This document provides information about the Couples for Christ Marriage Enrichment Retreat II (MER 2). It discusses the purpose and topics covered in the retreat. The retreat aims to strengthen married couples' relationships with each other and with God. It is recommended for CFC member-couples and covers topics like effective communication, unity in marriage, parenting, and empowering marriages. The document includes sample schedules for the 2-3 day retreat with talks, discussions, meals and activities. Guidelines are provided for facilitating productive communication between couples, especially during disagreements. The overall goal is for couples to gain wisdom about marriage from a Christian perspective and spend dedicated time focusing on their relationship.
1. The document discusses principles for marriage relationships based on 1 Corinthians 7:1-10. It emphasizes that marriage is good, meant to be monogamous, and heterosexual.
2. Key principles for marriage discussed are mutual satisfaction between partners, mutual submission to one another, and mutual service to one another.
3. Marriage is meant to be a permanent commitment, as emphasized by the command to stay married. Maintaining God at the center of a marriage is important for its success and longevity.
This document discusses the biblical view of marriage. It argues that marriage was instituted by God as a lifelong, monogamous relationship between one man and one woman. The document outlines God's original design and purpose for marriage according to scripture. It also acknowledges that marriage has been imperfect since the fall of man but that the church should still uphold God's standard while ministering to those in difficult situations.
1. Marriage is a lifelong commitment that requires serious consideration and effort.
2. A marriage built on God's love and principles can withstand challenges if both partners prioritize their relationship with God and each other over all others.
3. Factors like lack of growth, vision, self-worth, communication and involvement of outsiders can negatively impact marriage, so couples must work together towards Christ-centered intimacy and unity.
Anderson Premarital Pastoral CounselingJere Anderson
This document provides an overview of the first week's content in a marriage counseling program. It introduces the biblical foundation of marriage, discussing key passages from Genesis and Ephesians that establish marriage as a lifelong partnership between a husband and wife. The session defines the roles and expectations of spouses, emphasizing that husbands should lead with love and wives submit with respect, both submitting to Christ. Homework involves studying these scriptures and relationship assessments. The goal is to ground the marriage in biblical principles and foster understanding of roles and expectations.
This document discusses the importance of preparing for marriage through spiritual reading and developing character. It emphasizes that the purpose of marriage is to blend personalities to reflect the image of God. Successful marriages require unity built on principles like obedience to truth, purity of soul, and love for one another. With Christ's power, couples can experience victory over temptation and have an invincible marriage centered on abiding in Him.
1) God's plan for sex is that it occurs within the context of marriage between a man and a woman. Sex is intended to bond a couple together as "one flesh".
2) For singles, God calls them to purity and resisting sexual immorality by focusing on spiritual worship and personal transformation. Dating should be done in groups and with guidance.
3) In marriage, sex should be pure, intimate, unifying the couple through their bodies as recommended in Scripture. Spouses should meet each other's needs and see themselves as servants to their partner.
Couples for christ chapter talk Faithfulness and OrderLyrma Cajegas
This document provides guidance on exhibiting the fruit of the spirit through generosity, faithfulness, and peace. It discusses establishing daily order and priorities through scheduling important activities like family, church, and Couples for Christ (CFC) meetings. It emphasizes making CFC a high priority and being faithful through regular attendance and service. Specific tips are provided on handling requests, balancing priorities, and reordering one's life to focus on spiritual growth through CFC. Bible verses are referenced to support pursuing order, faithfulness, generosity, and peace.
2. seminar on the holy sacrament (special)Leonard Guiang
This document outlines a seminar on the sacrament of matrimony. It discusses key concepts like the biblical foundations of marriage, what constitutes a valid marriage, grounds for marriage nullity, and the rite of the sacrament. It also covers topics like natural family planning methods, the meaning of marital intercourse, and the four aspects of responsible parenthood according to church teaching. The seminar aims to explain church doctrine around marriage and family planning.
1. The document discusses principles for marriage relationships based on 1 Corinthians 7:1-10. It emphasizes that marriage is good, meant to be monogamous, and heterosexual.
2. Key principles for marriage discussed are mutual satisfaction between partners, mutual submission to one another, and mutual service to one another.
3. Marriage is meant to be a permanent commitment, as emphasized by the command to stay married. Maintaining God at the center of a marriage is important for its success and longevity.
This document discusses the biblical view of marriage. It argues that marriage was instituted by God as a lifelong, monogamous relationship between one man and one woman. The document outlines God's original design and purpose for marriage according to scripture. It also acknowledges that marriage has been imperfect since the fall of man but that the church should still uphold God's standard while ministering to those in difficult situations.
1. Marriage is a lifelong commitment that requires serious consideration and effort.
2. A marriage built on God's love and principles can withstand challenges if both partners prioritize their relationship with God and each other over all others.
3. Factors like lack of growth, vision, self-worth, communication and involvement of outsiders can negatively impact marriage, so couples must work together towards Christ-centered intimacy and unity.
Anderson Premarital Pastoral CounselingJere Anderson
This document provides an overview of the first week's content in a marriage counseling program. It introduces the biblical foundation of marriage, discussing key passages from Genesis and Ephesians that establish marriage as a lifelong partnership between a husband and wife. The session defines the roles and expectations of spouses, emphasizing that husbands should lead with love and wives submit with respect, both submitting to Christ. Homework involves studying these scriptures and relationship assessments. The goal is to ground the marriage in biblical principles and foster understanding of roles and expectations.
This document discusses the importance of preparing for marriage through spiritual reading and developing character. It emphasizes that the purpose of marriage is to blend personalities to reflect the image of God. Successful marriages require unity built on principles like obedience to truth, purity of soul, and love for one another. With Christ's power, couples can experience victory over temptation and have an invincible marriage centered on abiding in Him.
1) God's plan for sex is that it occurs within the context of marriage between a man and a woman. Sex is intended to bond a couple together as "one flesh".
2) For singles, God calls them to purity and resisting sexual immorality by focusing on spiritual worship and personal transformation. Dating should be done in groups and with guidance.
3) In marriage, sex should be pure, intimate, unifying the couple through their bodies as recommended in Scripture. Spouses should meet each other's needs and see themselves as servants to their partner.
Couples for christ chapter talk Faithfulness and OrderLyrma Cajegas
This document provides guidance on exhibiting the fruit of the spirit through generosity, faithfulness, and peace. It discusses establishing daily order and priorities through scheduling important activities like family, church, and Couples for Christ (CFC) meetings. It emphasizes making CFC a high priority and being faithful through regular attendance and service. Specific tips are provided on handling requests, balancing priorities, and reordering one's life to focus on spiritual growth through CFC. Bible verses are referenced to support pursuing order, faithfulness, generosity, and peace.
2. seminar on the holy sacrament (special)Leonard Guiang
This document outlines a seminar on the sacrament of matrimony. It discusses key concepts like the biblical foundations of marriage, what constitutes a valid marriage, grounds for marriage nullity, and the rite of the sacrament. It also covers topics like natural family planning methods, the meaning of marital intercourse, and the four aspects of responsible parenthood according to church teaching. The seminar aims to explain church doctrine around marriage and family planning.
