All Articles for Challenges

We are a Chinese American family witnessing a 150% spike in anti-Asian violence. As a father to three kids under the age of 9, the hardest question I've had to answer recently is, "Daddy, are we safe?"

The truth is, no people group is immune from challenges. And no one group is the standard for virtuous lives, marriages, or families.

The truth is, God has one big, beautiful diverse family—by design and for His glory. And as believers we share a common identity in Him.

As my son and I talked through his anxiety about the election, I realized his fears ran much deeper than mere policy preferences.

Does political polarization—that ever-increasing gap between political convictions—fill your family conversations with relational razor blades?

If your husband confessed to looking at porn, I’m sorry for what you are going through. But as you work through this, here are a few things to remember.

At what point does your phone become a technology addiction? If your spouse has recently said, “Get off your phone!” here are some tips.

So what does the Bible say about racism? A lot (from Genesis all the way to Revelation). The question is, will we listen?

When it comes to talks about racial discrimination, mercy and grace are needed on all sides. But the most effective change happens face-to-face.

I'm encouraged by the support and solidarity I have witnessed from my Christian friends. Thank you for your expressions of heartbreak. But don't stop there.

Silence does not communicate FamilyLife’s long-standing vision of “every home a godly home.” We’re all learning how to engage in a way that communicates trust, community, and Christ’s love to all families, all homes.

I weep in response to the hashtags I see. George Floyd’s life mattered. But how do we talk to our kids about another black man's death ... again?

Ahmaud Arbery's death isn't just about politics. It's a chance to teach our kids to think and act with Christian minds in areas we’d rather avoid.

What started out like a nice extended weekend has mutated into a family siege. After the initial quarantine shock though, many have found the best of times.

We need some clear, concrete directions about how to operate in the era of a global pandemic and deal with anxiety about the consequences of quarantine.

As the coronavirus claims lives, we wonder how to grieve from a distance. Usually we find comfort in community. What do you do when you face death alone?

Being shut-in during the pandemic only intensifies the anxiety we feel. Here are a few tips on how to reduce stress while you’re stuck at home.

Since the coronavirus quarantine hijacked our lives, I feel frazzled. It's hard to focus on anything when everything is on me in this new normal.

My husband supporting me through my mental health wasn’t in our plans when we got married, but it was in our wedding vows. 

As I sit at the beginning of another week, grieving the quarantine, it’s clear: we don’t like feeling out of control. This new normal comes with loss.

With more COVID-19 closures, families are gathering at home and around the table again. If it’s been awhile, here's insight on making family dinners work.

Families and communities go through a long process to put pieces back together after a natural disaster. We can play a vital part of the recovery effort.

When he recommended abortion, I finally understood. That choice is for when the fear is suffocating. Sometimes scared moms want an easier way.

Leaving heaven and coming to earth was part of God’s plan for Jesus—and all of humanity—all along.

Your spouse might find openness struggling with depression. But mental health issues don’t just impact the lives of those who have them.

"Even good moms have scary thoughts sometimes," my husband reassured. I didn’t want to admit it. But I knew deep inside I was facing postpartum depression.

John MacArthur told Beth Moore to “Go home." Male and female opinions on both sides erupted. But there’s a bigger offense at play that no one is outing.

I know my kids’ emotions are complex. I'm learning that rather than the disease, those emotions are symptoms. So I'm seeking understanding and solutions.

I am the dreaded Enneagram 8—the challenger. Self-confident, decisive, willful, and confrontational. But I also stand for what is right in an unmoving way.

It’s easy for Astros fans to love José Altuve's series clenching 2 run walk-off sending Houston to the World Series. But we all cheer his poise and class.

Casual sex boasts the benefits of being a modern woman: freedom, confidence, independence. But how is hooking up good for girls if 83% prefer commitment?

People say talking about depression will make it better. Jarrid Wilson‘s suicide shows you can talk about it and not be okay.

An Enneagram 3 to the core, I know I can change the world. Feeding hungry children, slashing divorce rates, and housing homeless: bring it on!

Disagreement usually sparks hatred. But when did disagreeing equate hating?  We, as a whole, have forgotten how to respectfully disagree.

In the wake of tragic events, it’s tempting to feel hopeless or point fingers at others. Here are some practical ways I can respond now.

Whether or not Ed Sheeran recognizes it, his lyrics communicate the truth that the things of this world will never satisfy.

The ad is surfacing yet again, as Gillette attempts to explain billion-dollar losses this quarter. The public wonders if we need more or less masculinity.

