Disciplining children can be challenging in any family, but blended families face unique obstacles. Children may be uncertain about how to relate to a new stepparent, and the biological parents may worry about how their ex’s new spouse might discipline their kids. Maintaining consistency across households adds an extra layer of complexity. To help navigate […]
The holiday season sparks joy and excitement for many families. But for blended families, the season can feel anything but picture-perfect. Between complicated schedules, balancing traditions, and tensions between biological parents, the holidays can present unique challenges. Having navigated blended family life for over ten years, we (Scott and Vanessa) have experienced firsthand the ups […]
Bringing children into a new marriage is like making s’mores. The graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and chocolate get squished together, and it can get a little messy. Blending a family can get muddled up, too, with multiple people and their unique histories thrown together to create a unified whole. It can be challenging for a new […]
Scripture makes clear that we have an enemy, the devil. From the beginning account of his work in Genesis to the last references of him in Revelation, the Bible records his ongoing mission is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). He hates God and hates anything God loves, including human beings and their families. […]
When it comes to the topic of divorce, there is no shortage of confusion, frustration, misunderstanding and judgment. Both believers and non-believers have learned explicitly and implicitly that divorce is a sin, and anyone who gets remarried is committing adultery. But what does the Bible actually say? Let’s find out together. The Assumption Some churches teach that […]
Parenting teenagers can be challenging, whether you are a parent or stepparent. From their hormone fluctuations to their desire to be independent, teens undergo radical change in a short amount of time. As parents and stepparents, we may not know how to pray for them, and we may be overwhelmed by how much they need […]
Co-parenting can be hectic and challenging, especially when it’s time for the kids and step-kids to go back to school. They have enjoyed a more relaxed summer schedule, and that first day back to class can be a jolt for both children and parents! New class schedules, new teachers, new sports, and new after-school […]
What is one powerful expression of love that a husband can show to his wife? The answer is not based on love languages, the checkbook balance, the newest fashion trend, or the latest research. One of the most beautiful gifts a husband can offer his wife is praying for her regularly. Keep reading for a […]
You love your husband deeply and want God to work in his life. You know the importance of praying for him. But you feel like a deer in the headlights: you don’t know how to pray for your husband. You don’t know the right words to say. You’re afraid your prayers won’t be “good enough.” […]
Sure, I can be a stepdad; how hard can it be? If I only knew what I needed to know, my first question would be drastically different. Over ten years as a stepparent, I’ve experienced many seasons with my stepson. Some seasons, where he wanted me more involved and closer to the vest, so to […]