This essay discusses the biblical view of marriage and divorce. It begins by defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman that is intended by God to demonstrate His love for the Church. The essay then examines what the Bible says about marriage, noting it is meant to be a lifelong, exclusive relationship. It also explores biblical grounds for divorce, which are limited to adultery, and says divorce should only be a last resort. The essay argues society has distorted marriage by accepting same-sex marriage and viewing divorce as acceptable for minor issues. It concludes by stating the Bible sees divorce as sinful and breaking God's design for the lifelong union of marriage.
The document discusses the importance of marriage and family in God's plan. It emphasizes that we must understand our divine identity and potential as children of God to fully comprehend the purpose of eternal families. Marriage is ordained of God and brings greater happiness than any other relationship. To have a successful marriage, couples must make Jesus Christ the center of their relationship and be dedicated to keeping their sacred covenants with each other and God.
1) God presents family as a reflection of himself and his relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Family is also meant to reflect the gospel and our salvation through Jesus, with God as our Father.
2) The biblical view of family sees it as more than a social institution, but as a means to worship God and imbue his divine image. Healthy families reflect the love and unity within the Trinity.
3) Families should cultivate relationships marked by submission to God, thanksgiving, and being filled with the Spirit through prayer, singing, and God's word. This contrasts with worldly views of family as a trophy, tool, or obstacle.
This document outlines a 5-session adult Sunday school class on Christian stewardship. Session 4 focuses on effective stewardship within families and churches. It discusses the importance of the family as the oldest human institution and defending God's design of marriage. It also highlights how commitment to family and church strengthens society and provides video clips and discussion questions on these topics.
The document discusses the significance of marriage as a practice within Christianity. It describes the key components of a Christian marriage ceremony, including vows, readings from scripture, and symbols like rings that express the faith's beliefs about marriage as a lifelong, sacred union. It analyzes how the ceremony marks an important transition for individuals and also strengthens community bonds by reinforcing Christian teachings on relationships and family.
God designed marriage—and He meant for it to be a blessing! The primary purpose of marriage is companionship. In that companionship, a man and woman as husband and wife can find the sweetness of life that God intended.
Marriage and sanctity by Dr Ruth AfunwaRUTH AFUNWA
1) The document discusses marriage as a path to holiness or sanctity according to Christian teachings. It was established by God to unite a man and woman in a permanent bond.
2) Fidelity in marriage involves total, faithful, and exclusive love between spouses that is enduring, seeks to improve oneself, accepts ideals, and remains constant over time through challenges.
3) Modern challenges to healthy marriages include high divorce rates, secularization, and policies undermining the traditional definition of marriage. However, strong families that practice dialogue, forgiveness, quality time together, and prayer can overcome obstacles.
The document discusses intimacy in marriage from both a biblical and practical perspective. It defines intimacy as a close, familiar relationship involving affection and love. The Bible depicts intimacy between partners as a "oneness" and describes the sexual relationship between spouses. Intimacy in marriage is important as it develops love between partners, bonds their relationship, and gives satisfaction. The Song of Songs provides examples of intimacy through knowledge of each other, communication, and enjoyment of time together. Practically, intimacy involves commitment through good and bad, meeting each other's needs, encouragement, and actively working to please your spouse.
The document discusses the institution of marriage from a biblical perspective. It outlines what the Bible says about marriage being between one man and one woman, intended by God to reflect His image, reproduce children, and allow couples to reign together. The document also addresses homosexuality, noting what the Bible says about homosexual acts and that salvation is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ. It discusses the battle for traditional marriage against same-sex marriage and civil unions.
- The Blessing ceremony began with Jesus 2000 years ago and was continued through Rev. Moon, who conducted mass Blessing ceremonies for thousands of couples.
- There are two models of the Blessing - the "narrow gate" model prior to 1992 which was only for Unification Church members, and the "globalization" model after 1992 aimed at blessing hundreds of thousands to millions of couples.
- Receiving the Blessing restores one's lineage and parents to God's original ideal by engrafting to True Parents' lineage, thereby removing the false lineage inherited from the Fall.
The Test Of Acceptance - Life In The FamilyAdrian Kerr
This document discusses family life from three perspectives - our family life, God's family life, and church family life. Our family life references biblical passages about marriage and the relationship between husband and wife. God's family life explores what it means for Christians to be adopted as children of God. Church family life outlines how worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry, and evangelism are meant to build up the church as God's spiritual family on earth.
Being a wife and mother can be challenging, yet rewarding. The Bible has designed specific roles to the wife and the mother to pursue and live by which will bring forth an abundance of blessings to their marriage and family.
This document discusses proper church attendance and conduct. It recommends preparing for church through Bible reading and prayer. Regarding attire, it advises dressing modestly and appropriately as if meeting an important person, avoiding immodesty. Church attendance is important and absences should be rare. The nature of the church is described using metaphors like the body of Christ, bride of Christ, and flock under the shepherd. Ministry in the church involves service to others.
The pastor realized through studying the Bible that he had embraced society's view of marriage as a contract rather than the biblical view of marriage as a covenant. He repented to the congregation for teaching anti-biblical values. The biblical view is that marriage is an irrevocable covenant commitment until death, unlike a contract which can be dissolved if one party does not fulfill their obligations. Embracing the value of contract over covenant in marriages has contributed greatly to the dysfunction and problems currently facing families.
This document summarizes a sermon about the qualifications for elders or leaders in the church according to Titus 1:5-7. It discusses that God has historically used godly men to lead His people. There was a need for this in the churches of Crete. The sermon identifies three main qualifications for elders: 1) Elders must be men; 2) Elders must be above reproach with no chargeable offenses against them; 3) Elders must faithfully steward their home by being devoted husbands and fathers. The goal is to equip the church to raise up future godly leaders.
This document outlines the basic tools for spiritual growth as a Christian: prayer, study, service, fellowship, and the sacraments. It discusses each tool in detail, explaining their importance and providing examples. Prayer is described as the primary means of developing a relationship with God, while study, service, and fellowship help Christians learn about and serve God together. The sacraments, especially confession and communion, are emphasized as the most important tools for Catholics to receive grace. The overall message is that through utilizing these tools with commitment, Christians can mature in their faith.
This document discusses the Catholic sacrament of matrimony. It explains that marriage is a covenant between spouses that represents the bond between Christ and the Church. The key aspects of Catholic marriage highlighted include the consent and vows exchanged by the couple, the permanence and indissolubility of the marital bond, and marriage as a source of sanctifying grace for the spouses.
The document discusses the importance of relationships in the church. It makes three main points:
1. The essence of the church is believers in relationship with each other, not buildings or budgets. Healthy relationships require risking connection with others and introducing them to Christ.
2. There are three levels of relationships - immature, adolescent, and mature/balanced relationships characterized by grace. Functioning at the highest level through discipleship sets you free from always requiring something in return.
3. Fulfilling the mission of relationships requires acknowledging our need for relationships, risking connection, fellowship through sharing life and faith, and working to develop healthy relationships. The number one way to connect is through discipleship.
This essay discusses the biblical view of marriage and divorce. It begins by defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman that is intended by God to demonstrate His love for the Church. The essay then examines what the Bible says about marriage, noting it is meant to be a lifelong, exclusive relationship. It also explores biblical grounds for divorce, which are limited to adultery, and says divorce should only be a last resort. The essay argues society has distorted marriage by accepting same-sex marriage and viewing divorce as acceptable for minor issues. It concludes by stating the Bible sees divorce as sinful and breaking God's design for the lifelong union of marriage.
