Resources & Updates

In an ever-changing world filled with challenges, maintaining a strong, faith-based marriage requires both divine guidance and practical support. Drawing from practical wisdom and faith-based resources, this article highlights essential strategies and programs designed to foster healthy marriages and enrich family life.

For an in-depth exploration of these topics, you can watch the full recording of the talk or download the transcript of the session at the bottom of this article. Let’s continue to nurture our marriages and families together, guided by faith and practical wisdom.

Recommended Resources For Strengthening Marriages

"The Acceptance" by John Anderson:
This book is a staple for those looking to strengthen their marriage through faith. It provides profound insights into overcoming marital challenges and maintaining a loving, supportive relationship.

Love Reboot:
Designed as a weekend intensive program, Love Reboot aims to help couples in crisis. Offered quarterly in various churches and monthly by John Anderson, this program is highly recommended for spouses seeking to rekindle their relationship and resolve deep-seated issues.

Prepare and Enrich Program:
A comprehensive couple-to-couple mentorship that spans seven sessions, covering essential topics such as communication, finances, and intimacy. This program is ideal for both married and engaged couples looking to build a strong foundation for their future together.

Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey:
Managing finances is crucial for a healthy marriage. Muffin and Morris Camp offer valuable guidance on financial health, helping couples create a balanced and stress-free financial life.

"The Act of Marriage: The Beauty of Sexual Love" by Tim and Beverly LaHaye:
This highly recommended book delves into the beauty of sexual love within marriage, offering timeless wisdom and practical advice for couples.

San Antonio Marriage Initiative:
An initiative introduced by Nora and Carlos, focused on partnering with churches to uplift and restore marriages. They provide a plethora of resources available at samarriage.org for those seeking additional support.

Parenting and Marriage Guidance by Kristen Hatton:
Kristen Hatton brings her seasoned expertise as an author and counselor, offering unparalleled wisdom through her books, including "Parenting Ahead." She provides nationwide talks on parenting, making her insights accessible to a broad audience.

Key Insights for Marriage and Parenting

Parent Like a Farmer:

Parenting, much like farming, is a long-term commitment requiring patience, persistence, and a willingness to nurture growth even when progress is not immediately visible.

Redemptive Living:

Emphasize living a grace-filled life that prioritizes confession, repentance, and forgiveness within the family. By openly addressing mistakes, parents can exemplify the principles of the gospel in day-to-day life.

Proactive Planning:

Set your long-term hopes for your family’s spiritual and character development to guide daily decisions. Regular family meals and dedicated sibling bonding time are vital for fostering a strong family connection.

Understanding and Addressing Parenting Idols:

Recognize and confront the idols (like control, fear, or success) that influence your parenting style. Better understanding these influences can lead to healthier and more consistent parenting choices aligned with your values.

Pursue Your Kids:

Maintain undistracted time with your children and encourage open communication. Normalize difficult conversations and establish clear, loving boundaries to foster a trusting relationship.

Conflict Resolution and Prioritizing Marriage:

Successful conflict resolution in marriage often involves understanding the origins of conflict, which frequently stem from unfulfilled desires and expectations. By identifying and addressing these root issues, couples can foster reconciliation and maintain a strong, supportive relationship.

Financial Harmony:

Discussing and aligning financial priorities is crucial for avoiding conflicts related to money. Making joint decisions and maintaining transparency can strengthen your marriage.

Combating Peer Pressure and Setting Boundaries:

Parenting expert Kristen Hatton suggests strategies for guiding children through peer pressure, emphasizing open communication and proactive engagement. Discuss family values openly and encourage friendships and activities that align with these principles.

Conclusion

Strengthening marriages through a blend of faith-led, grace-filled approaches and practical support is both vital and attainable. The resources and insights shared above are designed to offer guidance and encouragement for every stage of married life.