Family Mountain
: if a person is contrite and repents and trusts
Family Mountain Overview
God designed families to have a loving and supportive dad and mom who were charged with providing a caring and healthy environment to model and teach their children about God's love and their value and place in His Kingdom. However, this ideal is often not the reality in today’s world, where God's model of marriage and family is under attack by cultures that deny God and reject traditional family structures. Problems including aloneness, physical and sexual abuse, insecurity, exploitation, self-centeredness, and a growing prevalence of dissatisfaction with marriage have led to the growth of single-parent families.
In 1950, there were 1.5 million single-parent families; by 2022, this number had grown to 9.8 million, a 6.5 times increase. Among these single-parent families, 7.3 million had no father. Family structure and cultural challenges lead to children who feel worthless, abandoned, insecure, inferior, ashamed, guilty and confused about their gender. This results in generations that don't know or have a distorted understanding of their Heavenly Father, whom Jesus lovingly referred to as "daddy."
The Family Section explores ways for families to become more functional and healthy through their relationship with God. If you were raised in a dysfunctional family, Jesus can lift your grief or unforgiveness off your shoulders, bear it for you and validate God's love for you. This transition will take your full commitment and some time, but eternal acceptance, wholeness, and peace make it worthwhile to pursue.
Family Mountain Issues
Single-parent families are often more vulnerable to poverty, evil spiritual forces, child predators, unwanted pregnancy, emotional distress, child trafficking, prostitution, addictions, poor or incomplete education, suicide, and other issues. God doesn't want you to face these challenges alone; He will take the place of a missing earthly father or mother if invited to.
Even if both parents are present, they may not model the love, affection, nurture, or shelter necessary to counteract the influences of today's harmful culture. Many of these challenges have spiritual causes, and making Jesus your King and Lord will provide you with special tools to defend yourself against spiritual entities and attacks.
If you grew up (or are growing up) in a family that doesn't know Jesus or has only one parent, explore the Curious and Rethink Sections to discover who Jesus is.
Even if both parents are present, they may not have modeled the love, affection, nurture, or shelter necessary to counteract the influences of today's defiled, inclusive, Godless culture. Many of these problems have spiritual causes, and making Jesus your King and Lord will provide you with special tools to defend yourself and overcome spiritual entities and attacks.
If you grew up (or are growing up) in a family that doesn't know Jesus or has only one parent, search the Curious and Rethink Sections and discover who Jesus is.
Kingdom Family
A Christian family begins with a marriage covenant established between one man and one woman, both of whom are part of the Kingdom of God and have a personal relationship with their Creator (God). A Christian married couple typically collaborates with God to bring children into the world and raise them to know Him through their loving roles as mother and father. The best marriages occur when both partners know God (are not unequally yoked). If only one parent knows God, that parent can intercede on behalf of the unbelieving spouse.
Marriage between a man and a woman also serves as a metaphor for the relationship between King Jesus and all those in His Kingdom. Married Kingdom believers have an extended family (the Church), a body of believers that can assist them through intercessory prayer and practical support when challenges arise. The Church might provide a mentor for a family, for example. When choosing mentors, it is advisable to have men with men, women with women, or anyone with a mature ministry couple. Mentors of the opposite sex should be avoided. Additionally, the pastor may not always be the best person for mentoring or counseling and may refer others.
Marriage between a man and woman is also a metaphor for the relationship between King Jesus and all those in His Kingdom. Married Kingdom believers have an extended family (the Church), a body of believers that can help them via intercessory prayer and in practical ways when circumstances arise. The Church might provide a mentor for a family, for example. When considering mentors, men with men, women with women only, or anyone with a mature ministry couple. Mentors of the opposite sex should be avoided. Also, the pastor isn't always the best person for mentoring or counseling and may refer others.
Evil Forces and Families
Our bodies are earthly vessels, intricately connected to our souls and spirits, which exist in an unseen spiritual realm. When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we become entwined with the Holy Spirit—an indwelling presence that teaches, counsels, transforms our minds, and aligns our hearts with God’s mindset. However, evil spirits also seek to entwine themselves with our bodies. They exploit vulnerabilities created by abuse, unforgiveness, lies, occult practices, generational bonds, and more. These issues wound the soul and spirit, affecting emotional well-being and physical health. Scripture strongly condemns acts such as pedophilia and incest. Incest is never proper. Even if adopted, there should be no “secret” sexual relationships within families. As young individuals, we recognize that evil spirits aim to deceive, destroy, and torment. Yet, Jesus holds power over these forces—calling upon Him brings deliverance. Witchcraft, a relationship with evil spirits, opposes our connection with God and Jesus. There are no “good” witches; witchcraft always deceives. It opens doors to our souls, allowing demonic access. Beware, as witchcraft is more prevalent than you realize.