The document discusses the importance of marriage and family in God's plan. It emphasizes that we must understand our divine identity and potential as children of God to fully comprehend the purpose of eternal families. Marriage is ordained of God and brings greater happiness than any other relationship. To have a successful marriage, couples must make Jesus Christ the center of their relationship and be dedicated to keeping their sacred covenants with each other and God.
1) God presents family as a reflection of himself and his relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Family is also meant to reflect the gospel and our salvation through Jesus, with God as our Father.
2) The biblical view of family sees it as more than a social institution, but as a means to worship God and imbue his divine image. Healthy families reflect the love and unity within the Trinity.
3) Families should cultivate relationships marked by submission to God, thanksgiving, and being filled with the Spirit through prayer, singing, and God's word. This contrasts with worldly views of family as a trophy, tool, or obstacle.
This document outlines a 5-session adult Sunday school class on Christian stewardship. Session 4 focuses on effective stewardship within families and churches. It discusses the importance of the family as the oldest human institution and defending God's design of marriage. It also highlights how commitment to family and church strengthens society and provides video clips and discussion questions on these topics.
The document discusses the significance of marriage as a practice within Christianity. It describes the key components of a Christian marriage ceremony, including vows, readings from scripture, and symbols like rings that express the faith's beliefs about marriage as a lifelong, sacred union. It analyzes how the ceremony marks an important transition for individuals and also strengthens community bonds by reinforcing Christian teachings on relationships and family.
God designed marriage—and He meant for it to be a blessing! The primary purpose of marriage is companionship. In that companionship, a man and woman as husband and wife can find the sweetness of life that God intended.
Marriage and sanctity by Dr Ruth AfunwaRUTH AFUNWA
1) The document discusses marriage as a path to holiness or sanctity according to Christian teachings. It was established by God to unite a man and woman in a permanent bond.
2) Fidelity in marriage involves total, faithful, and exclusive love between spouses that is enduring, seeks to improve oneself, accepts ideals, and remains constant over time through challenges.
3) Modern challenges to healthy marriages include high divorce rates, secularization, and policies undermining the traditional definition of marriage. However, strong families that practice dialogue, forgiveness, quality time together, and prayer can overcome obstacles.
The document discusses intimacy in marriage from both a biblical and practical perspective. It defines intimacy as a close, familiar relationship involving affection and love. The Bible depicts intimacy between partners as a "oneness" and describes the sexual relationship between spouses. Intimacy in marriage is important as it develops love between partners, bonds their relationship, and gives satisfaction. The Song of Songs provides examples of intimacy through knowledge of each other, communication, and enjoyment of time together. Practically, intimacy involves commitment through good and bad, meeting each other's needs, encouragement, and actively working to please your spouse.
The document discusses the institution of marriage from a biblical perspective. It outlines what the Bible says about marriage being between one man and one woman, intended by God to reflect His image, reproduce children, and allow couples to reign together. The document also addresses homosexuality, noting what the Bible says about homosexual acts and that salvation is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ. It discusses the battle for traditional marriage against same-sex marriage and civil unions.
- The Blessing ceremony began with Jesus 2000 years ago and was continued through Rev. Moon, who conducted mass Blessing ceremonies for thousands of couples.
- There are two models of the Blessing - the "narrow gate" model prior to 1992 which was only for Unification Church members, and the "globalization" model after 1992 aimed at blessing hundreds of thousands to millions of couples.
- Receiving the Blessing restores one's lineage and parents to God's original ideal by engrafting to True Parents' lineage, thereby removing the false lineage inherited from the Fall.
The Test Of Acceptance - Life In The FamilyAdrian Kerr
This document discusses family life from three perspectives - our family life, God's family life, and church family life. Our family life references biblical passages about marriage and the relationship between husband and wife. God's family life explores what it means for Christians to be adopted as children of God. Church family life outlines how worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry, and evangelism are meant to build up the church as God's spiritual family on earth.
Being a wife and mother can be challenging, yet rewarding. The Bible has designed specific roles to the wife and the mother to pursue and live by which will bring forth an abundance of blessings to their marriage and family.
This document discusses proper church attendance and conduct. It recommends preparing for church through Bible reading and prayer. Regarding attire, it advises dressing modestly and appropriately as if meeting an important person, avoiding immodesty. Church attendance is important and absences should be rare. The nature of the church is described using metaphors like the body of Christ, bride of Christ, and flock under the shepherd. Ministry in the church involves service to others.
The pastor realized through studying the Bible that he had embraced society's view of marriage as a contract rather than the biblical view of marriage as a covenant. He repented to the congregation for teaching anti-biblical values. The biblical view is that marriage is an irrevocable covenant commitment until death, unlike a contract which can be dissolved if one party does not fulfill their obligations. Embracing the value of contract over covenant in marriages has contributed greatly to the dysfunction and problems currently facing families.
This document summarizes a sermon about the qualifications for elders or leaders in the church according to Titus 1:5-7. It discusses that God has historically used godly men to lead His people. There was a need for this in the churches of Crete. The sermon identifies three main qualifications for elders: 1) Elders must be men; 2) Elders must be above reproach with no chargeable offenses against them; 3) Elders must faithfully steward their home by being devoted husbands and fathers. The goal is to equip the church to raise up future godly leaders.
This document outlines the basic tools for spiritual growth as a Christian: prayer, study, service, fellowship, and the sacraments. It discusses each tool in detail, explaining their importance and providing examples. Prayer is described as the primary means of developing a relationship with God, while study, service, and fellowship help Christians learn about and serve God together. The sacraments, especially confession and communion, are emphasized as the most important tools for Catholics to receive grace. The overall message is that through utilizing these tools with commitment, Christians can mature in their faith.
This document discusses the Catholic sacrament of matrimony. It explains that marriage is a covenant between spouses that represents the bond between Christ and the Church. The key aspects of Catholic marriage highlighted include the consent and vows exchanged by the couple, the permanence and indissolubility of the marital bond, and marriage as a source of sanctifying grace for the spouses.
The document discusses the importance of relationships in the church. It makes three main points:
1. The essence of the church is believers in relationship with each other, not buildings or budgets. Healthy relationships require risking connection with others and introducing them to Christ.
2. There are three levels of relationships - immature, adolescent, and mature/balanced relationships characterized by grace. Functioning at the highest level through discipleship sets you free from always requiring something in return.
3. Fulfilling the mission of relationships requires acknowledging our need for relationships, risking connection, fellowship through sharing life and faith, and working to develop healthy relationships. The number one way to connect is through discipleship.
Similar to Marriage Enrichment Rereat IIMarriage Enrichment Rereat II (20)
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
Protector & Destroyer: Agni Dev (The Hindu God of Fire)Exotic India
So let us turn the pages of ancient Indian literature and get to know more about Agni, the mighty purifier of all things, worshipped in Indian culture as a God since the Vedic time.
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
The Book of Samuel is a book in the Hebrew Bible, found as two books in the Old Testament. The book is part of the Deuteronomistic history, a series of books that constitute a theological history of the Israelites and that aim to explain God's law for Israel under the guidance of the prophets.
