Fortifying Your Family

In this enlightening episode, we invite couples to explore the profound meaning of living in covenant with one another, emphasizing that marriage is not merely a partnership, but a sacred union designed to flourish in unity and love. Drawing inspiration from the deep bond between David and Jonathan as depicted in 1 Samuel 18, we uncover essential covenant principles that serve as a foundation for resilient lasting relationships.Order WHAT IS MARRIAGE? book by Sam & Debbie Wood: https://familyfortress.org/storeCheckout our daily couples devotional podcast TIME FOR THREE: https://time-for-three.captivate.fm/listenWebsite: https://familyfortress.org/

As we continue investigating what biblical training practically looks like, this episode examines the two extremes that parents often exercise when disciplining their children. Four helpful guidelines that apply the correct biblical approach are expounded.Chapters:00:40 - Two Extremes of Parenting Discipline00:52 - The Authoritative Parent's Approach04:18 - The Permissive Parent's Philosophy05:54 - Finding Balance in Biblical Discipline07:55 - Four Guidelines for Effective Discipline08:10 - The Importance of Fairness in Parenting12:18 - Being Firm and Consistent16:34 - Focusing on Heart Training23:17 - Using the Right Tools for Discipline23:23 - Maintaining a Fit and Loving Atmosphere26:26 - Conclusion: Glorifying God in ParentingOrder free TEN KEYS TO RAISING GODLY CHILDREN Bookmark - https://familyfortress.org/form/a45a640f-2693-43d7-a382-20a0a7076926Checkout our daily couples devotional podcast TIME FOR THREE: https://time-for-three.captivate.fm/listenWebsite: https://familyfortress.org/

In our latest episode, we dive deep into the heart of parenting, transitioning from foundational principles to the essential theme of discipline. We explore pivotal questions that many parents grapple with, such as: What should the atmosphere of discipline be in our homes? Why is discipline important in the life of our children? And what approaches can we take to ensure our discipline aligns with our faith? This episode serves as a comforting guide, offering practical advice rooted in biblical teachings.Chapters:00:10 - Biblical Principles for Parenting02:16 - Positive Parenting: What To Do02:51 - The Heart of Parenting04:11 - Creating a Spirit-Filled Atmosphere07:54 - The Importance of Discipline08:45 - Discipline for Our Children's Sake11:56 - Discipline for Our Neighbor's Sake14:03 - Discipline for Our Own Sake17:12 - Discipline for the Glory of God19:24 - Conclusion and Key TakeawaysOrder free Ten Keys to Raising Godly Children Bookmark - https://familyfortress.org/form/a45a640f-2693-43d7-a382-20a0a7076926Checkout our daily couples devotional podcast Time for Three: https://time-for-three.captivate.fm/listenWebsite: https://familyfortress.org/

Our first parenting episode dealt with the critical role of establishing parental authority. We continue to build upon that foundation by examining the warning (command, admonition) that parents refrain from provoking their children to anger. The teaching provides actionable insights for parents, advocating for a gospel centered parenting style infused with the Holy Spirit's guidance, focused on self-control, fairness, and understanding. Order free Ten Keys to Raising Godly Children Bookmark - https://familyfortress.org/form/a45a640f-2693-43d7-a382-20a0a7076926Checkout our daily couples devotional podcast Time for Three: https://time-for-three.captivate.fm/listenWebsite: https://familyfortress.org/

The podcast episodes over the next four weeks will look at the pressing need for parents to understand and embody God’s plan for raising children. Parenting is not merely a task but a vital calling that carries the weight of leaving a Godly heritage to future generations. This episode emphasizes the critical role of parental authority in shaping the lives of children, and the importance of establishing a foundation of obedience and honor within the family.Order free Ten Keys to Raising Godly Children Bookmark - https://familyfortress.org/form/a45a640f-2693-43d7-a382-20a0a7076926Checkout our daily couples devotional podcast Time for Three: https://time-for-three.captivate.fm/listenWebsite: https://familyfortress.org/

Conflict is an inevitable part of any relationship, yet many couples find themselves trapped in common pitfalls. These challenges can lead to a cycle of frustration and distance, making it difficult to achieve a harmonious marriage. Part 2 focuses on the essential biblical principles that foster a culture of love and reconciliation.Takeaways: Conflict in marriage should not be ignored; resolution is essential for harmony. Both partners should actively pursue reconciliation and not wait for the other to initiate. Reflecting on the positive qualities of your spouse can help resolve conflicts constructively. Husbands are encouraged to be the first to seek resolution in conflicts. Communication and forgiveness are critical in maintaining a solid marriage relationship. A healthy marriage requires both partners to prioritize their relationship above all else.

