Podcasts about trail life usa

David. Moses. Abraham. Peter. While all of these men achieved amazing things for God, they all also had shortcomings. In the same way, the great men who built this country were also flawed. There's a trend in culture right now to dismiss their heroism, and choose instead to emphasize their shortcomings. But as Theodore Roosevelt once pointed out, [quote], “far better is it to dare mighty things…than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much.” [end quote] It's not necessary to pretend that the Bible– or our nation's history– is only made up of perfect people. The fact that God can use even the most flawed men to achieve great things for His Kingdom is just the inspiring message our sons desperately need to hear. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How high is heaven above the earth? The distance is immeasurable, just like God's love for you.As the Bible says, “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is God's love for those who fear him.”King David paints a powerful word picture in his psalm, writing that God “has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.” If you have turned to God and trusted in his son, Jesus Christ, God has completely removed your sin and eternally separated you from it. When you watch a sunrise, be reminded of God's forgiveness and mercy toward you. There's nothing anyone can ever do to cause God to love you any less.For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Digital technology has become controlling, addictive, and intrusive.Parents, it's ok for you to be the “bad guy” about the use of electronics. Don't let the culture squeeze you into its mold. Our children don't need endless hours of internet and television exposure. Scientific studies show that too much digital time actually alters brain patterns. Consider not allowing “screen time” during the week unless all school work is done. On the weekends, limit the number of hours of screen time a day.Go outside. God created us to interact with His natural world. Lead your boys in enjoying the outdoors and engaging in physical exercise. Children still need time to play in the dirt, walk in the woods, and foster their imagination.For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What memories do you have with your grandfather? The power of a grandpa's love in a young man's life cannot be understated. Child psychologist Dr. Mary Polce-Lynch once counseled a 10-year-old boy who lived thirteen hours from his grandpa. This boy didn't see his grandpa very often, but talked about him every single day. She asked the boy to describe what his grandpa meant to him, and the boy was moved to tears. Relationships with extended family can be complicated– and many people don't live near their children's grandparents. But, as much as you can, be intentional about fostering your son's relationship with his grandfather. This can be through phone calls, letters, visits, or fishing trips. You'll be benefiting your son more than you may even realize. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do any of your son's friends have absent dads? It's likely they do. Over 19.5 million children– or one in four– don't live with their dad. Fatherless boys are more likely to struggle in school, have behavioral problems, and participate in risky behaviors. Take note of your son's peers who don't spend time with their dads. The next time you plan a father-son fishing trip, bike ride, or hike, be quiet but intentional about inviting one of those boys. Your presence will benefit that young man greatly, and you may also be giving his mom or caregiver a much needed break. Plus, you can help open your son's eyes about helping those who may need some extra encouragement. All it takes is an invitation. To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you've ever gone backpacking in the great outdoors, you know the importance of bringing the right equipment. You pack a tent, not a tire. You pack matches, not a microwave. Similarly, when your son heads off to school, make sure he packs the right characteristics. This includes:Honesty—to complete his own work instead of cheating off others.Respect—to see people for who they really are, no matter what they look like.Gratitude—to thank teachers for giving of their time and talent.Kindness—to make life better when challenges arise. And …Courage—to stand up and do right, no matter what.By packing these important virtues, your son can confidently climb the academic mountain while also enjoying the journey.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your walk match your talk?Nobody likes “fake,” hypocritical people. As a Christian father figure and mentor, you need to live out of your faith authentically because people are constantly watching you.I heard about a man who heard that his Christian co-worker had an accident at work. After asking if he was OK, his next question was, “Did he cuss?”How you act is equally as important as what you believe. How is your walk with Jesus right now?Trail Life USA's motto is “Walk Worthy.” Be careful how you live daily so “that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How can we parents create margin in our families to build unity? Play games together. Make a collection of board games. Develop the habit of occasionally clearing the table for game night. As children get older, families can invest in games that take longer to play. Playing board games allows for lots of interaction and often leads to laughter!Read to your children. Build the expectation into your family that everyone should be readers. Provide age-appropriate material for your children. The local library is a wonderful resource that can be used again and again. There is a time to say, “OK, we've watched enough television, and you've spent enough time on electronics. Let's spend some time reading?”We are making choices today that will affect our children tomorrow.