“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”–– Matthew 6: 33

The latest Department of Justice study on family violence reported family members victimized by other family members accounted for 11 percent of all reported and unreported violence between 1998 and 2002.

What is happening in our homes?

Unfortunately, the answer lies in the same problems that underlay our present society: addictions, pride, selfishness, lack of self control and greed. How can families ever hope to overcome the downward spiral of the morals and values of society today?

A brief search for potential solutions on the Internet yielded suggestions which included conflict mediation training, problem solving skills and family therapy.

While most of these may be effective in addressing problems after they occur, it seems a better alternative would be to invest in a time-honored solution to prevent the problems.

The best solution would be to establish a Christ-centered home. Never before has there been such a need to establish a spiritual atmosphere in the home. An atmosphere where love and respect abound.

The goal of a Christ-centered home begins by knowing Jesus Christ and his divine mission. We must pray and diligently search and ponder the scriptures.

Learning about the love Jesus Christ has for all of mankind, how he suffered in the Garden of Gethsemane for our sins, and of his pain and suffering on the cross, will bring us closer to living the example that Jesus Christ set for us.

As we begin to feel of his love in our lives, we will want to become more obedient to the divine laws found in the scriptures.

Teaching our children these principles will bring many rewards and blessings as each member of the family strives to live the gospel and guard against the sins of the world.

Doug Crahan of Maylene is a member of the Temple Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints’ Alabama Birmingham Temple. He can be reached by e–mail at djcrahan@bellsouth.net.