1. Prayer: Ever heard of that phrase “A Family that prays together stays together,” well I believe there is truth to that ( I know you’re thinking it should be “Plays together” work with me here I do have a point) but to kick it up a notch let’s say that a family who believes God together has an abundant life together. Sometimes when life gets busy, and we’re running from one activity to another or just plain life happens, we forget that God has a plan for our family, a plan for our Good, so make it a point either in your own prayer time or as a family to collectively pray together, let other members take turns if they feel lead to do so, and pray specifically for requests from each family member.
2. Quality Time:   Plan a “Family Fun Night,” each week, where all you do is spend time in each other’s presence in activities like movies, sports, board games, read a book together as a family, listen to music, miniature golf, go-carting, coffee house, take a drive in the country, take a walk, zoo, have an open discussion about current events, or just go with the flow. Maybe there is local event in town that you can attend as a family. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as you are together. Avoid talking about heated issues, remember this time is just to rest with one another and re-connect after a busy week.
3. Issues:   At times, when families get together there is a tendency for issues to come up, if you cannot discuss it without losing your temper, you may need to give the issue a rest until you can discuss it in a controlled manner. One way to address issues your children or youth may bring up, is to ask them if you can pray with them about it, and then ask them if you can talk about it later at an appointed time,  but be sure to tell them when so they don’t feel like you are brushing them off, keep your word.
4. All Media Access Off Limits: What does that mean? That means that all cell phones, IPODS, and internet access are off limits for that set amount of time you spend together. Technology is great, but there is a time and a place for it, during family time it’s a distraction so check it at the door.
5. Be Present: Yes, sounds weird, believe it or not I have to say this, you know as well as I do that even though we are physically with our kids, emotionally, mentally and spiritually we are checked out sometimes. So, cast your cares, worries and anxieties to the Lord, and let Him take care of it, enjoy the time you are spending with your family, by choosing them first.
6. Love: Whatever you decide to do with your family, do it with love and affection, a soft heart enjoys much, but a hardened heart loses much! Going through the motion is easy, expressing our love and affection to our children sometimes take work, if you are not used to expressing love outwardly through hugs, and verbal reinforcements, it might be the greatest time to start.  Also, you can show love through your non-verbal communication, like looking them in the eyes when they speak to you, or nodding your head to let them know you are listening. If you body language shows attentiveness to them, you are showing them love without saying a word.
7. Check-Ins:   Use quiet times when driving in the car to activities, having a meal together, waiting for an appointment to check in with your kids, make sure they are doing okay. Remember, if a heated issue arises, calmly tell your kids that you’ll talk about it an appointed time, it will give you time to re-group, seek advice if necessary, and most importantly calm down!
8. Surrender: The most important thing you could ever do for your family besides pray is to believe God’s goodness for you and your family and to place them in the middle of God’s will. Whatever issues, challenges, disagreement, or strife that arises, they are  never too big or small for God, He will turn it around for our good every time.

* If you would like me to blog about a topic that interests you, feel free to send me some blog requests that are related to life challenges or  personal development. There is no guarantee that your request will be chosen, but all will be considered.   I look forward to reading about your experiences and thoughts about life topics.   Live blessed!