Why we don't say

Why we don't say "best friend"

Language is one of my favorite subjects to study and think about. I’ve always told my students that whoever owns the dictionary owns the culture. It…


Ten tips for introducing your child to worship

Worship the Lord with gladness (Psalm 100:2, NLT) My husband and I served as copastors for thirty years, so when our three children came along, they…


Intentionally blessing others this Mother’s Day

Intentionally blessing others this Mother’s Day

It’s coming, Moms! The day we’ve been waiting for. The day set aside for mothers to be honored, celebrated, and yes, even a little spoiled. You may…


Three truths about Christian community

Three truths about Christian community

The desire to connect with others consumed my thoughts as I played with my toddler at our apartment’s playground late one summer afternoon. My…


What is your teen daughter’s view of romance?

What is your teen daughter’s view of romance?

Last week my friend’s daughter said, “When I get married, if my fiancé doesn’t cry when I start walking down the aisle, I’m going to turn around and…


Shaping Christian virtue through reading aloud

Shaping Christian virtue through reading aloud

Stories have power When my husband and I had three young boys under the age of four, I discovered the captivating effect of books and reading aloud.…


3 principles for effective family discipleship

3 principles for effective family discipleship

You've been trying to disciple your kids, but they just won't pay attention. It may feel like you’re trying to get a group of squirrels to sit still…


How to stay sane as a parent in a world going insane

How to stay sane as a parent in a world going insane

Remember when parents used to send kids down the street to play? No cell phones, no GPS tracking. No idea whose house they ran into or which woods…


Kid Kindness

What kind of kindness can kids kindly give? How is a kind kid created? A room full of toddlers all wanting the same toy is usually not a picture of…