|

Click to join MinistryMarketingSolutions
LEARN THE Ins & Outs of Book Publishing, Promoting & Publicity for the PROS!
FREE PR TIPS FROM PAM PERRY, PR COACH
Other Recommended Links:




www.IvoryCoastMedia.com
www.Ministry4women.com
www.AnointedPages.com
Precious Times Magazine
Gospel Today Magazine
Legacy Publishers Int'l
Women In Ministry Int'l
www.wholemagazine.com
www.keepingfamilyfirst.org
www.RedChurchRadio.com
www.valderbeebeshow.com
www.christianbusinesstoday.net www.bethlehemhouse.org
www.gxlmagazine.com
www.gifts2men.com www.TheBlackScroll.com blackchristianbookpromo.com
www.yourgracetoday.com
www.TheGospelGuide.org
www.Gospeltube.com
www.thegospelnewswire.com
|
|
Authors who engage our services are wrapped in a sweet deal that promotes their book through advertising, book signings, special events, on-line promotions and speaking engagements. Each author receives a custom-tailored plan to leverage its strength in the marketplace.
Careful and strategic plans are assembled to help the author position their book to maximize exposure. Every Sweetest Day, there is a big, sweet author event.
|
|
|
|
|
|

You may know her as the founder and publisher of Gospel Today and Gospel Industry Today Magazines or as the host of the Gospel Today TV Show (which airs weekly on the Word TV network via DirecTV); or, maybe you've heard her weekly "Gospel Today Update" show on the ABC Radio Network or "The Light" Radio Network. What you may not know about Teresa Hairston, however, is that back in 1989, as a divorced mother of three small children, all she was able to scrape together to invest in her "dream" of becoming a publisher was $300. That's it. She had $300, three small children, no husband and a dream.
Hairston was working two jobs and was still barely able to make ends meet. She was a Christian and a faithful church musician, but she had no experience in the area of publishing; neither did she have any financial backing; but she had faith. So, in November 1989, she started a four-page newsletter called the Gospel SCORE. The first issue, which focused on Gospel Music, didn't look any better than a Sunday-morning church bulletin.
With no investors, no background and no plan, within six months Hairston was struggling to pay her personal and professional bills and was unable to move forward. She wanted to quit and simply acknowledge failure, but somehow, she held on and believed and didn't give up. In fact, she decided to leap forward—turning the newsletter into a glossy magazine.
In that act of faith God proved Himself. Hairston says, "God made a way out of no way. People begin to call and find me to buy advertising. In one month, I was able to raise the capital to pay my past bills and move forward."
Another door opened, and in 1991, Hairston relocated her family from New York to Nashville, where Gospel music was thriving and the cost of living was much more moderate. For the next five years, the magazine grew and gained support from across the country. The dream had become a reality. In 1992, Hairston launched another publication, SCOREBOARD, a Gospel music industry trade publication, as a companion piece to SCORE. In 1993, as the magazines continued to grow, Hairston took the plunge, quit her job and went full-time with the magazines. There were still a lot of bumps on the road to success, however, Hairston was committed to the journey.
In 1995, Hairston changed the name of the magazines. SCORE became Gospel Today and SCOREBOARD became Gospel Industry Today. Gospel Today's content expanded from music and ministry to all aspects of Christian lifestyle. GT's cover stories focused on principles and profiles of success encompassing business, entertainment, sports and politics; featuring interviews with Denzel Washington, Whitney Houston, Billy Blanks, Evander Holyfield, Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, Johnnie Cochran and more.
GT became a fixture among progressive ministries and Christians who wanted inspiring reading material. The magazine became the official publication for a host of leading Christian organizations, and published "special issues" and souvenir journals for organizations: Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, Woman! Thou Art Loosed, Gospel Music Workshop of America and several top grossing Gospel music tours.
