The first step in cultivating wise speech is by prayer. We also know that the best way of becoming wise is to saturate ourselves in God’s word. However, some practical tips can also help. What about in our moment-by-moment interactions? How can we train ourselves to say the right thing when difficult conversations take us by surprise? Or when we disagree with something a friend or co-worker says? ... continue reading
God can use what we're reading over the summer – not just to grow us in Him, but to point others to Him! Here are a few more recommendations for your summer reading list:... continue reading
“To be a man means...” No, really. Try to finish the sentence before you read any further. Don’t feel awkward if you’re uncertain what to say—most people struggle. It’s actually pretty difficult, isn’t it?... continue reading
A friend of mine recently preached on gender. He found that all the parents wanted their teenagers in the sermons. When it comes to gender, we know that things have moved fast and we need help.... continue reading
The problem for our children is that it is very easy for them (as it is for their parents) to listen to the wrong another. Even those from the most secure, loving homes suddenly feel shaken over the smallest issue. They are left insecure by things that may sound trivial to us but are so, so important to them.... continue reading
It has been said, “The church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.” I think the quote originates from a Dear Abby syndicated column. It’s a striking word picture as it calls to mind images of people who are unwell but want to get better—people who acknowledge their sickness, are humbled by it, and have placed themselves in the hands of others who might help them.... continue reading
It can be easy to fall into discouragement as parents, especially when we believe the lies that we’re enough. Praise God that he knows that we aren’t! We have everything we need in him, and not within ourselves. He’s given us his word to guide and shape us, his Spirit to strengthen us, and experienced brothers and sisters to offer encouragement and biblical wisdom.... continue reading
Beautifully illustrated and empathetically written, Count Yourself Calm walks children through a calming activity that focuses their attention on God and helps them to manage their emotions. Read on to learn the story behind this unique resource and to peek inside.... continue reading
One of the kindest things you can say about friends is that “they feel like family.” It is a statement of trust, closeness, identity, and responsibility. When we describe friends this way we are reflecting something beautiful about God’s design and desire for humanity, that familial relationships are meant to be near and dear to us. We were made to be part of a family. ... continue reading
For many years I had the joy of working for a Christian charity that served in local schools by teaching the Bible. And I noticed two things about the children I taught. First, all the children, whether Christian or not, had heard key Bible stories so often that they thought they already knew all there was to know. And second, children from Christian homes lacked confidence in explaining why they believed that the Bible was true.... continue reading
