Contuining our series on "First Things First" - guarding our thoughts FIRST is so important as our words and actions start with thoughts.  Have you ever wondered, "Why did I do that?" It started with a thought.  Not all of our thoughts lead us down good paths.  In this episode I look at three things that can take our thoughts down negative paths.

Verses Quoted in this episode:

Philippians 4:8, James 1:14-15, John 8:44, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Colossians 2:8, Romans 12:2

We know that putting God first is important, but do we do it?  Great things happen when we put first things first and get our relationship with God at the top. The other relationships will improve as a result.  This is the first in a series of "First Things First."

Verses quoted in this episode:

Matthew 6:25-34, James 1:22, Philippians 4:9, 1 Peter 5:7

That very first Christmas, God gave us the best gift of all - himself! He gave us his presence in Jesus and continuing through his Holy Spirit.  He is "Immanuel" - God with us!   Jesus' last words to us were, "I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)

#loneliness,  #Immanuel,   #Emmanuel

Bible verses mentioned: Matthew 1:21-23, Psalms 34:18, Psalm 18:16, Isaiah 9:6, John 14:26, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

It's easy to forget to be grateful for all the little things you do for each other. But it's SO important and beneficial to your relationship.   

Sometimes couples don't feel "close" anymore, or like they are drifting apart. They don't always know how it happens.  They are several things that can cause it, but you can get back from it by beginning to spend more time together.  

Bible Verses quoted: Ecclesiastes 4:9-11

It's easy for moms to develop strong bonds and friendships with their kids and enjoy spending time with just them.  The danger is that your focus on your kids will take your focus off of your husband and begin to harm your marriage relationship. Keep the Marriage relationship as the primary relationship. 

Bible Verses Used:  Matthew 10:37, Proverbs 31:28

If you feel a tug-of-war between extended family and one of you, it's time to pull back and regroup and be united.  Don't dread the holidays with family, plan for it. Be united.  

If you're interested in a longer workshop on this topic or a worksheet with questions to help you get on the same page, email me at [email protected] and I'll send it to you.

Do you ever feel like you do most of the work around the house?  If so, this can lead to resentment which can in turn undermine your marriage. What's a different way to look at things? How can you resolve this issue?

Bible Verse Quoted:

I'm introducing a new series on some of the Danger Zones to avoid in marriage. These are seemingly small things that can have a big impact. Unity is key in marriage, so anything that can divide you should be guarded against.  You've got to be on the same team!

Quotes:

The Zax by Dr. Seuss

Bible:  Mark 3:25, Mark 10:6-9, Genesis 2:24

Comparing ourselves to others is more about our insecurity and discontent than it is the other person.  Learn how to combat this natural instinct of women. :)  

Verses used in this episode:  Philippians 1:6, 1 Timothy 6:6-7, Philippians 4:11-12, Hebrews 13:5

You can contact me at: [email protected]