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How do we raise servants?Children learn how to serve others in part by watching adults serve.  Serving others includes stepping up to the plate and stepping out to meet needs. An older pastor said, “When our children were young, I pastored a small church with no other children or activities. My kids were part of starting new groups, ministries, and opportunities. None of that was handed to them. Today, as adults, they are leaders and servants. I think being required to serve at church made them the people they are today.”We should look for ways to teach children to serve.  We remember Jesus said He came not to be served but to serve.  They are people who don't just watch what's happening. They make things happen.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

We can learn something valuable about our sons from Peter Pan. In her book Boy Talk, child psychologist Dr. Mary Polce-Lynch makes an observation about the Lost Boys in the story of Peter Pan. These boys are seemingly living the dream. They have no parents, and no school–  just adventures all day long. But interestingly, they still long for one childhood comfort– the bedtime story. As your son grows up, it's important that you let him be a boy. But even while he's pursuing his masculine tendencies, don't forget that he needs emotional nurturing, too. Take a few minutes for a hug– or sit and eat a snack with him. Your “lost boy” may not admit it, but he still needs those moments in the midst of all of his adventures. To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How can we raise boys who love adventure?Here are a few simple ways to encourage boys to not always play it safe but develop their God-given spirit of bravery:Encourage outdoor family activities that involve a healthy level of risk.  Whitewater rafting, tubing on rivers, and waterfall hiking are a few.  Selectively allow children to oversee their own projects.  It's messy and not “perfect,” but they can own it.Enjoy adventurous yard toys like zip-lines and trampolines.  We can't always play it safe!Plan vacations to new places.  Try different cities, restaurants, and entertainment.  As God shapes the lives of our children, He can use the raw material of learning to take risks and mold them into people who change their worlds!For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you remember the song “He's Got the Whole World in His Hands”?The song's lyrics talk about God, saying:He's got the wind and the rain in his hands.He's got the little, tiny baby in his hands.He's got you and me, brother, in his hands.He's got you and me, sister, in his hands.He's got everybody here in his hands. The Bible says God holds on to us with his “righteous right hand.”This image shows us God's power – and our utter helplessness and dependency on him. But you have no reason to fear because of God's promised protection.So, while things may get messy and scary, you can rest assured that God will always hold you in his hands.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is your son able to “blend” his emotions? When going on a hike, you bring along a bar that contains a mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, since your body needs  different nutrients to stay healthy. In the same way, Child psychologist Dr. Mary Polce-Lynch says that healthy development in boys includes teaching them that they can feel seemingly conflicting emotions at the same time. For instance, when your son is sad about not making the soccer team, he may also feel relieved that he will have more free time. Or when he's angry at his dad, he still will feel love towards his dad at the same time. This “blending” of emotions doesn't come naturally, but is an essential skill that you can teach with some simple intentionality. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What are you most afraid of?According to a 2014 Washington Post article, fear of public speaking was America's biggest phobia, with 25.3 percent of the people saying they were afraid of speaking in front of a crowd.A 2022 study listed “corrupt government officials” as Americans' biggest fear.With the world seemingly spinning out of control, we can easily allow fear and anxiety to paralyze us.While some fears are justified, we cannot let them to rob us of the peace God provides.Remember the charge that Moses gave to Joshua: “You shall not fear them, for it is the LORD your God who fights for you” (Deuteronomy 3:22).No matter what you are facing, don't focus on your fear. Instead, focus on God's promises, provision, and power. He is faithful!For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son struggle in math class? Did he miss the big play on the sports field that would have won the game?Failures and fiascos will trip up your son. You wish he'd only see success, but that's unrealistic. Even when we try our very best, disappointment and discouragement can still strike. And when it does, your son may experience frustration and exasperation. These are normal human emotions, but we don't have to give in to them. Instead, remind your son that failures don't define who he is. If he has accepted Christ as his savior, he is a child of the King. Because of that, your son is of incredible worth to God. And that's way more important than any school grade or sports event.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How big is your dream for your son?Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic, writes that a “vision is a glowing word-picture of a desirable and optimistic future.” As parents, we can paint that portrait for our kids, conveying that life is more than just existing, paying bills, and managing problems. God created them and has a deep interest in their lives. Boys need heroes – more than just movie and music stars. Parents, familiarize your family with stories of noble heroes. Read biographies, watch movies and documentaries, and hear radio dramas of missionaries, statesman, inventors, Presidents, and soldiers. Visit historic sites and homes of great Americans. I want to instill a life-long desire for excellence and possibilities.  For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What comes to mind when you see these three words? “Some Assembly Required”For many parents, these words bring back memories of a painful process of reading instructions, sorting through parts, and putting everything together — all under the watchful eye of your child as he waits with anticipation to play with his new toy. Following instructions can be time-consuming and frustrating, but it will save you time and frustration in the long run.Just like following instructions is a proven process for assembling toys, Trail Life USA has a proven process for growing boys into godly men. In a culture lacking any clear vision of positive masculinity, we must provide boys with a template to follow.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever tried putting something together without looking at the instructions?I heard about a man who did this once with a wagon his son got for Christmas. Unfortunately, he put the wheels on wrong. Each time he pulled his son in the wagon reminded him that he should have read the instructions first.Thankfully, God has given us instructions to follow in his word. The Bible is God's big instruction book. “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.” (2 Timothy 3:16)As you're seeking to raise godly boys, continually point them to the wisdom found in God's owner manual for life.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How are you doing with your new year's resolutions?Every year many people resolve to exercise more and eat healthier.The Bible tells Christ-followers to take care of their bodies. “Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple.” First Corinthians 3:16-17Along with our physical fitness, you also need to train our spiritual muscles. It takes work, but it's the most important exercise you can do.“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” First Timothy 4:8For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are men inherently bad? Of course not. Genesis 1:27 tells us that God created both male and female in His own image. But there's a troubling narrative in our society right now that masculinity is toxic. So how can we as Christians fight this damaging idea? First, we can affirm, not punish, the natural masculine traits that appear in our sons– such as being high energy and risk seeking. Second, we can help our sons find positive dad-like men as examples. And third, we can keep an open line of discussion going with our sons about how masculinity is portrayed in music, TV shows, and social media. Being a man can be difficult in this day and age. Let's show our sons that God made men for a divine purpose. To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Join Karen Potter and Rob Stoddard on The Covenant Eyes Podcast as they speak with Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA. Discover how Trail Life USA is raising the next generation of godly men through outdoor adventure and Christian principles, and explore Mark's devotional book, 101 Devotions for Dads with Boys. Learn about the unique challenges boys face in today's culture and how dads can intentionally connect with their sons. RESOURCES:

Is your son experiencing “sideways” emotions? In her book Boy Talk, Dr. Mary Polce-Lynch tells the story of an 11-year-old boy named Andrew. Andrew had suddenly started having headaches and stomachaches. His parents were baffled because– although they had gone through a difficult divorce a few years earlier– things had since settled. Dr. Polce-Lynch figured out that the physical symptoms were a delayed reaction to the divorce. She patiently helped Andrew work through the emotions he had long buried. If your son has unexplained physical or behavioral issues, consider that he may just now be coping with a stressful event that happened before. Prayerfully offer him grace, patience, therapy, or simply time to work through his complicated emotions. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How can you teach your son empathy? Start by modeling this skill in your own life. If the grocery store checker is rude to you, when you get in your car, say out loud to your son, “I wonder if that checker is having a bad day, and dealing with some tough things!” Help your son do this too. If he mentions someone at school who he doesn't get along with, ask, “How do you think that person is feeling?” If your son says he doesn't know, encourage him to guess. Remind him that people who hurt others are often insecure or fearful. You can also memorize verses together about empathy, such as Phillippians 2:3- “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility, count others more significant than yourselves.” For more ideas to raise godly boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever seen your reflection in one of those silly circus mirrors that make you look super short or extremely skinny? Some mirrors can even make you look upside down.Although we're not at a circus or looking into a strange mirror, today's culture sometimes makes us feel as if we're living in an upside-down world. That which is good is put to shame. And that which is evil is paraded with pride. The result is that kids are left confused about what's actually right or wrong. When complex cultural issues arise, open the pages of Scripture and show your kids what the Bible says is right and wrong. In this way, you'll help your kids understand that God's Word is an infallible mirror … our perfect source of truth.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who is the most generous person you know?You may think you have to be rich to be generous, but that's not true.Mother Teresa said, “It's not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”God is our model for generosity. You cannot outgive God. He freely gives and lovingly provides for his children. God will give you what you need out of his infinite riches.In gratitude for everything God has given you, you should be generous to him and others.Remember 1 Timothy 6:18 and teach your children to “be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.”For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Crowds follow individuals who communicate well. Every business, church, school, or ministry needs such people. Help your kids know how to speak well. Create opportunities for them to stand in front of other people and speak about anything. Ask your six-year-old to stand in front of the family at night and talk about his favorite super-hero. We can also challenge boys to write clearly - to present an idea and support it with evidence. We live in a day where the battle for culture rages around who controls the flow of ideas. Help your children know how to open their mouths and communicate verbally. Talk about great ideas in your home, and challenge your children to learn to communicate those ideas.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you know what the letters WWJD stand for? You'll find the acronym on everything from bracelets to T-shirts to key chains. The letters stand for, What Would Jesus Do? This phrase reminds Christians to put Jesus first in all that we do. As parents, we need this reminder, but so do our kids. And the best way for them to learn this is to see it demonstrated in action.So the next time you're faced with financial stress, work problems, or a health crisis, take a moment to sit next to your son and go to the Lord in prayer. When your son sees and hears you ask the Lord for help, he'll understand that WWJD is more than a bumper sticker. It's a way of life.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

While on a road trip, have your kids ever whined, “Are we there yet?” When the journey is long, we grow impatient. We want to arrive at the destination as fast as possible. And if roadblocks make us veer off course, we grow frustrated. Sometimes even angry.The same is true in the parenting journey. Our children are maturing socially, mentally, and spiritually—but sometimes not as fast as we'd like. We want them to develop responsibility as quickly as possible, but then we grow impatient whenever a detour sends them off track.Avoid unreasonable expectations. Realize that your son's developmental process takes time—and that's okay. Instead of constantly wishing he were already at the destination, take time to enjoy life's journey with him. For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What does it take to raise boys to become godly men in a culture that's lost its way? In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time.   Together, we discuss the struggles boys face: apathy, digital distractions, and the confusion surrounding manhood. Mark shares practical, biblical insights to guide your son toward strength, integrity, and godly purpose. Your son was created for more than virtual victories. He was made to become a man of God.  Don't miss this timely episode filled with wisdom, hope, and tools you can start using today.  Read the full show notes with links here: Parenting Boys with Mark Hancock. Episodes You Might Have Missed: Overscheduled Kids? Finding the Right Balance for Your Family 7 Reasons Parents Are Choosing Gentle Parenting Is AI the New Parenting Expert?     If you enjoy listening to Parenting and Homeschool Advice ~ Equipped To Be with Connie Albers, please leave a review and a five-star rating. It is easy and will only take a few seconds. When you do, it helps others see the show in their feed. Also, would you kindly share this with a friend or two? Equipped To Be might be an encouragement to them, too. Thank you ~ Connie   Have a question? Interested in having Connie speak? Send an email to Connie here: https://conniealbers.com/contact/   

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 25% of American kids live without a father or father-like figure in their homes. You heard that right. On average, 1 out of every 4 kids doesn't have a dad to give them piggyback rides, help them with homework, or tuck them into bed at night. That's tragic!If you have the privilege of being a dad, make sure to be there for your kids. Don't just live in your house. Make that house a home where smiles abound, and laughter is loud. And if you know a boy who doesn't have a father who's around, include him in activities with you and your son. Your actions may be small, but they just might make a world of difference to a lonely kid.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When your son was young, did he ever point at someone in a wheelchair? Do your older kids whisper about the new kid who stutters or has a deformity?Teach your kids never to make fun of someone with a handicap. Because we live in a sin-cursed world where physical and mental handicaps exist, these handicaps make life really hard for these people. As Christians, we can't make those handicaps go away, but we can show courtesy and compassion. Teach your son to hold the door open for someone in a wheelchair. Teach your kids to listen patiently to someone who stutters. By helping your kids treat people kindly, they'll focus less on the handicap and more on the person's personality.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you a fraud? Do you act one way at home and another way at church?More than ever, teenagers connect with people who are authentic in their motives and genuine in their behavior. As a parent, your son sees you at your best, but also at your worst. When you realize that you aren't displaying the attitude and actions of a Christ-follower, the most difficult—and yet most meaningful—thing you can do is admit your faults. Explain to your son that shouting or losing your temper wasn't the right way for you to respond to frustration.Admitting your faults won't make your son respect you less. In fact, the opposite is true. Being authentic and genuine will make him see what a great dad he really has.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The land of the free and the home of the brave.What a great country we live in. The freedom we get to experience here in America was not cheap to attain. Many people gave all for the liberty we have.Jesus also gave everything for us to be free. The salvation He provided by dying on the cross is free, but it isn't cheap. He paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.John 8:36 says this, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”Take time this Independence Day to remember the price paid for you to live free in this country, and also remember the price your savior paid for you to be free from the penalty of sin. It's definitely a reason to celebrate and give thanks!(135 words)For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son have a nickname? Many kids do. Some nicknames like Ace or Champ are fun and cute, while others like Rooster, Zippy, and Waffle usually come from some hilarious event or personality trait.Nicknames are common, but there's a nickname that only your son can call you. That's the exclusive name of Dad.It isn't by accident that God gave you to your son, and your son to you. In his all-knowing wisdom, God placed you both together. As a dad, you have the responsibility of raising your son properly, but you also have the incredible joy of seeing him grow and mature into a man. Never forget the privilege of being a dad. Count your blessings and name them one by one.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How do you like your eggs prepared? Scrambled and sunny side up are the most popular, but some people like them hard boiled or over easy.Just as there are many ways to cook an egg, there are also many ways to discipline your son to correct wrong behavior. Of course, you wish discipline were never necessary, but that's an unreasonable eggs-pectation.When your son blatantly disobeys, don't let his behavior eggs-asperate you. Set an eggs-ample by remaining calm. During these difficult moments, eggs-amine your words and actions to make sure they are motivated by love.Although discipline is never fun, it's sometimes necessary. The goal, however, is to teach your son right from wrong. And as he learns this, eggs-cuses will transform into eggs-cellence of character.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you have a kindergartener, have you taught him to drive yet? If you have a teenage son, are you giving him tummy time?Of course not, but in the busyness of everyday life, you might forget where your youngest and oldest children are in their developmental process. Understanding the specific age and stage of each child is vital in seeing where he's come from … and where he still needs to go. So, if you're treating your kindergartener like a teenager, or your teenager like a toddler, reevaluate your expectations and instruction. Because each child is unique, don't compare one child's progress to another. As always, ask God to give you wisdom in guiding your children in becoming mature, responsible, and godly adults.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The human eye is incredible! Even though it has over two million working parts, it's the fastest muscle in the body. It also distinguishes millions of colors.And yet, our eyes often miss what's most important in life. When your son is on the soccer field, are you watching, or are you scrolling through social media on your phone? Can you detect when your son is frustrated, or do you not even notice?To connect emotionally with your son, begin by turning your eyes upon Jesus. When you do this, your role as a father will come into proper focus. But don't delay. In the blink of an eye, your son will be grown and out of the house. Influence his life right now while there's still time.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When you have a problem, do you usually ask for help or try to figure things out on your own?One hindrance to the power of God in our lives is our unwillingness to reach out to him for help and trust him to meet our needs.“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7We limit what God wants to do for us when we don't trust him to meet our needs. What if we put our complete trust in God for everything we need? He wants to take care of and bless his children. The question is: Are you willing to receive his blessings?For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When have you felt a “healthy fear”?While working with electricity, you should have a “healthy fear” of its power and take the proper safety precautions.The Bible talks about having a “healthy fear” of the Lord. The all-powerful and all-loving Creator of the universe fully deserves our fear and respect.Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.”Fearing God gives us the foundation to face all our other fears.When you or your child is afraid, ask God to allow it to draw you closer to Him. You can face your fears confidently, knowing God is greater than all your fears.For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What does it mean to “guard your heart”?Proverbs 4:23 says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.”This proverb is written by a father to his son, but the instructions apply to everyone — no matter their age.Your heart is the source of your thoughts and feelings. Guarding your heart requires keeping your focus on the things of God. So many things in our world can pull our hearts away from being focused on God.Remember Philippians 4:8 and “fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does anyone like to suffer?The apostle Paul knew a lot about suffering. He suffered beatings, imprisonments, and shipwrecks. In Colossians 1:24, Paul said he “rejoiced” in his sufferings. What? How could he rejoice in suffering? Because God used it to advance the gospel.Paul also pointed out that suffering strengthens our perseverance, character, and hope.Most of us have little experience with real suffering. We don't even like minor inconveniences like waiting in a long line.No matter your circumstances, God has a purpose and plan for your life.Let's ask God to help us see and teach our boys the value of suffering for His kingdom's sake.For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever had a divine encounter with someone who came into your life at just the right time, and you knew it was a “God thing”?I heard about a family that had a flat tire at Christmastime. They pulled into the closest repair shop they could find. The technician who came out to help them was named “Emmanuel.” He agreed to fix the flat even though the shop had just closed. Every Christmas, this family tells their “Emmanuel” story as a reminder that God is always with us.God orchestrates every meeting you have with someone for a purpose. Sometimes, that purpose is life-changing; other times, not so much. But they are all divine appointments.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you find yourself playing the comparison game, comparing yourself to others?If so, you need to remind yourself of this truth: You are created uniquely by God — “fearfully and wonderfully made.” There isn't another person in the world like you. It's a message we share with our kids regularly but don't apply to ourselves enough. When we fail to remember that God has created us uniquely and has a specific calling and purpose for our lives, we are tempted to compare ourselves to others. We justify our actions by thinking, “At least I'm not as bad as that person.” When we stand before God, he will not ask us about our neighbor's actions. We will only answer for ourselves.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do the things you say build people up or tear them down?Our words have more power than we realize.Proverbs 15:4 says, “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”King Solomon, who wrote much of Proverbs, points out the pain caused by our hurtful speech. Harsh words cut deeply, and their damage is long-lasting.On the other hand, Solomon also points out the power of our positive words. Most of us are not doctors, but our speech can heal and give life. It can infuse others with renewed courage, faith, and hope. God, help us to honor you with our words by offering hope and healing to the people around us.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What's love got to do with it?Well…quite a lot. Jesus spoke about love often and at one point was quoted as saying, “love your neighbor as yourself”, which was a reference from Leviticus 19:18.But how do we do that? There are many people who do not love themselves or see the value God has placed in them. How can we properly love others as ourselves when we despise ourselves? In order to love others well we must love who God has made us to be. Then we will have the confidence of the Father's love and affirmation in our hearts as we love others through Him.Take some time today to reflect on how great God's love is toward you and how valuable and special you are to him. Then look for ways to spread that love to your family and others.(145 words)For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever ordered a product through Amazon Prime? If so, you're not alone. Over 50% of American households have a Prime membership. From toys to tools, and from shoelaces to shampoo—people love Amazon because of the HUGE variety of items they sell.But there are some things you can't buy at Amazon.com. You can't buy your son a hug. You can't order him a hearty laugh for $19.95. And you can't purchase fun outdoor memories with him that will last a lifetime. Amazon sells over 12 million products, but they can't deliver your son the joy he'll experience wrestling with you in the living room. The relationship you have with your son is one of the most priceless things in all of life. Make it count. For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys sometimes get hurt. That's a fact. But when your son cuts a finger or scrapes a knee, what do you do? If the cut looks dirty, dabbing iodine on it will keep infection away. Even though the antiseptic stings, you know it's for your son's own good. You want him to heal.The same is true in parenting. At one point or another, you'll have to correct your son when he lies, cusses, or misbehaves. Punishment is never a fun thing—for the child or for the parent—but it's necessary for healing and growth. Proverbs 22:6 provides valuable advice. The verse says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Father's Day has been ranked towards the bottom in popularity among the top 15 national holidays. Why would that be?Father's Day can be a difficult day for many people because of traumatic experiences we've had with our fathers. Dads play a very important role in the lives of their children and when you do not have that person in your life in a healthy way, it can affect you in many ways.One of the most important roles of a father is affirmation. Affirming your children, especially your sons,  that they are special, loved, and have a purpose is vital. Hearing the words, “I love you and I'm so proud of you.” Is so necessary to emotional growth, yet many people never hear those words. If you are a man, take time today to pour into your son. take another step and speak into the life of a boy who doesn't have a godly dad. Tell them who God says they are. You will change their lives.(157 words)For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Nathan was going to buy a motorcycle– at age 15. He wanted the bike to ride it to his job at a pizza shop. HIs parents told him it would be too dangerous, and suggested a car, instead. Nathan rolled his eyes.  But one day, Nathan announced that he was going to buy a car, instead. His boss at the pizza shop said a motorcycle would be too dangerous. Nathan's parents glanced at each other, and smiled in relief. Steve Biddulph tells this story in his book Raising Boys to illustrate that while your teenage son may not listen to you, he will listen to other adults. Pray and take intentional steps to make sure your son has positive, godly men in his life to point him in the right direction. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Too many boys are turning to virtual worlds of television, video games, digital media, and the internet to find realms they can conquer and areas where they can excel. The result of this virtual conquest is often apathy, apparent rebellion, or outright resistance to real-world challenge. How can a biblical worldview speak to this issue and offer young men a flourishing vision for their future?  Today's guest is Mark Hancock, who is the CEO of Trail Life. Mark began his career founding a national advertising agency and running it for fifteen years. His conversion to Christ led him into ministry as a Youth and College Pastor, Associate Pastor, Homeless Ministry Director and Global Event Director for an international ministry, organizing events on five continents. He holds two Masters Degrees in the Mental Health Counseling field, having spent several years in private practice, and has taught at secular and Christian colleges. Mark has been a guest on numerous radio and television programs including: Fox Nation's Starnes Country, Family Life Radio, Focus on the Family, and James Dobson's Family Talk Program. In 2017, Mark was named to the American Family Association's '40 Faithful'. An author, award-winning writer, and conference speaker, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of Trail Life USA and lives near Greenville, SC with his wife of over 30 years. They  have two sons. Want to be better equipped with a Biblical Worldview? Check out summit.org! For more from Dr. Jeff on YouTube visit http://bit.ly/3flbj2j  For more resources from Summit Ministries visit their Resource Library at www.summit.org/resources/