I didn’t plan it this way, but it’s a family edition of The Early Bird. Happy reading.

When You Don’t Have a Good Dad on Father’s Day

Some helpful truths for those who have experienced negligence from their fathers.

How Fathers Help Roll Back the Curse

You might hear some criticize the Bible as “patriarchal.” If by this they mean the Bible is about propping up male privilege or self-interest, they’re wrong. If they mean the Bible sanctions the abuse of women or denies the dignity and equality of women, they’re wrong. 

Help! My Teen Doesn’t Want to Attend Church

Parenting is packed with opportunities to persuade your child to do what’s best even when she’d rather not. As an infant, you convinced her to sleep through the night instead of partying away the night in her crib. Instead of a diet consisting exclusively of pizza, you provide healthy alternatives. And every day you drop her off at school, whether or not she’s feeling it. Parents help their children discern the good portion. If your resolve needs a little refreshing, try employing the three E’s.

When Grandma and Grandpa Don’t Love Jesus

God fulfilled our desire for our kids to love their grandparents. But predictable questions followed every visit: “Why don’t Granddad and Grandmom like our church?” “Why does Grandmom use the Lord’s name like that?” “Why did they want to watch that bad movie?” “Does Granddad really not believe in God?”

We longed for our kids to have godly grandparents, but the Lord had other plans. Over time, we learned three important lessons.

When Old They’ll Still Bear Fruit

Last month, my extended family and I sat with my dying grandmother over her final days. In the waning hours of her life, we reflected on the various blessings the Lord gives by allowing saints to live long lives. Growing old is really hard, but there are unique benefits that come to the friends and family of those who age well in Jesus Christ. Here are a few of the blessings we counted together: