Ten Tips for Creating Happy Families

1. Pray together - everyday

Before David and I leave our home each morning, we pray. I would encourage you to do the same ~ It doesn't take very long - 3 to 5 minutes. Before your family leaves the safety of your home, pray together ~ ask the Lord to protect and guide each family member~

2. Create family traditions

As you enter into your marriage you both come with your own ideas of traditions. It is important for you to establish some new traditions that make your family unique!  Traditions help bring meaning to a family and ties everyone together.

3. Communicate with kindness and respect

Many times our patterns of speech are less than kind! Each family member should use and hear words of kindness and respect even when conflict is present.

4. Learn to positively handle conflicts

The number one predictor of divorce is the amount of negativity in your marriage. Most of that negativity stems from how we handle conflict. There are many strategy books, classes, and resources available to help you.

5. Play together - have fun

When is the last time you played together as a family? Make it a habit.

6. Be quick to forgive

Let Christ be your example.

7. Eat at least one meal together - everyday

Families should share at least one meal together ~ make it a time of reconnection, a time free from arguments or strife.  It needs to be a time for the family to share and enjoy time with each other.

8. Love one another, as Christ loves us

Above all love each othe unconditionally

9. Use words of encouragement and praise

Communicate with kindness and respect - encourage each other and the children ~ praise positive, unselfish, and kind behavior

10. Make Christ the center of your home

Without Christ as our family's 'core' we are empty ~ Let His love, principles, and forgiveness be your guidance. Be sure to worship together every week.