"Close-minded. Unaccepting. Judgmental." Many in our society label Christians as the most hateful people of all in a world fighting for love to win.

A catchy new song by Miley reveals a view on love that may not last a lifetime.

A millennial’s perspective on Joshua Harris's “falling away” from the Christian faith: "I am among the generation that was shaped, both good and bad."

Women who have never married or had children are the happiest and healthiest, I heard. I'm an unmarried woman with no children. Does single equal happy?

Even the mighty fall. To some, Josh Harris was mighty. He had great influence on their spiritual formation. I hope and pray they know that the Almighty still stands.

Video games offer a world for your kids where they are the ones with power. The lure is easy to see. But clearly gaming can’t satisfy these deep desires.

We just want our kids to win at sports! But often in the process, we ruin their fun and train them to despise our approach to life and worldview.  

Besides her obvious talent on the tennis court, Coco demonstrated what it looks like when parents teach that there’s more going on than just the game.

Eight months into their marriage, Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk live in separate houses much of the time. Friends say it's ideal. But what's up?

As the dad of a 13-year-old girl, when Teen Vogue moves from popping pimples to pushing pimps, I need to raise my hand and say, "I’m not for this.”

Most men would swim through shark-infested waters rather than admit our failures and weaknesses.

Tickets to JoJo Siwa's sold out D.R.E.A.M. tour is all my eleven-year-old daughter wanted for her birthday. I was determined to find a way to take her.

What happens when society redefines family?  Our teenagers are sorting through the wounds of a generation’s idea that family is whatever you want it to be.

High school wrestler Brendan Johnston explained, “I’m not really comfortable wrestling a girl." Is this a sign of his narrow-mindedness and ego? Or respect?

Does anybody notice me? Am I pretty enough? Good enough? Ayesha Curry's open interview voiced concerns that most women aren't brave enough to express.

“Trust your heart. Believe in you." Yet with the constant encouragement to pat ourselves on the back, the result isn’t all sunshine and cupcakes.

This will be J. Lo's fourth and A-Rod's second marriage. What makes them think that this one will be the one that sticks? (We hope it does.)

Does it really matter if preachers wear hip clothes or live expensive lifestyles?

Tiger Woods’ emotional grip on his son culminated a journey back from the sports-dead. We see a man experience professional victory and personal redemption.

For parents who have lost a child, nothing will ever be able to replace that baby. But sometimes out of sorrow is the gift of a “rainbow baby," the healthy baby who follows loss.

Despite their decision to divorce, both of my parents made sacrifices along the way that kept my brother and me as their priorities.

The pop music star is about to turn 30, and her list of life lessons beautifully blends heart with humor, plus practicality and purpose.

What’s a level-headed but vigilant parent to do with this information? Here are five ways to respond to the unsettling Momo Challenge.

Your sons have already heard about the owner of the New England Patriots charged with solicitation of prostitution. What will they hear from you?

My limited experience has taught me to be vigilant in what I allow before my children’s eyes.

Political leaders might have their own agendas, but those cannot thwart God’s.

The award-winning artist's music inspired others to bask in God’s love, but he had to overcome shame and alcoholism to hear God’s love song to him.

The popular television show tells us there is romance and redemption lying wait in our days, breathless not with passion, but with the hard work of love.

I saw a hashtag on Twitter this week about why people who have been sexually abused might choose not to report it.

A few positive lessons from my guilty pleasure over the last few months.

NBA star Blake Griffin may be able to afford a huge child support payment, but kids need more than that.

Brava, Miss America, for eliminating a bit of the external from the ideal. And let’s not stop there. What does it look like for each of us to disregard the bigger “swimsuit competition” far deeper within?

FamilyLife’s first feature film, Like Arrows, is coming to a theater near you, but this week only!

FamilyLife's first film is meant to be a glimpse into a path that can take you deeper into parenting the heart of your children.

Bob Lepine answers behind-the-scenes questions about the movie.

Everyone has a family. And every family has a story.

Rick and Judy Taylor talk about recovering from the death of their son, Kyle.

Ten ways for families to stay spiritually strong in today’s culture.

Many parents today feel overwhelmed by the pace at which technology is changing the American home.

In a divisive political season, here are thoughts on what it means to "render to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."

Too often what we see on social media, at a party, or even on Sunday at church in no way reflects what's really going on in someone's life.

Don’t let fear cause you to mistreat those who are different from you.

