Author Andy Stanley says when it comes to making decisions you shouldn’t ask “What’s the right thing for me to do?” but “What’s the wise thing for me to do?”  There are three filters you need to consider as you ask this question: Is this wise in light of your past experiences, your present circumstances, and your future hopes and dreams? Good decision-making is more than simply choosing between right and wrong, or...

Losing a job. . . marriage problems . . . health issues.  Experiencing hardship in your life is like driving on a dark, winding mountain road.  You can’t see what’s around the next curve.  You’re scared and confused.  But, when the darkness finally turns to light, and the winding road becomes straight, you may look back and see some good in the journey. So, the next time you experience hardship, try to focus on...

Yesterday, we talked about the dangers of following your heart.  Today I’ll tell you 4 ways to lead it. First, check your heart.  What do you value most?  Where do you invest your time a nd money?  Second, guard your heart.  When something unhealthy threatens your heart, guard it against temptation.  Third, set your heart.  Set your thoughts on the important things in life—faith, family and friends.  Fourth,...

Update: Moms, please note that you don't have to opt-in to the Espresso Minute to receive Operation Summer. We apologize for the inaccurate information in Wednesday's Family Minute and want you to know that you can easily access Operation Summer Lovin' 2013 resources and sign up to receive email updates here. Just for today, tell your kids: I’ll forget about my to-do list and take you to the park.  I will silence...

Today is the first day of summer, and it marks a wonderful time of the year for your child.  Years from now they will look back on the long days of this season to reminisce and remember.  How can you make this a summer they’ll never forget?  Your first step should be to take a stroll down your own summertime memory lane.  Try the things you did as a child that still make you smile today.  A day of swimming.  An...

Will they cherish the trip to the theme park, the Xbox360, PS3, or the cell phone you bought them?  Or will they remember dad cooking pancakes for them, wrestling with them on the floor... and mom writing those special notes for their lunchboxes, or cheering for them at their games?  Our children won’t reminisce about big events and big-ticket items. Rather, their hearts will be warmed by memories of the love,...

Maybe you’re buying your wife or mother some flowers or you’re taking her out for a nice lunch. Well all that is wonderful but be sure to help your children honor Mom too. If they’re really small let them color a card for her – or you buy one and let them scribble on it. If your kids are older have them use some of their allowance money to get her something of their choosing. This will help teach your children...