Day 1: The Principle of Direction

Your identity and purpose are meant to be aimed in one direction—strategically pointed at God

Setting a course and choosing a direction are fundamental steps on the journey to any destination. Just as a ship relies on a steady rudder to navigate through the waves, your family, too, needs a clear sense of direction. This involves setting goals and values that act as a roadmap for your collective journey. Whether it's fostering faith, prioritizing education, or creating shared experiences, having a direction ensures that you and your family are moving towards a common destination.

Before you can move forward, it's essential to take the time to plan and map out the journey ahead. Direction is all about your family establishing a clear path forward – it's your big vision! Consider it as the answer to a crucial question: Where are you going? Reflect on your family's core values and the Family Mission Statement you crafted. These elements are integral to your identity and purpose, pointing you in the right direction. While identity and purpose provide guidance, direction is the strategic process of applying these principles throughout your life. Take a moment to envision your future—what do you see? Direction is the plan you'll create with God to turn that vision into reality.

In biblical history, God's people formed a family. Israel, despite its diverse tribes, was the family of God. The narrative of this significant family journeying through the wilderness for 40 years highlights the vital role of vision within families. Proverbs 29:18 emphasizes the importance of having a clear, long-term plan, revealing that “where there is no vision, the people perish.” This vision is divine communication – a revelation from God, as seen in passages like 1 Samuel 3:1. Without divine guidance, families may wander aimlessly, exposing themselves to a vulnerable and uncertain path. The remedy lies in following God's wisdom, embracing His guidance, and aligning with His teachings – the divine vision found in His Word.

Direction is the vision for your life, and Family Direction is the vision for your family. When God provides a vision, He's essentially setting the destination for your journey. This vision acts as a roadmap, guiding your actions and decisions. Think of it as a lighthouse on the horizon, cutting through the darkness with a laser-focused light beaming with purpose. It's not just a lofty ideal but a tangible picture of the future you're striving to create. As you map out your journey, remember your identity and purpose – they'll serve as a compass, keeping you true to your course, aligning your future steps with your most important values.

1. When it comes to you or your family’s core values, how do these values contribute to the direction your family is heading?
2. Consider the goals and shared experiences you've set for your family. How do these contribute to the overall vision or direction you have for your family's future?
3. In what ways do you see God influencing the direction of your life or the life of your family, as mentioned in the referenced Bible verses?