5 Things Your Pastor Shouldn’t Tell You

GOOD WORKS GET YOU INTO HEAVEN This is one of the most common misconceptions in religion today. So many people believe that if they are good enough – if their good outweighs their bad – they will be allowed into heaven. This is simply not the case. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: …

Tips for Teens

Ah, the teenage years. I feel like it was just yesterday that I embarked on those never-forget years of being a teenager. There were many memories made during my teen years: high school, heading off to college, first time to Disney World (I know, I was robbed in my childhood), and sports. There is one landmark event that occurs at …

The Most Basic Needs of Teens

Most likely you or someone you know has had to deal with a distressed teenager at some time or another. Let’s face it; our American culture has taken its toll on the emotional health and well-being of our teens. They face pressures today that put them on the brink of emotional breakdown. Consider some of the most common stressors that …

15 Ways to Affirm Your Children

1. Speak Praise to Them—just pause in an unexpected moment and say, “Hey, I just want you to know I’m proud of you, and here are some reasons why!” 2. Write a Specific Note to Them—Write out the good qualities and successes you see unfolding in their lives. Even better—mail it to them. Their surprise is well worth the fifty …

Enjoying Life With Your Teen

Teenagers in Your Home? You’ve lived through 2 a.m. feedings, toddler temper tantrums, and the back-to-school blues. So why is the word “teenager” causing you so much anxiety?  The teenage years are an intense time of growth, not only physically, but morally and intellectually.  Add to that after-school sports, a learner’s permit and a part-time job, and you have the …