When we struggle to let go of something we think we can control, that path to letting go feels so difficult. It is a painful struggle that we often have to wrestle down. Maybe this will help if you are in that struggle. Letting go feels callous and uncaring. As we struggle with the learning […]
On Pushing Pearls: from The Divine Conspiracy
I love reading in Dallas Willard’s The Divine Conspiracy. I have read it several times. Lately I have been pondering and sharing his insights on pushing pearls (Matthew 7:6) (Pages 228-230). Growing up I most often heard this verse interpreted that we don’t waste our time sharing–pushing pearls–with some people because they won’t listen and […]
Fewer Bumps with Your Teen: Synchronize
Do you ever find yourself getting caught up in arguments with your teen? You see a situation one way; your teen sees it another. Disagreements are common and very frustrating. Arguing doesn’t feel good. We either want to escalate the negative emotions or run out the door, likely slamming it on the way out. If […]
Immanuel’s Strong Suitcase (by Jen Coursey)
My friend, Jen Coursey is a guest blogger today. Jen applies the joy and brain science with her young children and also does Immanuel prayer with them. Here is one of her blogs where she shares a significant Immanuel moment with her son. Be sure to subscribe to her blog at the end. “My seven-year-old […]
Helpful Words and Pleasant Faces: From Joy-Filled Parenting with Teens
From new book: Joy-Filled Parenting with Teens –Here is another tip on changes: helpful words and pleasant faces. Helpful Words When we encounter a problem with our teens, a good way to practice seeing their heart is to remember to use words something like these: “You aren’t acting like yourself right now. What’s going on? How […]
Share Power: From Joy-Filled Parenting with Teens
The new book for parents of teens is almost ready, hopefully by the weekend. Here is another excerpt from the book Joy-Filled Parenting with Teens, with another one of the Hopeful Stories for Successful Relationships. This section talks about how to share power with our teens. Sharing power to help teens Something I learned from […]