The family is one of the most important institutions in society. God created it, and He intended for it to be a source of love, support, and strength. Unfortunately, families can also be a source of conflict and pain. Many families struggle to stay connected and function in a healthy way. If you are one of those families, don’t despair! There is hope.
If you’re looking for ways to improve or save your family relationships God’s way, keep reading.
Here are 20 ways you can do today to stay fit relationally as a family:
1. Pray together regularly and have devotionals (Matthew 18:19)
It is said that praying families stay together. Prayer is one of the most important things you can do for your family. It opens up lines of communication with God and each other. It strengthens your relationship with God and keeps you focused on what’s important. It is hard to stay mad at someone when you are praying with them!
2. Serve each other and serve others together (Joshua 24:15, John 13:12-14 )
One of the best ways to show love is to serve others. When you serve your family, you are showing them that they are important to you. It doesn’t have to be a big thing – even small acts of service can make a big difference. And when you serve others together as a family, you bond with each other while making a difference in the world. It’s a win-win!
3. Eat dinner together as often as possible
Family dinner is one of the best opportunities to connect with each other and catch up on each other’s day. It’s also a great opportunity to teach values and manners. If you can’t do it every night, aim for as often as possible. Avoid texting, checking social media, or watching television during dinner so that you can focus on each other. (See other side effects here). You’ll be glad you did!
4. Have regular family nights and outings
Family nights and outings are a great way to have fun together and create lasting memories. They don’t have to be expensive – even a simple game night or picnic in the park can be a lot of fun. The important thing is that you’re spending time together as a family.
5. Play together
Play is an important part of family life. It helps relieve stress, brings joy, and strengthens bonds between family members. Whether you enjoy playing sports together, board games, or just goofing around, make time for play in your family life.
6. Communicate openly and honestly with each other
One of the most important things you can do for your family is to communicate openly and honestly with each other. This doesn’t mean that there won’t be disagreements – but it does mean that you will respect each other’s opinions and work to find common ground. When you communicate well, it makes solving problems easier and strengthens your relationships.
7. Express love and affection for each other
Words are important, but actions speak louder. Show your family members how much you love them with hugs, kisses, gits, service, words of affirmation, and quality time. Let them know that they are loved and appreciated!
8. Forgive each other – often
No family is perfect, and disagreements are bound to happen. It’s important to forgive each other when they do. Unforgiveness will only lead to resentment, division and bitterness. If you want to have a healthy family relationship, let go of the past and move forward together. Avoid keeping scores or bringing up old hurts – focus on the present and the future. That’s what Jesus did for you.
9. Be patient with each other
Family life can be stressful, and sometimes we all need a little patience. Paul said he who marries will have troubles (1 Corinthians 7:28). But in those times, remember to be patient with each other. Try to understand where the other person is coming from and give them the benefit of the doubt. Patience will go a long way in your family relationships!
10. Thank God for your family
No matter what your family situation is, there is always something to be thankful for. Take some time each day to thank God for your family. He has blessed you with them for a reason! 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says,
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
11. Pray for your family regularly
Prayer is a powerful tool that can help change your family for the better. Pray for your spouse, your children, your parents, and your siblings. Pray for unity, love, and peace in your home. As you pray, you will see God work in amazing ways in your family relationships!
12. Put each other first
It’s easy to get so busy with work, school, activities, and other things that we forget to make time for our families. But it’s important to put them first and make them a priority. Family should come before work, friends, and other things in our lives. When we put our families first, it shows them how much we love and care for them.
13. Encourage and support each other
Your family should be your biggest cheerleaders! Showing encouragement and support helps build each other up and makes everyone feel good. It’s also a great way to show that you care. 1 Thessalonians 5:11,
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…
14. Try not to compare yourselves to other families
It’s easy to look at other families and think that they have it all together. But the truth is, every family has their own struggles and challenges. Comparison only leads to jealousy and envy. It’s better to focus on your own family and what you can do to make your relationships stronger. The grass is not greener on the other side.
15. Laugh together
Laughter is good for the soul! The bible says in Proverbs 17:22,
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
When you laugh together, it brings joy into your home and helps reduce stress. So don’t be afraid to crack a few jokes and have some fun with your family!
16. Be there for each other during tough times (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
There will be times in life when things are tough – and your family should be there for you during those times. Whether it’s a job loss, illness, or death in the family, being there for each other shows that you care and are willing to help out however you can.
17. Show respect for each other
Respect is an important part of any relationship, and families are no exception. Showing respect for your family members shows that you value them and their opinions. It also sets a good example for children to follow.
18. Give each other space
It’s important to have some time apart from each other, both as individuals and as a family. Everyone needs some time to themselves to relax and rejuvenate. Taking a break from each other will actually make your relationships stronger in the long run!
19. Seek professional help if you need it
If you are struggling to make your family relationships work, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A Christian counselor, pastor or mature believer can offer guidance and support that can make a big difference in your family life.
20. Be part of your local church life
The church is a great place to build strong family relationships. Getting involved in your church community can help you connect with other families and grow closer to God. When you make church attendance a priority, it will have a positive impact on your whole family!
No matter what your family situation is, there is always something you can do to make your relationships stronger. By following these tips, you can create a happy and healthy family life that will last a lifetime!