Social scientists say that in simple societies family relationships are often more important than individual priorities. But as societies become more complex and people become more mobile, the importance of family is diminished and the importance of individuality is elevated.

In America our culture encourages us to think that what we want and what seems best for us as individuals takes precedence over any other relationship we have.

Such individualism comes at a very high price. The Bible teaches that if we are responsible in our family relationships, it will go well with us. But when we live simply for ourselves, and devalue the relationships that God says are most important, we may find ourselves desperately alone and missing out on God’s best for us.