Hairston maintained her strong connection with her musical roots. In 1996, after a successful Gospel Today anniversary celebration, Hairston founded The Gospel Heritage Foundation, a non-profit organization that plans to launch the world's first International Gospel Heritage Center, a place that will house the Gospel legacy and teach visitors about the Gospel Heritage. Another goal of GHF is to teach aspiring Gospel artisans about the Gospel industry and encourage them toward success. This is currently being done through GHF's annual "Praise & Worship Conference" which has been held in Atlanta the past two years.
This Conference has quickly gained momentum as the top national Conference of its type. In September of 2002, Hairston relocated the headquarters of Gospel Today and GHF to Atlanta. She says the move was divinely inspired. That same year, Gospel Today co-ventured with Verity Records to produce a nationally-distributed CD, Praise & Worship '02 featuring the Gospel Heritage Mass Choir. The project has garnered record play across the country. The next CD, "Praise & Worship…Volume 2" released in February 2004 featuring leading artists: Vickie Winans, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Marvin Sapp, Tonex, Elder William Murphy and others.
Hairston is a minister of the Gospel and has presented at Woman! Thou Art Loosed, the National Convention of Choirs and Choruses, and many other settings. Her motto is: "When God gives you a vision, He'll make the provision!" Her favorite scripture is Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good, to those who love God, to those who the called according to His purpose."
She says, "My goal in life is to use everything that I've been through, everything that I am and everything that I endeavor to do to glorify God and build His Kingdom. I want to help people understand that they can achieve their God-inspired visions. They just need a little faith, and God will make the way."
For more info visit: www.gospeltoday.com |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
Nothing but the Right Thing: A Novel
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 0800730976
Author: Stacy Hawkins Adams
Edition: Paperback
Price: 12.99
Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.5
Number of Pages: 288
Publication Date: April 06
Website: www.stacyhawkinsadams.com
Description: Serena McDaniels is successful, sassy, and saved. Life is good. She has a loving husband and a new home. But there's one dream that remains just out of reach. When she left a high-profile advertising agency to pursue her dreams of having a family, Serena never imagined that the stress of her husband's pastorate and their desire to follow God's will might delay their dreams of becoming parents. And when a dear friend makes a life-altering decision to leave an abusive relationship, Serena knows she has to help. Will she have to postpone her dreams forever? Or will she hear God's still, small voice and realize his plan for her?
Nothing But the Right Thing is a heartwarming novel that explores the journey of faith, friendship, and the power of prayer.
Author Information: Stacy Hawkins Adams is a reporter and inspirational columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch in Richmond, Virginia. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Donald J. Adams, and they have two young children. They live in Chester, Virginia.
Endorsements: "Adams' Nothing but the Right Thing is surely that...the right thing for women struggling with long suffering, maternity, family responsibility, and faith--to not only read, but to study and to comfort their souls. Illuminating with great integrity."--Dee Stewart, Christian Fiction News
"After the last page you'll walk away with another dose of faith, a new hope for your dreams, and a realization that walking with God is nothing but the right thing!"--Tia McCollors, author of A Heart of Devotion and Zora's Cry
"Stacy Hawkins Adams' Nothing but the Right Thing is an outstanding heartfelt and compelling novel about faith, love, friendship, and forgiveness."-Kimberley Brooks, author of He's Fine...But is He Saved? (www.Kimontheweb.com)
"Stacy Hawkins Adams weaves an eye-opening tale of a preacher pushed too far and a woman beaten once too many times with hope, humor and grace. This stirring tale of grace and adversity will keep readers turning pages long into the night. Nothing but the Right Thing is just that. Don’t miss it."-- Marilynn Griffith, author of Made of Honor and Pink
"I am a HUGE fan of Stacy Hawkins Adams. In Nothing But the Right Thing, Adams writes with a human touch and delightful storytelling ability, and conveys a powerful true-to-life message of life and love that every woman of every age must read. I was captivated and deeply moved from the first to last page. If Adams keeps writing novels this good, this inspiring, this soul stirring, she has a long career ahead of her and I will always be the first in line to buy her book!"--Marina Woods, founder and editor-in-chief, www.goodgirlbookclubonline.com.
