Parenting

Our hearts are breaking over the devastating school shooting that has just happened at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. When we hear of this kind of evil, it can be overwhelming, discouraging, heartbreaking, and devastating to us. One of the most effective things that we can do is pray.

Those we engage within the field of education - students, custodians, and the list goes on - need to encounter the presence of God through the outflow of our love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Being an authentic and honest parent goes way further with our kids than trying to be perfect. Here are 4 ways how to be real with your kids.

As parents, our top priority is to showcase our faith and teach our children about Jesus and what it means to follow Him. Our goal should be raising up a new generation ready to impact the world for Christ. Before you know it, the moments to foster that kind of faith will have passed.

Lean in, sweet sis, feel it all, and then hand it over to a great, Big God who has really big shoulders. Oh honey, if you need a pity party, go on and throw one, but please remember that this too shall pass, I promise. This season doesn't last forever. You will find your rhythm, the romance in your marriage will return, and you will be able to find yourself again. So, go ahead and dive into the ice cream and have a really good cry; you are totally allowed!

It’s a given that the Sunday school teachers will lead the littles in songs because youngsters love to sing and it’s a great way to keep them occupied. But what’s included in the popular songs they sing?

As individuals and families, we have committed many generational sins over the years. What is generational sin?

There are very few things in parenting where numerical benchmarks are useful. Instead, we should ask, “What characteristics does my child need to show in order to get a cell phone?” This gives our kids something to grow into rather than passively waiting for that magic number. We know we are responsible for their moral character and development, ultimately teaching and modeling the gospel. 

Why are we afraid to welcome children into a broken world?

Your child says the teacher’s being unfair. Now what? Here’s how to handle it without turning the classroom into a battlefield.

This clear-eyed look at discipline compares today’s trends to God's own model, and shows how truth and love must walk together.

The pressures can easily mount up and take their toll, but I hope these go-to verses and prayers give you peace and a place to lean into God’s promises. You can print them out and place them around your dorm room or simply whisper them up when the time arises. May they draw you close to the Father and remind you that He has big plans for your life, and this part of the journey is merely the beginning!

Photo Credit: SWN Design

When your child dates someone who concerns you, your response can either build walls or open doors. Discover biblical wisdom for balancing love and firm convictions.

I’ve gained weight, lost my temper more than I’d care to admit, and am struggling to be there for all the people in my life. The reality is that this preschool phase requires all the patience and grace.

When the fears of moving far from home start to press in, these prayers will help you remember the unchanging truth that you're never alone.

What if the biggest question behind today’s teen romance dramas is really about our own spiritual discernment?

As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, let's take a moment to pray for the kids who will be going back to school. These prayers are perfect whether you have kids or know kids. Everyone could use a prayerful boost this time of year!

Gracious God, as my child begins another school year, I come before You seeking divine protection. Please surround them with Your love and shield them from any harm or danger they might encounter. I pray for the safety and well-being of every student, teacher, and staff member in the school system, and I ask for a hedge of protection around the building and school grounds.

Adults are glad the kids are going back to school, but they have the pressure to get the entire family re-acclimated to schedules and possibly a new routine.

Whether the students on your heart are starting college or returning for another year, they need your prayers for guidance, wisdom, and peace this Fall. Here are five prayers for college students heading back to school.