Let God Give Your Family Vision by Jewell R. Powell

Let God Give Your Family a Vision for 2009
© by Jewell R. Powell

What are your goals for the New Year? Topics related to goal-setting and planning are everywhere you turn-on television, radio, newpapers. It's almost impossible to escape the idea of starting something new in 2009. Perhaps you would like to do something different with your family this year-to pull you closer together and to encourage spiritual health and well-being. Knowing that most goals fail without God, how can we make sure He is at the center of our 2009?

It is typical for corporations, organizations, churches and other institutions to create themes or visions for a new year. Once they have come up with the vision statement or theme, it can guide them in their decision-making as well as in the priorities they set for the upcoming months.

If these groups take vision planning so seriously, it makes sense that we as families could benefit from developing a New Year's vision to guide and direct us. Of course, the key to the vision's success is including God and allowing his Word and Spirit to mold our family's vision.....View the Complete Article Here.

For Men Only
As men, it can be difficult to truly let go of the reigns and allow God to have complete control over your lives and the lives of your family members. "But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ" (1st Cor 11:3a). Although a man's make-up is to want to protect and provide, men have a tendency to want to remain in control at all times.
It is completely O.K. to have this tendency but know that God wants you to depend on Him and trust Him enough to let Him make the plans. He wants you to give him the reigns. When you can do this, trusting Him even when it is difficult to let go, you will experience the peace that passes understanding, and He will provide you with the guidance and wisdom you need to be a true, godly leader for your family.

Nuggets for all Couples

Engaged Couples
The time leading up to the wedding is full of dreaming and planning, especially for brides-to-be. It can be easy to get caught up in the visions of wedding dresses, bouquets and receptions and forget to focus on the all-important vision for your upcoming marriage. Be sure to set time apart to pray, to seek God through the Bible and to discuss with your future spouse your marriage's purpose and goals. Include God in your marriage now, before it even begins, and you will set your marriage up for success. "Then the Lord said to me, "Write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others. This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled.
If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed."(Habakkuk 2:2-3)

Newlyweds
Once the wedding is over, reality sets in for many married couples. Although some may experience the newlywed bliss in the first year, too many couples quickly spiral into fighting and disunity as soon as the honeymoon is over. By working together and with God to create a vision and purpose for your marriage, you will be better able to see your spouse as God sees him and avoid much of the conflict. With God on your team now in the early stages of your marriage you will be better equipped to handle the rocky road that may come your way from time to time. "A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." (Ecc 4:12 NLT)

Couples Being Challenged
It doesn't take long after the wedding to realize that marriages go through plenty of challenges. How can couples in the midst of crisis or struggles maintain a vision and purpose for their marriage? Cling to God. He is more than capable of handling even the biggest marital crisis. If you feel as if your marriage is injured beyond repair or crumbling to pieces, run to God and ask him to help-even better if you can do it together as a couple. But even if it is just one spouse turning to God, He will hear your prayer and provide what you need in the midst of difficulties. "For nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37)

Seasoned Couples
When you have been married for years, new struggles pop up. From boredom to growing apart to plain old empty nest syndrome, it is common for couples to experience seasons in life in which they just aren't connecting like they once did. How do you work through these times and recapture some spark in your relationship? Remember your commitment to each other and to God, and ask Him to give you a new vision for this new stage in your life. What once worked for you may not work anymore. God likely has different plans for you in this season, so go to Him in prayer and through the Word and discover a new, exciting vision for your marriage. "For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven." (Ecc 3:1)

© by Jewell R. Powell is a marriage coach, entrepreneur, inspirational teacher, and author with a heart and passion for helping couples have great marriages and helping women live purposeful lives. For more information on marriage enrichment and/or premarital classes, call 301-743-5654 or email Jewell at: jewell@marriage101.us

Visit Jewell R. Powell, Author and Marriage Coach
Website: http://www.marriage101.us/

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