Family......

"I just can't get long with my family." ☺☺☺ " I can't wait to leave home."

FAMILY:
The family is the most important social structure of any society. The choice of a lifetime marriage partner is certainly one of the most important decisions a person can make. Every family is unique, with each marriage partner bringing experiences and values from his or her own family. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a perfect marriage, a "marriage made in heaven." There are, however, principles that, if followed, will help each family to be all that God intended it to be.

First, is the foundation of love. Jesus demonstrated this principle by laying down his "rights" when he came to earth to live as a man and died on the cross. f we truly love our spouse and our children, we would be willing to lay down our lives so that they might live in some emergency situation. The true test, however, is if we lay down our rights and demands on others in the everyday situations of life. Love is proven not just by the words we say, but also by our actions.

Second, is the foundation of respect. Family members must show respect for each other, even when there is disagreement on a particular matter. This is where healthy communication plays an important role. If we offend in any way, we need to quickly ask forgiveness.

Third, is the foundation of commitment. No matter what happens, commitment is necessary for a family to survive. There are many voices in contemporary society that tell us if the marriage is not working, just get out. But this is not the solution. God is the solution and help can be found through prayer, studying God's Word, and the wise counsel of those who love God.


Fourth, before you marry, be at peace with your own family as much as is possible. Unresolved conflicts will often be reflected later in the relationship you have with your husband /wife, children, and in-laws. Ask forgiveness of those you have offended, and forgive those who have offended you, no matter how deeply you have been hurt. Freedom comes when we learn to forgive others in the same way that God has forgiven us.


How Does a Family Grow?
Everyday ways to be an awesome member of your family!
1. Get Informed - Ask an adult in your family what they remember most about being a teenager. What was the hardest part for them?
2. Get Dirty - Do a chore around the house without being asked.
3. Get Bold - Admit to something you have done or said to hurt a family member and ask their forgiveness.
4. Get Wisdom - Ask a wise member for advice and listen to their counsel. Maybe they don't live nearby. Send an e-mail or write a letter. They'll be happy to hear from you!
5. Get Connected - Ask a family member about their day. What was the best part? What didn't go so well or was really tough?


Before You Marry☺☺☺♥ ♥ ♥
♦ Be at peace with your own family.
♦ Make loving God the first priority in your life.
♦ Establish clear career goals & the steps you will take to reach those goals.
♦ When you fall in love, use your mind as well as the heart.
♦ Seek guidance and affirmation from your family, friends & spiritual leaders.
♦ Commit to sexual purity until marriage.