Buy this book from Amazon.com, ChristianBook.com, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore. |
Now available in Borders, Waldenbooks, Barnes & Noble
and other fine bookstores nationwide.
Get Your Copy Now! - www.Kimontheweb.com
Click here for Kim's Editorial on Sex and Singleness
"Author, Kimberley Brooks skillfully weaves a tale that will make you laugh, cry, and say amen! This book is a breath of fresh air that intertwines biblical truths into real life situations. The characters are identifiable and real!"
Image Magazine
"Kimberley Brooks debuts on the inspirational scene with a well developed plot and believable characters in her heartwarming and engrossing novel. He's Fine . . . But is He Saved? engages you from the first page to the last."
Jacquelin Thomas -Author of Saved in the City and The Prodigal Husband
"We've all been there. Praying, hoping and wishing Mr. Right Now could somehow become 'Mr. Right.' He's Fine . . . But Is He Saved? captivated me from the very first page. I couldn't wait until the end! This is the book that every young and adult woman must buy for herself and a friend or two. Read it together. You'll loooove it!" Marina Woods -Founder, The GOOD GIRL Book Club and Editor In Chief
“He Fiiiiine,” Sandy sang across the table. Dark skinned with thick juicy lips, she beheld him with her dark brown eyes. In shock Liz snapped, “you just got out of church and there your are flirting with some man—ghetto.”
They say good things come to those who wait. It sounds good – BUT when it comes to dating – wait can mean pain. In her acclaimed debut novel, He's Fine… But is He Saved?, author Kimberley Brooks delves into the lives and inner thoughts of every single woman.
When it comes to love, how can you spot a fraud? Do single women need a man to lead a fulfilled life? When you delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desire of your heart, sometimes this truth is easier said than done. Brooks depicts the trials and triumphs of 3 single friends in their search for perfect love. All singles dream of finding their match made in heaven.
Michelle and her friends are no exception. In her mid-twenties, Michelle gracefully bears the weight of the world's expectation that ‘she should be married by now.' Having tasted the bitter pain of a broken heart and dating relationships outside of God's will, she is determined to maintain her sexually abstinent life, and wait on God's best. As a new Christian, Sandy is kept under Michelle's watchful wing as she fights to forget her past love and focus on a future mate that she can only see through eyes of faith. Liz is the consummate Christian, with trust that the Word of God can answer any question – but will she ever open her heart to love any man other than Jesus?
Each of them collectively and privately desire the man of their dreams, but can they withstand temptation on every level and run with patience and joy the race that is set before them?
In He's Fine...But Is He Saved? Brooks reveals that single women should pursue purpose and wisdom before investing their emotions in skin deep beauty. Chronicling the lives of three single friends each in very different places in their spiritual growth and maturity, with compassion and heart wrenching honesty, Brooks addresses the complex needs of single women, He's Fine...But Is He Saved? has the potential to appeal to a diverse readership while addressing issues of promiscuity, abstinence and true contentment.
He's Fine...But Is He Saved? (322 pages, soft cover, 0-97603-90-0-1, $12.95) by Kimberley Brooks Visit (www.Kimontheweb.com) for a free excerpt and where Kim will be speaking/signing. |
|
by: Darlene Bishop
Release Date: August 2005
Publisher: Legacy Publishers International
Page Count: 192, hardback
ISBN: 1-880-809-54-0
Price: $14.99
(Click For Bio/Press Release - PDF file)
People should hunger for God. They must long to be all that He has called them to be and do all that He’s called them to do. Such desire can determine not only present circumstances but also future ones. It dictates effectiveness in prayer, intensity in worship, and the depth of a personal relationship with God.
If spiritual desire has waned, then this book, “The Transforming of Spiritual Desire,” by Darlene Bishop will serve up food for the soul to get the desire back.
