Big changes occur when we have a teenager. Parenting becomes more difficult. We dread or ignore the changes. Flowing with the changes brings delight, wonder, love, and joy in the teen years just as they did in childhood. But we have to be brave and willing to allow these changes. Those changes can be frightening […]
Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing–Subtle Narcissism
In one of my Joy Groups we are doing an in-depth study about narcissism and how to deal with it both in ourselves and with others. We are learning that there are different ‘’types’’ and different “degrees” of narcissism. Most of us have no problem recognizing the blatant, harsh, self-justifying, defensive kind. There’s no question […]
What’s Missing? Living the Immanuel Lifestyle
Last weekend I attended the Annual Gathering of folks who love Life Model Works. The focus was Living an Immanuel Lifestyle. I heard two speakers, both heads of ministries, say, “I was missing something in my relationship with Christ–and what I was missing was the relationship.” We spent the next two days looking at this […]
Becoming a Gentle Responder: Why Relational Brain Skills are Vital
Have you ever wondered why it can be hard to respond well to what others say or do? You have intentions of being loving, kind, encouraging, and then you are in a discussion and you find yourself responding with something like sarcasm, anger, or judgment instead of being a gentle responder. Let’s explore this common […]
Stuffies and Bonds and How Loved We Are
Are there any little kids in your life? Do they have something they cannot go to sleep (or live) without? Maybe it’s a blanket that’s tattered and full of holes. Maybe it’s a stuffed animal that doesn’t smell very good. Some people call these loveys, blankies, or stuffies. Stuffies is a kinda new term for […]
Weapons Against Lies and Strongholds
Too often we fall into the trap of believing every thought that comes into our minds. We believe these thoughts are our own thoughts. They seem true when quite often they are neither ours, nor are they true. The enemy uses this trap to build strongholds. What are the weapons we can use against strongholds? […]