14. Your Family Can Be Happy

1 JEHOVAH CREATED THE FAMILY

“For this reason I bend my knees to the Father, to whom every family in heaven and on earth owes its name.”​—Ephesians 3:14, 15

How can your family be happy?

• Genesis 1:26-28

  Jehovah created the first family.

• Ephesians 5:1, 2

  The key to happy family life is imitating Jehovah and Jesus.

2 HOW TO BE A GOOD HUSBAND OR WIFE

“Each one of you must love his wife . . . The wife should have deep respect for her husband.”​—Ephesians 5:33

How should a husband and wife treat each other?

• Ephesians 5:22-29

  A husband is responsible for the family. He should love his wife, and she should support the decisions he makes.

• Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:4

  They need to be kind and considerate to each other.

• 1 Peter 3:1, 2, 7

  A husband and wife should honor and respect each other.

• 1 Timothy 5:8; Titus 2:4, 5

  A husband should provide for his family. A wife should take good care of her household.

3 HOW TO BE A GOOD PARENT

“Do not be irritating your children, but go on bringing them up in the discipline and admonition of Jehovah.”​—Ephesians 6:4

What responsibility do parents have?

• Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Proverbs 22:6

  You need to take the time to teach your children about Jehovah. Starting when they are very young, patiently help each one to become Jehovah’s friend.

• 1 Peter 5:8

  Teach your children how they can avoid sexual abuse and other dangers.

• Jeremiah 30:11; Hebrews 12:9-11

  You need to discipline your children but never in anger or with cruelty.

4 WHAT GOD EXPECTS FROM CHILDREN

“Children, be obedient to your parents.”​—Ephesians 6:1

Children, why should you be obedient to your parents?

• Proverbs 23:22-25; Colossians 3:20

  Your obedience will make Jehovah and your parents happy.

• 1 Corinthians 15:33

  Find friends who love Jehovah. Then it will be easier for you to do what is right.