About The Author: Darlene Bishop is a nationally known conference speaker with a powerful testimony. She was physically attacked with sickness in her body in March 1986, but she trusted completely in the Word of God and by July 21 of that same year, God completely healed her. She has been on TBN, Daystar, TCT and in other Christian media across the country. She is one of the speakers for T.D. Jakes’ Megafest again this year.
|

By: Kimberly Brooks
Release Date: December 2004
Publisher: Driven Enterprises
ISBN: 0-97603-900-1
Paperback:
www.kimontheweb.com
(Click For Bio/Press Release - PDF file)
"He's Fine . . . But is He Saved? is a powerfully honest depiction of what women go through while waiting to be found by love."
Stephanie Perry Moore, best-selling author of Flame, Payton Sky series and A Lova' Like No Otha'
About the Author: Kimberley Brooks, a native Detroiter, practices abstinence and ministers candidly about how to resist temptation, victorious Christian living, and waiting on the Lord. Along with authoring books, Kim writes songs, poems, articles, and raps which are restoring and healing the nation. She earned a BA in English from Michigan State University and is a graduate of Word of Faith Bible Training Center. Kim is also a member of American Christian Writers/Detroit and can be reached at www.KimontheWeb.com.
|

By: Kenneth Brown with Patrick Borders
Publisher: Revell / Baker House
ISBN: 0-8007-5908-7
Tentative Price: $12.99
Pages: 224, paperback
www.KenBrownMinistries.com
(Click For Bio - PDF file)
Article: More than Mickey D’s – FOPPA! (PDF file)
Endorsements:What people are saying about…"From Welfare to Faring Well" By Ken Brown (PDF file)
Chapter Summaries: Part I—Lessons Of Childhood, Part II—Career Path Of Obedience, and Part III—Built To Serve (PDF file)
"Ken Brown is truly a messenger of hope and a shining example that his methods work...Ken Brown is serving notice to the world that he is a force with which to be reckoned. Get ready for some great things to happen for you and through you, as you take in his life principles. After completing this book your life
will never be the same." - Les Brown, Motivational Speaker & Author of "Live Your Dreams"
“From Welfare to Faring Well is a moving and powerful story. You will come away enlightened, encouraged and empowered and knowing that whatever comes your way, you can always keep the faith.” - Tavis Smiley, Television and Radio Talk Show Host and author of "Keeping the Faith"
“Whether you’re just graduating high school or college, or have been in the working world for a few years, you’re sure to find encouragement, ideas and lessons you can use in this book. Taking a few hours to read this book will be a great investment in your future!” - Roland Hairston, Founder, ChristCulture.com & "Gospel Today" magazine
About The Author: Even if you super-size it, you can never get too much of Ken Brown. He is a speaker specializing in hope, joy and encouragement. Though he grew up with insurmountable circumstances and extreme poverty, he has achieved success becoming the youngest African American owner/operator of two McDonalds restaurants.
A Chicago native, Ken worked his way through college as a bus boy and waiter graduating from Southern Illinois University. He shares his formula for success through his non-profit organization called FOPPA Ministries (FOPPA is the acronym of his guiding principles: Focus, Ownership, Purpose, Passion and Attitude).
|

By: Larry C. Harris, M.D.
with Cecil Murphey
Publisher: Revell / Baker House
ISBN: 0-8007-5908-7
Tentative Price: $12.99
Pages: 224, paperback
www.ItAllStartsatHome.com
(Click For Bio/Press Release - PDF file)
It All Starts at Home: 15 Reasons to Put Family First, a new family and parenting book by Larry C. Harris, M.D. written with best-selling author Cecil Murphey, is just what the doctor ordered.
A tribute to Harris’ parents, with help from his siblings, It All Starts at Home tells the inspirational story of Fred and Ruth Harris, uneducated African-American’s who had ten children born in the south before the Civil Rights movement took hold. Remarkably, instead of the children becoming a product of their society, school dropouts to become lifelong welfare recipients, they all became well-educated and successful citizens with values and life principles that shaped their lives and made them productive members of society.
