LOVING LIFE AT HOME - Christian Marriage, Biblical Parenting, Creative Homemaking, Purposeful Living

The Bible tells us children are a blessing, but we can sometimes lose sight of that fact amid all the diaper changes and temper tantrums and bedtime struggles. Then our joy dries up like a baby's crusty drool on the shoulder of Mom's T-shirt. What can be done to regain it? That's the topic of this week's podcast, sent in by a young mother who feels guilty for not being more joyful and playful. If you've ever struggled with such feelings, I hope you'll listen in and be encouraged. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Lamentations 4:3 - “...my people have become heartless like ostriches in the desert.” Job 39:14-17 - “The ostrich leaves her eggs on the ground....” Galatians 5:22-23 - “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness....” John 4:14 - “…whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst....” Jeremiah 2:13 - “For My people have...have forsaken Me, the fountain of living water....” 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "So whether you eat or drink ...do it all for the glory of God." Matthew 10:42 - “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these....” Matthew 25:34-40 - “ I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat...’” Psalms 113:9 - “He makes the barren woman abide in the house as a joyful mother...." Proverbs 31:14-15 - "...She brings her food from afar." Proverbs 31: 21 - "...she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed...." Proverbs 31:26 - "She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." Proverbs 31:27 - "She... does not eat the bread of idleness." Matthew 11:28 - "Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy laden....” Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own...." Psalm 23:4 - "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil..." James 1:5 - "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God who gives to all...." Isaiah 40:31 - "But they that wait upon the LORD will renew their strength...." 2 Kings 6:16-17 - "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than...." Luke 14:27 - “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot....” Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go...." Proverbs 29:17 – “Discipline your son, and he will give you rest...." Ephesians 6:4 – “Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead....” Proverbs 19:18 – “Discipline your children while there is hope....” (NLT) Proverbs 19:18 – “...let not thy soul spare for his crying.” (KJV) Proverbs 3:12 – “For whom the LORD loves He disciplines....” Hebrews 12:11 – “No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful....” Galatians 6:9 - "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap...." RELATED LINKS: EP 1: How to Find a Good Mentor EP 81: When You Feel Like You're Only Treading Water Taming Toddler Temper Tantrums Staying in Bed Chart Best Books for Bedtime STAY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

The topic for this episode is something that is absolutely essential to building a strong and happy marriage. In fact, I have never seen a marriage truly thrive without this thing, but I’ve seen many a marriage crumble in its absence. Tune in to find what this important ingredient is, and how it can miraculously transform a not-so-happily-ever-after marriage. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Ephesians 4:15 -“...speaking the truth in love.” 2 Timothy 3:1-6 - "...in the last days difficult times will come...." Colossians 3:12-17 - "Therefore, as the elect of God... clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion...." James 4:6-10 - "But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you." 1 Peter 5:5-6 - Matthew 8:21-22 - Ephesians 4:32 - Philippians 2:3-4 - Romans 15:1-2 - 1 Thessalonians 5:18 - “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 4:2 – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Ephesians 5:20 – “always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Psalm 105:1 - “Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done.” Psalm 107:1 – “Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” James 1:17 - Philippians 4:8 - “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:6 - “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” John 2:9-10 - RELATED LINKS: Free Printable Prayer Guides - download as many of these as you like from my Loving Life at Home blog Love Your Husband/Love Yourself - with regard to sex, this is a why-to book, not a how-to EP 82: On Cultivating Contentment - another really important trait for marital bliss! EP 10: We Find What We Look For - motivation to change your focus if you tend to find fault EP 104: Giving Thanks Through Hardship - admittedly a challenge, but it is doable Don't Let Anything Steal Your Joy - we must guard against these stealthy theives of joy and contentment On Remembering to Say Thank You - because gratitude begs to be expressed Free Printable Thank You Notes - several designs to choose from Be Thankful -- and Give Thanks - a short post, but with a great quote on gratitude STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

In today's episode, I share what my family has been doing lately and answer a fellow homeschooler's question about how you can tell when you need a break. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Mark 2:27 - "The Sabbath was created for man, not man for the Sabbath." - Matthew 12:11 - “What man is there among you who, if he has only one sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out?" RELATED LINKS: - EP 14: Is Date Night Essential - is it possible for your marriage to thrive without weekly nights out? - EP 94: Raising Kids Who Don't Rebel - on cultivating a home where your child feels loved and heard - Until the Streetlights Come On - Ginny Yurich's book on how playing outdoors benefits our bodies and brains - 5 Reasons Our Family Loves Factory Tours - How to Plan the Perfect Staycation - Pack Up & Leave: Travel Tips for Fun Family Vacations - a book full of ideas that have worked well for our family - Bananagrams - on of our favorite games (which we tote with us on vacation) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

