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

The best way I know to "meditate day and night" on the Word of God is to commit large portions of Scripture to memory. Then you'll always have it with you. Want an easier way to do that? Listen in to Loving Life at Home for a simple, straightforward way to memorize Proverbs 3 with me -- the entire chapter. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Proverbs 3 Psalm 119:97 RELATED LINKS: EP 28: Bible Memory Tips Memorization Toolbox by Abigail Martin Pretty Printable Copy of Proverbs 3 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  

Several months ago, a reader named Donna sent me the following request: “I'd love to hear your summary or take away of how not to diet but lose weight." So on this week's episode, I'm discussing Dr. Michael Greger's book, How Not to Diet, and the amazing effects implementing his suggestions have had on my health, weight, and energy levels. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Psalm 139:16 - "Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in Thy book they were all written, the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them." RELATED LINKS: How Not to Diet - by Michael Greger: "The Groundbreaking Science of Healthy, Permanent Weight Loss" How Not to Die - by Michael Greger: "Discover the Foods Scientifically Proven to Prevent and Reverse Disease" How Not to Age - by Michael Greger: "The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older" nutritionfacts.org - Michael Greger's informative website (excellent!) Daily Dozen App - use to track progress on your smart phone (on 12 foods &/or 21 tweaks) Daily Dozen free printable chart - I keep this one posted on my refrigerator as a reminder Episode 52: Helping Your Husband Make Better Food Choices  Episode 70: Unwrapping Cancer for Christmas Garlicky Lentil Soup Recipe - a Flanders' family favorite Winkie's Tonic - a natural antibiotic with an apple cider vinegar base Sautéed Mushrooms & Spicy Greens - my daily indulgence/ 2nd breakfast Bigelow Matcha Green with Turmeric - my favorite green tea (I drink 3 cups daily) M is for Mama - my friend Abbie's website (w/links to her books & podcast) - hope you'll check them out! STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)

Mother's Day is right around the corner, so that's what I'd like to discuss on the podcast this week. Even if giving birth to you is all your mother ever did, she would still be worthy of your gratitude and respect. But for most of our moms, the end of labor and delivery was when the real work began.  Show Notes: VERSES CITED: Ephesians 6:2-3 - "Honor your father and your mother --which is the first commandment with a promise--that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.” Proverbs 31:28-29 - “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also praises her saying, ‘Many daughters have done nobly, But you excel them all.'” Leviticus 19:3 - “Each of you must respect his mother and father, and you must keep My Sabbaths. I am the LORD your God.” Proverbs 23:22 - “Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.” Matthew 15:4 - “For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother' and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.'” 1 Corinthians 12:17- 18 - “If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? [Or] If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact, God has arranged the members of the body, every one of them, according to His design.” RELATED LINKS: EP 2: Dealing with Difficult In-Laws - the wonderful relationship we enjoy today makes me glad I didn't give up BBC Documentary with Miriam Margolyes - scroll halfway down this post to view our 12-minute segment A Christian Home - the hymn I sang at the end of this episode STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)

Much of the material from this week's podcast comes from a blog post I wrote on cultivating contentment over a decade ago, but the same strategy still works today. If you've ever found yourself fixated on your problems and struggling to "rejoice in all circumstances," listen in! Show Notes VERSES CITED: 1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.....” Philippians 4:11-12 – “... I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances....” 2 Corinthians 12:10 - “That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships....” Hebrews 13:5 – Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have....” Proverbs 19:23 – “The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.” Proverbs 14:30 – “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” Proverbs 15:15 – “All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.” Ecclesiastes 6:9 - “Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have....” Ecclesiastes 5:10 – “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied....” Luke 12:19  – “And I'll say to myself, ‘You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy....'" RELATED LINKS: EP 10 – We Find What We Look For EP 51 – Waiting in a Way that Honors God    EP 61 – How to Handle Deep Regrets EP 81 – When You're Barely Treading Water  STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Sometimes life's responsibilities seem so overwhelming and inescapable that you feel like you're barely treading water. How do you cope when the going gets tough, and your energy's already depleted? Here are seven strategies that have kept me afloat during the busiest, most exhausting seasons of mothering 12 children and managing a increasingly busy household. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - “These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me you may have peace....” - John 16:33  - “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials....” - James 1:2-4 - "...God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God...."- Romans 8:28 - "If anybody lacks wisdom, let him ask of God who gives to all freely..." - James 1:5 - “When [people] measure themselves by themselves... they are not wise.” - 2 Corinthians 10:12 - “Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” - 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Be strong and courageous... He will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6 - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” - Philippians 4:13 - “Yet those who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength....They shall walk and not faint.” - Isaiah 40:31 - “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.” - Psalm 50:15 - "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit...." - John 15:5 - “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest...." - Proverbs 6:10 (see also Prov 24:33-34) - “Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it...” - Psalm 127:1-2 - “He will feed His flock like a shepherd... and gently lead those who are with young.” - Isaiah 40:11 - “Come to Me, all you who are weary and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest....” - Matthew 11:28-30 - “So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” - Psalm 90:12 - “Love you neighbor as you love yourself” - Mark 12:30 - "From everyone to whom much has been given will much be required...” - Luke 12:48 - "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God." - Romans 14:12 - "Love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength...." - Mark 12:30 - “Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.” - Proverbs 17:1 - “Better is a portion of vegetables where there is love, than a fattened ox served with hatred.” - Proverbs 15:17  - “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we don't lose heart.” - Galatians 6:9  - "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin..." - Zechariah 4:10   RELATED LINKS:  - Flanders Family Freebies - use ths link to subscribe to my weekly newsletter - Episode 53: Microsystems for Home Management - Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

We're right in the middle of holy week, which makes this a great time to discuss some of our family's favorite Easter traditions -- especially those that keep our focus on the finished work of Christ on the cross. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Matthew 13:44 - “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”  - 1 John 4:10 - “God loved us and sent His Son.”  - Matthew 28:6 - “He has risen, just as He said.”   - John 3:16 - “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. - Romans 5:8 - "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - John 8:12 - "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” RELATED LINKS: - Resurrection Eggs Printable - Scripture Eggs Printable - Empty Tomb Kids Craft - Easter Bible Verse Coloring Pages - The Easter Story (book by Carol Heyer) - Easter Scripture Chain - Passion Week Quiz  - Resurrection Day Word Scramble  - Resurrection Day Word Find - Easter Conversation Starters - Let Them Know Music Video - All About that Grace Music Video - Never Enough Music Video - The Jelly Bean Gospel STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Little known fact: Today (April 9) is Winston Churchill Day in the US. So today, I'm taking some of my favorite quotes from the British Bulldog, examining them in light of scripture, and applying them to marriage. I hope you'll listen in! Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Luke 12:48 - “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required....” - Romans 12:10 - “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”  - Philippians 4:8 - “...whatever is true... honorable... right... pure... think about these things.” - Luke 6:38 - “Give, and it will be given to you...good measure—pressed down, shaken together....”  - James 1:19 - "Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.” - James 1:2-3 - “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials....”  - 1 Peter 1:6-7 - “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief ....”  - 2 Cor. 4:17 - “For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory...." - Heb. 12:11 - "No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however...." - Isaiah 41:10 - “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you....” - Psalm 23:4 - "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil...." - Philippians 4:13 - “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” - Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap...." - John 15:5 - “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit..."   RELATED LINKS: - Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara - “the remarkable power of giving people more than they expect” - EP 78: 7 Ways to Ruin Your Marriage - EP 75: Emphasize Your Husband's Good Points - The Good News about Marriage by Shaunti Feldhahn   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)

