The Family Minute

Why You Need to Claim Your Children

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

It’s not some high-tech gadget you can pick up at a store… it’s a sense of belonging. So how can you instill that in your kids? At home, let your kids know they’re important to you, and to your family. Affirm their positive character traits, encourage their unique gifts, and let them know their thoughts and opinions matter. Then, when you’re out in public, praise them to others – and proudly claim your children by saying, “This is my daughter, Rachel… she’s an amazing young lady”… “This is my son, Bryan… I’m so proud of him.” Give your kids a sense of belonging and they’ll never have to look for it elsewhere. Here’s an example of one man’s simple act of claiming his daughter. You can start by using these phrases for praises.

Trial Marriage?

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

The marriage rate has been on a steady decline over the past five decades. Why this disturbing trend? It’s because some people think that living together rather than getting married is the way to go. The number of unmarried couples living with each other jumped from 1.6 million in 1980 to 13.6 million in 2008. Are there consequences for co-habitation? Well, findings from Pennsylvania State University indicate that couples who move in together before marriage have an increased risk of divorce. Before you get married, be sure to discuss these before you say “I do” premarital questions. Studies also show that your marriage will be happier and healthier if you put off living together until you say “I do.”

The Effects of Divorce on Teens

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Divorce is never easy on anyone, but teens often channel their emotions into destructive behaviors. A recent survey from Pediatrics journal shows that teens of divorcing families are twice as likely to use drugs or alcohol. They are also more likely to act out through physical fighting, property damage, and stealing. Others may experience depression and anxiety. But the good news is that parental support can help alleviate some of these risks. Help your kids handle divorce by making sure you keep the lines of communication open with your teen. Agree with your spouse to put aside your differences in front of the children and work together to do what’s best for them. If you are already divorced, here are 10 ways to stay connected with your kids after divorce.

Happy Birthday, PTA!

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

The National PTA is committed to “. . .promoting children’s health, well-being, and educational success through strong parent, family, and community involvement.” That’s why we have partnered with the National PTA to start All Pro Dad’s Days and iMOM Mornings in as many schools as possible. So, let me ask. What are you doing to become actively involved in your child’s life? Why not join us by becoming an All Pro Dad’s Day team captain or an iMOM Morning leader! These monthly breakfast programs held at your child’s school or a local restaurant provide moms and dads the opportunity to spend quality time with their kids. At each meeting, there is a timely topic, such as bullying, which engages the parent and child in lively, yet meaningful conversation. Encouragement is also the rule of the day. So, get involved!

Make Time for What’s Really Important

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

There’s no such thing as not having time. When we say “I don’t have time,” what we’re really saying is that we don’t choose to make certain things a priority right now, or, there’s something else we’d rather be doing. Think about all the demands on your schedule and take a look at the things you spend the most time on. The truth is we make time for the things we want to make time for. But that isn’t always necessarily what we should make time for. Starting today, make it a priority to set aside time for things that are ultimately important… your spouse, your kids, your faith, your health. For more ideas, try these 10 tips to better family time.

4 Things to Do to Honor Your Parents

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Honor them! Whether you’re 5 or 50, you should honor your mother and father. How? To help you get started, here are 4 things to do to honor your parents. First, pick up the phone tonight and tell them that you are thankful for the good things they did for you growing up. Second, realize that it’s never too late to apologize, or forgive. Third, make it a point to enjoy their company whenever you have the opportunity. Invite them over for dinner and serve them for a change. Fourth, honor them by leaving a legacy for their grandchildren by creating a video of their life.

Let LOVE Be Your Valentine

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

It’s the gift of L.O.V.E. L stands for listen…pay full attention when your partner talks. Stop what you’re doing and don’t interrupt. O is for observe... make getting to know their likes and dislikes a priority. V is for value…value them for who they are…what makes them unique. And E is for encourage…build them up with your words and actions. Four little letters that spell out lessons in love. It’s the best Valentine gift you can give today and every day. To find out more, read the real story behind Valentine’s Day.

Marriage Turbulence? Fasten Your Seatbelts.

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

As a private pilot, I can tell you that bad weather and air turbulence are just a part of flying. Sometimes it can be avoided…other times, it can’t. Building an intimate marriage is kind of like flying a plane – sure, most of us would like to avoid turbulence in our marriage, but sometimes you just have to fly through it. The key to navigating through it is to learn to resolve conflict and communicate with each other in a way that turns marital turbulence into a smooth flight. Try these 5 things to protect your relationship during conflict, and when things get a little bumpy, don’t reach for the parachute…fasten your seatbelt and keep your marriage on course.

