I.  The first stage in the family that of husband and wife.

        A.  First found in    Gen 2, Adam and Eve    .

        B.  Goal:  Intimacy

        C.  Practical tips

1.  Marriage should be built on Jesus as the chief cornerstone.  Eph. 2:19-22

2.  The husband and wife should be         best friends.  Proverbs 31:11-12

3.  Successful communication takes time and transparency.  Gen 2:25

      Words are   powerful .  Col. 4:6, Eph. 4:32

II.  Adding to the family

A.      Goal:         Equipping , Phil 3:14   

B.       Practical tips

1.      Our children need to know that they are   children of the King  .  Romans 8:14-17

2.      Don’t allow your kids to    fight  .                            2 Tim. 2:23 – 24, Prov. 15:18, Prov. 17:14

III.  Having adult children

A.      Goal:         Releasing into the kingdom

B.       Practical tips

1.      Encourage your kids to get their own convictions and traditions.  Gen 2:24

2.      Give advice when asked. 

3.      Moms are the glue that sticks the family together.

Conclusion:  Growing a godly family requires:

 the Lord,

 a plan or goal found in the Word of God,

and a lot of work. 

Bloom where you are planted.