A Warning about the Influence of False Gods.
Avoid studying occult topics, such as evil spirits, rituals, curses, spells, and demonic possessions. Avoid watching (storing in your neural net) horror and slasher movies. Remember, evil spirits thrive on attention, and by giving it, you open "doors" into your mind that spirit beings can use to influence or control you. Mentioning their names is like "calling" them or "dialing their number); it attracts them and gives them "your permission" to contact you. Instead, focus on God's Truth, written, in prayer, and via the Holy Spirit, which is given to the Kingdom Believer in Jesus, the Living Word of God.
The demon spirits behind sexual confusion work against God’s design. They promote gender confusion, sexual deviation, and practices that defile souls. Their influence sadly infiltrates schools, media, and society in overt ways today.
These spiritual principalities work today through organizations like the NEA (National Education Association) and individual school librarians focused on "inclusiveness." The federal government is supporting them by declaring parents who do not want pornographic books in school libraries as domestic terrorists and working to take away their constitutional rights as citizens of the US. This is such a distortion and lie, but that is what evil does. Parents, get involved in your children's schools!
Intimacy
Soon after His "one flesh" declaration during Creation, the Lord instructed humanity to "go forth and multiply." Procreation necessitates contributions from both male and female genes. This presents a challenge for LGBTQ individuals in same-sex relationships. There is no alternative route to achieving one flesh and thereby establishing a new branch in the human genetic lineage. Regardless of personal opinions, this remains a straightforward fact: men lack X chromosomes to offer and cannot bear children, while women do not possess Y chromosomes. Males, characterized by Y chromosomes, exhibit distinct neural configurations compared to females with X chromosomes. God does not harbor hatred for LGBTQ individuals; rather, He is saddened by their inability to experience the fulfillment He intended for them. While civil unions serve a purpose for LGBTQ individuals regarding taxes or insurance, they do not equate to a marriage covenant before God, even if recognized by a church. Heterosexual marriage is God's design for men and women and the sole means of fulfilling His command to multiply.
Loneliness is a powerful emotion, and as a result, some individuals may be led to seek solace in the company of prostitutes. Scripture warns against such unions, stating that they create a bond between the souls of both individuals, referring to them as "united" (1 Corinthians 6:16). Every sexual partner creates a unique bond, and having multiple soul connections can lead to significant consequences, as seen in the downfall of Solomon and other ancient kings who strayed into the worship of false gods. Solomon, for instance, had hundreds of wives who followed various false deities.
Engaging in sexual relations entangles a person’s body and soul with the body and souls of others and, in some cases, with demonic spirits that may be attached. Those who have numerous sexual partners may find themselves with a clouded sense of identity and afflicted with sexually transmitted diseases, some of which remain incurable today, even with the best medications and antibiotics, and require lifelong treatment.
When someone eventually meets their soulmate, their soul may be so intertwined with those of past partners that obtaining spiritual intimacy can become impossible. Sexual relationships can create soul bonds or lead to a fractured soul. Broken relationships tear souls apart.
Doesn’t God understand the strength of sexual desire? He certainly does! Yet, He also knows that the ideal way for a man and woman to unite is to enter into a relationship as whole individuals who can remain faithful in marriage. Men need to learn to resist the temptation of instant sexual gratification and to consider the long-term effects it can have on a marriage, particularly in their work environment or when traveling alone.
Jesus spent considerable time among prostitutes and others viewed as “sinners.” While He disapproved of their sinful behavior, His love and acceptance transformed them, showing that God cares for all individuals. He desires everyone to be spiritually united with Him, and His love reaches out to everyone. Rather than condemning others, Christ’s followers are called to understand, love, and share the hope found in Christ with all people. All believers must remember that we serve a Holy God, and all have fallen short of His standards. (See Matthew 18:10.)
Abortion
There is another evil entity at work in America that seeks to destroy infants. Both young men and especially women believe the lie that it is no big deal to "get rid" of an unwanted pregnancy by having an abortion. Some state governments are voting to allow abortion up to and beyond the birth process. What has America come to if we can watch a healthy child die after it is born with no regard for its life? And is that any better than taking the life of a child at three, five, or any months before birth? Don't believe the lies, and turn to God for help as you mature in your spiritual understanding!
