When family offends you, do you forgive or fight back?

Hi Triumpher,

Imagine coming home after a long day, excited to eat the fried chicken you left in the fridge—only to find out your sibling ate it. Annoying, right? You can probably already imagine the pain you’d feel.

What would you do in that moment? Scold them? If they’re younger, maybe spank them? Report them? Or perhaps demand they replace it?

The truth is, as annoying as this is, it won’t be the last time a family member annoys you. Next time, it could be something bigger—maybe even your parents upsetting you. So, the question is, how do you handle these moments? Do you cut ties with them or choose forgiveness?

Before you answer this question, remember this: Family is God’s idea. 

It’s not a random social structure—it’s a sacred institution designed by Him to reflect His love, nurture life, and fulfill His purpose on earth. The family is the first place where children are supposed to learn about God and His values. That’s why the Bible says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 KJV). God values family, and you should too.

So, how do you treat family the way God expects?

• Honor your parents: Obey them in line with God’s Word, respect them, and love them. ““Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2-3 NKJV)

• Love your siblings: God calls us to be our brother’s keeper (Genesis 4:9), and to be selfless and compassionate toward them (1 John 3:16-18).

• Walk in forgiveness: When Joseph’s brothers betrayed him, he had every reason to stay angry but he chose to forgive (Genesis 50:20 KJV). God asks the same of you. Instead of holding onto pain, release it to Him in prayer, and He will fill your heart with His peace (Philippians 4:6-7 KJV).

So, Triumpher, the next time your brother eats your food, or your sister “borrows” your favorite shirt, or your parents mistreat you—pause and remember what family means to God and ask Him for the grace to forgive. It’s not always easy, but with the Holy Spirit’s help, you can let go and walk in love.

Have a great weekend!

Till next time,

Tim