Borrowed Time

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Think about it. Your spouse comes up to you and says, “The doctor said I only have a year to live.” Then would it matter so much that he forgot to take out the trash—again? Would you care if she left the garage door open more times than she closed it? And would it still annoy you that he got lost but refused to stop and ask for directions? None of us know exactly how much more time we’ll have with our spouse. So this Valentine’s Day, try to overlook the little, annoying things. Love your spouse like you don’t know if they’ll be here tomorrow—because in reality—you don’t. Life is short. And we are living on borrowed time. Read about how one man gained perspective by writing a letter to himself from the future.

Your Kids and True Greatness

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

According to parenting expert Dr. Tim Kimmel, it’s pushing them toward a “successful” future. Wait a minute, you say, what’s wrong with wanting my children to be successful? Well, it all depends upon how you define success. If it’s all about wealth, beauty, power and fame, you’re setting your kids up for an empty, self-centered existence. Instead, Kimmel says, teach your children the virtues and values of true greatness: humility, gratefulness, generosity and a servant’s heart. Teach them to be “others-centered” and they’ll experience a deep sense of satisfaction and purpose in life.

Marriage and Loneliness

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Maybe you’re lonely because your spouse is never home. Maybe they’re at home but still very distant…you’re searching for intimacy with your soul mate, craving their companionship. What can you do when you’re feeling so far away from your spouse? First, communicate your need to your spouse in a non-confrontational and non-accusatory manner. Let them know that you love them and want to spend time with them. Second, have a plan…have in mind some specific ways that you can spend intimate time together.

How To Balance Work and Family Life

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

It’s tough to stay in touch with your kids when you spend most of your time at work… and they spend most of their time in the classroom. One family handles it this way: When the kids get home from school, the first thing they do—even before they head to the refrigerator—is call their father. It’s not just a once-in-a-while thing. Dad puts it on his calendar… and sets that time aside every day, so he’ll be free when the call comes in. It’s all about balancing work and family life. Even if there’s nothing major to report, those short calls will bring long-term benefits and keep the lines of communication open. For more ideas, try these 10 essential tips for communicating with your kids.

Tony Dungy’s Super Bowl Family Time Tips

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Millions of people will be glued to the television this Super Bowl Sunday. Have you ever considered what the Super Bowl and parenting have in common? If you plan on watching the game, why not make it a family activity? Start with a game plan for the day. It might include firing up the grill, or letting each child choose a favorite snack food. You can also play Super Bowl trivia or predict the score at the end of each quarter. Give fun prizes to the winners. If it’s not too cold, Dad can throw the football with the kids at halftime, or perfect his “living room” touchdown dance. For more ideas, check out Tony Dungy’s Super Bowl family time tips.

10 Things Wives Want to Hear from Husbands

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Yesterday we talked about what a husband wants to hear from his wife. Today we’ll talk about the 10 things wives want to hear from their husbands. So men, here’s what you can say. Number one… “Thanks for all you do for our family.” Number two… “You are a great mom and wife.” Three… “Let me do that for you.” Four… “I love you so much.” Be sure to tell your wife the rest of the 10 things wives want to hear from their husbands.

10 Things Husbands Want to Hear from Wives

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Well, maybe you’re not saying what he wants to hear. What your husband craves are words of praise and validation from the most important person in his life. There are 10 things your husband wants to hear from you. Number one… “I love being your wife.” Number two… “You’re an outstanding father.” Three… “I’m really attracted to you. You are the Man!” Four… “I really respect the decision you made.” Don’t forget to read the rest of the 10 things husbands want to hear from their wives.

Black History Month: Valuable Character Lessons for Kids

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

How about Langston Hughes, Patricia Roberts Harris or Carter G. Woodson? February celebrates Black History Month, and now is a great time to share with your children about the significant contributions these, and other African Americans, have made to our country’s history and heritage. Take some time together this month to learn more about African American leaders in science, social reform, politics, sports and the arts and celebrate Black History Month with your family. Their stories will provide you with valuable character lessons.

Renewing Your Wedding Vows

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Renew your wedding vows. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. You can even surprise your children. Just tell them you have something planned for this Valentine’s night. When the time comes, repeat the same vows you took on your wedding day, or use different words. The point is to show each other and your kids how committed you are to your marriage. Finish up the evening by showing your kids your wedding album or video. Make renewing your vows a family affair. For more ideas, try these 25 romantic ideas for him and her. And use these valentine lunchbox notes to remind your kids how much you love them.