Trusting God's Providence | Verse: Romans 8: 28-31JL de Belen
Trusting God's Providence.
Providence - God’s active preservation and care over His creation. God is both the Creator and the Sustainer of all things Heb. 1:2-3; Col. 1:17
-God keep His promises.
-God’s general providence is toward all creation
- All things were made through Him
God’s special providence is toward His children.
We may suffer now, but joy can and will come
God can see what we cannot see
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
My ritual will not only stop separation and divorce, but rebuild a strong bond between you and your partner that is based on truth, honesty, and unconditional love. For an even stronger effect, you may want to consider using the Eternal Love Bond spell to ensure your relationship and love will last through all tests of time. If you have not yet determined if your partner is considering separation or divorce, but are aware of rifts in the relationship, try the Love Spells to remove problems in a relationship or marriage. Keep in mind that all my love spells are 100% customized and that you'll only need 1 spell to address all problems/wishes.
Save your marriage from divorce & make your relationship stronger using anti divorce spells to make him or her fall back in love with you. End your marriage if you are no longer in love with your husband or wife. Permanently end your marriage using divorce spells that work fast. Protect your marriage from divorce using love spells to boost commitment, love & bind your hearts together for a stronger marriage that will last. Get your ex lover who has remarried using divorce spells to break up a couple & make your ex lost lover come back to you permanently.
Visit https://www.profbalaj.com/love-spells-loves-spells-that-work/
Call/WhatsApp +27836633417 for more info.
The Book of Ruth is included in the third division, or the Writings, of the Hebrew Bible. In most Christian canons it is treated as one of the historical books and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/presentations
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/documents
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
Sanatan Vastu | Experience Great Living | Vastu ExpertSanatan Vastu
Santan Vastu Provides Vedic astrology courses & Vastu remedies, If you are searching Vastu for home, Vastu for kitchen, Vastu for house, Vastu for Office & Factory. Best Vastu in Bahadurgarh. Best Vastu in Delhi NCR
Sanatan Vastu | Experience Great Living | Vastu Expert
Marriage Enrichment Rereat IIMarriage Enrichment Rereat II
1. 1
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
The Marriage Enrichment Retreat II (MER 2) is part of the formation program available in CFC.
It is available to all member-couples starting from their second year in CFC. It is an optional
program for the general membership and for household leaders, but is required for unit leaders
and up.
The talks in MER 2 are the following:
1. What makes a Christian marriage work
2. Unity in marriage
3. Communication
4. Sex in marriage
5. Christian parenting
6. Empowering our marriage
The content of MER 2 does not duplicate what has already been given in the first MER.
However, certain principles and points would inevitably be touched upon again.
MER 2 is recommended for all CFC member-couples, even for those who might see some topics
as of limited relevance for them (e.g., those with no children). The retreat should be seen as a
good way for the couple (1) to have time off by themselves to strengthen their personal
relationship, and (2) to gain wisdom on marriage and family life, especially for those in
leadership in CFC.
The retreat would normally start on the evening of the first day and end by noon of the third day.
Alternatively, it may be held over two days, beginning early morning of the first day and ending
in the afternoon of the second day. The retreat schedules, not necessarily on a weekend, do not
provide for a Lord's Day celebration and a Mass. There should be a Lord's Day celebration if the
retreat encompasses a Saturday evening.
CFC PFO. Sept. 27, 1995. 30 pages.
2. 2
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
SCHEDULE A
Day 1
7:00 PM Arrival/Registration
8:00 Introduction/Administrative announcements
8:30 Worship
9:00 Talk #1 "What makes a Christian marriage work"
9:45 Couple discussion
10:30 Lights out
Day 2
6:30 AM Wake up call
7:30 Breakfast
8:30 Worship
9:00 Talk #2 "Unity in marriage"
9:45 Couple discussion
10:15 Snacks
10:45 Talk #3 "Communication"
11:30 Couple discussion
12:00 NN Lunch
1:00 PM Rest/Recreation
2:30 Praise time
3:00 Talk #4 "Sex in marriage"
3:45 Couple discussion
4:15 Snacks
4:45 Talk #5 "Christian Parenting"
5:30 Couple discussion
6:00 Break
6:30 Dinner
7:30 Games/Fellowship
10:30 Lights out
Day 3
6:30 AM Wake up call
7:30 Breakfast
8:30 Worship
9:00 Talk #6 "Empowering our marriage"
10:30 Snacks
11:00 Open forum/Sharing
12:00 NN Lunch
1:00 Departure
3. 3
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
SCHEDULE B
Day 1
8:30 AM Arrival/Registration
9:45 Introduction/Administrative announcements
10:15 Worship
10:45 Talk #1
11:30 Couple discussion
12:00 NN Lunch
1:00 PM Rest
2:30 Praise time
3:00 Talk #2
3:45 Couple discussion
4:15 Snacks
4:45 Talk #3
5:30 Couple discussion
6:00 Break
6:30 Dinner
7:30 Games/Fellowship
10:30 Lights out
Day 2
6:30 AM Wake up call
7:30 Breakfast
8:30 Worship
9:00 Talk #4
9:45 Couple discussion
10:15 Snacks
10:45 Talk #5
11:30 Couple discussion
12:00 NN Lunch
1:00 PM Rest
2:00 Praise time
2:30 Talk #6
4:00 Open forum/Sharing (with snacks)
5:00 Departure
4. 4
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
TALK # 1 : WHAT MAKES A CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE WORK
Expanded outline
A. Introduction.
1. Most couples who get married today have no adequate preparation and training.
a) Unlike for professions such as a lawyer or doctor.
b) For some there are pre-marriage seminars, but these are very inadequate.
c) This is a serious mistake on the part of the Church and of society. Just consider the
number of divorces, separations and bad marriages.
2. Another mistake is that most couples do not seek help to enrich and improve their
marriages. When they do, it is often when there is already serious trouble.
3. So what is it that makes Christian marriages work?
B. Five essential factors.
1. A proper understanding of Christian marriage.
a) Wrong understanding or wrong reasons for getting married:
* Legitimizing a wrong relationship.
* Search for self-gratification.
* Escape from boredom or loneliness.
b) Correct understanding:
* It is a participation in God's plan.
- The family is God's plan. Gen 2:18-24.
- It can only work well if done according to God's plan.
* It is a covenant of love.
- A covenant before God. Thus indissoluble.
- Based on love. Not romance, but a commitment.
* It is a life of committed service.
- Involves a constant laying down of one's life for the other.
5. 5
2. Right development of Christian character and values.
a) Certain character traits are appropriate for the spouses, corresponding to roles of men
and women.
* Men - take responsibility; be aggressive.
* Women - be supportive; have a peaceful and gentle spirit.
* There should be no confusion of roles.
b) Right Christian conduct. Eph 4:22-32.
* These are appropriate for all Christians. But very helpful for married couples.
* V. 22 Fresh thinking = God's outlook.