Abortion creates grief and leaves deep scars - shame, guilt, and regret, for all those involved. A part of the soul of the people involved in an abortion is torn and requires the Lord Jesus to cleanse, heal it, and restore self-worth. Conception involves two people, so abortion also wounds the father and is a sin against God. Thankfully, God loves us and provided Jesus’ sacrifice to mend even the most wounded soul.
As of today, abortion has claimed over 65 million lives — let that sink in for a moment. This sin also disproportionately affects African Americans. Where is the BLM movement crying out against this? In NY, abortions can be performed not only up to but also after live birth. If Abel's blood cried out to God when Cain slew him, will not the blood of this evil also cry out against America?
Young people, think about what you are doing as you enter into opposite-sex relationships. It is God's desire that couples enter into sexual intimacy only after marriage. And, as stated in the prior section, He knows how difficult that can be. Lean into the Holy Spirit and trust that there is a way to love someone while waiting for physical intimacy. Honor God’s purpose and advocate for life, justice, and healing. Choose to reject the spirits of lust and self-gratification and choose lives that honor God and protect His purpose for your life.
Living a Life of Fidelity and Honor
Jesus establishes a clear standard for fidelity that goes beyond physical actions, encompassing our thoughts and imaginations as well. Jesus equated even thinking lustful thoughts as being the same as committing an adulterous act. Byl such standards, most men and women have been unfaithful at some level, regardless of whether they haven't acted it out. In marriage, infidelity breaks trust, and without healing, it can lead to loss of intimacy or divorce. Under God's original Torah, it was an unforgivable sin, but through Jesus' grace, it can now be forgiven. This is a general truth, if a person is contrite, and if they repent and trust in Jesus, then many of the unforgivable sins under Torah (the law of Moses) can now be forgiven! This is why everyone is in need of the Messiah.
The key issue lies in how we perceive others. When we focus solely on someone's body, we overlook their essence—their spirit and soul. Reducing a person to an object of lust dishonors their true identity.
This distortion impacts not only marriages but also affects the church community. Across various denominations, some church leaders have engaged in sexual impropriety. Their actions send ripples through their congregations, influencing the believers who look up to them. The Daniel Place emphasizes the importance of choosing a fellowship wisely in the Beginner Section.
Sexual sin among leaders tarnishes God's name and invites criticism from His adversaries. The earthly consequences are often severe, including removal from ministry and, in some cases, legal repercussions. Not all fellowships are safe; some carry inherent risks of being less secure than others.
Infidelity breaks the bonds of trust and intimacy, often leading to divorce or a deepened loss of closeness when marriages falter. We serve a holy God who deserves to be honored and respected, and whose laws and guidance should be followed, not out of obligation, but out of love and reverence for Him.
Guiding Children Toward God’s Purpose
Every child born is a precious creation in God’s image. Each deserves nurturing and the expectation of a loving home—a place where parents actively support, teach, and guide them toward their Heavenly Father’s plan. However, many parents still grapple with meeting these expectations for various reasons.
Some parents carry the wounds of not having experienced such a family structure during their upbringing. Others face challenges—perhaps a missing parent or emotional absence within the home. Conditional love—expressed as “I love you when…” can harm a child’s soul and spirit.
Busy lives sometimes distract parents, rendering them absent even when physically present. Demons—through familiar spirits, witchcraft, or personal sins—target vulnerable children. Negative words such as "You are just like your father/mother!" "You are stupid." "You will never achieve success when you grow up," wound deeply. They are contrary to God’s Word and Jesus’ example. Instead, seek to bless your children and recognize them as a gift from God.
Your children have at least three angels with access to the Father in Heaven. Pray daily for your children, invoking the Lord to task these angels to protect your child during separations—at daycare, school, or elsewhere. Bid their angels to watch over them. Bid them to be present when your precious ones slumber at night. Let them know that they are privileged to sleep in the Lord's refuge, under His wings, guarded by archangels according to scripture.
Children rest under the Wings of God, above which hovers His Shekinah glory radiance. Teach your children to rebuke their fears in Jesus’ name and share bedtime Bible stories. Ask God to visit them in their dreams, fostering a sense of security. Ask them what they dreamed of last night in the morning and help them understand it in light of the scriptures and God's love and protection. The window of parental influence is brief, especially as worldly influences creep in. Cherish the formative years from birth to age 7—they hold irreplaceable significance.
