Unfortunately, many of us are in the demolition business when it comes to our spouse. We tend to be competitive, critical and even condescending. But when it comes to our spouse, we should be a builder—undergirding and strengthening them against the things in life that would tear them down. Here are three building blocks to support your spouse. First, be cooperative. Help accomplish your spouse's goals. Second, be...

The attacks on 9/11 took the lives of 3,497 people. But for those that survived, this September marks 10 years of mourning. 10 years of hurting. 10 years of learning to live without those they love. About 3,000 children lost a parent that Tuesday. 10 years later, the remembrance is especially significant for two reasons. The man ultimately responsible, Osama Bin Laden, is no longer a threat. And the long awaited...

A friend of mine with three teen boys once said they never get into fights. Wow! I can't relate to that. My mom and dad did a good job encouraging me and my two brothers to love one another, and we're best friends today. But we still had brotherly brawls and beat each other up on a few occasions when we were kids. Now, I'm not advocating that, but sibling conflicts do occur. So try not to get down about it. Just...

Parenting is never boring. There is always some new thing to enjoy or challenge to tackle. And while the parental climate is always changing from one stage of your child's life to the next, there are 12 truths about parenting that remain constant. First, parenting is "heart work." It's not about outward obedience; it's about the inward attitude of your child. Second, parenting requires prayer, patience and...

Many parents insist their children should not work at all. The reason? Their kid's "job" is to focus on school, sports and other activities, they say. Well, that sounds good in theory, but not in practice. All children should do some manual labor either inside or outside the home. Here are 5 reasons your child should work. First, we were all created to work and work is good. Second, work is necessary for...

Knowledge is a good thing. But it's simply the accumulation of information. A person can be a walking encyclopedia and still lack wisdom. Wisdom is supreme. It encompasses understanding, discernment and moral direction for our lives. So, how can you grow in wisdom? Here are three ways: First, listen to correction. Second, look to parents and grandparents for sound instruction and advice. Third, learn from, and...

I sometimes get asked about good books for married couples. If a couple is having severe problems, a book may not be enough. Marriage counseling may be necessary. But a good marriage book can help you foresee potential problems, focus on the important issues, and navigate you through some challenges in your journey as a couple. So choose a book to walk through with your spouse. I've made a list of meaningful books...