A study conducted some time ago by sociologist Steven Nock of the University of Virginia showed that couples who attend church regularly are 42 percent more likely to be married for the first time, and those in the church who were strongly committed to its beliefs had a 23 percent better chance of having a “very happy” marriage than those who don’t go to church.

Furthermore, according to a report by Warren Mueller, where both parents attend church regularly, 72 percent of their children continue in the faith. Where only the father attends, that percentage drops to 55 percent, but where only the mother attends, just 15 percent of the children remain involved in the church.

People then who have happy marriages and strong families are those who are committed to making their families strong. They work hard at communicating effectively. They spend time together. They express love and appreciation. They accept crises as normal and know how to work through them, and above all they trust in God and apply their faith to everyday living.

Need I say more?*

Suggested prayer: “Dear God, please help me to always put you first in my life and live in harmony with your will and what your Word teaches so that (whether married or single) I will have a productive and fulfilling family/friendship life. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

1. Hebrews 10:25 (NIV).

*Adapted from the article: “What a Good Church Can Do for You” at https://learning.actsweb.org/articles/article.php?i=117&d=1&c=10&p=1