What to do when your family objects

Are you going through something similar? Do you face objections to your faith from your family, and do you struggle to hold on to Christ? Let me leave you with some encouraging advice from my own experience.

Hold on to the truth

Acts 4:12 states God’s truth simply and powerfully: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” When we decide to follow Jesus, we are not simply choosing to pledge our loyalty to a god of our choice—we are turning to the one true God, who is Jesus. He reconciles us with the Father, making possible our eternal fellowship with him. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Be your family’s guide

Luke 6:39 says, “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit?” This reminds us that we need to find the right path in life. Having discovered the only way to God, we can lead our loved ones to him through Jesus. But this will take time and patience. If you are the first in your family to turn to Christ, then take heart: the gospel has taken a foothold in your family through you. Let God work in your loved ones’ hearts and show them his love through your daily interaction with them.

Honor your parents

Ephesians 6:1 says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” Scripture makes it clear that we are to honor our parents, no matter what they believe and say about our faith. This not only means being obedient, but also being sensitive towards their feelings, valuing what is important to them, and respecting them as people of significance in your life. While God takes first place in your life, assure your parents that they are still important to you, and show them you will perform your duties by providing for and caring for them. This is one of the most effective ways of showing God’s love.

Seek spiritual support

You are not called to walk this journey alone. Keep meeting with fellow Christians who can support you spiritually and emotionally. They can pray with you, encourage and comfort you in difficult times, and be available when you need advice or a listening ear. The Bible gives many examples of great men—from King David to the apostle Paul—who were not afraid to turn to fellow believers for comfort. And, of course, keep in close fellowship with God, talking to him constantly and drawing strength and wisdom from his Word.