This summer at Cornerstone we are focusing on the family. Strong families make for a strong church. Our objective is to explore practical ways to build our families inside the design God made for the family beginning at creation. Have you ever seen a perfect family? When you think of a perfect family, what comes to mind? Certainly the world our families are being raised in is much different than in the 60’s … or the the 80’s or 90’s. Imperfect families are nothing new. Today we want to examine 3 insights that will help us overcome the impact of an imperfect family.
**I. Understand the patterns of the past
A. 2 Corinthians 10:4: since the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but are powerful through God for the demolition of
. We demolish arguments
B. A lack of forgiveness
- Ephesians 4:32: be kind and compassionate to one another,
one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.
C. Bitterness- Hebrews 12:15: Make sure that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no root of
springs up, causing trouble and defiling many.
D. Shallow relationships
E. An unhealthy desire to please
F. Destructive behavior: addictions, alcohol; drug abuse; pornography; workaholism to escape.
**II. Uncover power for the present
A. We need God’s help- Proverbs 10:29: The way of the Lord is a
for the honorable, but destruction awaits evildoers.
B. Learn to practice forgiveness- Colossians 3:12–13: Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive. - Matthew 6:14–15: For if you forgive others their offenses, your heavenly Father will forgive you as well. But if you don’t forgive
, your Father will not forgive your offenses. - Remember forgiveness is a choice of your will, 1 Peter 4.8: love covers a multitude of sins.
C. Look for people you trust. Look to brethren in this church for strength- Galatians 6:2:
one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
D. Live to please God- Galatians 1:10: For am I now trying to persuade people, or God? Or am I striving to
people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. - 2 Corinthians 5:9: … we make it our
to be pleasing to him. - Ephesians 5:18: And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless living, but be filled by the
E. Surrender to God’s control
**III. Undertake the Possibilities God has For Your Future
A. Based on the choices you make in your life today – what does your future look like?
B. What kind of person do you want to be in the future? Be specific.
**IV. As We Close:
A. God wants us to be overwhelmed by His love. He wants you to experience that kind of love in relationships w/the people in your life – if you will.