Proverbs 14:1 tells us, “The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands.” I normally like to focus on the first part of that verse and consider, “What are some wise ways we can build our homes and strengthen our family relationships?” But instead of taking my usual approach and discussing how to nurture your marriage and make it better, today I'd like to examine some very common and very foolish habits that tear down our homes and the people we live with and put unnecessary strain on relationships and threaten to ruin marriages.  So today, I present you with 7 WAYS TO RUIN YOUR MARRIAGE--GUARANTEED. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Proverbs 14:1 - "The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish tears it down with her own hands." - 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 merelylook out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” - Philippians 4:8 - 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.”  - 1 Corinthians 13:7 - "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." - Colossians 3:13 - "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." - Ephesians 5:33 - "However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." - 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 - "The husband must fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does; and likewise also the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer, and come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control." - James 5:16 - "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." RELATED LINKS: - 5 Ways to Ruin Your Day — Guaranteed  - EP 75 - Emphasize Your Husband's Good Points - Enough with the Excuses - Time to Turn Your Thinking Around  (the poem I wrote that can be read forwards and backwards) - One-Year Bible Reading Plan - 31 Verses to Pray over Your Husband - Praying Boldly for Yourself - Prayer for a Happy Marriage - A Wise Woman Builds Coloring Page - Love Your Husband/ Love Yourself - the first book I ever wrote (and I still stand behind every word!) - 25 Way to Communicate Respect for Your Husband: A Handbook for Wives - 25 Ways to Show Love to Your Wife: A Handbook for Husbands STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)            

This week on Loving Life at Home I'm answering a couple of questions about starting a family during medical school, but the principles also apply to other decisions people put off while waiting for perfect timing.

Show Notes VERSES CITED: - John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." - Romans 12:10 - “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” RELATED LINKS: - A Prayer for Singles - free printable prayer guide - The State of a Union - How grows your marriage? - In Praise of the Manly Man - a poem I wrote for my husband - A Fish wihout Fins - one of my very first poems to my husband - A Hero in the Making - yet another poem I wrote me husband - 30-Day Love Your Wife Challenge - free email challenge for husbands - 30-Day Respect Challenge - free email challenge for wives STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies - (weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, free printables)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Pop quiz: Which would you prefer? (a) That your husband focus his thoughts on your loveliest, most noble and praiseworthy characteristics? (b) That he ignore your good points completely and concentrate instead on your most annoying and bothersome flaws? That's an easy answer, as far as I'm concerned. So shouldn't you make every effort to treat your spouse the way you'd want to be treated yourself by emphasizing your husband's good points? Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Philippians 4:8 - "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." RELATED LINKS: - EP 10 - We Find What We Look For - Love Is a Verb by Gary Chapman STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

My youngest daughter and I just got home from a fun-filled mother-daughter retreat our homeschool co-op sponsors every January. The theme of this year's retreat was "Standing in the Truth," and in this week's episode, I'm sharing the major points of a talk I gave at the retreat on that same topic. I hope you'll listen in and let me know what you think in the comment section below. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - John 14:6 - ""I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." - Acts 4:12 - "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” - James 2:19 - "You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder." - 2 Peter 1:10 - "Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble." - Matthew 7:22-23 - "Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? ..." - Ephesians 4:13-14 - "...no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine...." - Psalm 139:13 - "For You created my innermost parts; You wove me in my mother's womb." - 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 - "Pray without ceasing." - Philippians 4:6 - "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." - James 4:8 - "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you..." - Heb 10:23-25 - "Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful...." - Isaiah 64:6 - "...all our righteous acts are like filthy rags...." - Eph 6:10-18 - "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God..." RELATED LINKS: - EP 27: God Wants the Whole Pie - EP 28: Bible Memory Tips - One-Year Bible Reading Plan - Free Printable Prayer Guides - Armor of God Printables STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)

Are sibling squabbles driving you crazy? Do you crave a respite from all your kids' bickering? Then listen in today as I answer another reader's question: "How can I get my kids to stop fighting?" Show Notes VERSES CITED: -1 John 4:20-21 - "...the one who loves God should love his brother also." - Luke 6:31 - "Do to others as you would have them do to you." - Galatians 5:13 - "...do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love." - Proverbs 6:16-19 - "... things which the LORD hates... one who spreads strife among brothers." - Galatians 6:9 - "Let us not grow weary of doing good, in due season we shall reap." - Psalm 133:1 - "Behold how good and how pleasant it is For brothers to live together in unity!" RELATED LINKS:  - EP 44: Cultivating Friendships between Siblings - Stop Sibling Squabbles in 5 Simple Steps - Help! My Kids Won't Stop Fighting! - Teaching Kindness (Free Printable) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

For the new year, I want to tackle some of the questions that have been piling up in my inbox, starting with how to deal with neighbors who aren't very neighborly. Listen in for four tips on getting through to the people who live nearby. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Matthew 5:14  - “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”   - Proverbs 27:10 – “...Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away.” - Matthew 22:36-39 - "... You shall love your neighbor as yourself." RELATED LINKS:  - 25 Ways to Be a Good Neighbor -  a blog post I wrote several years ago - On Loving Your Neighbor - more about our move into the Mayberry-ish neighborhood - Love Your Neighbor Coloring Page - hand-drawn design featuring Mark 12:31 - Good Neighbor Conversation Starters - to prompt good family discussions on this topic - The Gospel Comes with a House Key - book by Rosaria Butterfield - Loving My Actual Neighbor - book by Alexandra Kuykendall   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Shop my books: Flanders Family Store - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

There is great power in prayer, and Christians should be careful never to neglect this amazing privilege and vital discipline. That's why God commands us to "pray without ceasing. What's more, God will always answer our prayers -- though not necessarily in the manner we hope or expect. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - 1 Thess. 5:17 - "Pray without ceasing." - Psalm 139:13-16 - "For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb...." - Matthew 9:35 - "Jesus went through all the towns...healing every disease and sickness." - John 9:39 - "...the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” - Mark 2:9-12 - "Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven'; or to say, ‘Get up...'" - Isaiah 55:8-9 - "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD." - John 9:2-3 - "Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” - James 5:14-15 - "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray..." - James 4:2 - "You have not because you ask not.” - Matthew 7:7 - “Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find....” RELATED LINKS: - Our Daily Lifeline  - We should pray hardest when it's hardest to pray - A Good Reminder - If you pray only when you're in trouble, you're in trouble - Free Printable Prayer Guides - You'll find a full listing here of all the guides we offer, ready for downloading - The Complete Collection - This time-saving bundle includes my prayer guides and other related resources

Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Colossians 1:16-17 – “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created by Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” - John 10:28-29 – “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. / My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father's hand.” - Romans 8:28 – “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” - Proverbs 24:5 - “The wise prevail through great power, and those who have knowledge muster their strength.” - Proverbs 24:6 - “Only with sound guidance should you wage war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors.” - Matthew 6:34 - “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” - Philippians 4:7 - "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Psalm 139:16 - "Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them." - Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." - Psalm 90:12 - “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom.” - Psalm 127:2 - "It is vain for you to rise up early, To retire late, To eat the bread of painful labors; For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep."   RELATED LINKS:  - Suffering by Paul David Tripp - Leaning on the Everlasting Arms - How Firm a Foundation

The best laid plans sometimes go awry. How should we respond when that happens? That's what we're discussing on Loving Life at Home this week: What should one do when things don't go as planned? Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Proverbs 16:9 - “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”  - Matt 10:29-31 - “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” -James 4:13-15 - “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.'  Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. For you are just a vapor that appears for a little while, and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.'”  -Philippians 2:4 - “Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” - Proverbs 17:22 - “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.”  - Philippians 2:3 - “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:8-24 - "But since we are of the day, let's be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.  For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we will live together with Him...." RELATED LINKS: - Episode 23: A Hill Country Christmas - Thai Lucky Sushi Bar - Yanaguana Gardens & Playground - Pioneer Museum of Fredricksburg - FBC Mainstreet Bethlehem in Burnet, TX  

It's Thanksgiving week, so I'm counting my blessings, and my 12 children are right up there at the top of the list. Another thing I'm grateful for? The fact my husband didn't cut my childbearing years short by getting a vasectomy, though he definitely considered it at one point. Listen to this week's episode to hear why, and to learn what stopped him from going through with it.  Show Notes: VERSES CITED:  - Colossians 1:16-17 - "...all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." - Hebrews 1:3 - "The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word." - Revelation 4:11 - “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” - 1 Corinthians 8:6 - "...there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through Whom all things came and through Whom we live." RELATED LINKS: - More than Meets the Eye - this is the book by Richard Swenson that made such an impression on my husband (I don't think I gave the title in the podcast) - Always Open: 5 Reasons I Love Having My Tubes Intact - my response to an article from the other side of the issue, written by a woman who was grateful to have hers tied - Postponing Motherhood: At What Cost? - my review of Holly Grigg-Spall's Sweetening the Pill

This week on Loving Life at Home, I'm tackling a question about early education for preschoolers: What can a mom of multiple toddlers do to make sure her little ones are getting what they need? Those were pressing thoughts on my mind, too, when I was a young mom, and in today's episode, I'm sharing the advice a wise mentor gave me at the time. It served me and my children well and will hopefully do the same for you and yours! Show Notes RELATED LINKS: - Laying the Foundation for a LIfetime of Learning - 50 Picture Books Every Child Should Read - Cultivating Creativity in Young Children - Raising Kids Who Love to Read - Keeping Toddlers Occupied - 50 Chapter Books to Read Aloud to Your Family - Choosing Curricula Your Children Will Love

Several years ago, I read a book entitled Marriage to a Difficult Man. I felt a little self-conscious toting it around with me at the time, lest anyone assume it was a how-to book rather than recognizing it for what it was: a biography of the famous 18th-century revivalist preacher Jonathan Edwards in relation to his very patient and supportive wife. I have a similar concern in publishing this week's episode, in which I offer advice to a reader who is looking for help in dealing with what she calls a "Jekyll and Hyde" husband. While nearly 40 years of marriage has taught me a lot about living in peace with a partner who can sometimes be difficult (a description he could rightly apply to me, as well), I would never go so far as to compare my own husband's mood swings to the infamous Dr. Jekyll. Nevertheless, I've endeavored to answer this reader's question with tips that have been helpful in my own marriage and with ideas I've drawn from observing the marriages of those around me. I hope you'll listen in and be encouraged. Show Notes VERSES CITED: 1 Peter 3:8 - "...be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble." 1 Corinthians 7:5 - "Do not deprive each other, except by mutual consent and for a time...." Proverbs 13:12 - "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." 1 Corinthians 13:15 - "When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But...." Romans 3:23 - "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Psalms 139:23-24 - "Search me, O God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my anxious thoughts...." Galatians 6:9 - "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if...." James 1:2-3 - " Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that....”   Proverbs 15:1 - "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Colossians 4:6 - "Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that....”  Philippians 1:6 - "...He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:8 - "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right...." RELATED LINKS: EP 34: The #1 Rule for Building a Happy Marriage EP 31: How to Love Your Husband Well EP 12: When You're Married to a Problem Solver EP 2: Dealing with Difficult In-Laws Love Your Husband/Love Yourself (my book) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

Nearly everyone has to wrestle with negative or sinful or intrusive thoughts at one time or other, so in today's episode, we're talking strategies for overcoming bad thoughts and taking them captive to the obedience of Christ. Show Notes:   - 2 Cor. 10:5 - “We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God….” - Psalm 19:14 - “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight...” - Romans 12:2 - “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind....” - 1 Cor. 10:13 - “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind....” - Eph 6:16-17 - "...taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows...." - James 4:7-8 – “Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.....” - Matthew 6:13 – “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil…” - Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace him whosemind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” - Psalm 23:4 – “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil....” - Matt. 11:28 – “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” - Phil. 4:6-7 - “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving...." - James 1:19-20 – “Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak andslow to anger; for the anger of man....” - Matt. 12:34-35 – “For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. The good man brings good....” - Matt. 5:44 - “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you...." - Gal. 5:24 – “Now those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” - Matt. 5 27-28 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you....” - 1 Cor. 6:18 – “Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body, but....” - 2 Tim. 2:22 – “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that....” - Romans 13:14 - “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to...." - Phil. 4:8 - "...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely...." - 1 Peter 5:5 - "Dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for God opposes the proud but ....” - Prov. 16:18 - “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before fall.” - 1 Cor. 4:7 – “What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if...." - Phil. 2:3-5 - “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another ...." - Jer. 17:9 - “The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; Who can understand it?” - 2 Cor. 12: 20 – “...there may be quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalry, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder.” - 1 Tim. 5:13 – “Besides that, they learn to be idlers, going about from house to house, and not only idlers....” - Prov. 21:23 - "Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.”  - Eph. 4:31 - "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." - Col. 3:8 - "But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander...." - 1 Peter 2:1 - "So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander." - Eph. 4:29 – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for...." - James 3:14-17 – “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart...." - 2 Cor. 10:12 - "... measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves...." - Col. 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone....” - Eph. 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” - Heb. 12:15 – “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to...." - Matt. 6:14-15 – “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you....” - Rom. 12:3 – “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober....” - Psalm 139:14 - "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful...." - Genesis 1:27 - “in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” - Psalm 8:5 - "You made him a little lower than the angels; You crowned him with glory and honor." - 1 Cor. 6:19 - “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you...." - 2 Cor. 5:15 - "He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him...." - Rom. 14:7 - “...none of us lives for himself and no man dies for himself.” Related Links: - EP 28: Bible Memory Tips - Taking Every Thought Captive Printable - What God Hath Promised by Annie Johnson Flint - Praying for Your Enemies - Screwtape Letters - EP 11: Forgiving Fully & Freely STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)        

