Laying a good foundation during a child’s formative years is critically important in determining who and what they will become as an adult. Key Thought: When a father clearly understands and consistently carries out his God-given role, his children tend to excel in the areas of character, conduct, and achievement. Corollary: When a father abandons his God-given [...]
Beware of thinking, "Adultery would never happen in my marriage." Sadly, many who believed they were invincible are the very ones who have fallen into immorality. I have counseled countless men and women who have sat with their heads in their hands lamenting their stupidity for having been involved in adulterous behavior. I have [...]
American families are in a state of constant motion. Kids seem to always have someplace they are supposed to be. The typical day for kids begins early and ends late, which means the parents’ day does too. There is school, sports, entertainment, friends, hobbies, church, youth group activities, and on and on it goes. Everyone [...]
Respect the image of God in the other person. Gary Smalley, one of the country's best-known authors and speakers on family relationships, has said, “How would you treat your spouse if you saw them as being autographed by God?" The Bible tells us that we're ALL made in the image of God (and that [...]
“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.” I Pet. 3:7 (ESV) It's been a bad day; a really bad day. So, what do you [...]
Consistency is the Golden Rule of effective parenting. It is the most important decision you will make when it comes to disciplining your child. Being consistent, however, is not easy. It requires dedication even on the days when you feel exhausted, when life is hectic, and when you just want to make your child happy. [...]
How many times have you thought you were communicating clearly, only to discover that your words were taken in a way you never could have imagined—and likely, more negatively? Here are 5 explanations as to why communication that, however carefully delivered, might be quite different from what your mate actually heard: The other person is angry [...]
Introduction: Most parents yell at their kids and are fairly astute at giving excuses for their behavior. We all know, however, that we shouldn’t yell and that it has a long-term, negative impact on our kids. This lesson is focused on stopping the behavior. Why? BECAUSE IT IS WRONG AND DOESN”T WORK! Why Yelling Doesn’t Work: [...]
Signs of an Authoritarian Parent: “It’s my way or the highway” It's characterized by rigid rules and high demands. Authoritarian parents have high standards and can be highly critical when those standards aren't met. They also tend to offer less emotional warmth compared to authoritative parents. You have little patience for misbehavior Authoritarian parents don’t [...]
Key Thought The process of becoming one depends heavily on a couple’s ability to communicate effectively with one another. It is the lifeblood of a healthy and growing relationship. Without it, a marriage will weaken and die. What is effective communication? The process of listening and talking with one another in order to truly know [...]