Through an investigation of the conflict between the Bible’s most romantic couple - Solomon and his Shulamite bride, God provides tremendous insights. He uses their story to illustrate the importance of communication, understanding, and respect in resolving marital disputes. The teaching unpacks the symbolic gestures and emotional nuances that characterize their relationship, providing listeners with practical advice on how to navigate their own conflicts.

As we dig deeper into our study on sexuality, we encounter Apostle Paul's insightful responses to the Corinthian believers, who often relied on slogans to rationalize their sexual immorality. His teachings provide a clear biblical framework for understanding how to flee from sexual temptation, emphasizing the importance of glorifying God in our sexuality.

It is vital as believers that we recognize that every aspect of our lives—including our sexuality—should reflect the glory of God. In Part 1, we explore how the apostle Paul, in his letters to the Corinthians, addressed individuals who were justifying their sexual immorality, urging them to align their actions with God’s divine purpose – His Glory.

In Part 1, we discovered that a husband’s leadership should mirror the headship of Jesus Christ and His relationship with the church. This profound connection is rooted in the first expression of love: covenant love (Eph. 5:25). It is a love that is steadfast, unwavering, and committed just as Christ's love for us. As we look forward to Part 2, we are excited to delve into the remaining three expressions of love that every husband is called to embody in lovingly leading his wife.

In a world where manhood has been emasculated, Christian husbands face the daunting task of navigating their roles and responsibilities in marriage with confidence and grace; so what does this look like? How specifically does a husband lovingly lead his wife? How can a husband move forward and cleanse his marriage of the toxicity of neglect and poor choices from his past? What does he need to do to ensure that his marriage will thrive in this world of confusion?

In part 2 of our narrative, we witness an incredible testament to the power of a godly wife through Abigail's response to her husband's folly. When faced with the impending wrath of David, who was ready to unleash destruction upon her family due to her husband’s foolish actions, Abigail stepped up with remarkable wisdom and faith.

It is undeniably heart-wrenching to confront the reality of being married to a partner who may exhibit foolishness in their actions or decisions. This emotional turmoil can lead to feelings of frustration, disappointment, and loneliness. The biblical account of Nabal and Abigail provides a poignant illustration of how to navigate challenging marital dynamics when one spouse is living like a fool.

In part 1, we learned how Nehemiah was moved to action by the news of the affliction of Israel and the broken walls of Jerusalem. In part 2, we see how he put his concern, humility, and courage into action by devising an ingenious plan to rebuild the walls through the families that remained. Nehemiah's approach was both practical and spiritual, blending biblical principles with practical guidance.

The Nightly News is increasingly alarming and even disgusting. The trends of society and culture threaten family life as we know it. How is a Christian to respond or should we just ignore the turmoil and hope for the best? Should we complain? Should we depend on politicians? Should we depend on church leadership? What can one ordinary layman do to make a difference for the future of his family and nation?

In the turbulent waters of life, families often find themselves navigating through unexpected changes that can shake the very foundation of their relationships. One thing is constant in every family – CHANGE! Whether it’s marriage, children, financial, or health, what we do and where we go to get help and hope when change occurs is crucial to the survival of our families. In Part 2, we discover the path of faith that God provides during these times of uncertainty and devastation.

Unexpected Trials will invade every family. That’s life.  How we live during times of ease and blessing can fortify our family to face rather than fear the unexpected.  Part one describes the foundational fortification to be practiced during those times of ease. When calamity strikes, this foundation holds our splintering emotions together to wait expectantly  on the God who controls all things.

In Part 1, we were reminded of God's greatness and His promise to fill our needs when we open our mouths wide to Him. However, in Part 2, we see that God's people did not accept His invitation. What are the reasons that hindered them and us from accepting His invitation? And even when we refuse His invitation, we see that in God's grace, He keeps the invitation open.

Why do we hesitate to ask God to do something that seems beyond the realm of possibility? In Psalm 81, He extends an invitation for us to open our mouths wide, promising to fill them when we listen and obey. This call challenges us to bring forth our seemingly insurmountable struggles, be it a broken relationship, a lost loved one, health issues, or financial burdens and present them to God in faith. It's an opportunity to step into the realm of the miraculous by daring to ask for the impossible. So, what are you facing today that appears unattainable? Take a moment to reflect and consider opening your mouth wide in faith, asking God to intervene in ways that defy human understanding.

In Part 1, we delved into the truth that God has not given us a spirit of fear in which the grip of uncertainties and anxieties can tend to paralyze us. Join us in Part Two on the enlightening journey to uncover God's remedy for fear and equip ourselves to walk in victory over the “What Ifs” that come our way.