I'm cleaning out my inbox for the new year and answering some of the questions that have piled up there since my last Q&A. Show Notes VERSES CITED: 1 Thess. 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.” Titus 1:7-9 – “For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.” RELATED LINKS: Passport to the US Capitol Buildings Passport to the US National Parks “New Year’s Goal Setting for People with Actual Lives” Arkansas State Capitol Kansas State Capitol Free Printable Prayer Guides EP 28: Bible Memory Tips & Tricks Supermom Vitamins STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

I love the fresh start January represents, so I normally kick it off with a list of New Year’s resolutions as long as my arm. Some of my goals are specific and easily quantifiable: Walk a mile a day. Read a book a week. Get 7 hours of sleep a night. That way, even if I only walk 5-6 miles a week, read 3 books a month, or occasionally stay up late, I’ll still be better off than if I didn’t try to do those things at all. But some of my goals – the really challenging ones – take the form of more general reminders. Today I'm sharing ten such resolutions I think should be on everybody’s list. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Proverbs 16:9 - “A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.” Proverbs 19:21 - “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.” Jeremiah 10:23 - “I know, O LORD, that a man’s way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps.” James 4:13-15 - “...you ought to say, 'If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.'” Proverbs 31:16 (Amp) – “She considers a [new] field before she buys or accepts it [expanding prudently and not courting neglect of her present duties by assuming other duties]….” Luke 1:37 - “…with God nothing will be impossible.” Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness....” Proverbs 15:13 – “A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, But when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.” 1 Corinthians 9:27 - “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should.” Philippians 4:6 - “Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything….” Ephesians 6:18 - “Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition.” Psalms 103:2 - “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” James 1:19 - “Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.” RELATED LINKS: How Can I Feel Productive as a Mom? EP 25: 7 Ways to Nail New Year’s Resolutions A Prayer for the New Year Setting Goals for the New Year 10 New Year Resolutions We All Should Make Printable STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

I love all the bright lights and decorated trees and beautiful packages and cheerful songs that so characterize Christmas in so many people’s minds, but if we miss the real reason behind all those things, we’ll miss the whole purpose and most important part of the season. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Matthew 2:9-10 – “...when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” John 8:12 – “... I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Psalm 1:2-3 – “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Luke 2:14 – “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:10-12 – “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord....” Ephesians 5:19 – “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 3:3 – “…you are a letter of Christ, delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” Matthew 2:11 – “...and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.” Luke 4:18 – “The Spirit of the Lord... hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised…” John 1:29 – “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’” Ephesians 2:8 - “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” Acts 20:35 - “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” John 13:8 - "‘No,’ said Peter, ‘you shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered, ‘Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.’” 2 Corinthians 9:7 - "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." Mark 12:41-44 - "...but she, out of her poverty, put in all she owned, all she had to live on.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 - “If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves…” Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short” James 1:2-3 - "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance...." John 13:14 - “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” RELATED LINKS: 2025 Flanders Family Update - our family Christmas letter for this year Glad Tidings - the bound version of our first 25 years together Bible Memory Tips and Tricks - guaranteed to make memorization easier New York Times Wordle - my favorite one-person word game (they publish a new one each day) Christmas: A Season for Receiving - the post my husband wrote about Christmas All Truth Is God’s Truth - my husband's blog (he rarely updates it, but what's there is really good stuff) My husband’s books: he's written five--a novel, a marriage book, and three devotional/discussion guides Giving Thanks during Hardship: my podcast from Thanksgiving STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help,...