25 Truth = no deceit in relationship.
26 Anger = can have fights but handle in a good way, and settle finally.
28 Not steal = no unjust taking advantage of other.
29 Speech = not to tear down but to build up.
31 No bitterness, anger, etc.
32 Kindness, compassion, forgiveness.
The key: follow God's example.
c) Right attitude towards material resources. 1 Tim 6:7-10
* Most marriages are geared toward the accumulation of more and more material
resources. Importance of status.
* We need to learn detachment, stewardship, investing in the afterlife.
* Of course, good things are there for us to enjoy. But we ought to have the proper
attitude.
d) Service to God is a Christian priority.
* Serve God, spouse, others.
3. Right relationship between spouses.
a) A Christian way of selecting a spouse. 1 Thes 4:3-5.
* No longer for us, but for the benefit of our children.
b) Mutual love and respect. Eph 5:21 and 33.
6. 6
* Tempers any possible misinterpretation of the teaching on headship.
c) In sexual relationship, holiness and service. 1 Cor 7:3-5.
4. Properly managing our time and resources.
a) Our job should allow time for family and community.
b) Should the wife need to work, have common agreement on this.
* Not an ideal situation, but at times necessary for economic reasons.
* Do not take on the mentality of pursuance of career for women.
* Need to examine motive. Review every so often.
c) We should not be slaves to business or money.
5. The power of the Holy Spirit.
a) Psalm 127:1.
b) Marriage and family life are God's idea. We are merely His servants. We need to let
Him take charge.
C. Conclusion.
1. God's ideal for Christian marriage is a high one.
a) We enter into a covenant of love for the rest of our lives.
b) We witness to the very life of God and the unity in the Trinity.
2. It is difficult, but God is committed to help and empower us.
3. Let us learn more during this retreat. And let us continue to trust in the One Who brought
us together in Christian marriage.
7. 7
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
TALK # 2 : UNITY IN MARRIAGE
Expanded outline
A. Introduction.
1. The trend in the world today is not unity but individualism. "Do your own thing".
2. Jesus calls us to unity. John 17:21. Our relationships are to reflect the unity in the
Trinity.
B. Unity in marriage.
1. The call to unity is especially for married people.
a) Two individuals become one flesh.
b) Even for reproduction, man and woman must unite to produce new life.
c) The biblical teaching. Gen 2.
* God created man (2:7).
* God was not satisfied (2:18).
* God created woman from man's rib (2:21-22).
"Rib" = very close; share genuine bond of unity; made of same substance;
share same life.
* Adam recognizes this same life and substance (2:23).
* Husband and wife become a new social entity, a unity that works as one (2:24).
2. But the original unity and harmony did not last.
a) When men and women disrupted their relationship with God, they also disrupted the
harmony between themselves.
b) Fallen humanity never fully recovered the ideal of married unity that God offered the
first man and woman.
c) Thus even among God's chosen people, divorce--the mark of a final breaking of
unity--was a common occurence.
3. Jesus' teaching. Mt 19:3-6.
8. 8
a) Jesus affirms God's plan for unity.
b) There can be no compromise (19:9).
* Note : We do not concern ourselves here with the seeming qualification or
exception.
4. God wants unity.
a) The book of Genesis tells us of God's original intention.
b) Jesus affirms this in the gospels.
c) Paul's teaching. Eph 5:32. This unity in marriage refers to Christ and the church. The
fidelity of husband and wife is a sign of God's unbroken covenant love for His
people. Marriage reflects God's love and life.
C. Supports to unity.
1. A personal relationship with the Lord.
a) Mt 19:10. The disciples found the ideal of lifelong unity too difficult.
* This unity is impossible for fallen man.
* Yet unity is God's design.
* We need God's power. Jesus is the source of all unity.
b) Effect of Jesus' lordship:
* When we take him as teacher, then we learn the same approach to life as he has.
* Jesus is the one to give us the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is power to change
lives.
c) There is a need for daily personal prayer, praying together, studying Scripture,
opening our lives to the action of the Holy Spirit.
2. A relationship to each other as Christian brother and sister.
a) Before even being husband and wife, we are brother and sister in the Lord.
* Marriage is between two of the Lord's disciples.
* Remarkably few marriage problems really involve marriage itself. But rather it is
failure in acting as Christian brother and sister.
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* If we learn to live as brethren, then we can live well as husband and wife.
b) We need to go to Scripture for wisdom.
* Most basic commandment -- John 15:12.
* Love is unilateral. It does not depend on the other's response or the lack of it. Our
love does not depend on emotional support or rewards received, but simply on our
decision to obey Jesus' command.
* Love is based on commitment, not feeling. Our love endures through good times
or bad, for better or for worse.
* God can put His own love into our hearts as we obey His command.
c) Practically, committed love means being ready to serve one another. Phil 2:5-7.
Rom 12:10.
3. Principle of Christian governmental authority.
a) In the world, there are two extremes: authority as a means of oppression; and doing
away with all authority.
* Neither extreme can maintain unity.
* God wants to establish authority in social units because He wants to have unity
and to take united action.
b) Our model is the life in the Trinity.
* There is total equality, but also governmental order. Jesus obeys the Father.
c) Jesus wants the life of his people to mirror this relationship in the Godhead.
* Husbands have authority over their wives.
* Parents have authority over their children.
D. Headship and submission.
1. Definition: This refers to governmental roles in the family, with husband as the head of
the family and the wife as a support to him.
2. Scriptural basis:
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a) 1 Cor 11:3. Directly linked to the Father's authority in the Godhead.
b) Eph 5:22-23. Directly linked to Christ's authority in the Church.
3. Some important aspects:
a) No judgment is made on the value of husband or wife. There is equality of worth, yet
distinction of roles.
b) Headship enables husband and wife to move forward as one. Not his or her own way,
but the Lord's way.
c) How headship functions at a given point in a couple's marriage varies according to
each spouse's maturity. There is a need for flexibility.
* Ordinarily, both share the responsibility for family life.
* If the husband is more mature, he takes more responsibility for their life together.
He delegates to the wife as she is able to handle.
* If the wife is more mature, the husband should draw on his wife's wisdom and
experience. The wife should support her husband, not take over his role as head.
The husband can mature only if he functions as the head, including being allowed
to make mistakes.
d) Regarding decisions affecting the life of the whole family, the husband and wife
should normally discuss these.
* If they cannot agree, then the husband decides on how to settle it. He either (1)
waits until they both agree, or (2) he follows his own opinion, or (3) he follows
his wife, or (4) he seeks outside counsel. In any case, he decides.
e) Headship involves real authority. Submission involves real obedience, and not just
being favorably disposed to the husband's requests.
* There is no need to obey an order to sin.
* If not sin, the wife should obey even if she disagrees.
f) Headship is not to be applied legalistically. It is basically a function of a love
relationship. And it is only one aspect of a much larger relationship.
4. Headship is a gift of God to His people. It is an important source of unity and peace.
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E. Conclusion.
1. God calls us as husband and wife to be perfectly one.
2. God gives us the means to grow into that unity.
3. We must learn to make these means a practical part of our married life.
12. 12
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
TALK # 3 : COMMUNICATION
Expanded outline
A. Introduction.
1. There is much to talk about in marriage--appreciating God's plan for us and discussing
how our relationships within the home can be truly in the Lord.
