All Articles for Life Issues

Women who have never married or had children are the happiest and healthiest, I heard. I'm an unmarried woman with no children. Does single equal happy?

We just want our kids to win at sports! But often in the process, we ruin their fun and train them to despise our approach to life and worldview.  

Video games offer a world for your kids where they are the ones with power. The lure is easy to see. But clearly gaming can’t satisfy these deep desires.

Besides her obvious talent on the tennis court, Coco demonstrated what it looks like when parents teach that there’s more going on than just the game.

Eight months into their marriage, Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk live in separate houses much of the time. Friends say it's ideal. But what's up?

As the dad of a 13-year-old girl, when Teen Vogue moves from popping pimples to pushing pimps, I need to raise my hand and say, "I’m not for this.”

Most men would swim through shark-infested waters rather than admit our failures and weaknesses.

Tickets to JoJo Siwa's sold out D.R.E.A.M. tour is all my eleven-year-old daughter wanted for her birthday. I was determined to find a way to take her.

What happens when society redefines family?  Our teenagers are sorting through the wounds of a generation’s idea that family is whatever you want it to be.

High school wrestler Brendan Johnston explained, “I’m not really comfortable wrestling a girl." Is this a sign of his narrow-mindedness and ego? Or respect?

Does anybody notice me? Am I pretty enough? Good enough? Ayesha Curry's open interview voiced concerns that most women aren't brave enough to express.

“Trust your heart. Believe in you." Yet with the constant encouragement to pat ourselves on the back, the result isn’t all sunshine and cupcakes.

It's sobering hearing that your body will never carry a child. That because of infertility you’ll never know the kicks of a baby growing inside you.

This will be J. Lo's fourth and A-Rod's second marriage. What makes them think that this one will be the one that sticks? (We hope it does.)

Does it really matter if preachers wear hip clothes or live expensive lifestyles?

Tiger Woods’ emotional grip on his son culminated a journey back from the sports-dead. We see a man experience professional victory and personal redemption.

For parents who have lost a child, nothing will ever be able to replace that baby. But sometimes out of sorrow is the gift of a “rainbow baby," the healthy baby who follows loss.

Despite their decision to divorce, both of my parents made sacrifices along the way that kept my brother and me as their priorities.

The pop music star is about to turn 30, and her list of life lessons beautifully blends heart with humor, plus practicality and purpose.

What’s a level-headed but vigilant parent to do with this information? Here are five ways to respond to the unsettling Momo Challenge.

Your sons have already heard about the owner of the New England Patriots charged with solicitation of prostitution. What will they hear from you?

Toxic masculinity, the new term in vogue powering today’s cultural discussion, is concerning. The answer certainly cannot be vilifying masculinity.

At first I found the KonMari tidying method to be humorous. But my husband says it’s attractive to him when I clean and organize our home.

The Gillette ad is just the latest in a series of negative narratives featuring men.

My limited experience has taught me to be vigilant in what I allow before my children’s eyes.

Political leaders might have their own agendas, but those cannot thwart God’s.

The award-winning artist's music inspired others to bask in God’s love, but he had to overcome shame and alcoholism to hear God’s love song to him.

The popular television show tells us there is romance and redemption lying wait in our days, breathless not with passion, but with the hard work of love.

I saw a hashtag on Twitter this week about why people who have been sexually abused might choose not to report it.

A few positive lessons from my guilty pleasure over the last few months.

NBA star Blake Griffin may be able to afford a huge child support payment, but kids need more than that.

Donna Reish wanted to make her father's seventieth birthday extra special.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Whatever problems may develop, my commitment is to do whatever it takes to help my parents, respect them, and honor them.

Brava, Miss America, for eliminating a bit of the external from the ideal. And let’s not stop there. What does it look like for each of us to disregard the bigger “swimsuit competition” far deeper within?

FamilyLife’s first feature film, Like Arrows, is coming to a theater near you, but this week only!

FamilyLife's first film is meant to be a glimpse into a path that can take you deeper into parenting the heart of your children.

Bob Lepine answers behind-the-scenes questions about the movie.

Everyone has a family. And every family has a story.

As a stepgrandparent, you can be an important and influential role in the family with a little grace and wisdom.

Over 25 years of marriage have taught my husband and me how to adjust to each other’s families.

Taking care of our elderly parents is a journey into the character of Christ.

How six adult children honored the single mother who raised them.

Rick and Judy Taylor talk about recovering from the death of their son, Kyle.

Ten ways for families to stay spiritually strong in today’s culture.

Many parents today feel overwhelmed by the pace at which technology is changing the American home.

When it’s necessary to confront and correct someone, do it in a way that puts a priority on the relationship.

In a divisive political season, here are thoughts on what it means to "render to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."

