Put Down and Pick Up is a guest post by the author Rachel Allord. Learn more about Rachel and check out her wonderful books here!   We made it, parents. We made it through another year and now stand on the precipice of a brand-new one. It’s the time for fresh starts, clean slates, and

I’m a huge Star Wars fan… don’t even ask me to estimate the number of times I’ve seen the original trilogy. It might be embarrassing! With the upcoming release of Episode 8 this Friday, I thought I’d share one scene that has stood out to me as a profound parenting scene, and it probably goes through

Christmas is just a few short weeks away and everywhere you look the world is anxiously preparing. Stores filled with shiny decorations, lights popping up in front yards, people swinging little brass bells next to red kettles – all sure signs that Christmas is near. I have a confession: I don’t really like Christmas. I

Thanksgiving is right around the corner – how will you make the most of these days with your family? We have some ideas for you! Clean through your toys. Have your kids share things they’re thankful for and favorite memories with specific toys. Then challenge your kids to pick a few toys to give to

Since becoming a parent I have often had to stop and laugh at some of the things that I have had to say to my children: Stop licking the walls. Don’t hit the baby with the lightsaber. The dog is not a horse. But I’ve noticed recently that some of the things I say to

One of the catchiest words in the parenting world is “balance.” We’re to constantly seek balance in our lives. Whether it’s between our role at home and at work, or between our call as spouse or parent. Balance your personal relationships and your family time! Balance your ministry engagement and your social life. That’s not

One of the strangest passages in the Bible is Exodus 4:24-26. A quick summary: Moses was just commissioned by God to save the Israelites, so naturally, God meets Moses at an inn and “seeks to kill him.” Upon seeing her husband’s plight, Moses’ wife Zipporah does what we would all do: grabs a flint knife,

There’s a distinct difference between a test drive and training. Imagine walking out of the dealership with keys for a new car you’re considering buying. You climb in, adjust the seat and mirrors, fiddle with a few of the knobs and then take the car out. It’s not your car yet – you haven’t made