Family Devotionals - HeartConnex

Do you want to increase or improve communication within your family? Do you desire to start a family devotional time that is simple and effective? "The National Study of Youth and Religion has heavily documented the fact that parents are the number one influence in the lives of teenagers. Student ministers now know for certain that parents who teach the Bible to their teenagers will make a visible, lasting difference in their spiritual transformation." "Each week, parents receive two, twenty-minute Bible study devotionals via email. These studies, authored by Dr. Richard Ross, contain solid Bible teaching presented in a warm, interactive format. In addition, the devotions are set-up so that students & parents alike are involved - each given specific things to say or do. A meaningful way to pray as a family is also included at the conclusion of each study." "Heart Connex devotionals are designed for very busy families. The head of the household can print the studies and make preparations in only about five minutes. In most cases families can complete the studies in twenty minutes" Sign up HERE to subscribe to the weekly emails for HeartConnex or to see samples. HERE is the three-year topical plan for family devotionals. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 "These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

Christian Parenting Magazines

Ever want more help in learning how to handle the day to day challenges of parenting? "Living with Teenagers" and "ParentLife" are two great magazine resources (click on to follow link) available to provide expert advice and insights! You can access complete samples to preview online.

Got Conflict?

Is there somebody you just can't seem to get along with? Is there conflict brewing in your workplace, your home, or your church? On Tuesday I had the privilege of hearing Ken Sande, president of Peacemaking Ministries, speak on peacemaking in the local church. If you desire to grow in your ability to handle conflict, I highly recommend his books and resources available on their website.

• The Slippery Slope of Conflict - outlines attack, escape, and conciliation responses to conflict
• Four G's - how to glorify God in the midst of conflict
• Seven A's of Confession -how to humbly admit you are wrong
• PAUSE Principle - steps to negotiation
• Four Promises of Forgiveness - what does it really mean to forgive

These principles are challenging and Biblical, but can radically transform how you handle conflict personally at home, work, and church!

James 4:1 "What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?"

Colossians 3:13 "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

Romans 12:17-21 "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"says the Lord. 20On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." 21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."