Living Life in the Dash

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

When you look at a tombstone, you see a name, something nice about the person, the year they were born and the year they died…and a small dash in between. The dash…it’s what we do between the time we’re born and the time we die…that’s what’s most important. It’s critical because the dash is your identity…it’s who you are—husband, wife, mom, dad. The dash is your influence…it’s how you touch the lives of others. The dash is your legacy…it’s what you’ll leave behind to future generations. How are you going to live your life in the dash?

Ed Thomas: A Story of Forgiveness

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Most of us can forgive small stuff...but what about the big things that cause us great pain? Ed Thomas was a caring husband, a good father, and a highly respected man in his community. After decades of coaching his football team, Ed was awarded the coveted NFL High School Coach of the Year in 2005. Four years later, a former student walked into the school locker room, pulled out his gun and unloaded seven bullets into Coach Thomas…just like that, he was gone. But the stunned, yet strong, Thomas family reacted in a remarkable way. They made the decision to forgive.

How To Avoid Arguments in Marriage

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

I’m talking about timing in marriage – specifically, when it comes to discussing things with your spouse. You want to talk to your wife about the phone bill so you bombard her as soon as she walks in the door from work. Your husband is sick with the flu but you go ahead and bring up the broken sink anyway. Or, your wife is exhausted, and just as her head hits the pillow you bring up the budget. All bad timing. Find the root of your arguments and learn how to avoid arguments with good timing. Try jotting a note or keeping a mental list of what you need to talk about and then wait until your spouse is rested and relaxed.

Just Like Dad

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

The old saying goes that girls often choose husbands who are like their dads. How does that sit with you? Our girls are watching us for an example of what to expect from their future spouse. Are you kind to your wife? Do you encourage her? What about your daughter… do you hug her and tell her you love her? Dads, your daughter wants your approval. Are you there when she needs you? If you aren’t, it’s not too late to change. Sit down with your daughter and talk about the things you’ve done right… and wrong. Show her by word and example that the man in her life should treat her with respect and love.

Starting Over in Marriage

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

was having some problems with my TV. The cable technician told me I just needed to reboot the box to clear the line. Guess what? It worked! Well, if you’ve been married for any length of time, you’ve probably been hurt by your spouse. If hurts aren’t dealt with and truly forgiven, bitterness can harden your heart to the point where you just don’t like your mate anymore. Past hurts and disappointments tend to resurface in an argument. It’s easy to slip into patterns that destroy oneness in marriage. So, what do you do? Start over! Clear the line. Forgive each other, and promise that the old hurts won’t be brought up again. And use these marriage conversation starters to help you start over and move forward.

The Weight of the World

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

If you really want to know, ask a single parent. Their job is never-ending. Their work is never done. Day after day they carry the load … alone. No wonder they often feel like they have the whole world on their shoulders. So how can we help single moms or dads? Start with the little things. The next time you’re washing your car, offer to wash theirs too. Drop off dinner, or watch their children for the evening, so they can get a little time to themselves. Being a parent is a big job. Being a single parent is an even bigger one. So lighten their load and help take the weight of the world off their shoulders.

Are You a Good Enough Father?

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

In the movie, Courageous, Alex says he doesn’t want to be a “good enough” father. He wants to be more. Do you? Are your kids your priority? Do you attend their recitals or games? How much time do you spend with your children each week? Here’s a thought - calendar your kids! Children spell love T-I-M-E. Pick a time each week for each child. Mark it on your calendar, and spend one-on-one time together – even if it is just tossing the ball in the backyard or going for a bike ride.Here are more ideas on how to be more than a good enough father.

What’s Your Secret?

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Most of us have one or two things we’d rather not share with the outside world, but some people are slaves to their secrets. Extramarital affairs; drug, alcohol and pornography addictions; spouse or child abuse – all are secrets that can consume and destroy lives, marriages, families and jobs. If you live in that bondage, or you’re hiding something from your spouse, children or friends, it’s time to come clean. The first step to freedom is confession … and yes, there will be some pain and consequences associated with that confession. Communication is always the heart of connection. And remember – only the truth will set you free.

10 Ways to Get Your Kids to Stop Whining

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

It’s the sound of a whining child! Parents will do almost anything to make it stop. But yelling or responding harshly to a whining child is one of the worst things you can do. Instead, try this. First, ignore it. If you do, your child will learn that whining doesn’t work. Second, when your child begins to whine, simply leave the room. Third, remove the cause of the whining. Fourth, name it…say something humorous like, “I don’t understand ‘Whinese.’” For more help, here are the rest of the 10 ways to Get Your kids to Stop Whining.

