A thriving family produces connection and nurtures growth in
each member of the family.
Psalm 133:1-4
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.
- Thriving Families Are CONNECTED.
“Bonding is the ability to establish an emotional attachment to another person. It is the ability to connect with them on the deepest level.”
Dr. Henry Cloud
- Explore your core values which become the ground rules for your family.
1 Peter 3:8-9
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another, be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil, or insult with insult, but with blessing because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
- Develop an atmosphere of encouragement and affirmation.
Romans 12:15
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
- Solve Conflicts.
Ephesians 4:29-31
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
James 3:17-18
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Colossians 3:12-13
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
2. Thriving Families NURTURE GROWTH.
Five thoughts to bring change into your own life and the lives of your family:
- What is not working? Where do you feel stuck?
- What are the choices you make that support your current behavior?
- What are the current thoughts patterns that drive your current behavior patterns?
- Imagine a life that is possible? Envision if you made some changes what life could be like?
- What do you need to change? Are there things you could begin working on to create that change?
John 15:16-17
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my commandment: Love each other.
Questions:
- What did you hear from the Holy Spirit?
- What will you do because of it?
- How can we pray for you?