The Strength of the American Family July 4, 2004

The Strength of the American Family The Strength of the American Family is found in: The family’s relationship with God The parent’s relationship with God The children’s relationship with God How can you make your family stronger?

The Strength of the American Family Strength resides in priorities First things first From the beginning (Genesis 2:15-17) Continual thoughts (Deuteronomy 6:7-9) Reassurance (Joshua 24:15) Encouragement (Matthew 6:33) Example teaching (2 Timothy 1:5) Example of choice (Hebrews 11:23-25)

The Strength of the American Family Strength is found in God God is our Father John 1:12 Matthew 6:9 John 14:23 God is our Help Hebrews 13:6 Psalm 33:20 God is our Provider Genesis 22:8 James 1:17

The Strength of the American Family Strength is the Parents Relationship with God Biblical Examples: Lois and Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5) The possessors of genuine faith. Zacharias and Elizabeth (Luke 1:6) Righteous and walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. Abraham and Sarah (Hebrews 11:17-19) Faithful to the Lord Jochabed and Moses’ Father (Exodus 2:1-11; Hebrews 11:23-26) Teachers of the truth and great protectors

The Strength of the American Family Strength is Found in the Family’s Actions How did Timothy get the “genuine faith?” Was John the Baptist influenced by his parents? Did Isaac remain faithful to God because of his parents great faith? Did Moses choose to suffer affliction because of a Godly mother?

The Strength of YOUR American Family Strength is Found in Your Family’s Actions Are you telling your children about the blessings of God? Deuteronomy 6:7-9 2 Timothy 1:5 Are you training your children? Proverbs 22:6 1 Kings 15:11; 25,26

The Strength of YOUR American Family Are You Providing an Example? Jay Kesler says today's teenagers are different from past generations and need to be treated differently. They are apathetic because they think they don't matter to the world. The church and families can reach them, primarily by communicating and setting a good example. Colossians 3:17 1 Timothy 4:12

The Strength of YOUR American Family Thirty Minutes of Exercise? Are you exercising our spiritual mind? (Acts 17:11; Luke 4:16,17) Are you exercising your spiritual strength? (Acts 5:42)