I took a longer break from podcasting than planned, thanks to all that must be done for my daughter's upcoming wedding. But I didn't want to let Thanksgiving pass without encouraging you to count your blessings and to discuss the importance of giving thanks, even through hardship. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Proverbs 30:8-9 - "Keep deception and lies far from me, God. Give me neither...." - James 4:8 - "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." - James 1:2-3 - "Count it all joy when you encounter various trials, knowing this...." - Philippians 4:11 - "... I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." - Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." - Matthew 11:28 - ""Come to Me, all you who are weary...and I will give you rest." - Job 1:9-10 - "Satan answered the LORD, 'Does Job fear God for nothing?'" - 1 Timothy 6:8 - "But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." - John 16:33 - "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace...." - Romans 8:28 - "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good...." - Proverbs 3:11 - "My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD or loathe His reproof." RELATED LINKS: - EP 70: Unwrapping Cancer for Christmas - "How Firm a Foundation" - A Prayer of Thanks - Keep Praying, Even When It's Hard - Verses to Read When Battling Big Emotions - EP 99: Living a Yielded Life - Giving Thanks through Hardships Printable Stay Connected: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

Few things stir up as much controversy or elicit as many strongly held opinions in Christian circles this time of year as the question of how believers should handle Halloween. Today, we'll look at what the Bible has to say about the matter and discuss the need for extending grace to anyone who doesn't share our viewpoint. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Titus 1:15 – “To the pure, all things are pure...” - Romans 14:14 - “I am convinced and fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself....” - Ephesians 5:11 – “Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” - 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 – “… the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God....” - Romans 13:12 – “... lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” - Matthew 5:14-16 – “...let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds & glorify your Father....” - Romans 14:4-6 – “Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls....” - Acts 17:22-23 - “...‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ What therefore you worship in ignorance, this I proclaim to you.” RELATED LINKS: - How Should Christians Handle Halloween (original 2015 post on our family blog) - Celebrating Reformation Day – Martin Luther quiz, 5 Solas, 95 Theses, & coloring pages - Free Printable Trick-or-Treat Tracts – 10+ designs to choose from - Being Missional on Fright Night – article from Revive Our Hearts I mentioned - Being Confident of This – gospel script to use while carving pumpkins - Bible verse stickers – for attatching to the candy you distribute - Thoughts on Halloween– the Happy Home Fairy shares her perspective STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

My daughter eloped last week, and I couldn't be more delighted. Yet some of our friends are baffled by our reaction. So I'm unpacking the reasons I think it was a smart move on this week's episode of Loving Life at Home. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Ephesians 3:20 - "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think...." - Proverbs 18:22 - “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.” - 1 Corinthians 7:9 - “…it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” - James 1:17 - "Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above...." RELATED LINKS: - Love Your Husband, Love Yourself - the "why to" marriage book I wrote and gave to Rachel - "When It Comes to Weddings, Does Cost Really Matter?" - the Psychology Today article I cited STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

Researchers from Emory University have found that the #1 predictor of a child’s emotional well-being is how well that kid knows his family history. So this week, I’d like to talk to you about storytelling, about how important stories are for the growth and development and emotional wellbeing of our children, and about what kinds of stories we as parents need to make sure we are passing down to our kids. I hope you'll listen in and be encouraged. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Deuteronomy 11:19 - Psalm 139:13-16 - Ephesians 2:10 RELATED LINKS: - Eric Barker's Book: Barking Up the Wrong Tree - Barking up the Wrong Tree Newsletter - EP 19: Amazing Stories of God's Provision - Our Christmas Letters - Glad Tidings - the first 25 years of Christmas letters in book form - Writing Your Own Christmas Letters - EP 88: On Accepting Your Unchangeables STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

I'm answering more questions from listeners this week -- all about announcing pregnancies, corralling toddlers, and dealing with disapproving parents. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Matthew 6:27 - "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" - James 1:5 - "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." - Philippians 2:3-4 - “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” RELATED LINKS: - Stop, Drop, and Roll - free printable exercise game - How Do You Handle Picky Eaters - our best tips - 5 Smart Ways to Get Kids to Eat More Vegetables - Age-Appropriate Chores - free printable chart - Cultivating Creativity in Young Children - free printable chart - French Kids Eat Everything - book by Karen Le Billon - Keeping Toddlers Occupied - God Hath Not Promised Hymn STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's death, let's discuss what it means to live a life that is wholly yielded to God. Show Notes VERSES CITED: John 12:23-24 – “...unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.’” Matthew 16:24 – “Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” (see also Luke 9:23 and Mark 8:34) Mark 8:35 – “For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel will save it.” 1 John 2:17 – “The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Philippians 1:21 – “For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Luke 22:42 - “Father, not my will, but thine be done.” Hebrews 12:1 – “... let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” 2 Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith” 2:10 – “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” 1 Corinthians 2:14 - “The unbeliever does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him. And he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 1:27 - “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong,” Romans 8:28 – “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His” Hebrews 10:23 – “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” Psalm 100:5 – “…the LORD isgood; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endures to all generations.” Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Psalm 119:105 – “Thy word isa lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Ephesians 2:4-10 – “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ…” Isaiah 45:9 – “Woe to the one who quarrels with his Maker— An earthenware vessel among the vessels of earth! Will the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you doing?’ Or the thing you are making say, ‘He has no hands ‘? Romans 9:20-21 – “...Does not the potter have the right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use?” John 3:30 – “He must increase; I must decrease.” Philippians 1:27-29 – “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” Philippians 3:10 – “That I might know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death….” John 16:33 – “These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me you might have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Matthew 10:28 - “Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Hebrews 12:2 – “…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Job 2:9 - “Then his wife said to him, ‘Do you still hold fast your integrity? Curse God and die!’” Job 1:21 – “He...