2. As we go through our married life, there will be disagreements. Even as we talk about our
life in the Lord, there will be disagreements.
a) Periodic disagreement is an inevitable and normal part of marriage.
b) The resolution of such disagreements has to take place verbally. We need to
communicate.
3. How we communicate will determine in large measure how our marriage will be.
a) Arguments and confrontations, no matter how slight, involve factors of stress and
tension. In such an environment, uncontrolled words can wound in a devastating way.
Prov 18:21a.
b) On the other hand, if we learn to communicate well, we have the foundation with
which to discuss anything, and thus have the means to move on in the Lord.
B. Seven ways of keeping communication under control, especially in difficult discussions.
1. Decide right from the start to be open to what your spouse says, with a willingness to
admit legitimate errors on your part. Let your motive be to discover the truth, not win the
argument.
2. Decide to hear your spouse out without interrupting or losing your temper when he or she
hits a sensitive nerve.
3. Pray and put on your spiritual armor. Remember that the devil is the one who is fanning
the flames and instigating disharmony.
4. Decide not to hurt your spouse.
* You know all the vulnerable, tender spots. Decide not to take any bit of information
your spouse has shared with you and use it as a weapon against him/her.
13. 13
5. Be willing to be a dumping ground for your spouse. Realize that there are times when
you just need to let him/her dump out the garbage and hurt that has accumulated. Do this
without retaliation, correction or pat "spiritual" answers.
6. Stick with the main issue and only handle one issue at a time. Don't be sidetracked into
minor points or something that is past history.
7. Avoid sarcasm and joking. Sarcasm does little except inflame the discussion. And
while there could be rare occasions when joking can break the tension and relieve some
pressure, be prudent.
C. Seven things not to say.
1. "You never do what I tell you". Avoid using the word "never".
a) Firstly, it is inaccurate. It is probably not true that your spouse has not once done
what was required.
* Your spouse's reaction will be defensiveness and self-justification, which will
ultimately blind him/her to any truth in the point you were trying to communicate.
b) Also, it is discouraging.
* What you are saying to your spouse is "You're an absolute failure; you haven't
done one thing right".
* It also communicates that any attempt your spouse has made to comply with you
has been meaningless to you, counting for nothing.
2. "You're just like your mother (or father)!"
a) This is a subtle way of being critical of your spouse's parents.
b) It is a low blow because your spouse did not choose his/her parents or the negative
input they gave him/her, which he/she is probably struggling to overcome. It is never
wise to make someone feel responsible for something he/she did not do or cannot
alter.
3. "You are misunderstanding what I'm saying".
a) This is a subtle way of implying that you are communicating clearly and so the fault
must be with your spouse. You need to realize that none of us is a perfect
communicator.
b) It is better for you to take the responsibility by saying, "Maybe I'm not saying it
14. 14
clearly enough".
4. "I can't take any more!"
a) In moments of crisis, melodramatic statements like this are common. Such
statements are often an escape from the responsibility to face difficulties squarely.
b) God calls on us to endure. Acts 14:22.
5. "It's all your fault. You're to blame"
a) If, through verbal manipulation and domination, you come away from every
disagreement absolutely blameless, then only one other person is to blame--your
spouse. Your spouse then comes under an often unbearable burden of guilt. Thus
nobody ultimately wins.
b) James 5:16. Admitting your faults allows healing to come to both parties and releases
your spouse from the guilt you would otherwise put on him/her.
c) Also, when things go wrong, often it is nobody's fault. So no blame should be
accepted or assigned.
6. "I don't want to talk about it".
a) This is a very dangerous stage. When communication ceases, the avenue for
reconciliation is blocked.
b) The silent treatment is never a solution. Resignation to silence is an invitation for
bitterness to take root, to just nurse your wounds and think of all the evidence against
your spouse.
7. "I'm leaving".
a) Stay and talk things out, no matter how difficult.
D. Seven foundation stones for good communication.
1. Trust. "I promise not to hurt you".
a) Realize that our spouse is the last person we would want to hurt. Follow this through
with keeping our promise not to hurt our spouse. The fruit should be greater trust for
each other.
b) Trust is also an act of faith. It means making yourself vulnerable to one another. It is
sharing with your spouse that precious secret, hope or desire or those deepest inner
15. 15
fears and weaknesses, believing that the information will never be used against you as
a weapon.
2. Respect and approval. "You're important to me".
a) It is possible to love someone without showing respect for him/her. The evidence of
respect is your behavior and speech toward your spouse. It is your way of acting, in
terms of honoring, simple courtesy, thoughtfulness, deference and attentiveness.
b) Approval is the verbal expression of respect. Marriage should be replete with
statements like, "You did a great job", "I'm proud of what you did".
3. Love. "I love you just the way you are".
a) Love entails acceptance and redemption. The nature of God's love for us is that He
loves and accepts us just as we are. Yet His love draws us redemptively out of sin
into salvation.
b) You need to love unconditionally.
c) Unconditional love helps motivate a person to overcome his/her faults and
weaknesses. This is the redemptive quality of love.
4. Self-sacrifice. "Your needs come before mine".
5. Forgiveness. "The slate is clean".
a) Forgive mistakes, forget them and never bring them up again.
6. Honesty (with moderation). "This is exactly how I feel".
a) Two extremes: Hide your emotions, or let fly with a brutal barrage of unbridled
words inflamed with fierce emotions.
b) We need to learn to be truthful without hedging, nor being insensitive or
unnecessarily blunt. Honesty, with balance and prudence.
7. Covenant. "Whatever it takes".
a) Covenant means unconditional commitment.
E. Conclusion.
1. Regular communication is a very important element in establishing harmony between
husband and wife.
16. 16
2. God desires peace and unity for our marriage. God will reward our efforts to establish
life-giving communication.
17. 17
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
TALK # 4 : SEX IN MARRIAGE
Expanded outline
A. Truths about sex:
1. Sex is part of God's design for human life. Gen 1:27. Thus sex is basically good.
2. God has a purpose for sex. Sex is not ours to use in any way we please. His purposes
are:
a) Expression of love and affection between husband and wife.
b) Conception and birth of children. Gen 1:28.
3. Sex is important for husband and wife to become truly one flesh. Sex establishes the
bond of unity between spouses.
B. Two wrong attitudes:
1. Negative attitudes that create guilt or fear about sex.
a) The reality is that sexuality is intrinsically good.
b) We need to be able to distinguish between desire and lust, between temptation and
sin.
2. Hedonistic attitudes that exalt sexual pleasure to an importance beyond its created
purpose.
a) Sexual pleasure for its own sake.
b) Leads to practices such as sado-masochism, bi-sexuality, anal intercourse, group sex.
All are perversions of God's purpose.
c) When this is the focus, there is an increase in the risk that the marriage will fail.
C. Four qualities of Christian sexual relationships:
1. Joyful.
a) Sexual intercourse as a source of great physical and emotional pleasure.
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b) Sexual intercourse is to be approached with a real spirit of enjoyment.
2. Committed.
a) Husband and wife need to be available to one another. 1 Cor 7:3-5.
* Does not depend on emotion or moods.
* Balanced by genuine concern and love.
* Is expressed joyfully, not in a begrudging or purely dutiful spirit.
b) Sex is not to be used to manipulate the other person.
c) This type of commitment and availability can help resolve sexual problems like
masturbation, pornography, lust for others.
