John DeFrain, Nick Stinnett, and their colleagues have done extensive research with over 24,000 families since 1974 into what makes families strong. *

This ongoing research has revealed six qualities of strong families:

• Appreciation and Affection for Each Other – “Family members gave one another compliments and sincere demonstrations of approval. They tried to make others feel appreciated and good about themselves.”
   

• Valuing Each Other and Demonstrating Commitment – “Families promoted each person’s happiness and welfare, invested time and energy in each other and made family their number one priority.”
   

• Ability to Deal With Crises in a Positive Manner – “They were willing to take a bad situation, see something positive in it, and focus on that.”
   

• Time Together – “In all areas of their lives – meals, work, [and] recreation – they structured their schedules to spend time together
   

• Good Communication Patterns – “These families spent time talking with each other. They also listened well, which shows respect.”
   

• Spiritual Well-Being – These strong families “considered themselves highly religious.”

“Spiritual Well-Being” has to do with the FOUNDATION of a family: their core values, code of conduct, sense of purpose, and beliefs about life. No family is stronger than its foundation. That’s why it’s so important for us to build our families upon a SOLID foundation.

Jesus identified the proper foundation for our lives & the lives of our families:

Our families encounter many “storms.” But Jesus has promised that if we build our lives and our families upon the ROCK – which is Jesus Himself, the only sure Foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11)! – by hearing and doing His Word, then we will be able to withstand those storms!

Are YOU building your life upon the Rock by hearing and doing the Word of God?  Why not begin today?