms 119:11, urges us to hide the Word in our hearts that we might not sin against God.

Fourth, a godly home is a home that Obeys Faithfully. In verses 10-18, Moses cautions Israel against disobedience. God wants His people to do what is right and good in His sight (Deuteronomy 6:18). Jesus asked the question, "But why do you call me Lord, Lord and do not the things which I say?" (Luke 6:46). It is faithful obedience to God's plan for the home (Matthew 19:4-6, Ephesians 6:1-4, Colossians 3:18-25) that ensures success in that home.

A godly home is a home that Hears God, Loves God, Teaches God's Word, and Obeys God. Do we today as the body of Christ attempt to establish godly homes? God desires for us to have Him at the center of our homes. What is at the center of yours?

~Greg Neill