Spiritual Preparation - Nurturing God's Purpose
As an adult, regardless of gender, your journey involves preparing for God’s unique destiny. Begin by embracing saving faith, allowing you to discern His purpose and pursue it intentionally. If you are ready, take this step before distractions from life’s demands of education, career, and marriage are part of your world.
Consider this: Few jobs rival the impact of raising children well. Prioritize wisely, recognizing that young minds are most receptive during their formative years. Bedtime stories from a child’s Bible, complete with pictures, create cherished one-on-one moments.
When navigating daycare options, choose centers run by fellow Christians. Ensure their activities align with your values. Investigate thoroughly; some centers harbor ulterior motives. Check to see if a nanny cam lets you check on your child during his or her time there.
Should public education continue on its current path, explore private schools or homeschooling. Check out online resources for Christian homeschooling. Home-schooled students excel academically, transitioning smoothly from parent to teacher. Remember, your children are precious gifts entrusted to you. Love Jesus deeply, and His love will overflow to them. Safeguard your family’s privacy, and stay off government surveillance radars as long as possible.
The Vital Role of Church Fellowship
Marriage on earth is a metaphor for our future relationship with the King of Kings in the unseen spiritual realm. The Scriptures describe this as the Wedding Feast of the Lamb—a grand celebration with billions of participants. The Holy Spirit prepares us and guides us to the Father’s house.
Church fellowship among Kingdom believers holds immense significance. It’s meant to minister to one another and care for widows and orphans. However, not all fellowships excel in this. As the Great Revival unfolds (already underway), some may fall short of reflecting Jesus’ love and provision for new converts.
Most churches offer specialized ministries for men and women and educational programs for children. These are vital because a weekly sermon alone cannot fully educate adult believers. Allocate at least two to three days each week to engage in the body's work. God assigns roles to everyone in His Kingdom, and all believers are welcome to grow in the Spirit.
All hail King Jesus! If you carry the Holy Spirit within you, you’re intricately woven into His body—the bride awaiting an upcoming heavenly wedding.
Family Mountain Summary
Summary Points
The focus of a God-centered life should include all family members. Below are some actions you can take to strengthen your family:
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Repair Broken Relationships: While it may not always be possible to mend every relationship, it's important to seek forgiveness from family members who may have hurt you. Forgiveness can free you from the grip of past grievances and emotional wounds.
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Fulfill God's Expectations: Families can be guided by Scripture, which provides examples of both healthy and unhealthy marriages along with instructions for both men and women regarding relationships. Men are called to cherish, love, and sacrifice for their wives as Jesus did for the Church. In turn, wives are encouraged to honor and support their husbands. This dynamic serves as a model for children, as parental examples significantly shape their views on relationships. While mistakes can have lasting impacts, the love, suffering, and sacrifice of Jesus offer grace that can overcome many offenses, as seen in the life of King David.
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Learn Marriage Principles: Study passages and stories that emphasize mutual respect and uplifting one another in the relationship. Be aware that Satan seeks to undermine good marriages and will exploit any opportunity to do so.
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Commit to Remaining Married: God views marriage as a sacred covenant that reflects His relationship with believers. Faithfulness is essential, mirroring God’s unwavering promises to us. Divorce should be a last resort, justified only by abuse or infidelity.
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Love Your Spouse as Jesus Loves the Church: Husbands should prioritize listening to and praying with their wives while leading the family in Bible study and spiritual growth. Wives need to honor their husbands. Maintain a strong connection with God and invite the Holy Spirit to work within your marriage.
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Be a Wise Leader: Every family thrives with effective leadership. Family leadership should be based on humility and shared responsibilities. Husbands are called to embody Christ in the marriage, demonstrating the Fruit of the Spirit and the compassion of Jesus. Many men feel challenged in this role; start by taking small, consistent steps and seek God’s guidance in your marriage.
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Model What You Believe for Your Children: Children are a blessing and need loving guidance as they grow in their faith. Young parents, especially those who did not receive such guidance themselves, may feel unprepared to guide their children. If you are a child in a family that does not know God, seek out a safe, same-sex adult mentor who can provide support and answer your questions.
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Put God First and Avoid Temptations: Be mindful of temptations like money, power, and self-indulgence. Learn to live in the world without being of the world.
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Don't Be Unequally Yoked: Seek God’s guidance when choosing a marriage partner. It is vital not to be yoked with someone who does not share your faith in God, as marriage is a lifelong commitment. Don't go into a marriage expecting to change your partner.
By following these principles, you can strengthen your family and cultivate a nurturing environment centered on God, even in today's pagan culture of inclusiveness & tolerance of evil thoughts and behaviors.