Perhaps you could put yourself in Maria’s shoes as she shrivels with embarrassment during this incident at a Target checkout line with her four-year-old daughter, Amy: “Amy, put the candy bar back.” “But Mommy, I really like this kind.” “No. We’re going home to eat lunch as soon as we leave here.” Amy jacks up the volume a little in her response: “Ahhh. What are we … [Read more...]
That’s my girl: Equipping fathers for powerful connections with daughters
The Bible tells us that fathers play a fundamental and foundational role in their families. Yet more often than not, dads typically fail to realize the powerful impact they have on their children. I have discovered that fathers don’t hear often enough how important they are in the lives of their kids, and I believe that we as leaders must change that. Why should your church … [Read more...]
Broken: The impact of divorce on children—and 4 ways to ease their pain
Most of us have witnessed a divorce within our congregations; many of us have seen it up close and personal in our own families. It doesn’t matter how big or small the church is, divorce goes well beyond affecting just the parents and children involved. It affects their extended family, it affects all the people they are serving with, and it affects the people they may be … [Read more...]
Helping parents with rebellious children
Several years ago I got invited to speak at ACBC, the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors, about rebellious teenagers. Little did I know I was about to embark on a season in life when both my oldest and youngest sons went through seasons of rebellion. My oldest shared that he no longer believed what we had taught him, which in some ways sparked rebellion in his younger … [Read more...]
Giving uncommon, yet biblical, parenting advice
How many times have you talked to exasperated parents like this mother? “I’m exhausted. Life with my five-year-old has been so hard lately. No matter what I do, he seems to have a mind of his own and won’t listen. We’ve tried everything from spanking and time-outs to taking away toys and playtime. He’s got a lot of energy, but some days I just need a break. Tell me we’ll … [Read more...]