Too often what we see on social media, at a party, or even on Sunday at church in no way reflects what's really going on in someone's life.

We live in an age when the role of grandparents isn’t clearly defined.

It’s hard not to have control, and one thing that we can’t ever determine is what lies ahead.

Don’t let fear cause you to mistreat those who are different from you.

Your grandchildren need you. Do not abandon them.

We all need to live lives of constant repentance, recognizing that the entire Christian life is one of constant temptation to sin and simultaneous call to obey Christ.

The gospel liberates us from the mindset that sex is intrinsic to human fulfillment.

We need to be grandparents who focus on what matters, on what lasts.

As a grandparent, do you realize you are second only to the parents in your potential to impact your grandchildren spiritually?

At the Atlanta Mission, men are learning from the Stepping Up video series that the first step to transformation is a willingness to change.

The same faith that led Alvin York to be a pacifist also led him to become the most decorated soldier in World War I and a post-war philanthropist.

Here are some practical things you can do to guard your children.

Something has shifted in our culture the last few months as hidden sexual sins—especially in the workplace—are brought into the light. Why has this happened so suddenly?

In the wake of the current outcry against sexual mistreatment of women, what reception will the film Fifty Shades Freed receive?

My counseling experience leads me to conclude that evil is very much at work in the world, in our mind, and in our body.

How you can be involved in the aftermath of disasters like Irma and Harvey.

Events in Charlottesville remind us that ultimately the solution to racism comes when hearts are transformed.

Three truths to remember when incomprehensible tragedies occur.

It's up to this generation of Christians to reverse course, and it starts at home.

Cynics are ‘prayer shaming’ Christians after shootings or disasters. But are there times when we use that phrase as little more than a platitude?

Looking for signs that something is amiss … and helping your child heal.

Your kids deserve your whole-hearted attention.

My addiction was a vicious cycle. I’d sin, feel guilty, repent, feel better. How could I break free?

The "crisis in the American family" isn't downstream from Woodstock or the Pill, but downstream from the wreckage of Eden.

In this wireless, tech world, parents need to be proactive in connecting with their teens through real conversation.

Well-written books can reinforce the values and morals you want to impart to your children. They can help you parent well.

The proliferation of internet stars should cause us to question their focus—and ours.

This movie about the power of prayer may be unlike anything else you’ve seen.

How will your grandchildren remember you?

To return our nation to its feet, we must first return to our knees.

If wellness requires us to complete a marathon at 100 years old, most of us won’t make it.

We live in a culture that is steadily moving away from God’s truth. Our families are in serious trouble and need help now.

Some suggest that Christians talk too much about something the Bible hardly addresses. But the Scriptures are clear and consistent on this issue.

Are you ready to answer the tough questions your friends are asking you about your beliefs?

The irony of this film is that it leaves out Louie Zamperini’s experiences after World War II—when he became a broken man.

While your kids may know more than you about technology, they need your wisdom and guidance.

No matter how tech savvy you are as a parent, your kids will always know more. Here are some ideas on how to engage with them.

The movie centers on the joys and trials of parenting and the power of family to shape the next generation.

We need your help to spread the new film's message about godly parenting.

A college student examines the impact of the shows today’s youth are watching on YouTube.

When a man lives up to his role, life-giving things start to happen.

Two questions that will help you discern if the 'Fifty Shades' book and film presents a treacherous deception.

Are you devoting enough time to deepening your relationship with your spouse offline?

My husband was working more hours than he or I wanted … and I was turning into a shrew.

Chick-fil-A’s founder was a true patriarch for Jesus Christ.

As grandparents, we’ve been given a wonderful opportunity to influence our grandchildren.

On July 4, 1776, 56 men stepped up to pass a resolution that would cost many of them greatly in the years to come.

Hardly a day goes by when I don't think of my mother and my mother-in-law and the influence they had on my life.

After the recent tornado in central Arkansas, this is a time of extreme emotions here at FamilyLife.

Thirty years after his mother's death, Rob Smith found an unusual way to honor her.

The key to powerful manhood is taking responsibility for the field assigned to you.

When I hear stories like this, I realize that the commandment to honor our parents is far more important, and far more powerful, than most of us realize.

I know the power of community and I know the emotions of walking this journey alone.

Even if turning your television off completely is an unbearable thought, consider these ideas for replacing a portion of your television-watching time.

Three essentials to sharing the kind of covenant love that Ruth and Naomi had.

That Jesus was committed to heterosexual marriage could not be more evident. He was just as committed to the permanence and fidelity of marriage.

The story of Mary of Nazareth illustrates that true identity is not found in a job, a spouse, a child, a position, or a possession.

