I recently thought about some filters our words should have to pass through before they come out of our mouths.  If they don’t make it through all of these 5 filters, they probably should never be spoken. Filter number 1. Do I have good motives? In other words, is my reason for saying it beneficial to the listener or only for selfish purposes? Filter number 2. Does it build up? Words are not neutral. They either...

It seems like we’re surrounded by a lot of bad news lately. An unstable world economy… natural disasters… high unemployment. In the midst of so much uncertainty, where is your trust? In the government? Your bank account? Your property and possessions? Sometimes the circumstances we face can seem overwhelming. But relying on material things is not the answer. The things of the world won’t provide stability and...

When someone gives you an unexpected compliment, it can make your day.  So, why not do the same for your kids?  Observe the little things they do every day and let them know they’re appreciated.  For example, compliment your child’s character.  In today’s world, they need all the encouragement they can get.  Point out their integrity, dependability, or loyalty.  Second, let your child know you’re happy to have...

Whether your wife works full-time at home as a mom or full-time in an office, her life can surely be exhausting.  When you notice her becoming overwhelmed by the stresses of life, don’t fade away and assume you deserve a break.  Instead, be quick to serve.  Whatever the situation may be, take time to encourage and support her.  Rather than rush to relax when you get home from work, ask your wife “How can I help...

As a Florida native, I’ve done a lot of boating, hunting, and camping over the years and have been in a lot of secluded areas. When you’re out in the middle of nowhere, it’s especially important to have a navigational device that you can rely upon to tell you where you are and where you need to go—north, south, east, or west.  In navigation, it’s important to understand the difference between true north and...

Okay, got the answer?  Well, I think it might be sticky notes. These handy little inventions can be used not only in the office, but also in the home in very productive ways.  I use sticky notes to encourage my wife, Susan, and our children.  Here are some ways that I use these notes throughout the house to let my family know that I am thinking about them…that I love them.  I leave sticky notes on bathroom mirrors...

Our children need us to build lasting monuments in their lives. I call them “memorable monuments.” Memorable monuments are things you do with your kids that create lasting, loving memories. Here are things you can do to build memorable monuments with your child this summer. Discover what he most likes to do with you and then do that together on a weekly or monthly basis. Your child’s favorite thing may be...