–Originally published on FWB21 February 28, 2012– I have often struggled with exactly how to find balance as a parent when it comes to administering discipline and bestowing grace. Oftentimes I lean much too heavily on one side or the other. I’m currently reading Sally Clarkson’s book The Ministry of Motherhood, and the study and discussion questions at the end of the chapter on the Gift of Grace were particularly encouraging and challenging to me. They offer no concrete answers for my struggle to find balance, but they do offer good principles for meditation as I seek God’s wisdom in this area. Since they are based on scripture and do not necessarily need the context of the book, I thought […]
Does the Birth Control Pill Cause Abortions?
This is a book review. You may download a PDF version of the book for free. Randy Alcorn is a well-known and respected author. But this book is one of his lesser-known titles. In Does the Birth Control Pill Cause Abortions? Alcorn answers the title question with thoroughly-investigated research presented with the heart of a pastor. Before you dismiss the title because you think you know what he’s going to say, think again. Alcorn begins with basic definitions, presents a solid groundwork of evidence, quotes the pill manufacturers themselves, analyzes evidence presented to the contrary, answers questions and objections, and puts forth a number of appendices full of supplemental information. He confronts the question both scientifically and spiritually, and his […]
Involving Children in Service
–Originally published on FWB21 February 16, 2013– The following excerpt from The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson really resounded with me this morning: I believe Jesus will hold each of us responsible for the stewardship of the good news he has given us. If we are to succeed in our calling of raising children with hearts for God, then we must see ourselves responsible for all of those who are like sheep without a shepherd. We must involve our family deeply in meeting needs if our children are ever going to understand that they were created to serve God by serving others. When Jesus asked the disciples to “follow Me,” he was asking for each man’s entire life–time, allegiance, […]
Motherly Fasting
–Originally published on FWB21 January 9, 2013– When women talk about their roles and activities as mothers, rarely is fasting even mentioned, much less considered at any length. I am learning, though, that fasting has powerful implications in family life, and that we mothers do well when we put it into practice for our families. Fasting is altogether rather new to me as a regular spiritual discipline. Only within the past few months have I practiced it with any regularity. But I have seen powerful effects on my walk with Christ and on my family. First, fasting causes me to rely on God in a whole new way. When hunger (or, more frequently, a craving) strikes, I am reminded to […]
The Legacy Path, by Brian Haynes
“Discover intentional spiritual parenting.” The Legacy Path, by Brian Haynes, is a guide for parents who wish to pass on their faith to the next generations but who may lack the skills to do so. After building a strong foundation upon biblical views of life and success in chapters 1-4, Haynes lays out seven milestones by which we can guide our children through life. With each milestone, he gives core competencies which parents should seek to instill in their children as they approach the next milestone. Practical suggestions for faith talks and milestone celebrations are plenteous, as are the extra resources available online. As parents who fluctuate between “we’ve got this parenting thing down pat” and “we don’t have a […]
The Truth About Dating, Love, and Just Being Friends, by Chad Eastham
The Truth About Dating, Love, and Just Being Friends, by Chad Eastham, is the best book on teenage relationships I’ve ever read! Candid, funny, and insightful, Eastham really knows how to connect with teens–and tell them what they need to hear. A proper view of God and self and relationships is SO important during the crazy teenage years, and this book gives just that without being preachy. Eastham challeges teens to use their God-given brains, explaining that people can do things well, or they can do them poorly. Dating is no exception. As a twenty-something mother who dated well, I still wish I’d had this book as a teen! There is so much helpful, insightful information here that I had […]