Today is my mom's 87th birthday, and this episode is in her honor. I'm immeasurably blessed to have the mother God gave me, and have learned so much from her over the years. Today I'm sharing 8 crucial things my mom did right, so you can benefit from her good example, too. Show Notes: VERSES CITED: - Proverbs 31:15 - “She rises while yet it is night....”  - Proverbs 31:17 - “She sets about her work vigorously....”  - Proverbs 31:25 - "She is clothed with strength and dignity...." - Proverbs 31:26 - "She opens her mouth with skillful and godly wisdom...." - Proverbs 31:27-31 - “She looks well to how things go in her household...." - James 5:16 - “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” - Ephesians 5:22 - “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.” - Ephesians 5:33 - “...and the wife must see to it that she respects her husband.” - Colossians 3:8 - “Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.” - John 15:13 - “Greater love has no one than this, that one should lay down his life for his friends.”  - Philippians 2:3-4 - “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind...." - 1 Peter 4:9 - “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” - Ecclesiastes 12:12 - “...excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body.” - Proverbs 9:18 - “Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives." - Proverbs 3:24 - “He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently.” - Hebrews 10:24-25 - “…not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some....” - 1 Peter 3:15 - "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to....” - Romans 12:15 - "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." RELATED LINKS:  - Free Printable Prayer Guides - EP 1: How to Find a Good Mentor - EP 38: Making the Most of Your Child's Learning Style - Until the Streetlights Come On by Ginny Yurich  

Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner. Does getting ready for the holidays feel burdensome or overwhelming to you? In Episode 63 of Loving Life at Home, we're discussing strategies to steer clear of stress, side-step the hustle-bustle, and enjoy a merry, meaningful, and blissfully peaceful advent season. Show Notes RELATED VERSES: - Philippians 4:6 - "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." - Romans 14:5 - "One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind." - Proverbs 6:6-8 - "Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest." LINKS MENTIONED: - Episode 2: tips for getting along with difficult or demanding family members - 6 Steps to a Stress-Free Holiday Season - source material for this podcast - Our Family Christmas Letters - all our past annual updates plus tips for creating your own - Our Christmas Card Assembly Line - one of my families all-time favorite traditions - Simple Bucket List - poll your family members on the top few things they don't want to miss - 6 Fun Ways to Count Down to Christmas - including the Christmas books we traditionally read - 50 Fun Things to Do With Your Family This Christmas - we just pick and choose from this list - Rakuten - a fantastic FREE cashback program which has saved me a bundle over the years - How to Install the Rakuten Browser Button - this will automatically alert you when cashback is available - Shifting Christmas Focus - my full answer to the mom whose entitled kids were driving her crazy - Large Family Gift-Giving - a more detailed answer to one mama's inquiry on this topic - Super Stocking Stuffers - a list of some of the small gifts we've put in our kids' stockings over the years - Smart Ideas for Turning Trash into Treasure - some of the recycled art projects our kids have enjoyed  - Elfster - gift exchange app - Thinking of Others at Christmas - brainstorming ways to be a blessing to others at Christmas - Taming the Toy Box - includes list of most worthwhile, lasting toys and how to keep them organized - Age-Appropriate Chore Chart - a good starting place for incorporating your children's help   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)        

Despite the fact the world proclaims with one loud voice, “You are enough!” that has never been the way it has played out in my life. And do you know what? It's liberating to admit that fact. Join me today as we discuss why we should reject that self-affirmation for the lie it is. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - John 10:10 - "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life...." - Romans 3:23 - “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." - 2 Corinthians 12:9 - "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” - Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” - 1 Corinthians 1:25 - "For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God...." - James 1:5 - "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives to all generously & without reproach...." - 2 Corinthians 5:21 - "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become...." - Ephesians 1:7-8 - "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with...." - Romans 8:29 - "For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son...." - James 1:4 - "Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” - Revelation 5:12 - "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive... honor and glory and praise!” - Ephesians 2:4-5 - "We were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of His great love for us, God, who is..." - 2 Corinthians 3:5 - “Not that we are adequate in ourselves so as to consider anything as having come from...." - Ephesians 2:8-9 - “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift...." - Romans 9:16 - “So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.” - Philippians 2:13 - "... it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." - Philippians 1:6 – “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion....” - Romans 6:13 - "...offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life...." - 1 John 1 8-9 - "...If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us ...."   RELATED LINKS: - I Am Not Enough (& Why It's Liberating to Admit It) - blog post I wrote in 2017 - Confession of an Unlikely Convert - book by Rosaria Butterfield (her personal testimony; published in 2014) - The Gospel Comes with a House Key - another great book by Rosaria Butterfield (2018) - Another Gospel? - must-read book by Alisa Childers (2020) - Live Your Truth - another wonderful book by Alisa Childers (2022) - You Are Not Enough (& That's Okay) - book by Allie Beth Stuckey (2020)   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

We've all said or done things that we later regret, sometimes profoundly so. But where does regret come from, and how are we supposed to handle this tangle of negative emotions? That's our topic for this week's episode of Loving Life at Home Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Romans 8:28 - "God causes all things to work together for good to those who love...." - Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will...." - Proverbs 31:10-31 - "...She considers a [new] field before she buys or accepts it...." - Proverbs 13:12 - "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." - Hebrews 12:1-2 - "...let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus...." - 1 Corinthians 7:17 - "...each person should live as a believer in whatever situation...." - Philippians 4:11-13 - "...I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am...."  - Romans 10:9 - “If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe...." - Matthew 11:28 - “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - James 1:2-3 - "Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials...." - Job 1:21 - "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” - Job 2:10 - "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and not accept adversity?”  - Ephesians 4:31-32 - "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away...." - Mark 4:19 - "but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires...." - Ephesians 4:30 - "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed...." - 1 Thessalonians 5:19 - "Do not quench the Spirit." - 1 Peter 2:1 - "Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind." - Romans 6:12-13 - "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof...." -  Philippians 4:6 - "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving...." -  1 Peter 5:7 - "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." - Isaiah 29:16 - "...Can the pot say to the potter, 'You know nothing'?" - Galatians 5:13 - "But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love." - Philippians 2:3-4 - "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard...." - Proverbs 14:12 - “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” - 1 John 1:9 - “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us....” - Psalms 103:12  - "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." - Romans 8:1  - “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” - Matthew 11:28-30 - "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." - Proverbs 14:12 - “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way....”  - 1 John 1:9 - “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and...." - Psalms 103:12 - "He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west." - Philippians 3:9- "...not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ...." - Romans 8:1 -“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ....” - Luke 12:26 - “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? So, if you...." - Matthew 6:25-30 - "Do notworry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or...." - Joel 2:25 - "I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten...." - Genesis 50:20 - "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good...."   RELATED LINKS: - Forgiving Others Fully and Freely - Podcast Episode 11 - On Miscarriage -- Help for Hurting Hearts - Podcast Episode 49 - What Men Intend for Evil - a poem I wrote during a difficult season - My Books - you can find most of the books my husband and I have written here or here - Family Matters - archives of the newspaper column I wrote for several years - Praying for Your Husband from Head to Toe - a free printable prayer guide - Praying for Your Wife from Head to Toe - another free printable prayer guide - 31 Scriptures to Pray over Your Husband - yet another free printable prayer guide - 30-Day Respect Challenge - my free, month-long email series for married women - 30-Day Love Challenge - my husband's free, month-long email series for married men   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)        