A clear understanding of God's purposes for marriage helps us understand what's at stake if our culture redefines what He originally created.

Response to a special edition of FamilyLife Today on the topic of the Supreme Court’s decisions regarding same-sex marriage.

Here’s a list of holiday CDs with songs that focus on Christ’s birth.

Our culture today has influenced many women to see themselves solely in the context of how they look.

Are you successful? Take a moment and reflect on the question. What is your answer?

A guide to help you make your eating habits more pleasing to God.

Here are seven propositions that I believe should shape how Christians think about and respond to homosexuality.

What happens when we don't follow God's design for sex? Broken sex.

Something good that God has placed within every male remains unreleased in most men.

I am not perfect. Let's both assume that the other is doing the best she can.

Good mamas want their kids to have good marriages.

Have you honored your parents for what they've done well?

If we know anything about God, we know that He comes close to those who suffer, so keep your eyes open for Him.

You can devise all kinds of ways to try to get rid of your guilty feelings. But your guilt is not just a feeling or a personal problem.

Bringing up the memories is the first step in fighting the battle.

A recovering sexual addict answers questions common to the wives of men who struggle with the same sin.

An English professor and committed lesbian, Dr. Rosaria Champagne was intrigued by a local pastor who invited her to dinner.

We live in a culture that is moving farther and farther away from the clear teaching of Scripture about God's purpose and design for human sexuality.

Modern women face tremendous challenges, and we need the same wisdom the book of Proverbs offered to ancient women.

Jesus wants you to discover in Him what will truly satisfy your soul.

Consider how you can honor your parents with more than just a store-bought card or gift.

An interview with Josh McDowell about his life and his difficult childhood years.

It really is possible to have a personal, consistent relationship with God by making these three practices a priority.

Let’s call men to being relationship investors—guys who protect the weak, bring out the best in others, and love unconditionally.

It seemed my folks were always helping someone.

The best thing you can do for yourself, for your children, and for our culture is to make your marriage work—and encourage others to do the same.

Tribute to Alan Nagel from his son, Todd.

Tribute to Art and June Lindstrom, written by their daughter, Janet Logan.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Tribute to my parents

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

How do you find an "older woman" to encourage you?

God’s call to men can be boiled down to two basic directives.

We need men who will say "no" to more bucks when it means sacrificing our families. A new breed who will ask the question, "How will this affect my family?"

An opportunity for you and your children to better understand the workings of the mass media of entertainment together.

Parents can keep their children safe from video game addiction by avoiding these five common mistakes.

At a recent speaking engagement, I received a lesson far more profound than the one I was giving.

The film and television industry promotes the same views—over and over again.

On the 70th anniversary of D-Day, "FamilyLife Today" co-host recalls his father's service and sacrifice in World War II.

The process of forgiving my dad wasn't easy, but our relationship is now a trophy of grace and reconciliation.

When I think of Dalcie Rainey, I hear her contagious laughter and smell cheeseburgers sizzling in the kitchen.

I think we would be shocked if we could count the number of times we are tempted each day.

How a sacrificial "anniversary gift" revolutionized one home.

As much as we enjoy the Internet, it’s time for many of us to realize how easily this relatively new medium can consume us.

As grandparents we don't just have to sit around hoping that our grandchildren will receive a spiritual inheritance.

How to help your child make wise media entertainment choices.

Three core convictions related to the trap of pornography that every parent should hold.

Manhood requires us to put the lure of adolescence behind us, face upward, and step up.

Selected readings from children ages 6 to 19.

Some of the best memories of a marriage are made when your children are born.

It's not easy to honor someone who has hurt you so deeply. The natural tendency is to repay evil for evil and seek retribution.

These five steps will help you break free.

My addiction to pornography cost me my marriage.

I’m glad that the folks at Pixar have their priorities clear.

As a Christian family, we should help our aging parents finish life well--as a lasting testimony to us, to our children, and to anyone who might be watching.

Lisa Beamer's witness after 9/11 exemplifies what it means to be salt of the earth.

God handed this mother's little boy the key to set her free.

Abusive behavior was never and can never be a part of God's plan for a marriage or a family.

Three practical steps on how to let go.

If you have a difficult relationship with an adult brother or sister, you are not alone.

Marriage can reveal the damage of the past, but these biblical steps can help you change your heart and forgive your parents.

Our constant consumption of television, movies, internet, cell phones, etc., affects us in more ways than we realize.

What types of music will you allow your children to listen to?

The thing that sets 'Up' apart from its earlier predecessors are the tender moments that come out of the marriage relationship between the main character and his wife.

Promoting face-to-face communication in your marriage and family.

Many adults today need to come to grips with their sexual past.

Dennis Rainey and co-host Bob Lepine interviewed Byron Yawn about his new book What Every Man Wishes His Father Had Told Him.

Readers sound off on how mobile technology is affecting their relationships.

A behind-the-scenes glimpse into our mailbag.

Here are some basic principles for anyone who wants to understand Asperger Syndrome from a biblical perspective.

Mania can’t keep you from the most important task of human life: becoming more and more like your Heavenly Father.

Our culture abounds with hollow and deceptive theories of change that masquerade as biblical wisdom.

To understand your struggles with OCD you need to take into account both components.

The new movie from the creators of Fireproof is a powerful story of renewal and recommitment.

Technology is changing so quickly that most of us are barely aware of how our behavior is changing.

No matter how unexpected or predictable, death shakes us to the core. The pain is inescapable.

How do you come to terms with the suicide of someone you know and love?

When facing midlife issues, it's time to ask, "What is God doing in my life?"

If you don't learn how to handle anger, you will constantly hurt others.

God is doing His transforming work in the person you are caring for and He also transforms.

God offers you true, living hope--not a false hope based on your death.

God’s ears are finely tuned to tears. Like a mother who wakes at the sound of her child, God hears the cries of the oppressed.

Extreme fatigue strips life down to the bare basics of human need and God’s grace.

Every time you remember, every time you struggle, every time you feel that your heart is breaking under the weight of what happened to you, ask Him to help you.

How does the gospel bring real and lasting change into people's lives? A Q&A with Paul David Tripp and Tim Lane.

No matter what issue you are facing, you can have a clear sense of where change is needed in your life and what that change should look like.

God's Word is filled with many good, useful, and true things that are meant to help you in your struggle with worry and fear.

Instilling a love for reading is a gift that keeps giving.

Dr. Howard Hendricks had a tremendous worldwide influence during a lifetime of serving Christ.

Care for the environment takes our commitment to a godly legacy to a new level of responsibility and conscientiousness.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

Following is an example of a tribute.

 

When your allegiance is to something other than God, you will simultaneously feel both in control and out of control.

Following is an example of a tribute.

A report on how the film is changing lives with its challenge to apply biblical principles of love to your marriage.

The Kendricks brothers' pastoral experience working with real-life couples in marital distress enables them to bring authenticity to the screen. 

Many couples start off wrong and are then burdened with poor in-law relationships for years. It will take faith to develop positive in-law relationships.

Make a commitment to help your spouse honor his or her parents.

You must know what ladder you are on and where it is leading.

Over time, God began to reveal why I was choosing work over my family.

Start by teaching your children to embrace these personal convictions.

A man’s decision about pornography is a decision about his soul, his marriage, and his wife.

We learned how to talk about my sexual addiction at a Weekend to Remember®.

Through his Playboy empire he said it’s okay to indulge sexual sin.

How can you master technology rather than letting it master you?

A big shift may be occurring in the way we gather and process information, but we must summon the discipline to slow down enough to focus on what’s important.

We need convictions and a personal, proactive plan for handling media wisely.

How to help friends or family when they lose a child.

The legacy of a 16-year-old girl in New Zealand who lived for God.

As this tiny baby's short life drew to a close, we heard God's voice in our time of grief.

My granddaughter's life may have been short in terms of days, but her life was mighty.

As a mom it's easy to feel useless, isolated, boxed in or imprisoned at home.

Suffering nags us with questions about God in a way that comfort never could.

My husband's depression left both of us feeling helpless and out of control.

A man's last words reflect the life that he lived. What will yours be?

Our nation suffers from a sickness in its soul.

Observations from my 100th Weekend to Remember marriage getaway.

How FamilyLife Today helped reprogram my wrong views of family.

Substance abuse is frighteningly widespread among our nation's youth.

It is never too late to be a positive influence in the life of your child.

Unfortunately, many parents deny symptoms of drug or alcohol abuse or simply look the other way.

Six suggestions that will help you nurture these delicate relationships.

Having in-laws is not always the easiest part of marriage, but it’s one of the best and most unexpected blessings.

A key to experiencing freedom and joy is to replace lies with the truth of God's Word.

Women often end up in bondage to a lie they believe about themselves.

Our unleashed words can be every bit as damaging and destructive as any other kind of aggressive outburst.

Kids may be resilient, but divorce does serious damage to them.

The best thing you can do for yourself, for your children, and for our culture is to make your marriage work—and encourage others to do the same.

The story of an imperfect family, and how God stepped in to bring healing, forgiveness, and honor.

Like soldiers, we are called to do our duty even when the storms of life tempt us to abandon our posts.

What it means for a man to be the spiritual protector of his family.

My father showed me that being a man involves taking responsibility for your choices, for your family, for your community, and for the next generation.

A real man knows where he is going.