We always notice, but how often do we really think about our own personalities and those of the people in your family and how you connect (or clash)?
Our pastor did a series of classes on leadership and relating, and one of the topics was personality types and how they relate to each other. He used the animals model of the "4 Temperaments" - Lion, Otter, Beaver, Golden Retriever - which is way more relatable than the original terminology. You can find something similar here if you are interested: https://kindredgrace.com/temperaments/
Your personality type affects how you communicate. How do you deliver a message, and how is it received? How do you communicate love and affection?
(If you haven't read The Five Love Languages - not just the original but also the teens and kids editions - I'd highly recommend all three! Another great book is "Hold On to Your Kids".)
Quite a few years ago now, I read The Love Dare after watching the movie Fireproof. I liked the concept of a pre-written plan to follow, and I wrote a family version as a challenge for a moms' Bible study group I was running. I've pulled it out and put all 28 days together here in one post. I hope you find it helpful in building connection with your family and showing love together! Each day includes a series of ideas for loving God, your spouse, your kids, yourself, and the world - see how many you can do each day.
Family Love Challenge Day 1!
- Loving God: Meditate on Psalm 118:24
- Loving Your Spouse: Make his favorite meal (and share it!)
- Loving Your Kids: Ask, "What is one thing we can do together this month?" (and plan for it!)
- Loving Yourself: Make a cup of your favorite tea (and enjoy it while it's still hot!)
- Loving the World: Tell at least one person that you are praying for him/her today (and do it!)
