Emulate Jesus Christ -- Post 9.4: Empower Each Family Member.

By Judy Rix... Note: Before you read this chapter, please read "Post 9 -- Seven Ways to Make Your Home a Heaven on Earth."

A house is just a house, but loving interaction of its occupants transforms it into a home. As queen or king of your own castle, you have a powerful influence in making your family feel like royalty.

When parents remain calm, positive, and faithful amid life's challenges, children learn to tackle inevitable hurdles with assurance. They learn the Savior's way of settling conflict. They learn that family life is a happy life. Knowing their parents and siblings are their greatest cheerleaders and will always have their back, children will courageously step into life with optimism and gusto.

Sure, this "idealism" might be painfully discouraging. I remember my husband and I sitting in church with our four teenagers after a morning of tension and bickering. The first hymn we sang was "There Is Beauty All Around When There's Love At Home." We all looked at each other and started laughing so hard we had to leave the meeting.

Although no family is perfect, recognizing the value of each member is crucial for building self esteem and confidence. Creating an atmosphere of peace and cooperation fosters respect and love where the Spirit of the Lord can dwell. Even if that happens only on rare occasions, the effort is worth it.

Treat Your Family Like Royalty.

-- Set up a rotating display of family members' accomplishments.

-- Provide step stools so kids can reach high places, and make things easier for those with disabilities.

-- Remember that a small child's world is only about three feet tall. Keep decorations in their bedrooms at their eye level.

-- Celebrate each person on their birthday. Even for twins, make sure everyone feels uniquely special.

-- Prioritize date nights for mom and dad. Kids also love one - on - one date nights with their parents. If you don't have time, MAKE time.

-- Encourage children to create personalized gifts for their family members instead of opting for store - bought Christmas presents.

-- Hold a weekly family night where you have fun together, counsel together, schedule the family calendar, or plan the vacation. Value everyone's input. And most important, bring treats!

-- Teach your children that God will give them personal revelation and to be prepared for His inspiration. Keep pens and notebooks strategically placed around the house, especially by each bedside for those middle - of - the - night insights.

-- When you gather together for evening prayer, acknowledge your love for each person in the family circle.

-- Maintain relationships with extended family.

-- Include grandparents in your family activities; they need your love just as much as your children do.

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Go to the Source -- What Do the Scriptures and Respected Teachers Say?

“This house shall be a healthful habitation if it be built unto my name, and if the governor which shall be appointed unto it shall not suffer any pollution to come upon it. It shall be holy, or the Lord your God will not dwell therein.” (D&C 124:24)

“…He will make her wilderness like Eden and her desert like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody.” (BOM 2 Nephi 8:3)

"Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God." (D&C 88:119)  

"And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places." (Bible. Isaiah 32:18)

"Through wisdom is a house built; and by understanding it is established, and by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches." (Bible. Proverbs 24:3-4)

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