A Dream That Lives On

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Today we remember the dreams of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. … a man of ministry, peace and vision. He dreamed of equality between all races. In 1963, Dr. King said, “I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” What’s your dream for your kids? Is it your dream or theirs? Is it what’s best for them or just what you want? Here are 3 things you need to know about dreams for your kids.

A Great Dad is Courageous

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:15:00 -0600

To be a great dad takes courage. The courage to set your own house rules, to admit when you are wrong, and to be a parent, not a pal, to your kids. In the movie, Courageous, five men sign a resolution to be the best fathers they can be. They discover it’s one of the most difficult challenges of their lives. Alex, the lead character in Courageous said, “I don’t feel like I started well, I want to finish well.” Dads, even if you didn’t start well, you can finish strong. Learn more about how to be a courageous dad

A Winter Season of Life

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Winter… it can be a harsh season of blizzards, dreary skies, leafless trees and brown grass. But winter is so important… if the grass didn't freeze, if the trees didn't shed, if the flowers didn't fade, we wouldn't have such rich foliage and vibrant growth in the spring. Maybe you're going through a winter season in your life right now…maybe it's the loss of a job, a serious illness, or death of a family member. If so, just remember, growth comes with life's winter seasons. It's a time when life becomes more focused… when priorities become more clear… it's a time when we come to understand what life is truly all about… relationships… with God, family and friends. Take a moment to watch this inspirational story about a man named Zac Smith and hear how he maintained a positive outlook during his winter season of life. And for more ideas, here are 7 ways to live above your life’s circumstances.

How To Get Rid of Holiday Debt

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Hopefully you didn’t go into debt over the holidays. But if you did, getting the mail can be a real downer. So now what? To start with, don’t go into denial and keep charging. Take a deep breath, put away your credit cards and pay cash. Next, figure out a payment plan and stick to it. Then, focus on the positives of your plan. Being debt-free will give you peace of mind to enjoy what the New Year will bring. And while you’re at it, save a little each month so your next Christmas is debt-free. Start with these 60 seconds to debt free living. For more tips, check out Dave Ramsey’s 7 debt reduction baby steps.

10 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Family

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

It seems that resolutions are made to be broken. Is it any wonder then, that kids often say parents talk the talk – but don't walk the walk? Breaking resolutions may seem like no big deal. But if our kids hear us make those pledges and then not keep them… we're giving them another example of how it's okay to break your word. Then they might figure it's also okay to violate contracts, or even ignore things… like marriage vows. So if your kids know about your resolutions… let them hold you accountable… so they can see that you don't take promises lightly. To help you get started, here are 10 family resolutions to keep this year.

Communicating with Kids Who Hurt

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

With five teenagers, I've learned that one of the most important things I can do when my children are going through a tough time is to ask caring questions, like "You seem very sad, how are you feeling?"… "I can see that you're hurting; what's going on in that heart of yours right now?" Or, I'm hurting because I can see that you're hurting… what's causing your pain?" After you've asked the question, be sure just to listen. Show them with your caring face and expressions that you're really, really listening and identifying with them in their grief. Here are 6 Ways to Help Your Kids Grieve.

Do You Remember Your First Kiss…With Your Spouse?

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Do you remember your first date with your wife? What about the first time your husband kissed you? Thinking back to those early days of dating is a great way to rekindle the passion in your relationship. If it's possible, re-create your first date or re-enact your marriage proposal. Spend time just sitting on the couch together talking about what you thought the first time you met . . . or when you realized you were falling in love. Reminiscing is a great way to bring back those feelings to keep the passionate love alive in your marriage . . . and to recall why you fell in love in the first place.

How To Overcome Temptations

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

For some it's gambling. . . for others it's affairs or drinking too much. So, do you try to talk your way out of it? Do you get as close to it as you can without getting burned? Or, do you assume you're strong enough and keep putting yourself in tempting situations? Well, an ancient proverb says we need to turn our back on temptation. That's right. . . physically remove ourselves from it. In other words, one of the best ways to avoid temptation is to get as far away from it as you can. Learn how to lead your heart. And here are 10 tips to overcome temptation.

