Do you ever get confused about who Jesus was? Yeah, me, too.
We’re in good company. John the Baptist called people back to God, but in Luke 7 he got a little confused, too. “Are you the One?” he asked. Jesus wasn't offended by his question. He even compliments the part of John that was faithful. But then he declares, yes, I am the Messiah—Savior—and the miracles prove it. You and I may not understand everything Jesus taught or why his life unfolded the way it did, but lean into this: He is the King; He is worthy of your trust and to be Lord of your life.
May 13, 2019
Stepfamilies have a few financial landmines: don’t step on them.
According to Patricia Estess, the first landmine is relying too heavily on a former spouse for child support. Being dependent makes you vulnerable. The second is skimping on the new family and spending on the old. Throwing money at your kids won’t erase guilt or make up for lost time. Honor all your commitments equally. And third, don't have two different financial standards. Share your resources and treat everyone the same. When it comes to monetary landmines in stepfamilies, step around them.
May 9, 2019
Today let me share reason number 642 why stepparents need a hug.
One stepmom was pleasantly surprised when her two oldest stepdaughters gave her a card on Mother’s Day. It read, “Everyone needs a back-up mom. You’re mine!” What a huge compliment. She was beaming from ear to ear. So, why does she need a hug? Because this stepmom’s other two stepchildren didn’t acknowledge her at all on Mother’s Day. Not a word. So which is it? Is she accepted or rejected? A part of the family or pushed aside? Ambiguity is a stepparent’s middle name. That’s why they need a hug.
May 8, 2019
When you live like Jesus, you make a difference in someone’s life.
Being Christ-like in our daily lives leaves an indelible mark especially when our actions stand in direct contrast to others. Growing up, Mandy had a Mom and stepmom. Her mom always spoke critically of her dad. She immediately noticed a difference when her stepmom came into her life. She spoke to her dad with respect and warmth and her devotion to him made an intense impression. Today, Mandy is a loving wife because of her obedient stepmom. Does our behavior impact others? You bet it does.
May 7, 2019
A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Have you ever noticed what we don’t know about the Proverbs 31 woman? We don’t know her age, her race, her specific ethnicity (though likely middle-eastern), or what her political leanings are. We do know she works hard, cares for the underprivileged and her family, is wise, strong, dignified, and moral. She could be the first wife or second, the mom or the stepmom. Her external performance doesn’t matter, her character does. Got a wife or mom or daughter like this? Rise up and call her blessed.
May 6, 2019
You’ve been more of a mom to me than my real mom, so can I call you mom?
Man, you want to talk about music to a stepmom’s ears. That’s it. Can I call you mom? Now here’s the back story. The early years were difficult and hurtful but this stepmom was determined. She just kept living and loving. And now, 15 years later, at the age of 28 her stepdaughter asked, “Can I call you mom?” Are you still in “difficult and hurtful” today? Hang on. Keep going. Love isn’t done yet.
May 3, 2019
Okay, ladies. It’s time to stop shooting yourself in the foot.
Cohabitation promises a lot, but delivers very little. Research confirms that cohabiting women are just as committed as married women. And, cohabiting men are not and they remain less committed. In other words, a cohabiting woman assumes she is in a stable, long-term relationship when really she isn’t. Choosing that—it’s like shooting herself in the foot. Our culture calls cohabitation a safe guard for women. It’s not. Cohabitation creates vulnerability. Don’t listen to the lie. Listen to God.
May 2, 2019
Can you imagine? Telling a parent to abandon their child?
No, you probably can’t. But that’s exactly what this stepmom said to her own husband about his son. I guess she was anxious her son would be short changed in the family will. Her exact words were, “Get rid of him.” How awful. That’s exactly what Sarah said to Abraham about his son, Ishmael. And it greatly distressed Abraham. Okay, let’s learn from this. Jealousy and insecurity divide, devour, and destroy family relationships. Pray to get rid of jealousy and ask God for an open, gracious heart.
May 1, 2019
Shallow is fun, but you can’t stay there forever.
There’s a temptation in dating to keep things on the surface. If you get too deep into things you might lose the relationship. Monica is a single parent dating a single dad, Justin. They’re having fun and the kids get along great but his former wife calls the shots when it comes to his kids. Monica is concerned and she should be, but she’s afraid to bring it up. Okay, going deep might burst her fantasy. All I know is, there’s no future in shallow. Find your courage and go deep.
April 30, 2019