Romans 12:18 tells us, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” How does that play out in real life? Is there a place for meaningful debate on important topics? And, if so, how can we keep such discussions calm and civil and God-honoring? What steps can we take to defuse a disagreement and keep it from escalating into a full-blown fight? That's the topic of this week's episode. Listen in and let me know what you think. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Romans 8:28Genesis 50:20Ephesians 4:15Colossians 4:6James 1:5Proverbs 21:19Proverbs 21:9Proverbs 17:14Romans 12:18John 15:17-18Proverbs 18:13Proverbs 10:12Proverbs 15:1Proverbs 25:11Proverbs 16:21Proverbs 14:29Proverbs 15:18James 4:6Revelation 3:19 RELATED LINKS: What Men Intend for EvilTurning Point USACharlie Kirk’s Instagram Account STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

This week, I’ve been cleaning out my inbox and answering some of the questions my blog readers, podcast listeners, and/or newsletter subscribers have sent in, and I've decided to tackle several of those topics on today's podcast episode. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Proverbs 29:17 - "Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.” - James 1:5 - "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." RELATED LINKS: - EP 92: Benefits of Big Family Living - Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag - Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible - Pledge of Allegiance to the Creator - A Prayer for Police Officers - Praying for our Troops - Taming the Toy Box - Age Appropriate Chores for Children STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

Since September is National Good Neighbor Month, I thought this would be the perfect time to share some ways to be a good neighbor. Compiling this list of ideas was easy. Our family has been blessed with lots and lots of wonderful neighbors throughout the years, so it was a simple matter of remembering all the kind things they’ve done for us along the way. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Colossians 4:5-6 tells us to “Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” - Hebrews 13:2 - “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” - Isaiah 58:10 - “Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.” - Proverbs 27:14 -“If someone blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be counted as a curse to him.” - Romans 12:16, 18 - “Live in harmony with one another…. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people.” - Luke 1:58 - "Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy.” - Romans 12:15 - “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” - Romans 12:12 - “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.” - Galatians 5:13 - “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” - 2 Corinthians 9:8 - “God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others.” - 1 Timothy 5:13 - “... going around from house to house; but even worse, they learn to be gossips and busybodies, talking of things they should not.” - Philippians 2:4 - “Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” - Proverbs 27:10 - “Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away.” - James 2:15-17 - “If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,' yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.” - Romans 12:10-11 - “Outdo yourselves in honoring one another. Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” - Romans 10:14 - "But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?” - Matthew 22:37-39 - "This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.”" RELATED LINKS: - EP 78 – How to Deal with Unneighborly Neighbors - Free Resource Library STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

We have an uber-competitive family who loves any kind of contest, physical or mental, especially when prizes are involved. We recently gathered to compete in a Family Shark Tank Challenge. And in Episode 95 of Loving Life at Home, I'm dishing up all the details as to how it went down. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - 1 Corinthians 9:24 - “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to win the prize.” - Hebrews 10:24 - "And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds...." RELATED LINKS: - Gospel Tracts for All Occasions (including contest winners) - Free Printable Trivia Tests (including movie quizzes) - Room Inspection Checklist - State Capital Matching Game - A Grand Investment (print pack with resources I created for our family's Bible memory challenge) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

