For a proper observation, ask yourself what problems persist among your family members:

• Are there many deaths? Do they mostly affect men or women?
• What illnesses occur regularly?
• Do you have chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease?
• Do you experience frequent accidents?
• Are there relational issues within your family?
• Do people get married, or do they remain single?
• Do family members complete their studies?
• Are there people who are chronically unemployed?
• Is there poverty, or a poverty mindset?
• Do you suffer from night attacks (spiritual or demonic oppression during sleep)?
• Do you often experience failure?

This is just a preliminary diagnosis. The truth is, only the Holy Spirit can truly guide you more precisely.

IDENTIFY THE BIG FISH

Take a closer look at your family members and identify who the “big fish” are. The big fish in your family are those who have influence over others. They are the ones who, if they change, can easily lead others to follow suit. The big fish are often chosen, officially or unofficially, as the leaders of the family.

These are the people everyone turns to when important decisions need to be made. They are often generous individuals who like to give their time and finances to the family. They usually enjoy organizing or initiating family gatherings. Big fish are generally always surrounded by others. They may be wealthy—but not always. For example, in the Bible, we can say that Cornelius was a big fish.

“The following day they came to Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence… While talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people.” Acts 10:24-27

Indeed, when Peter arrived at his house, many people were already gathered. Cornelius was a prosperous man, and his repentance—his decision to follow the Lord—led his entire household to do the same.

“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.” Acts 10:44

Another big fish in the Bible was Lydia.

“One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. ‘If you consider me a believer in the Lord,’ she said, ‘come and stay at my house.’ And she persuaded us.” Acts 16:14-15

Once you have identified the big fish in your family, keep them in your prayers. Because of their influence, if this person takes a stand for God, many others will follow. Be aware that such individuals are often targets of the enemy, so do not forget to pray for their protection.

On a natural level, as much as it depends on you, remain at peace with this person. If possible, stay close to them and act with good intentions. Of course, all of this must be done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit—even the selection of the big fish. It may not be the person you initially had in mind; the Lord may lead you in a different direction. Obey Him. We are merely offering strategies!

This text is an excerpt from the book “9 Keys to Winning Your Family to Christ” written by Francine CHEUMBOU.

We invite you to read the next article: “DENYING YOURSELF“.

OBSERVE YOUR FAMILY CLOSELY. OBSERVE YOUR FAMILY CLOSELY.