5 "Do-Over" Rules in Marriage

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

We've all seen it before. We say something to our spouse and, immediately, we can see their face starting to turn red with rage. Well, if you realize you've offended your spouse, or have been misinterpreted, you can ask for a "do-over," where you rephrase the statement so that it's kinder and clearer. Here are 5 "do over" rules for you to remember. First, when you see your spouse bristling, stop the conversation immediately. Second, ask for the do over with humility. Say, "Honey, I think I just said something the wrong way. Can I have a do-over?" For more help, here are the rest of the 5 "Do-Over" rules that will help you avoid conflict.

What are the Five Love Languages?

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

When you try to convey love to your spouse, does the message get through clearly, or is it lost in translation? You see, we're all different. What I consider a loving gesture—a nice gift—might not mean anything to my wife… not because she's unappreciative, but because there's something else that makes her feel loved… like when I tell her I appreciate her sacrifices for our family. Dr. Gary Chapman says there are five "love languages"… words of affirmation, time, gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. So learn the language that your spouse responds to best—you'll be glad you did. For more on information on strengthening your marriage, here are 10 books that have influenced my thinking.

The Secret to Raising Selfless Kids

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

The secret is to help them establish core convictions in their hearts… convictions that will define the way they look at themselves and relate to others. Family expert Dr. Tim Kimmel identifies four things our kids need to form deep convictions about: family, friends, faith and freedom. Knowing what they are committed to will help your children focus less on themselves and more on others. So, talk to your kids about the importance of being committed to family, friends, faith and freedom, and show them how you live those commitments out. Watch this short video clip to see more on how to raise selfless kids.

4 Foundational Principles of Discipline

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

You've probably noticed by now that each child is very unique. And that means that you need to uniquely discipline them when they've disobeyed you. Each child responds to different forms of discipline. Having said that, there are 4 foundational principles of discipline that always apply when you correct your child. First, be unified. Make sure you and your spouse agree on how you'll discipline your kids. Second, be consistent. Make sure the rules, and consequences for breaking those rules, are consistently enforced. For more help, here are the rest of the 4 Foundational Principles of Discipline.

The Prison of Discontent

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

This week we are featuring the 5 most popular Family Minutes from 2011. Today is Number 1...

Author Max Lucado says, "If your happiness comes from something you deposit, drive, drink, or digest, then face it– you are in prison, the prison of want." Are you always wanting one more thing? "I will be happy when I am healthy, when I am married, when I am rich, when I am…" You finish the statement. But, when the new car smell fades, the neighbors buy a bigger TV, and your prince turns into a frog, the prison gets even darker. Joy and contentment do not come from circumstances or happenstance, but rather from the heart. For more on how to be set free from the prison of want, here are 10 ways to bring joy into your life.

Marriage Maintenance

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

This week we are featuring the 5 most popular Family Minutes from 2011. Today is Number 2...

If you don’t maintain your car—change the oil, filter, check the points—on a regular basis, it may start clanking and sputtering. If your spouse is making noises…if they’re negative, nagging, or flat out nasty, maybe it’s time to check under the hood. When you do, you may find that neglect is the culprit…a husband who has neglected to listen to what his wife really needs, or, a wife who has neglected her husband and made the kids the center of her world. You may need to make some serious repairs, but when you do, your marriage will run even smoother. For more help, check out these 10 marriage secrets.

Don’t Waste Your Life

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

This week we are featuring the 5 most popular Family Minutes from 2011. Today is Number 3...

You bought properties like Boardwalk and Park Place. Then, mom said it was time for dinner, and the game was over. Your money, your railroads, hotels and houses were gone. You know, life is like that. You spend years "playing the game" and acquiring "stuff"… then, one day your life is over. Well, your greatest legacy won't be the material things you leave behind… those will fade away. It will be the lives you've touched… the relationships you've built… with your wife, your children, your grandchildren. That legacy will endure even after the game ends. Make sure that you're making each play count. Here are 10 Ways Not to Waste Your Life.

How to Encourage Your Spouse

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

This week we are featuring the 5 most popular Family Minutes from 2011. Today is Number 4...

There are lots of qualities that matter: character, integrity, stability. But here’s something else to consider: look for someone who encourages you and has a positive outlook. It’s hard to have a happy marriage when your partner constantly criticizes you or makes you feel inadequate. Your spouse should be trying to build you up, not tear you down. And, it’s easier to have a happy marriage when you’re with someone who finds hope in situations instead of always seeing the glass half empty. So, look for someone who has a positive attitude about working through the tough spots in your relationship. And once you’re married, here are 10 things you need to say to your spouse.