About The Author: Larry C. Harris, M.D. is a graduate of Yale University and Duke University Medical School. He runs a private pediatric practice in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The second of 9 children, Dr. Harris lives in Fayetteville, North Carolina with his wife and two children.
|

By: Bishop Donald Hilliard
Publisher: Faith Communications
ISBN: 0757302645
Paperback: 256 pages
Release: 2005
Paperback: $14.95 (Buy Now)
www.donaldhilliard.org
(Click For Press Release - PDF file)
We all go through trying times in our lives. We are faced with trouble on every side. However we need to know, understand and realize that we are IN THE GRIP OF HIS MERCY. In The Grip Of His Mercy is endorsed by TD Jakes, Bishop Eddie Long and Paula White.
About the Author: Many words can describe Bishop Donald Hilliard: educator, community development activist, real estate entrepreneur, writer, and music label owner. But the most important one is dynamic Christian leader. At the age of 26, Bishop Hilliard became the senior pastor of Cathedral International in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Due to his leadership, the church grew from 125 members in 1983 to well over 7,000 today. Consecrated a bishop in 1995, Dr. Hilliard is the presiding bishop and founder of the Covenant Ecumenical Fellowship and Cathedral Assemblies, Inc. In this role, Bishop Hilliard serves as the spiritual advisor and mentor for several pastors and churches across the United States and West Africa.
During the last two years, he authored four books on a variety of relevant topics: Faith in the Face of Fear, (Evergreen Press, 2002), Safe Harbor Begins @ Home (Evergreen Press, 2001), Somebody Say Yes (Evergreen Press 2000), and Stop the Funeral (Bethany Publishing, 2000). He recently completed his fifth book entitled, In the Grip of His Mercy (Faith Communications/HCI Publishing, 2005).
|

By: Dennis Leonard
Release Date: August 2005
Publisher: Legacy Publishers International
Page Count: 240, hardback
ISBN: 1-880-809-43-5
Price: $17.99
(Click For Bio/Press Release - PDF file)
“Failure is not the end…it’s your stepping stone to success,” says Bishop Dennis Leonard.
In “Failure is Not the End: A 30 Day Make-over Plan for Successful Living,” Bishop Leonard has designed a game plan to help readers overcome their past and step into their God-ordained destiny. This solid and carefully targeted Bible-based discipleship book is a “must read” for anyone who has experienced failure, going through failure or is afraid of facing the future.
About The Author: Dennis Leonard is an accomplished author, the CEO and founder of Legacy Publishers International, has produced 2 gospel albums under his label Praizia Music and is the senior pastor/founder of Heritage Christian Center in Denver, CO, one of the most ethnically diverse congregations in America with over 12,000 in weekly attendance. His daily and weekly television broadcasts are aired in several markets nationally. He is also Bishop of Multi-Cultural Ministries for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship.
|

By: Paul S. Morton, Sr.
Release Date: July 2005
Publisher: Legacy Publishers International
Page Count: 192, Hardback
ISBN: 1-880-809-48-6
Price: $17.99
(Click For Bio/Press Release - PDF file)
You have an enemy…someone determined to steal your dreams, your purpose and even your life. If you’re glancing around, thinking you’ll see him lurking in the shadows, you’re looking in the wrong place. The deadly, determined enemy of your soul doesn’t attack from the outside…he’s much closer than that! His battleground is your mind.
But God has not left you defenseless against this sworn enemy. He’s given you the ultimate weapon. TRUTH! God’s anointed Word. As you learn who you are in God, the enemy’s power over your mind will be broken. You will be free to live, to love, to succeed. You will be free to cast down stereotypes and the social constraints of society and become all that God intended you to be.
About The Author: Canadian-born Paul Sylvester Morton, Sr. is a New Orleans, Louisiana transplant consecrated to the office of Presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International and is the Senior Pastor of Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church, where today, he serves the Lord diligently with his wife, co-pastor, Elder Debra B. Morton.