3. Chaste.
a) Does not refer to being "celibate". Also does not refer to false modesty.
b) Means freedom from any kind of immoral or lustful behavior.
c) Does not mean that if one is married, anything goes. 1 Thes 4:3-5.
d) Does allow for variety in sexual expression.
* Have enough freedom for a reasonable degree of variety. E.g., different positions;
manual or oral stimulation as part of foreplay.
* The sexual act must end in genital intercourse.
4. Centered on Christ.
a) Marriage depends on the love of Christ which has been poured out into our hearts by
the Holy Spirit.
D. Establishing the sexual relationship.
1. One very important element is communication. The spouses need to discuss sexual
feelings honestly and freely.
2. The spouses need to learn about each other.
19. 19
a) Feelings and attitude about sex. What does one find stimulating. What does one
dislike.
b) General difference in the sexual response of men and women.
3. Frequency.
a) What is the right frequency?
* The Babylonian Talmud prescribed sexual intercourse according to professions:
for unemployed laborers, daily; for students, twice a week; for camel drivers,
once every two weeks; for sailors, once a month.
b) There is no general rule, but regular intercourse is important. 1 Cor 7:5. This is
necessary to satisfy sexual needs. If not, one is more susceptible to sexual
temptation.
c) The important question to ask: Do we have intercourse often enough to maintain a
satisfying sexual relationship?
d) Scheduling when to have intercourse may be necessary.
E. Key to unity and happiness in the sexual relationship:
1. Be glad God made man and woman in the way He did.
2. Discover how God intends our differences to work toward our corporate good.
3. Have faith and patience as we work toward the goal of sexual unity and fulfillment.
F. Conclusion.
1. Sex is God's gift to married couples.
2. Through our sexual intimacy, let us look forward to growing in greater unity and love for
our spouse.
20. 20
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
TALK # 5 : CHRISTIAN PARENTING
Expanded outline
A. Introduction.
1. Our children are not ours to do with as we please. They belong to God. God has a plan
for raising His children.
2. The basic goal of parenting: Eph 6:4b. To bring them up with the training and instruction
befitting the Lord.
3. Thus we must diligently seek out God's purpose for them and raise them according to it.
Our primary goal is to raise children who know the Lord and follow His ways.
B. Principles for raising children in the Lord.
1. Parents have been given the responsibility by God to take an active and vigorous role in
raising their children in His ways.
a) This responsibility rests in a special way upon the father (Eph 6:4). The mother
shares the responsibility.
2. Together with this responsibility, we have been given authority over our children.
a) God expects children to obey their parents. Eph 6:1-3. Col 3:20.
b) Parental authority should be exercised with firmness yet lovingly, so as to lead
children to the Lord. Col 3:21. Eph 6:4a.
c) Do not use our authority to relieve our own frustrations, cover up our laziness and
mistakes, protect our self-esteem, excuse our failure to listen.
3. Children left to conduct their own lives when they are not yet ready will be trained by the
world, the flesh and the devil.
4. Parents should provide a Christian environment for their children, because by themselves
it is very difficult to raise children for the Lord. The powers and forces in the world are
too strong.
a) Thus bring them into our family ministries (Kids for Christ, Youth for Christ, Singles
for Christ).
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C. Goals of Christian parenting.
1. Aim at raising children who love and serve the Lord.
a) To relate to the one true God as their Creator and Father.
b) Develop the characteristics of Christ.
2. Children must also learn to love other Christians as their brothers and sisters.
a) Learn to show respect and honor for other people. Rom 13:7.
* Especially respect due to parents. Eph 6:2-3. Deut 5:16. Sirach 3:2-6,12-14.
b) Learn to serve.
3. Train children to deal with secular life, how to relate to the world around them.
a) Learn the practical skills they will need in daily life. Everything from brushing their
teeth to driving a car.
b) Learn to work and earn a living, one suited to the child.
* This should not focus on status and society's values. We should not subject
children to the kind of pressure to succeed that the world imposes.
c) Learn to be in the world but not of it. Learn how to maintain Christian beliefs and
standards in a world that is becoming increasingly pagan.
d) Handle their emotions and relationships in a way that will develop their Christian
character and personality.
D. The means of training children.
1. Three elements: example, teaching and discipline. All three are necessary.
2. Crucial: unity of mother and father.
3. Example.
a) Parents must live what they teach.
b) We should communicate joy and excitement in our Christian life and service.
22. 22
c) We need to submit themselves fully to the Lord, letting Him train and teach us as we
try to train our children.
* Thus we need to be part of a Christian community (CFC) and be faithful to our
covenant, because it is in CFC that we receive formation, direction and support.
4. Teaching.
a) Teach basic Christian truths.
b) Explain what we are doing and why, to testify to things God has done for us
personally.
c) Give information and perspective to help them form Christian attitudes and values,
based on the day-to-day events of life.
* Day-to-day events will afford us many opportunities, as we read the newspaper,
watch TV, observe other people, etc.
5. Discipline.
a) God wants that there be consequences for children not receiving or responding to
parental authoritative training.
b) Discipline includes instruction, training, correction, chastisement.
* Here we're focusing on physical discipline. Often means spanking.
c) Biblical wisdom regarding discipline.
* Parents provide discipline for their children. Eph 6:1-4; Col 3:20-21. It must be
done in the right way, not provoking the child to anger.
* Discipline is a sign of sonship. Prov 13:24; Prov 23:13,14.
* Physical discipline is necessary. Prov 22:15; Prov 23:13-14; Prov 29:15,17;
Sirach 30:12.
d) Discipline must be done in the right spirit. Not harsh and cruel. Not so rigid that the
child turns away from God. Must take place in the context of a loving personal
relationship.
e) Discipline must be done not on the basis of feelings, but according to consistent
established rules. Parents need to be united behind consistent policies for discipline.
23. 23
f) Other forms of discipline:
* Consequential discipline - "If you don't do this, then this will follow".
* Verbal correction - most appropriate when dealing with an occasional lapse by a
usually responsible child or when dealing with older children who have a
basically good relationship with the parents.
* Use of rewards - may be used to reinforce certain kinds of training, as an
incentive.
E. Conclusion.
1. Our children belong to God and God has a plan for them. Our role is to raise them up
according to His ways.
2. When we cooperate with God, we can count on His wisdom and strength to raise our
children in the right way.
3. As our children choose the path of life that we have chosen, then there is assured the
continuity of vibrant Christianity through the generations.
24. 24
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT II
TALK # 6 : EMPOWERING OUR MARRIAGE
Expanded outline
A. Introduction.
1. God's ideal for marriage is a very high ideal.
a) A lifelong commitment, through thick and thin.
b) A covenant of love. Unconditional love, just like Jesus.
c) A life of committed service.
2. On our own, it would be impossible to attain to this high ideal. In fact, many couples
cannot even keep their marriage intact.
3. But God, who brought husband and wife together, is committed to help us. We can call
upon the power of God's Holy Spirit.
B. Marriage in perspective.
1. Gen 1:27. God created man and woman in His image.
a) Thus family communion is supposed to reflect in human terms what God is like.
b) However, this is usually not the case. If we look at the lives of married people, there
are lots of struggles, pain, etc. In fact, for some, there is less and less unity through
the years.
c) Why? Gen 3: the first sin. Rebellion. The fall.
