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Written by Sparky Pritchard Friday, 28 May 2010 13:27

When opportunities arise, you have to take advantage of them.  When times are tough, you have to make wise investments.

While those statements are sometimes used in the world of finance, they also apply in family life.  Outside of our relationship with and worship of God, our highest priority should be our families.  Each of us should be eager to take advantage of every opportunity to strengthen our families … and be ready to make wise investments in the spiritual, moral, and personal welfare of those God has entrusted to our care.

Those two ideas converge in June at Immanuel.  You have an opportunity to make a wise investment as a parent that will reap both present and eternal dividends.

Over the years, Jim and Betsy Bennett have poured their hearts and souls into the families of this church – first in serving our youth, then as Family Ministries Pastor, and then adding the Joint Heirs Class which has been uniquely blessed of God.  Jim and Betsy have made it possible for us to host the Growing Families International Eastern Regional Conference at Immanuel on June 4 and 5.  Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo, who have given their lives to the ministry of parenting, will lead this two-day event.  This conference is designed to equip you in guiding your family through the maze of our ever-changing culture by following the never-changing principles of God’s Truth.

Two topics will highlight this gathering.  The first will examine how we can effectively communicate to our families the biblical principles that we embrace.  Today’s family faces dangers that we could not even imagine a generation ago.  The hearts and minds of our children are assaulted through various means of technology and entertainment which can swiftly undermine the foundation of our homes and the values by which we live as Christians.  The Ezzos offer hope and help for families through new curricula addressing our present needs.

The second topic that will be explored looks at TEN “MUST” PRINCIPLES FOR SUCCESSFUL PARENTING.  What are the pillars upon which you can build a solid foundation in growing kids God’s way?  What MUST be done to lead our children in ways that will bring God’s richest blessings?  The Ezzos will explain these most basic principles in a clear and practical way.

Every family can greatly benefit from the time you would invest in this conference.  Think about it … one Friday evening and a Saturday morning through lunch.  Yet, you will come away with some life-changing, home-changing truths that will bring lasting benefits.  The cost is no more than what you might expect for a night out with your spouse.  Couples, you can’t afford not to attend!

Opportunity … investment!  These come together for every concerned parent at the GFI Eastern Regional Conference at Immanuel.  Please don’t miss out.