Bishop Paul Morton is an accomplished author and world-renowned singer, and multiple Stellar Award winner. His daily radio and weekly television broadcasts are aired in several markets nationally.
|

By: Charlyn Singleton
Release Date: July 2005
Publisher: Legacy Publishers International
Page Count: 240, paperback
ISBN: 1-880-809-46-X
Price: $14.99
www.Godswoman.org
(Click For Bio/Press Release - PDF file)
The “Joseph” Experience: Pain + Process = Purpose
Destiny implies a future destination, but purpose is a process that takes place as we journey through life. Throughout life people will always encounter pain, disappointment and delays. But The Journey from Pain to Purpose by Charlyn Singleton is designed to help readers sidestep the obstacles and stay in the fight! That’s what Joseph in the Bible did!
About The Author: Charlyn is the president and CEO of the “God’s Woman” conferences and the First Lady of Loveland Church in Ontario, California. She is the wife of Sr. Pastor, Chuck Singleton, and a proud mother and grandmother.
|
There is a message in the music!
A Chat with Alvin Fruga
Author of: When They Began To Sing: Understanding God's Purpose for the Music Ministry (Legacy Publishers International)

Alvin Fruga is a man with a purpose and a man with a vision and finally he has put it down on paper in his new book, When They Began to Sing: Understanding God's Purpose for the Music Ministry . He grew up observing his father as he planned, prepared, and provided the ministry of music for their local church. From that extraordinary man, he learned the necessary and effective techniques of leading worship, as well as the spiritual elements of heart preparation and the anointing.
Alvin dispenses wisdom beyond his years as he ministers on platforms around the world. His multi-faceted gifts of writing, directing, teaching, and producing have made him highly sought after by those desiring to experience the presence of the Lord through music. www.AlvinFruga.com. Check out the following one-on-one interview and what Alvin has to say about a number of things.
One-On-One with: Alvin Fruga…
How did you first become introduced to the ministry of music?
My father, Willie Fruga Sr., was the choir director at my church growing up. I used to go with him to choir rehearsal and watch him teach songs, etc. He also taught me my first song on the piano, which was Oh Happy Day.
Who is your favorite artist, and what role has he/ or she played in your love for music?
Without a doubt, André Crouch. I appreciated his ability to minister cross-culturally.
Explain the importance of the ministry of music in church? Why is it so important that music precedes the message?
John the Baptist said, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the Lord” That is exactly what the music ministry should be, The voice of one, singing (crying) to the congregation (a wilderness of needs) preparing every heart to receive the Word of the Lord. What an awesome responsibility.
Why is it vital to understand and honor the spiritual significance behind the music?
If you don't know that music has a spirit behind it, you really don't understand the power of music. Music is not just entertainment, it shifts and changes the spiritual atmosphere and the spiritual condition of all who hear it. Music is the portal by which God travels to the heart of a man.
What is God's original intent and purpose for music in the church?
Simply put, to glorify God and to be a help to the Pastor in ministering to the people. Music prepares and repairs the ground in order for the seed of the Word to be properly planted.
Please share on of your most challenging moments as a music director?
When someone on the music team doesn't want to follow leadership, or when someone really does not have a gift of song.
What words of wisdom would you give to a young person interested in starting his own church choir?
First, speak to the pastor of your church to make sure that your desire lines up with the pastor's vision. Second, prayerfully prepare a proposal for implementation using materials like my book as a guideline. Lastly, begin the process with the pastor's constant input and support.
About the Author of “When They Began to Sing”
Alvin Fruga grew up observing his father as he planned, prepared, and provided the ministry of music for their local church. From that extraordinary man, he learned the necessary and effective techniques of leading worship, as well as the spiritual elements of heart preparation and the anointing.