2. The result has been a fourfold disintegration.
a) Man and woman are estranged from God. They are thrown out of paradise. They are
separated from God and condemned to eventual death.
b) They are estranged from the world around them. They are alienated from the earth
(Gen 3:17-19). Even the earth would rebel from the lordship of man.
c) Their relationship is affected. They are alienated from each other.
* Man's headship is not experienced as care and provision, but domination and
tyranny.
25. 25
* The woman needs the man but competes with him; she is no longer freely
subordinated.
d) The ultimate picture of sin and its consequences is seen in Gen 11. Tower of Babel.
No communion and no communication. No unity and no community.
3. If the story ended here, it would be a very sad situation. Even this retreat would be
useless, for there would be no hope for us.
a) But Jesus came to take care of the sin problem. Jesus won for us grace. We can put to
death the old man.
b) Thus we can again be united. Not through our own strength, but through Jesus. Jesus
gave us the Holy Spirit, the power that makes the difference.
4. God's intent is to return us to the original state of Adam and Eve. We are to be witness to
what God is like.
a) Now all of us are now living renewed lives.
* We have already accepted Jesus as Lord. We have turned away from sin,
especially sin and insensitivities in marriage.
* We have all been baptized in the Holy Spirit. We have seen how the Holy Spirit
is our source of power and effectiveness in the Christian life.
* But still, we sin. We need to experience even more the power of the Spirit in our
marriage.
b) So now we want to ask the Holy Spirit again to touch our marriage, the areas of our
life as husband, as wife, as father, as mother.
c) God wants to empower us. If we want it too, and if we fervently pray for each other,
then we will begin to experience radical changes for the better in our marriage.
C. What do we pray for?
1. Husband and wife will pray for each other.
a) You know best your own needs and weaknesses, as well as those of your spouse.
b) A husband's and a wife's prayer for his/her spouse has power. God hears and will act.
26. 26
2. For the husband
a) To exercise headship such that he is genuinely the provider, protector and governor,
according to the model of God our Father. Not as lord or tyrant, but in love and
service.
* Note to wives: do not pray that your husband will now say yes to everything you
want. Or that he will no longer make any mistakes. But pray for his heart. So
you will experience his headship as a source of life, as a help in your growth as a
daughter of God.
b) For God to remove the negatives, such as insecurity, irresponsibility, uncontrolled
anger, non-listening attitude, domineering ways, fear of wife.
c) Positively :
* To have the ability to listen.
* To give clear direction and to make decisions.
* To love and serve.
* To be truly a man of God.
* To act such that Jesus becomes Lord of the family, in all areas.
3. For the wife
a) To be the heart of the home. To make the home a center of love, care, warmth. To be
truly supportive of your life together.
b) For God to remove the negatives, such as insecurity, jealousy, having your own way,
competitiveness, fear of surrendering to your husband's way, emotional manipulation.
c) Positively :
* To have great love for God and for your husband.
* To honor and respect your husband.
* For the ability to allow your husband to love you as a husband (provider,
protector, governor). To have confidence in him.
* To have joy in serving the family. Joy in ruling your home and taking
responsibility, together with the husband, for the family and over the children,
without competitiveness.
* To support your husband fully. To exercise active submission, not passive, not
inferior, but working actively with the husband for the good of the family, and yet
open to the husband's input and direction.
D. How do we now proceed?
1. We will devote a total of approximately 20 minutes to your praying for each other.
Please try not to go beyond this as we will still have some closing remarks.
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2. Couples can stay where they are, or move to any other place within the immediate
vicinity. You may bring your chairs with you.
3. You start by thanking and praising God together. Then one can pray for the other and/or
himself/herself. Then the other prays. Each can take his/her turn as the Spirit leads.
4. Ask Jesus to baptize with his Holy Spirit in specific ways.
* To accept His lordship over you.
* To live out the high calling of marriage.
* With the fire of his love, to burn out all the negatives and to strengthen the positives.
(note: you don't need to remember to itemize all).
* To remove any source of division.
* To have the courage to walk as sons and daughters of God and to mirror the unity of
Christ and his Church.
* To be witnesses of God's love to others.
5. Praying in this way is praying according to God's will.
a) Have faith. Expectant faith. God will grant whatever you need to strengthen your
marriage.
b) Be open to the Spirit's work in you. Do not put restrictions on God's action.
6. Let us start now.
E. COUPLE-PRAYERS FOR EMPOWERMENT.
F. Five important things we need to take with us and live out.
1. Faith.
a) A nagging question: Can we really have a better marriage? Can the Holy Spirit really
work wonders?
b) Ezekiel 37:1-14. Vision of the dry bones.
* Situation was hopeless. Needed divine intervention. But God's Spirit worked, and
suddenly there was life.
* Our situation may be similar. On our own, it is hopeless.
c) But when you asked the Lord for His Spirit, the Holy Spirit has actually entered into
your marriage and family in a new way. Believe that! Take that faith with you and
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go home a different couple, because the Holy Spirit is in you in a new way.
* Of course, transformation could be over time. Do not always look for immediate
outward manifestations. But trust that God's Spirit is present and working in
power.
d) A spiritual principle: God never shows a new, deeper way to live, and then turns His
face away from you. So go with great confidence, and look forward to a richer
relationship.
2. Prayer.
a) Nothing much will happen if we don't pray.
b) Live ACTS, in relation to your marriage.
* Adoration. Have an attitude of praise for God, no matter how difficult your
present situation might be.
* Contrition. Confess to God your weaknesses, shortcomings, unyielded areas, etc.
Ask for His Holy Spirit to work. If you have done wrong to your spouse, go and
repent and be reconciled.
* Thanksgiving. Be thankful for your spouse, for all his/her good qualities.
Continue to add to Psalm 136. This gives you a positive direction; it prevents a
narrow focus on your spouse's faults.
* Supplication. Intercede daily for your spouse and for the life of the family.
3. Expressed love.
a) Anecdote of old couple.
b) How? By word and by action.
* Tell him/her.
* Sexual relationship.
* Words of endearment.
* Giving of gifts.
* Acts of service and sacrifice. Go the extra mile.
4. Forgiveness.
a) Because of your intense life together, you can expect to offend or frustrate each other
at times.
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b) God's gift to you: forgiveness.
Our key way of showing love: forbearance and forgiveness.
c) Ask and give forgiveness:
* Daily. Do not allow resentment to pile up.
* Eagerly. This needs humility.
* Without limitation.
* "As Christ has forgiven you".
5. Communion with each other.
a) Communication and family time.
* Pastoral dialogue regularly (weekly is suggested). Consider this as a top priority
and take time to prepare for it.
* Make time to talk with your children.
* Family recreation and vacation.
b) Unity can only be built if you take time for it.
G. Conclusion.
1. Believe that God has done something this weekend in your marriage--through the talks,
the couple discussions, the prayers for empowerment. Take that with you.
2. Live out what you have learned. If you do, each week will bring peace and joy. Your
whole marriage will change for the better.
3. Is it easy? No.
* You will need to fight the world's values and ways.
* You need commitment and perseverance.
* Call upon the power of the Holy Spirit.