How Affairs Happen

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

This week we are featuring the 5 most popular Family Minutes from 2011. Today is Number 5...

I've been hearing that question more and more lately. People who've had affairs often say that they had some unfulfilled need that slowly began to be met by someone other than their spouse—a friend, co-worker, old flame, a neighbor. From there, it was a slippery slope to a full-blown extramarital affair and a broken marriage. So what can you do? Well, be aware of danger signs and take action. The best way to prevent an affair is to stop it before it starts. I don't have all the answers, but I'd like to share 10 Ways to Affair-Proof Your Marriage.

The Christmas Offer

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

More than 2000 years ago, a young girl stretched out her hand for help as she felt the first pains of labor. Her baby boy came into the world as she lay in the dirty stable. Gazing into her new baby's eyes, she felt a rush of love as her son wrapped his hand around her finger. Throughout His life, Mary's son extended his hand to many. On the day His hands were wounded, he extended them to the world, offering grace… mercy… healing… life. His name, Emmanuel—which means "God with us." So if you need a strong and loving hand, grab His and experience eternity with Him. Accept this Christmas offer. Merry Christmas!

One Solitary Life

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Born in an obscure village to a peasant woman. He worked as a carpenter until he was thirty. Then for three years he was an itinerant preacher. He never wrote a book, or held office. He did none of the things that usually accompany greatness. While still a young man, popular opinion turned against him… he was nailed to a cross, died, but rose again. Twenty centuries later he is still the central figure for much of the human race. All the armies that ever marched, and all the kings that ever reigned, have not affected mankind as powerfully as this "One Solitary Life"… Jesus Christ. Jesus is what Christmas is all about. Merry Christmas.

Christmas Lights

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

The glittering displays of Christmas lights bring out the kid in all of us. This year, make taking in the lights a family adventure. Map out a list of decorated houses you want to see, put together some snacks and then pile everyone in the car one evening and take a drive to see all the Christmas lights. Take your time, drive slowly. Talk about which house you like best. Pause to take some family pictures. Give your kids time to “ooh and ahh” as you meander down the curved streets. Cruising the Christmas lights as a family makes merry and meaningful memories. If things do turn sour, consider these 10 ways to reduce family fighting over the holidays.

The Perfect Holiday

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

The gifts have to be wrapped just so. The decorations have to be hung on the tree like this. The Christmas cookies must have this color icing. Sound familiar? The holidays can bring on a lot of extra pressure – if you let them. To avoid that intensity, be flexible. If traditions turn out a little differently this year, it's ok. If the kids don't hang the ornaments on the tree just right… let it go. And the cookies with orange icing will taste just fine. If you’re a mom, take our crazy mom holiday challenge. Remember to enjoy your children, family, and friends in the spirit of the season. In your celebration, forget perfection. For a fun holiday video, watch this inspirational performance of the Hallelujah chorus.

Serving Those Who Serve

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

When you care for a military family, and include them in your holiday plans, that’s one way to serve your country. Sharing your holiday meal with a military family who has someone overseas would be a blessing…for both the family and their deployed soldier. Or consider hosting a single soldier who’s based at a military installation near you… someone who may be lonely, and a long way from home. Reflect on the sacrifices our service personnel make for us, and why we should feel privileged to serve them. Open your heart. Open your home. And remember our military families during the holidays.

Argument Curfew: How To Stop Arguing with Your Spouse

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:00:00 -0600

Soon after my wife and I were married, we made a discovery. It seemed like when we argued, it was at night… when we were tired and irritable from a long day. So we set a curfew on serious discussions: nine o’clock is the limit. Now, when we start to get into a heavy talk after nine, we remind each other that it’s late, we’re not going to resolve anything tonight, and we can talk about it tomorrow. This way, we can avoid arguments with good timing. The next morning we’re refreshed…we can talk about it calmly, or maybe decide it wasn’t that important to begin with. What are some ways you and your spouse settle arguments peacefully?

What is Truly Valuable?

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 07:00:00 -0600

When we think about what’s valuable to us, we often think about material things… our home, car, investment portfolio. We think about business success. We think about getting praise… getting the credit… all temporary things. But we should value relationships above results, the process above the product, what’s “God-made” above what’s “man-made,” serving others above being served, giving others credit above receiving the credit, investing in people above investing in things. Why? Because these are what will last. And if we value them, then we’ll receive the kind of satisfaction that no amount of money will ever buy. To learn more about what you really value, review these 7 ways to know what you truly value.