Grandparent's Day is coming up, so this week we're discussing how to cultivate a closer relationship between grandkids and grandparents, including things parents can do to facilitate the connection. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - James 5:16 - “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”  - Philippians 4:6 - “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” - Proverbs 17:6 - "Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers." RELATED RESOURCES: - Praying for Your Grandchildren - A Free Printable Prayer Guide    

To be or not to be a parent... that is the question. Given the dark times in which we live, how are Christian couples to view the prospect of having children? What considerations should they take into account as they try to decide when--or whether--to start a family. I hope you'll listen in today as we examine many of the most common objections couples give regarding the prospect of having children. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - 1 Corinthians 12:14 - “…the body does not consist of one part, but of many.” - Psalm 127:3-5 – “Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, the fruit of the womb is...." - Psalm 128:3-4 – “Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in His way...." - Genesis 1:28 – “God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply....'" - Deuteronomy 7:13 – “He will love you and bless you and multiply you.…” - John 8:31 - “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples.” - 1 Cor. 10:31 - "... whatever you do, do all for the glory of God." - 2 Cor. 5:7 - "For we live by faith, not by sight." - 1 Peter 3:15-16 - "Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you...." - Luke 10:27 - "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and..." - Psalm 37:25, “...never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” - Phil. 4:19 - “God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ....” - Galatians 5:22 - "The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness...." - Philippians 1:6 - "He who began a good work in you will perfect it until....” - James 1:5 - “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all...." - Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” - 1 Timothy 2:15 - "Women, however, will be saved through childbearing, if they....” - Eph. 2:8-9 - “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not....” - 1 Tim 5:13-14 -“... So I advise the younger widows to marry, have children, and ....” - Matthew 5:13-15 - “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its savor...." - Jeremiah 29:4-6 - "...have sons and daughters. Multiply there; do not decrease.” - Exodus 1:11-12 - "...the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied...." - Deuteronomy 11:19 - "speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk..." - Luke 23:29 - “...people will say, 'Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that....'” - Matthew 24:6 - “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you...." - Gen. 2:24-25 - "For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother and...." - Malachi 2:15 - "Has not the LORD made them one, having a portion of the Spirit...." - Matthew 19:14 - “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them...." - Romans 8:28 - "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good...." RELATED LINKS: - Ep 58: Best Wedding Gift You'll Ever Get - Ep 15: Is Having Babies a Waste of Time? - Ep 8: Smart Reasons for Having Babies - M is for Mama: Ep 61 - Is the Child-Free Movement Biblical - US Fertility Rate Graph - Do You Wanna Have a Baby? - an original music video :-) - A Quiverful Report - our interview with Al Jazeera - Miriam's Big American Adventure: Episode 3 - our interview with the BBC - Demographic Winter - link to the sequel of the documentary we watched 15+ yrs ago) - These Governments Pay Citizens to Have Babies - When Strangers Count Our Kids & Ask Us If We're Done - Love Your Husband/ Love Yourself - my book

Tune into Episode 58 as we discuss the best wedding gift any couple will ever receive — a gift that God Himself designed and prepared especially for husbands and wives to enjoy and one that will benefit them in more ways than you might ever imagine! Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Genesis 2:21-25 - "And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam...." - Proverbs 18:22 - "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." - Proverbs 31:2 - "She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.” - 1 Corinthians 7: 3-5 - "The husband must fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise the wife...." - Proverbs 5:18-19 - "Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth...." - John 10:10 - "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy....” - Isaiah 55:8-9 - "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways...." - Romans 11:33 - "O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" - Ephesians 5:21-33 – "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ...." RELATED LINKS: - Love Your Husband/Love Yourself - my 1st book ("The talk your mom never had the nerve to have with you!") - Why I Keep Saying Yes to Sex - a blog post I wrote on this topic several years ago - Wives: 13 Subtle Signs Your Husband is in the Mood -  the Babylon Bee Article I mentioned - The Best Wedding Gift You'll Ever Receive - blog post/full transcript of this episode STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

This week on the Loving Life at Home Podcast, we're talking all about children's chores. I've been fielding a lot of questions on this topic lately, and I realize I haven't shared much about how we handle chores at our house, so today is the day! I hope you'll listen in. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Proverbs 14:4 - "Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox." - Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” - Philippians 2:14 - "Do everything without complaining or arguing..." RELATED LINKS: - Episode 53 (Microsystems for Organizing Your Home) - Bedroom Inspection Checklist (let kids know what you mean when you say "clean your room") - Age Appropriate Chores for Children (free printable list available in multiple languages) - Teaching Kids to Do Chores Cheerfully (several ideas that have helped our kids over the years) - Why the Controversy over Children's Chores? (readers weigh in on both sides of the debate) - Should We Pay our Kids for Doing Chores (and if so, how much?) - Super Easy Peanut Butter Cookies (only 3 ingredients--4 if you add chocolate chips) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

My topic this week is something that is very basic but is also extremely important. The sooner you master it, the sooner you'll start reaping the benefits in each and every relationship you have. It will improve your interactions with your spouse, your children, your parents, your siblings, your coworkers, your neighbors, cashiers, waiters, customer service reps--the list goes on and on. What is this vital life skill, you may wonder? It is learning how to give a genuine, heartfelt apology. Listen in for the details on things all good apologies have in common. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Matthew 5:23-25 - "...leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother..." - Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” - Psalm 101:5 – “...the one with haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not endure.” - Ezekiel 36:26 - "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you..." - Proverbs 21:4 – “Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, is sin.” - James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.” - Isaiah 57:15 – “... in order to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.” - Psalm 34:18 – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” - 1 Peter 5:5 - “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes..." - Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider...” - Luke 6:42  - "...first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from..." - Luke 19:41 - "When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it..." - Luke 13:34 -“...How often I wanted to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers her young....”  - Luke 23:34 - “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” - Ephesians 4:32 - "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." - Colossians 3:12-13 - “...whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you..." - Matthew 18:21 - "Lord, how many times shall my brother sin against me and I still forgive him? Up to seven times?”  - Luke 17:4 - “Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day... and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.” - Romans 6:6 - “What shall we say, then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid!” - Luke 19:6 - "Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy." - Luke 19:8 - "...half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold.” - James 5:16 - “Confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed....” RELATED LINKS: -  Episode 11: How to Forgive Fully and Freely - Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Parents frequently ask us for tips on successfully launching their young adult kids. While there are no guaranteed formulas, today I'm sharing some general tips to help smooth your child's passage to adulthood. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - 1 Corinthians 14:20 - "Be innocent as babies when it comes to evil, but be mature in understanding matters...." - 1 Corinthians 15:19 - "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied." - Proverbs 10:19 - "When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise." - James 1:19 - "... now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger." - Colossians 4:6 - "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may...." - 1 Corinthians 11:1 - “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”  - Philippians 2:5 - "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus...." - Luke 17:1-3 - “It is inevitable that stumbling blocks will come, but woe to the one through whom they come...." - Deuteronomy 11:18-22 - "Ye shall lay up these My words in your heart and in your soul...." - Ephesians 2:4-5 - "But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us...." - 2 Corinthians 7:10 - "For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin...." - Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves...." - Philippians 1:6 - "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion...." - Philippians 4:19 - "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." RELATED LINKS: - Age-Appropriate Children's Chores - free printable - 31 Bible Verses to Pray over Your Children - another free printable - The Empty Pot - children's picture book by Demi - Five Solas of the Reformation - free calligraphy coloring page - "He Who Began a Good Work in You" - Steve Green Song STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)      