We all need to live lives of constant repentance, recognizing that the entire Christian life is one of constant temptation to sin and simultaneous call to obey Christ.

The gospel liberates us from the mindset that sex is intrinsic to human fulfillment.

The same faith that led Alvin York to be a pacifist also led him to become the most decorated soldier in World War I and a post-war philanthropist.

Here are some practical things you can do to guard your children.

Something has shifted in our culture the last few months as hidden sexual sins—especially in the workplace—are brought into the light. Why has this happened so suddenly?

In the wake of the current outcry against sexual mistreatment of women, what reception will the film Fifty Shades Freed receive?

My counseling experience leads me to conclude that evil is very much at work in the world, in our mind, and in our body.

Events in Charlottesville remind us that ultimately the solution to racism comes when hearts are transformed.

Three truths to remember when incomprehensible tragedies occur.

It's up to this generation of Christians to reverse course, and it starts at home.

Cynics are ‘prayer shaming’ Christians after shootings or disasters. But are there times when we use that phrase as little more than a platitude?

Looking for signs that something is amiss … and helping your child heal.

Your kids deserve your whole-hearted attention.

My addiction was a vicious cycle. I’d sin, feel guilty, repent, feel better. How could I break free?

The "crisis in the American family" isn't downstream from Woodstock or the Pill, but downstream from the wreckage of Eden.

In this wireless, tech world, parents need to be proactive in connecting with their teens through real conversation.

Well-written books can reinforce the values and morals you want to impart to your children. They can help you parent well.

The proliferation of internet stars should cause us to question their focus—and ours.

This movie about the power of prayer may be unlike anything else you’ve seen.

To return our nation to its feet, we must first return to our knees.

We live in a culture that is steadily moving away from God’s truth. Our families are in serious trouble and need help now.

Some suggest that Christians talk too much about something the Bible hardly addresses. But the Scriptures are clear and consistent on this issue.

Are you ready to answer the tough questions your friends are asking you about your beliefs?

The irony of this film is that it leaves out Louie Zamperini’s experiences after World War II—when he became a broken man.

While your kids may know more than you about technology, they need your wisdom and guidance.

A college student examines the impact of the shows today’s youth are watching on YouTube.

We need your help to spread the new film's message about godly parenting.

No matter how tech savvy you are as a parent, your kids will always know more. Here are some ideas on how to engage with them.

The movie centers on the joys and trials of parenting and the power of family to shape the next generation.

Two questions that will help you discern if the 'Fifty Shades' book and film presents a treacherous deception.

Are you devoting enough time to deepening your relationship with your spouse offline?

My husband was working more hours than he or I wanted … and I was turning into a shrew.

After the recent tornado in central Arkansas, this is a time of extreme emotions here at FamilyLife.

Even if turning your television off completely is an unbearable thought, consider these ideas for replacing a portion of your television-watching time.

That Jesus was committed to heterosexual marriage could not be more evident. He was just as committed to the permanence and fidelity of marriage.

Response to a special edition of FamilyLife Today on the topic of the Supreme Court’s decisions regarding same-sex marriage.

A clear understanding of God's purposes for marriage helps us understand what's at stake if our culture redefines what He originally created.

Here’s a list of holiday CDs with songs that focus on Christ’s birth.

Are you successful? Take a moment and reflect on the question. What is your answer?

A guide to help you make your eating habits more pleasing to God.

Here are seven propositions that I believe should shape how Christians think about and respond to homosexuality.

What happens when we don't follow God's design for sex? Broken sex.

If we know anything about God, we know that He comes close to those who suffer, so keep your eyes open for Him.

You can devise all kinds of ways to try to get rid of your guilty feelings. But your guilt is not just a feeling or a personal problem.

Bringing up the memories is the first step in fighting the battle.

A recovering sexual addict answers questions common to the wives of men who struggle with the same sin.

An English professor and committed lesbian, Dr. Rosaria Champagne was intrigued by a local pastor who invited her to dinner.

We live in a culture that is moving farther and farther away from the clear teaching of Scripture about God's purpose and design for human sexuality.

The best thing you can do for yourself, for your children, and for our culture is to make your marriage work—and encourage others to do the same.

The film and television industry promotes the same views—over and over again.

An opportunity for you and your children to better understand the workings of the mass media of entertainment together.

Parents can keep their children safe from video game addiction by avoiding these five common mistakes.

At a recent speaking engagement, I received a lesson far more profound than the one I was giving.

