Never, never, never be negative!

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29)

How can your family thrive with all the challenges of the 21st century?

Mrs. Arvella Schuller, wife of the renowned minister, Dr. Robert H. Schuller, wrote a wonderful book in 1982 called “The Positive Family.” The simple, strong statement “Never, never, never be negative” sums up the book’s message. Arvella shows how a positive attitude can transform despair into joy, a chore into a challenge, and a house into a home. She teaches how love can help a family become the mainstay of our existence. Applying the principles of possibility thinking is a timely prescription for healing the wounds of modern families.

For the next week, I will be sharing summaries of key points from the chapters of this book to hopefully bless you and your family.

In America, we are blessed with the freedom to make many choices every day. But making the right choices carries an awesome responsibility. Choosing to view our families with a positive attitude is the only way we will succeed at having a good family life and the only way we will enjoy our homes and families. When the family becomes a team, it hits a home run.

The treasure of the family: Belonging to a family assures that we need never be lonely or lost, for we are surrounded by those who love us and care deeply for us. This is the treasure of assurance. When we care about each other, we show that we care.

The pleasure of the family: If we go out of our way to bring pleasure to each other, we begin to create a pleasant atmosphere within the four walls we call home. If is often not the big and flashy remembrances or kindnesses that prompt the pleasures of the heart, but the small, little extras that loudly shout “This is home. You belong here. We love you.”

The measure of the family: When someone rises to a a high position in world leadership and influence, the first information the world wants to know is “What is the family history?” Our home and the people in it greatly influence our actions and life-changing decisions. There comes a time in the life of each of us when we look in the mirror and ask the questions: “Who am I? Where have I come from? Where am I going?” The family is the world shaper of the future.

Prayer Power
Father, You designed the family and know best how it is to work. Teach us to speak words that build up, never tear down, that we may impart grace to our hearers. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Link of the Day
About Dr. Robert H. Schuller [www.crystalcathedral.org/about/aboutrhs.html]

Blessing to never, never, never be negative!