A marriage is a lot like a garden. Both require a lot of tending. In Episode 54 of the Loving Life at Home Podcast, we'll explore six essentials that must be present if you want your marriage (or your garden) to thrive. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Psalm 139:23-24 - "“Search me, O God, and know my heart..." - Hosea 10:12 - “Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love..." - Jeremiah 4:3 - “Plow up the hard ground of your hearts! Do not waste your good seed among thorns.” - Galatians 6:7 - “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” - Matthew 7:16-18 - "“By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes..." - John 4:14 - "But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will...." - John 7:37-38 - “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.  Whoever believes in Me...." - Hebrews 12:15 - “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up...." - James 1:21 - “...in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.” - John 15:4-17 - "Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself...." - Proverbs 17:22 - “A merry heart does good like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.” RELATED LINKS:  - 31 Scriptures to Pray over Your Spouse - St. Fransis of Assisi's prayer - Love Your Husband/ Love Yourself - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband - 25 Ways to Show Love to Your Wife - Terra Cotta Ollas for gardening - My Backyard Mural STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)      

Show Notes VERSES CITED:  - Titus 2:3-5 - "The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed." RELATED POSTS: - Tips for Organizing Your Garage - Taming the Toy Box - Tips for Keeping Kids' Rooms Clean - Free Bedroom Inspection Checklist - How to Organize Your Kitchen for Efficiency STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

I received a message from a listener this week who was concerned about her husband's health. His diet needs work, he does't get enough sleep or enough exercise, and lately he's been experiencing chest pain. She wondered if I could give her some ideas for motivating him to make better decisions.  On this episode of Loving Life at Home, I'm sharing the four tips I gave her for dealing with the situation. I hope you will find them helpful, as well. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6 - “Which of you by worrying can add a single day to his life's span?” Matthew 6:27 -“To the woman He said, ‘I will greatly multiply Your pain in childbirth, In pain you shall deliver children; Yet your desire will be for your husband, And he shall rule over you.'” - Genesis 3:16 - “If you do well, will your face not be cheerful? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.” - Genesis 4:7 RELATED SOURCES: - Head-to-Toe Prayer Guide - 31 Verses to Pray over Your Husband - How Not to Die by Michael Greger, MD - How Not to Age by Michael Greger, MD - Get Up & Go by Jennifer Flanders - Eat This, Not That by David Zinczenko STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)        

So much of life is spent in limbo. Waiting for a baby, a ride, or a test result. Waiting for a paycheck, a court date, or summer vacation. We wait… and wait… and wait some more. Is there a way we can do it to the glory of God? How can we wait in a way that honors Him? Show Notes VERSES CITED:  - “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” (Colossians 4:2) - "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8) - “Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.” (Mark 13:33) - “We tear down arguments and every presumption set up against the knowledge of God; and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5) - "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)  - "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 purpose." (Romans 8:28)  - "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4) - "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2) - “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)      

The marriage lessons we learn by example are often the most memorable. Some of the examples we see teach us what works, what leads to a successful, happy marriage, what we may want to emulate in our own.  But sometimes the examples we see serve as cautionary tales. They show us what doesn't work, what kinds of attitudes and behaviors will submarine your marriage and undermine its happiness or longevity.  Either way, the lessons are instructive. They can lead us in a direction we want to go or warn us to steer clear of potentially dangerous potholes along the way.  Show Notes VERSES CITED: - 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.” - 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 - "Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”  RELATED LINKS: - Secrets to Marital Success: 30 Lessons in 30 Years of Marriage - Episode 34: The #1 Rule for Building a Happy Marriage - The A-to-Z Guide to Building a Better Marriage - 7 Ways to Ruin Your Marriage - Free Printable Medicine Tracker (for caregivers like my father-in-law) STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Since I sometimes hear from women asking for advice on dealing with miscarriages, I wanted to share my thoughts and experience with this topic in hopes of encouraging others who may be suffering from the same kind of grief and loss. Listen in as we discuss recovery, rainbow babies, responding to insensitive remarks, and more. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Psalm 30:5 - “Weeping may last through the night, but a shout of Joy comes in the morning.”  - Romans 12:15 - "...Mourn with those who mourn." - Psalm 139:13-16 - "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my ..." RELATED LINKS: - Mailbag: Dealing with Miscarriage STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)        

Our family is on the road again this week our way to North Carolina (at least the ones who aren't taking college classes this summer). As usual, we prayed in the driveway before we left home, asking God to watch over us while we're traveling and to get us safely to our destination. But a couple of other practices help make sure we get where we're going -- and that's what I want to talk about in this week's episode. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Mark 13:33 - “Be on your guard and stay alert! For you do not know when...”  - Colossians 4:2 - “Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.”  - 1 Peter 5:8 - “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls....”  - 1 Peter 4:7 - “The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober....” - 1 Thess. 5:6-8 - “...let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober....” - 1 Peter 1:13 - “Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit....”  - Eph. 6:17-18 - “...stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints.”  RELATED LINKS: - Bible Memory Tips & Tricks - to help you hide God's Word in your heart - Bible Reading Plan - this schedule will help you finish both Old and New Testaments in one year STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)      

Sooner or later, we will all face change of some sort. Change is an inevitable part of life. The question is, how will we deal with change when it comes. Today, I'm sharing six strategies I use to keep my wits when my world is turning upside down. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Philippians 3:13-14 - "...forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead..." - James 1:2-3 - "My brethren, consider it all joy when you encounter various trials...." - Romans 12:2- "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed...." - Psalms 103:2 - "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits." - Philippians 1:6 - "...He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." - 1 Corinthians 1:8 - "He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless....”  - Romans 8:28 - "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good ...." - Hebrews 10:23-25 - "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering..." - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 - "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor..." - James 1:5 – “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God....” - Isaiah 40:31- “But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength....” - Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory..." - Psalm 121:1-2 - “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help....” - Proverbs 17:17 – “A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.” - Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” -  2 Timothy 1:17 - “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and ....”  -  2 Corinthians 10:5  - "...and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." - Psalm 23:4 - "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for..." - Philippians 4:6-7 - “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication..." - Psalm 126:5-6 - "Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting." - Psalm 30:5 - "...weeping may last through the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning." - Philippians 4:8 - "“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right..." - Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly..." - 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether, then, you eat or drink ...do all to the glory of God.” - Proverbs 30:8-9 - "Give me neither poverty nor riches..." - 1 Peter 3:8 - “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another..." - James 5:15-16 - "...the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and..." - Ephesians 2:10 - "... to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."   RELATED LINKS: - Taking Every Thought Captive - free printable verses to help you discipline your mind - What Men Intend for Evil - a poem a wrote during a particularly grievous trial several years ago   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

