After many years of marriage, I’ve learned the importance of these 5 C’s. The first C is combine. When a man and woman get married, the “two become one flesh.” Always remember that you are on the same team. The second C is commit. A husband and wife must commit to make their marriage a top priority. Third, confess. If you’ve wronged your spouse, be quick to admit it and ask for forgiveness. Fourth, change. Change...

It’s hard to know when to let go and let your kids, especially your teens, make mistakes or even fail.  But, sometimes, letting your kids make mistakes is the best way to help them learn.  Here’s a simple list of common situations to help you to determine when it may be okay to let your kids make mistakes.  First, let them fail a test. Sometimes all it takes one bad grade and one consequence to wake them up to the...

Corrie ten Boom was a survivor of a concentration camp during WWII.  Years later at a local church, she saw the former Nazi guard who put her in jail.  Anger welled up inside her.  She knew she needed to forgive him, but couldn’t…she didn’t have the strength.  As the man approached her with an outstretched hand, Corrie received him…a powerful moment!  She forgave the man who had caused her enormous pain.  We all...

Now that school is in full swing again, you may notice that your child is starting to experience some pressure.  Children often feel socially and emotionally stressed through school.  As parents, we should look for ways to help them learn how to cope with stress in healthy ways.  Set a good example in how you handle stress.  If your children are fearful about something, listen to their concerns, and share how you...

When you think of marriage rules, you think of the ones you should keep.  Be loving. . .be faithful. . .be honest.  But, here are some marriage rules you should break.  First, be 100 percent yourself.  Yes, you want your spouse to accept you completely for who you are.  But, on those days when the “real” you feels grumpy, irritated and out of sorts, try not to dump on your spouse.  Second, do everything together. ...

To determine whether you should just insulate or completely isolate your child from potential temptation, bad influences, or pain, here’s a quick checklist.  First, what’s the risk factor? When your child asks to do something, you should first and foremost identify whether this activity poses a real threat to your son or daughter.  Second, has your child earned your trust? Have they consistently done what you’ve...

It’s the word "if." Think about it. We spend so much time worrying… "if we lose our house," "if I get sick" or “if I lose my job”… that we can't enjoy life.  Erma Bombeck said, "Worry is like a rocking chair: it gives you something to do but never gets you anywhere."  And Dr. Gary Oliver says you can master worry by doing 10 things.  First, face your worries.  Second, pinpoint your worries and anxieties.  Third,...