Love God First

In this part two episode about family relationships, we talk about some practicalities of keeping our families healthy and happy as we journey together through life. The best families have biblical values that guide them as they deal with family conflict and building close relationships. Today we look at four general principles from the account of Isaac and Ishmael that will help us in our own family life. 

In this second episode about managing family relationships in a healthy, biblical manner, we get practical and draw some insights from what we see with Isaac and Ishmael. We focus on applying four general principles we can see from the account in Genesis 25. None of the principles are new or mind-blowing, but we all need to be reminded of the basics from time to time. So come and get refreshed in your resolve to deal with conflict and keep peace in your most important relationships!

In this part one of two episodes, we discuss the complexities of family conflict, drawing insights from the interaction with Isaac and Ishmael. This first episode focuses on the biblical account in Genesis 25, and then next week we will bring it home and apply the principles we see. If you have a family (and who doesn't), come learn more tools to resolve conflict in our most important relationships!

In this second part of a three part series on decision-making, we continue looking at ten truths (plus a bonus) about seeking God's guidance for the big decisions of life. Last week we discussed only three elements of Christian decision-making, but there are several more applications we can pull out from the actions of Abraham's servant as he searches for a wife for Isaac in Genesis 24. Come and learn how to make better decisions that will lead to better outcomes because God was at the center of the process!

In this first episode (of three) on seeking God's guidance for big decisions, we return to Genesis 24 to explore how Christians can learn to make important life decisions much better because we have the God of the universe to help guide and lead us. Using the story of Abraham's servant, I outline key principles for decision-making, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's will, acting in faith, and not taking shortcuts. If you have a big decision ahead of you, this episode, and the two that follow, are for you!

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Christian decision-making, God's guidance, Abraham's servant, faith, prayer, big decisions, will of God, inner joy, seeking guidance, Proverbs 3:5-6 

In this third and final conversation with Pastor Craig Kessel, we discuss the signs of healthy relationships (and unhealthy ones) and the value of marriage in today's society. We provide insights and practical advice for individuals at different stages of their relationship journey, whether single or married! 

In this second episode with Pastor Craig Kessel, we explore the essential themes of marriage preparation and the importance of community and counsel in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeking wise counsel and being aware of deal-breakers in relationships, providing valuable advice for those preparing for marriage or seeking to improve their current relationships. 

In this three-episode conversation, Pastor Craig Kessel and I explore the essential themes of marriage preparation, the qualities of a good spouse, and the importance of community in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeking wise counsel and being aware of deal-breakers in relationships, providing valuable advice for those preparing for marriage or seeking to improve their current relationships. If you are thinking of getting married, or if you are engaged or married, the next three episodes are for you! 

In this third episode that explores the account of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24, we turn from pondering their account to pulling out the truths to apply to our own lives. There are many principles we can practice about preparing for marriage and finding a spouse as we consider the way Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah and the servant walk through the process. Join us as we discuss the DOs and DON'Ts of dating and courting in the quest to find that special someone who will be your lifetime partner. And if you are already married, please listen because there is something for you in this episode too!

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love story, marriage, Isaac, Rebecca, Abraham, faith, prayer, character, guidance, biblical narrative Rebecca, Isaac, marriage, character, relationships, love, respect, personal growth, matchmaking, biblical stories