Show Notes VERSES CITED: - John 15:13 - "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."  - 1 John 3:16 - "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters." RELATED LINKS: The Boy Enlists by Edgar Albert Guest  In Flanders Field by John McCrae Lincoln's Gettysburg Address  Miss Congeniality on the Alamo stage  STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Show Notes VERSES CITED: -  “Pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18)  - “These things I have spoken unto you that in Me ye might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) and… - “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4) - "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." (1 Peter 2:2)   RELATED LINKS: - Is eating bread crust really good for you? - this is the research article I told you about - Suffering is Never for Nothing - a short but powerful read from Elisabeth Elliot - I Married a Sinner (& So Did He) - here's that cherished letter Elisabeth Elliot wrote to me   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

One of the first things people usually notice about our children is how well they get along. Sure, they have occasional squabbles, but that is the exception rather than the rule. For the most part, they really love and admire one another and enjoy being in each other's company. They are friends. And cultivating friendship between siblings is the topic of this week's episode of Loving Life at Home. I hope you'll listen in! Show Notes VERSES CITED: - “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) - “A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.”  (Proverbs 17:17, NLT) - “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”  (Ephesians 4:32, NASB) - “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”  (1 Peter 3:8, NIV) - “Behold how good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony.” (Psalm 133:1)  RELATED LINKS: - Cultivating Friendship Between Siblings - the original post upon which this episode is based - Pimsleur Speak & Read Essential Spanish - we invested in multiple levels of multiple language CD sets, although now all these lessons are offered through a subscription service instead - Stopping Sibling Squabbles - help for parents whose kids are constantly fighting - Help! My Children Won't Stop Fighting - my response to a frequently asked reader question - 10 Nice Things I Can Do For My Sibling - a pretty blank printable to use with bickering kids - 15 Unexpected Benefits of Big Family Living - even more reasons I love having lots of children - Best Bible Memory Tips & Tricks- smart ways to hide the Word in your children's hearts - Praying for Your Children from Head-to-Toe - pray over your child's eyes, ears, heart, brain, etc. - Praying for Your Teens - our teens need prayer, too! - Praying for Adult Children - they never outgrow their need for a mother's fervent prayers - Praying for Your Unborn Baby - never too soon to start beseeching God on your child's behalf - Praying for Your Grandchildren - don't forget to pray for your children's children, as well! - 31-Day Prayer Challenge for Parents - pray a different verse over your children every day - Benefits of Homeschooling - even more reasons to give homeschooling a try FAMILY GAMES MENTIONED: - Bananagrams - a great game to strengthen spelling and vocabulary skills - Battle Sheep - a fun strategy game that can be played by 2-4 players - So Clover - a game that stretches your ability to make associations - Q-Bitz - a clever strategy game that can be played alone or in a group

If you've ever had a child who is given to whining, you know how grating it can get on the nerves of every member of the household. But thankfully, there is an effective way to help your little one break this bad habit. Listen to this week's episode of Loving Life at Home to learn six surefire strategies to wipe out whining. Show Notes RELATED VERSES:  - Philippians 2:14-15 - "Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky." - Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it." STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

Over the years, our family has found ways to make traveling with children more enjoyable, economical, educational, and easy. Listen in for tips you can use on your next family vacation.  Show Notes RELATED SCRIPTURE: - Psalm 37:23 - "The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey." - Proverbs 16:9 - "A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps." RELATED BOOKS & BLOG POSTS: - Pack Up & Leave - This book details all the tips I shared in today's episode and more  - Vacation Planning - nine noteworthy websites I use when planning road trips - Kids Eat Free - a list of restaurants across the country where kids eat free - Dining Out for Less - how to save money on restaurant meals using Restaurant.com - Making the Most of Frequent Flyer Miles - how our whole family flew to Europe for free - EP 23: A Hill Country Christmas - a few of our family's favorite free things to do in San Antonio - How to Plan a Fun Staycation - tips for creating great vacation memories right here at home OTHER LINKS MENTIONED:  - Home School Legal Defense Association - my HSLDA card gets us homeschool discounts  - Garden & Arboretum Directory - search by state for botanical gardens (many of which are free) - Reciprocal List for Zoos - check this list for zoos across the country that offer free admission - National Park Free Days - a list of dates you can visit national parks without paying an entry fee - Every Kid Outdoors - fourth graders (and their families) get free park admission for a full year - Junior Ranger Program - kids can earn badges by doing educational activities at each park - Factory Tours USA - state-by-state list of manufacturers that offer free tours of their facilities - AAdvantage Dining Program - earn frequent flyer miles by dining out - Restaurant.com - buy $25 gift certificates for as little as $2 apiece - Paint by Sticker - a fun and mess-free activity for kids to enjoy in the car - BlueGreen Vacation Club - if you decide to give BlueGreen a try, please tell them Jennifer Flanders referred you

This is birthday week for our family: my daughter's birtday is the 20th, mine's the 21st, my husband's is the 22, and we met on the 23rd. That last point -- the story of how I met my husband -- is the topic of today's podcast.  Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Isaiah 55:18 - "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD." - Proverbs 3:15-16 - "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 16:9 - "A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps." RELATED LINKS: - Ep 36: The Wrong Way to Propose Marriage RELATED LINKS:  - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband  - The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg  - Free Goal Planning Sheets - Progress Tracking Chart

Goals are important because they provide a sense of purpose and direction. Proverbs 16:9 assures us “A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.” So even when you aren't 100% sure what the LORD would have you do with your time, I recommend prayerfully setting a worthwhile goal and working toward it. As long as you hold your plans lightly, you can trust God to redirect you if that is what needs to happen. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 - "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run....” - James 4:13-15 - “Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city....” - Proverbs 16:9 - “A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.” - Psalm 37:23-24 - “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD....”       - Proverbs 14:23 - “In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” - Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”  - Isaiah 28:10 - “...precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line….”  - Philippians 2:3-4 - “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit....” - James 4:17 - “Therefore to him that knows to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin.”   - 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether then you eat or drink... do all to the glory of God."    - Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap....” - Joshua 1:9 - “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged....”  - Hebrews 11:40 - "Since God had planned something better for us....” MISCELANEOUS QUOTES: - “If you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time.” - Zig Ziglar - “Watch your nickels and dimes, and the dollars will take care of themselves.” - John Nobles - “By the inch, life's a cinch. By the yard, life is hard.” - unknown - “You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." - Henry Ford - “A good plan executed today is better than a perfect plan executed at some indefinite point in the future.” - Gen. George Patton - “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” - Thomas Edison - “Many of life's failures are people who didn't realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” - Thomas Edison - “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” - Thomas Edison RELATED LINKS:  - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband  - The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg  - Free Goal Planning Sheets - Progress Tracking Chart    

How should husbands and wives navigate friendships with the opposite sex? That's our podcast topic this week, prompted by an email I got from a reader wanting to know, "Should a married woman have close male friends?"  Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Genesis 2:24 - "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united..." - Mark 10:7-9 - “...therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate.” - Malachi 5:14-15 - “…the LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth..." - Proverbs 5:15-21 -"Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well...." - Matthew 5:27-28 - “You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY'..." - Psalm 19:14 - "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable..." - Matthew 15:19 - “For out of the heart come evil thoughts… adultery, sexual immorality…." - Ephesians 5:15-18 - "Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise..." - 1 Corinthians 6:18 - "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is ...." - Colossians 3:5 - "Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature...." - 1 Peter 5:8 - “...the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” RELATED LINKS:  - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband - one of my most popular blog posts - 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband - my award-winning book - 25 Ways to Show Love to Your Wife - a post my husband wrote for married men - 25 Ways to Show Love to Your Wife - my husband's companion book  - Love Your Husband/ Love Yourself - embracing God's purpose for passion in marriage - 30-Day Respect Challenge - free email series to help you nurture your marriage - Should Married Women Have Close Male Friends - original post this episode is drawn from - Husbands, Be Careful with Female Friendships - my husband's post I read on this episode - Fostering Friendship with Your Husband - tips for nurturing a closer relationship to your spouse STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

Modern lists of learning styles are much lengthier than the one I learned in school. And after raising 12 children, I can think of a few learning styles I've never seen on any chart. So in this episode of Loving Life at Home, we are discussing how to make the most of your child's learning style -- and what to do if you can't figure it out. SCRIPTURES CITED: - Galatians 6:9 - "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose 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.” - Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." - Deuteronomy 11:18-21 - "Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates….” RELATED LINKS: Laying a Foundation for Learning - my best recommendations for early learning Keeping Toddlers Occupied - good activities for distracting your little go-getters Cultivating Creativity in Young Children - fun and easy projects for preschoolers Age Appropriate Chores for Children - chores are a great way to teach life skills Tech-Free Fun for Kids - 10 things your older kids can do while they're unplugged 50 Picture Books Every Child Should Read - just a few of our family's favorites 50 Chapter Books to Read Aloud - wonderful stories to share as a family  STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

In honor of holy week, I 'm sharing a few of our family's favorite Easter traditions today. Although I love baskets and bunnies and colorful candy as much as anyone, we've always tried to place the main emphasis of this season on the sacrificial death and bodily resurrection of Jesus – and on what Christ's finished work means to those who put their faith in Him.  For specific ways to do this, listen in this week's episode in full. Show Notes RELATED LINKS: - Scripture Chain for Lent (free printable) - The Easter Story by Carol Heyer (children's picture book) - Passion Week Trivia Quiz (free printable) - Easter Coloring Pages (and other free resources) - Empty Tomb Craft (super easy craft for children) - Resurrection Cookies (recipe) - Resurrection Rolls (recipe) - Jelly Bean Gospel (free printable) - More Gospel Tracts for Easter (free printable single-fold tracts) - DIY Resurrection Eggs (free printable) - Scrambled Egg Puzzles (free printable) - Finger Lights (for glow-in-the dark egg hunts) - "Let Them Know" (parody of Disney song from Frozen) - "All About God's Grace" (parody of Meaghan Trainor song) - "Never Enough" (parody of song from The Greatest Showman) SCRIPTURES CITED: - Matthew 27:26 - "... he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified." - Matthew 26:12 - "When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial." - Luke 23:36 - "The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar..." - 1 John 4:9 - “God loved us and sent His son.” - Matthew 28:6: “He is risen just as he said.”  - Romans 6:20-23 - "For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness...." - Ephesians 2:1 – "You were dead in your trespasses and sins." - Ephesians 4:18-19 - "They are darkened in their understanding and alienated...." - Psalms 14:1-3 - "They are corrupt; their acts are vile. There is no one who does good...." - Isaiah 59:9-13 – “We hope for light, but there is darkness; for brightness, but we walk in gloom."  - Jeremiah 17:9 - “The heart is more deceitful than all else and desperately wicked...." - Mark 7:21-23 – “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries...” - Romans 3:10-18 - “There is no one righteous....There is no fear of God before their eyes.” - Romans 5:8 - “...while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” - Isaiah 53:5-6 – “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities...." - Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ...." - John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son...." - 1 John 1:9-10 – “...If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” - Romans 10:9-10 – “if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart ....” - Ephesians 2:8-10 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves..." STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)  

Today's the anniversary of the day my husband proposed to me, so I'm taking a little walk down memory lane.... One thing I've learned through more than three and a half decades of marriage? Endings are far more important than beginnings. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Matthew 21:28-32 - "There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said....' RELATED LINKS: - Expensive Weddings Linked to Higher Divorce Rates STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)    

I worked a 14-hour shift at the polls last week for Super Tuesday. And every passing week takes us deeper into an election season that is looking more and more like a repeat of 2020. Which makes me think now would be a great time to review an important concept that seems to have been lost in our current cultural climate: And that is the ability to discuss differing opinions in a civil manner. We've forgotten how to respectfully disagree. This skill is of vital importance, not only in discussing politics, but in dealing with anybody who believes differently than you do: friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers.  Chances are, you have SOMEBODY in your life with whom you don't see eye-to-eye 100% of the time. So, how should we respond when those differences threaten to divide us? To isolate and alienate us? That's the topic of discussion for this week's episode of Loving Life at Home. So grab your cup of coffee and listen in! Show Notes VERSES CITED: - James 1:5 - "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all..." - Ephesians 4:32 - "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other...." - Galatians 5:15 - “If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed ...." - Romans 14:5 - "One person considers one day more sacred than another...." - James 1:19 - ": Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."  - Proverbs 19:11 - "A man's insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense." - Matthew 12:36 - "But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment...." - Proverbs 13:3 - “Those who guard their lips preserve their lives....” - Colossians 3:12 - "...clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness....” - Ephesians 4:26-27 - "Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger...." - Proverbs 29:11 - “A fool gives full vent to his rage, but a wise person holds it in check.” - Proverbs 14:29 - "Whoever is patient has great understanding....” - Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  - Romans 3:10 - "As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one...." - 1 Peter 3:10 - "For whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil...." - Romans 12:3 - "...Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think...." - James 4:6 - “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” - Philippians 2:3 - "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind....” - 1 Corinthians 13:1 - "If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love...." - Ephesians 4:15 - “Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way....” - 1 John 1:9 - “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins.....”  - Isaiah 1:18 - “Come, let us reason together.”  - Proverbs 3:21 - “Do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight....” - Proverbs 16:4 - “The LORD has made everything for its purpose....” - Hosea 14:9 - “Let those who are wise understand these things....” - Matthew 7:12 - “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you....” - Deuteronomy 12:32 - “So be careful to obey all the commands I give you....” - James 5:12 - “But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth....” - Proverbs 10:19 - "When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable...." - 1 Peter 2:1 - "So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander." - 1 Timothy 4:12 - “Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live....” - Daniel 4:17 - “The decision is announced by messengers, the holy ones declare the verdict....” - Proverbs 21:1 - "The king's heart is like channels of water in the hand of the LORD...." - Romans 8:28 - “God works all things together for good to those who love Him....”  - Genesis 50:20 - “As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good....” - 1 Cor. 10:31 - “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” - Ephesians 6:12 - "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers...." - 1 Peter 5:8 - “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around....” - Ephesians 6:13-18 - "Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that...." RELATED LINKS: - EP 34: #1 Rule for Building a Happy Marriage - more on living by the Golden Rule - 9 Ways to Diffuse a Disagreement - tips for calming strong emotions in yourself & others - How to Stop Arguing with Your Spouse - tried and true advice for cultivating a peaceful home - Praying for My Enemies - a free printable prayer guide to help in this area   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -(weekly themed link lists of free resources) - Instagram: follow @flanders_family for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life (parenting tips, homeschool help, lots of free printables!)  - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home  (encouragement in your roles as wife, mother, believer)