How can we steer our adolescent son away from media that portray gruesome violence and help him make better entertainment choices? He’s fascinated with horror stories – both books and films. We’re concerned that he’s filling his mind with disturbing ideas and images, but he says it’s all just harmless fun. What do you think?
Family Q&A
How do we deal with a toddler who resists bedtime? Our 2-year-old recently went from being a great sleeper to suddenly fighting bedtime in an insane way – screaming, hitting, and running around his room. We’ve done nothing to change his schedule – nap from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., and bedtime at 7:00 p.m. – and we have …
How does your ministry view unmarried moms and their kids? I’m raising a couple of kids on my own. Up to this point my search for a church home hasn’t been too encouraging – I get a strong impression that some Christians don’t approve of women like me and our “illegitimate” children. What’s your perspective?
Do you have any advice for a woman who is about to leave a high-profile career in order to devote all her time to parenting and homemaking? My wife is on the verge of taking this momentous step. How can we make it a smooth transition? We’ve reached this decision together after hours and hours …
How can I get involved with the effort to protect and rescue the innocent victims of sexual exploitation? Recently I read an article about “human trafficking” and “sexual slavery” right here in our own community! I knew that things like this were happening in third world countries but had no idea that they were also …
Should I, as an unmarried adult, think seriously about adopting a child? How does your ministry feel about single-parent adoption? I’m deeply concerned about children in this country and around the world, and I’d like to do my part.
Should I tell my husband that I’m attracted to his closest buddy? I’ve heard it said this kind of information should be shared between spouses for purposes of accountability, but I’m not sure that this would be wise. Neither man has any clue of my struggle and I don’t want to jeopardize their relationship. What …
Is it wrong for seniors to live together for financial reasons? My elderly father recently moved in with a woman he’s been dating for several months. When I objected, he told me that they had discussed marriage many times but ultimately rejected the idea for financial reasons. According to my dad, it’s a matter of …
What can I do to help shoulder the burden my wife carries as a stay-at-home mother of two small children? I know it can be stressful attending to the needs of little kids all day long, and I’d like some practical ways to lighten her load. Any suggestions?
Why do we need to laugh together as a family? I’ve always felt that this is important, but I’ve been wondering: does the Bible have anything to say about family fun? What do the experts have to say about this aspect of relationships? How can we use humor to create a more cheerful, upbeat, encouraging, …
How much should my new spouse and I know about each other’s past? I realize that honesty and transparency are important in any relationship, but I’m concerned that telling all of the “dirty details” might cause hurt or damage. Where do we draw the line?
How do I go about telling my wife that I’ve been unfaithful to her? I recently ended a longtime affair with another woman. After wrestling with my guilt for a long time and confessing my sin before God, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s best to disclose this information and share the whole story …
Does menopause have to spell the end of physical intimacy in a marriage? My wife is going through what our mother’s generation called “the change of life,” and as a result she’s almost never “in the mood.” She even complains that sex has become physically uncomfortable. Is she just making excuses? Is it all in …
How am I supposed to handle the sudden role changes that accompany my military spouse’s comings and goings? He is a wonderful husband and father, but we’re often apart for long periods of time. When he’s deployed, I have to take care of all aspects of our family’s life; when he returns, he takes the …
My husband has had a tendency to resort to violent behavior throughout our marriage. I feel trapped. At times I have even feared for my safety, but I don’t know what to do. Can you help me?
Should special consideration be given to an abuser with post-traumatic stress disorder? My spouse recently returned from a two-year deployment overseas. In the month or two since he’s been back I’ve noticed some disturbing changes in the way he treats me and the children. He’s sullen and withdrawn. On occasion we’ve been subjected to verbal …
How can we fix an unsatisfying sex life? We’ve been married for more than two years, and our sexual relationship has never been mutually satisfying. For some reason sex makes me feel “cheap” and “used.” My husband says I approach it as if it were a chore. That frustrates him and makes him angry. What …
My spouse of twenty years has decided that she is no longer a Christian. As a matter of fact, she now claims to be an atheist. This has upset and changed our entire relationship. I don’t understand what is going on with her or how to respond. Can you help me?
How can my spouse and I survive my recent job loss? Without my income I can’t see how we’re going to make ends meet. What will we do if I can’t find another employment opportunity?
What can I do to alter my bad habit of speaking harshly and critically to my wife and children? I desperately want to be a better husband and father, and I need to change my behavior. Can you help me start moving in that direction?