    
Christian Marriage Advice
The saying, "A family that prays
together, stays together," may sound a bit cliché
but the concept is true. Activities that are done
together bind you together and help to decrease
marital problems. Furthermore, this is the best
foundation on which to build and strengthen any
family. I can remember when Mark and I just got
married; we were advised to pray together before
going to bed. Honestly, it was one of the hardest
habits to form. However, if you are not a night
person, such as me, you can do it at any time
convenient to you and your family. Remember, a habit
can only be formed if it is done consistently.
Praying Together
Praying together is just one way of worshiping
God. This year has been the most enriching for our family as it
relates to worshiping God and because of that we have become
closer, happier and more fulfilled. We no longer are burdened by
life and guilt out because we are constantly messing up. Even
when we do mess up we are able to quickly make amends and move
on.
One very important ingredient is making a
decision to change as a family; this is what made the difference
for Mark and me. We used team work. After Eve had given Adam the
forbidden fruit in the garden, God did not call out for Eve, the
scriptures say, "But the Lord God called to the man, "Where are
you?" Today, God is still calling to the man to take spiritual
responsibility for his household. This is true leadership. In
fact it will be very difficult to lead in the other areas if you
are not leading the way spiritually. When you take up the baton
it will be easier for others to follow. It is unacceptable for
you to be doing well spiritually while the rest of your
household is faltering. It is your responsibility to help them
up.
Setting A Great Example for Your Children
If you have children, they will need spiritual
and positive guidance. As parents, you cannot allow others to
mold them; that is your responsibility. Their counselors cannot
be their peers because they themselves need to be counseled.
Also, you may tell them to act one way, yet your life is a poor
example for them to imitate. Children are natural mimics who act
like their parents despite every effort to teach them good
manners.
Do you lie? "Suzie, tell Mrs. Smith I am not
at home, I really do not feel like talking to her today";
however, you scold them when they lie. Do you steal by bringing
home the office stationery etc., but scold them when they are
caught stealing? It is your responsibility to groom them, not
only by your words, but also by your actions.
We have some friends who prepare at least two
fifteen minute lessons that they share with their children every
week. These lessons teach them how to live respectable lives,
how to relate to their peers and how to fight temptation. They
also use that time to find out about their struggles and
reassure them that they can be victorious. How about you? If you
have kids, do you spend times with them sharing your life,
teaching them right from wrong or just listening to them? Do you
have family devotionals and show them examples of young people
in the bible and today's society who stood up for righteousness?
Scripture says, "Train a child in the way he should go, and when
he is old he will not turn from it."4 Do not wait until things
have gotten out of hand and then you call in the guidance
counselor, pastor or try to fix it on your own. Take on your
responsibility, be the best parent you can be, teach your
children to live pleasing, respectful and disciplined lives.
We hope that all we shared will inspire you to
also take on the challenge as a family to have devotionals, pray
together and stay together.
By Lesia Gregory
© Mark & Lesia
Gregory – All Rights Reserved 2009.
www.marriagethermometer.com
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