As much as we enjoy the Internet, it’s time for many of us to realize how easily this relatively new medium can consume us.

I think we would be shocked if we could count the number of times we are tempted each day.

How a sacrificial "anniversary gift" revolutionized one home.

How to help your child make wise media entertainment choices.

Three core convictions related to the trap of pornography that every parent should hold.

Selected readings from children ages 6 to 19.

Three practical steps on how to let go.

God handed this mother's little boy the key to set her free.

Lisa Beamer's witness after 9/11 exemplifies what it means to be salt of the earth.

Abusive behavior was never and can never be a part of God's plan for a marriage or a family.

These five steps will help you break free.

My addiction to pornography cost me my marriage.

As a Christian family, we should help our aging parents finish life well--as a lasting testimony to us, to our children, and to anyone who might be watching.

What types of music will you allow your children to listen to?

Many adults today need to come to grips with their sexual past.

Our constant consumption of television, movies, internet, cell phones, etc., affects us in more ways than we realize.

Promoting face-to-face communication in your marriage and family.

Readers sound off on how mobile technology is affecting their relationships.

A behind-the-scenes glimpse into our mailbag.

Here are some basic principles for anyone who wants to understand Asperger Syndrome from a biblical perspective.

Mania can’t keep you from the most important task of human life: becoming more and more like your Heavenly Father.

To understand your struggles with OCD you need to take into account both components.

Our culture abounds with hollow and deceptive theories of change that masquerade as biblical wisdom.

The new movie from the creators of Fireproof is a powerful story of renewal and recommitment.

Technology is changing so quickly that most of us are barely aware of how our behavior is changing.

No matter how unexpected or predictable, death shakes us to the core. The pain is inescapable.

How do you come to terms with the suicide of someone you know and love?

When facing midlife issues, it's time to ask, "What is God doing in my life?"

Every time you remember, every time you struggle, every time you feel that your heart is breaking under the weight of what happened to you, ask Him to help you.

God offers you true, living hope--not a false hope based on your death.

God’s ears are finely tuned to tears. Like a mother who wakes at the sound of her child, God hears the cries of the oppressed.

God is doing His transforming work in the person you are caring for and He also transforms.

Extreme fatigue strips life down to the bare basics of human need and God’s grace.

If you don't learn how to handle anger, you will constantly hurt others.

No matter what issue you are facing, you can have a clear sense of where change is needed in your life and what that change should look like.

How does the gospel bring real and lasting change into people's lives? A Q&A with Paul David Tripp and Tim Lane.

God's Word is filled with many good, useful, and true things that are meant to help you in your struggle with worry and fear.

Instilling a love for reading is a gift that keeps giving.

Care for the environment takes our commitment to a godly legacy to a new level of responsibility and conscientiousness.

When your allegiance is to something other than God, you will simultaneously feel both in control and out of control.

A report on how the film is changing lives with its challenge to apply biblical principles of love to your marriage.

We learned how to talk about my sexual addiction at a Weekend to Remember®.

A man’s decision about pornography is a decision about his soul, his marriage, and his wife.

Through his Playboy empire he said it’s okay to indulge sexual sin.

Start by teaching your children to embrace these personal convictions.

Over time, God began to reveal why I was choosing work over my family.

You must know what ladder you are on and where it is leading.

We need convictions and a personal, proactive plan for handling media wisely.

A big shift may be occurring in the way we gather and process information, but we must summon the discipline to slow down enough to focus on what’s important.

How can you master technology rather than letting it master you?

A man's last words reflect the life that he lived. What will yours be?

The legacy of a 16-year-old girl in New Zealand who lived for God.

My granddaughter's life may have been short in terms of days, but her life was mighty.

As this tiny baby's short life drew to a close, we heard God's voice in our time of grief.

How to help friends or family when they lose a child.

My husband's depression left both of us feeling helpless and out of control.

Suffering nags us with questions about God in a way that comfort never could.

As a mom it's easy to feel useless, isolated, boxed in or imprisoned at home.

Observations from my 100th Weekend to Remember marriage getaway.

Our nation suffers from a sickness in its soul.

Unfortunately, many parents deny symptoms of drug or alcohol abuse or simply look the other way.

It is never too late to be a positive influence in the life of your child.

Substance abuse is frighteningly widespread among our nation's youth.

How FamilyLife Today helped reprogram my wrong views of family.

The best thing you can do for yourself, for your children, and for our culture is to make your marriage work—and encourage others to do the same.

Kids may be resilient, but divorce does serious damage to them.