Alvin dispenses wisdom beyond his years as he ministers on platforms around the world. His multi-faceted gifts of writing, directing, teaching, and producing have made him highly sought after by those desiring to experience the presence of the Lord through music. www.AlvinFruga.com
For media interviews, review copies or press kit contact:
Pam Perry, Ministry Marketing Solutions 248.426-2300
or pamperry@ministrymarketingsolutions.com
_______________________________________________________________________ |
|
Larry Russell

Author of: Before Love Dies: Getting Your Needs Met in Relationships (Legacy Publishers International)
Larry Russell, executive director of Shepherd's Heart Ministry, an outreach ministry to pastors and ministry leaders. Before Love Dies: Getting Your Needs Met in Relationships – In this easy-to-read format, Russell shares biblical perspectives of the five foundation stones that are essential to a successful marriage - covenant, trust, forgiveness, love and friendship.
Surviving the Pressure in Today's World
By: Larry Russell, author of "Before Love Dies: Getting Your Needs Met in Relationships"
The families of today are facing incredible pressures trying to exist in a society which does little to support nurturance and growth of the family dynamic. Statistics of family success do little more than bring fear into the hearts of those who attempt to build Godly marriages built on Biblical principles.
As more homes fail, blended family situations are created as 75% of those who divorce will remarry. Sadly, over seven million children are ejected from nuclear families each year as their parents divorce.
Parents of teenage children are being frustrated by their inability to set boundaries and have them supported by the legal and social service institutions. Children who run away and refuse to go home are frequently placed in foster homes or alternative housing sometimes more lucrative than their own. Drug and gang influence has sent many parents seeking private school systems to protect their children.
In our despair, it is easy to cry out to God in hopelessness, give way to hand wringing and pessimism, and generally give up. But, unless we find the age-old answers in God's word to integrate into our families, the church of God will fail. If Satan has determined to destroy the church, the place to begin and to end is the family. God is still on the throne and we need to tap His resources.
Enough of the bad news! What can the families of today do about their dilemma?
First, families must ensure that their priorities are in order. Scripture suggests a priority structure to be implemented by parents that will form a framework for success in the family. The order of this structure should look like this.
1. Relationship with God
2. Husband or Wife (if married)
3. Children
4. Service to God
5. Extended Family and Friends
6. Work
Second, the family must have a forum to communicate. All members need to be skilled in the art of listening both for content and feeling. One of the most important needs I hear expressed in relationships is focused listening--that ability to turn away from distractions and give undivided attention to the person who is speaking.
Third, all members of families must be willing to bring closure to the past with forgiveness. This process is clearly set out in Matthew 6. This may mean forgiving each other, themselves, ex-spouses, or employers while for children forgiveness may be concentrated to their friends, siblings, or parents.
Fourth, parents must be willing to learn new methods of parenting. The days of top-down family management where the father is the dictator and king who gives orders to the family and supports his word with corporal punishment is a thing of the past. Putting children in a win/lose situation rarely works.
Fifth, families must lean to play and have fun together. Too many households are held together by common television programs and a hectic lifestyle. Fun is an interactive activity that any combination of family members can participate in which results in closer relationships arising from pleasure rather than simply being in the same place.
Sixth, families must learn how to set healthy boundaries with corresponding consequences. Weak boundaries lead to violations of space and result in unequal relationships.
Finally, families must exhibit the firmness of commitment. Love is indeed a decision. Once a decision is made to love, loving actions must follow, and then the feelings of love become and stay a reality.
Couples often come to me and say, "I don't know if God can heal this family". My response is that God can heal it but He won't. God doesn't heal families--people do. He can, of course, but to do so makes it too easy. He expects us to do the work. Of course, He will help. He will provide support and wisdom from His word. But, the effort must come from us.
For media interviews,
Review copies or Press kits contact:
Pam Perry, Vice President, Director Public Relations
Ministry Marketing Solutions, Inc.
Creator of Chocolate Pages
www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com
Phone: 248.426-2300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
- Back to Top -
|