This week I'm answering a question from a listener who'd like to know how to raise kids who won't resent your family rules or rebel against them. Is that even possible? Listen in on Episode 94 as we discuss what parents can do to reduce the risk of rebellion. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Philippians 1:6 - "...he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - 1 Corinthians 13:13 - “But now abide faith, hope, love, these three. But the greatest of these is love.” - Hebrews 10:23 - “Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering....” - Hebrews 11:6 - “...without faith it is impossible to please God.” - 1 John 4:16 - “God IS love.” - 1 John 4:19 - “We love because He first loved us.” - John 13:35 - “By this will all men know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” - Galatians 5:22 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness..." - Proverbs 3:11 - “...whom the LORD loves He reproves, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.” - Proverbs 13:24 - “He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.” - Deuteronomy 12:32 - “See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it.” - Proverbs 30:5-6 - “Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and prove you a liar.” - Revelation 2:18-19 - “...If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book....” - John 2:1-11 - [story of Jesus turning water into wine at the marriage feast in Cana] - Ephesians 5:18 - "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." - James 1:5 - "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all...." - Isaiah 40:11 - “He tends His flock like a shepherd ... He gently leads those that have young.” - Matthew 11:28 - “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” - Psalm 127:1-5 - “Unless the LORD builds the house, they who build it labor in vain...." RELATED LINKS: - 50 Great Books to Read Aloud to Your Kids - 9 Benefits of Reading Fiction - Raising Kids Who Love to Read - A Few Favorite Board Games - Praying for Yourself - Praying for Your Children - Praying for Your Teens - Praying for Your Adult Kids - Pancakes on the Porch (I will post link soon) - How Our Family Flew to Europe for Free STAY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

There is no coasting in marriage. You’re either growing closer together or drifting further apart. You must be intentional about investing in your marriage and nurturing your relationship to your spouse every chance you get. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Romans 12:10 - "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." - Ephesians 5:33 - "However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." RELATED LINKS: - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband - original blog post - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband - book & audio book - 25 Ways to Show Love to Your Wife - blog post - 25 Ways to Show Love to Your Wife - book - 30 Day Respect Challenge - free email challenge for wives - 30 Day Love Challenge - free email challenge for husbands STAY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers

The CDC announced last week that the US General Fertility Rate has recently hit an all-time low of only 1.6 children per woman of childbearing age. That makes me sad, because I know how much joy children bring to life. The more, the merrier! In fact, as parents of twelve, my husband and I have reaped a lot of blessings from having a large family we could have never anticipated beforehand -- and so have our kids. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Psalm 127:3-5 - "Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward...." - 1 Peter 3:15 - “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” - Proverbs 14:4 - “Where no oxen are, the manger is clean, But much increase comes by the strength of the ox.” - Proverbs 27:17 - “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” - 3 John 1:4 - “I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.” RELATED LINKS: - 15 Unexpected Benefits of Big Family Living - Family Unfriendly by Timothy Carney - America Tonight - our interview with Al Jazeera - BBC documentary - you can watch our short clip about halfway down this post - EP 42 - Traveling with Children - Kids Eat Free in Tyler, Texas - Kids Eat Free in the USA - Age Appropriate Chores for Children - Teaching Kids to Do Chores Cheerfully - Who Knew Children's Chores Were So Controversial? - Bananagrams - a game I mentioned that my family enjoys playing - Proverbs for Parenting - topical arrangement of Proverbs (similar to what we used for storytime) STAY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers

A listener wrote me recently to say she's made more mistakes that she can count. She wanted advice as to how she could get back on track. "How do I change course when I've done everything wrong?" She had lots of other great questions, too, so in Episode 91, I'm tackling all of them. I hope you'll listen in and be blessed. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - James 1:5 - “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God...." - Deuteronomy 30:19 - “...So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants.” - Luke 11:24-26 - “...and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.” - Proverbs 14:1 - “The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish tears it down with her own hands.” - Matthew 12:36 - "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it...." - Ephesians 3:20 - "God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think...." - John 10:10 - “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy....” - Philippians 2:3-4 - "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind...." - Galatians 5:22 - "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness...." - Philippians 4:8 - "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right...." - Philippians 4:6 – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving....” - Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you....” - Matthew 6:25 – “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about....” RELATED LINKS: - Love Your Husband/ Love Yourself (my marriage book) - EP 84: How Not to Diet (But Still Lose Weight) - Help! My Kids Won't Stop Fighting - Extend Your Reach (Ideas for Limiting Your Child's Screen Time) - 50 Great Chapter Books to Read Aloud to Your Family - 50 Picture Books Every Child Should Read - Encouraging Creativity in Young Children - Age-Appropriate Chores for Children - EP 28: Bible Memory Tips and Tricks - Verses to Read When Battling Big Emotions - Praying for Your Children from Head to Toe - Praying for Your Husband from Head to Toe - 31 Bible Verses to Pray over Your Children - 31 Bible Verses to Pray over Your Husband - Praying Boldly for Yourself STAY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, lprintables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers