Perhaps it was ingrained into our minds during elementary school, but there is something about summertime that seems to change people’s thinking. Even adults seem to develop a kind of “recess mentality” that focuses on self and lets responsibility slide.

As a pastor, I’ve noticed that this summer pattern can become one of the “wiles [tricks] of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11) that is used to cause lasting spiritual harm. Sometimes it is helpful in the middle of the summer to pause and evaluate, “Am I maintaining my walk with God?”

Below are five suggestions for enjoying a productive and pleasurable summer while at the same time maintaining your walk with the Lord and your family relationships. (more…)

This October Terrie and I revisited the site of our first date of October 1979

Yesterday, Terrie and I celebrated thirty years of marriage. It’s hard to believe that something that seemed too wonderful to be true on our wedding day is even better now! I praise God for a godly wife and for the ever-deepening relationship He has given us.

Every newly-married couple knows that marriage is one of God’s greatest gifts. But, after the newness wears off, far too many couples treat their marriage like the kids who get the toy “I’ve always wanted” for Christmas.” They enjoy the gift for a short period, but very soon it is forgotten or neglected.

Marriage is for the long haul. And it actually gets better through the years when it is given continual attention. If you want a marriage that lasts, then you need these five “stays”: (more…)

My prize possession as a boy was a Sting-Ray bicycle. Not only was my bike a source of pleasure and fun, but it was necessary equipment to my job as a paper carrier.

I was careful to maintain my bike, and I paid special attention to keeping the chain tight. With a taut chain, I could touch the pedal and immediately set the bicycle in motion. I knew right away when I needed to adjust the chain because it would slip while I was pedaling. I’d have to stop and remove a link to restore my bicycle’s responsiveness.

Effective communication is similar to a tight bicycle chain. It has tremendous ability to propel forward motion. Tight communication can ensure progress, while sloppy communication can bring incredible frustration—like spinning your pedals while the bike stands still. Communication can build a marriage, church, ministry, business, or friendship. And a lack of it can render otherwise skilled teams ineffective or at odds. (more…)

The last few weeks have been memorable and enjoyable as our family was able to take a few weeks vacation together. Most of our trip was centered around visiting with family and extended family in Colorado. The chief attraction of this vacation for me was my grandson Camden! (Click here to see a few more vacation photos.)

Having Camden with us reminded me of how quickly time flies. It seems just yesterday that our own children were his age. It was a joy these past couple of weeks to have all four of our children and their spouses with us. I can wholeheartedly echo the words of Proverbs 23:24: “The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.”

Terrie and I thank the Lord for each of our children, and we rejoice in their hearts for the Lord. Our three oldest children who are married are serving the Lord in the ministry. Our youngest son Matthew is preparing to be married this August. He and Katie look forward to serving in ministry together.

I don’t regret any time I’ve invested in my children, and I cherish every moment I’ve been able to spend with my wife. My family is a great treasure from the Lord, and I’m so thankful for every moment I’ve shared with each of them.

The home, specifically marriage, is under attack like at no other time in history. A good marriage requires continuous attention, and constant personal growth. We husbands must constantly work to be the best husband we can possibly be. Here are five quick ways to be a better husband:

1. Express appreciation and affirmation regularly.

Establish a personal habit of filling her heart with positive and encouraging communications.

2. Encourage her individual interests.

Applaud her giftedness, and find ways for her to develop and use her gifts for God.

3. Encourage her potential for God.

The enemy condemns constantly. Find ways to remind your wife that she has great potential for ministry and for making a difference.

4. Don’t ignore mood changes.

Often these are the warning signs of a deeper physical problem or spiritual attack. Go to these needs and lead her through them.

5. Take time outs.

Regularly schedule time away together. As a pastor, I’ve found that quality time must often be claimed “out of town.” Take your wife away several times a year for a get-away, a family vacation, or just a long evening out.

Terrie and I have enjoyed over twenty-eight years of marriage, and every day I’m more thankful for a wife who so joyfully and fully supports me and serves with me in the church. I want to be a better husband to her every day!