We’ve all heard the proverb “Blood is thicker than water.” It is used to point out that family relationships can complicate otherwise clear decisions or can become the deciding factor for issues on the fence. There is a spiritual connection with our relatives that can cause blind logic to falter at times.

Of course, it’s these very kinds of decisions where we cut the corners or compromise our values that can then get us into trouble elsewhere. How many political scandals begin with some kind of favoritism given to a spouse, parent, sibling, or child? I am not saying we should simply ignore these relationships, because we certainly do have extra responsibility when it comes to our family. However, the family relationship cannot be the ultimate trump card.

“While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.’

He replied to him, ‘Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?’ Pointing to his disciples, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.’ ” Matthew 12:46-50

“Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” Luke 12:49-53

Am I suggesting open family warfare? Of course not. I only wish to point out that there will be conflict in families due to the faith in Christ of some family members. This will cause relatives to break relationships and children to disconnect with parents. These are sad events, but if you are the one standing on your faith, you have experienced nothing but what Jesus has described.

Do not use this as an excuse to initiate chasms, but stand firm on Christ in all your family dealings. Those who cannot abide that will either break from you or drive you away. Mourn the loss, but follow Christ.

You see, blood is thicker than water, but Christ’s blood is thickest of all.