A Chat With Greg Laurie

Recently we had a chance to hear the testimony of Greg Laurie, famous Harvest Crusades evangelist.  He’s certainly had to walk an interesting path in his journey to faith.  Learn a bit more about this fascinating story here.

WIR: Sept 6, Drama In The Wild - and At Home

The past week of award-winning Focus on the Family broadcasts included…

And let me encourage you to share your stories - and view others - of how these radio programs make a difference in your life. Check out our new Radio Forum at this link.

Aching Hearts, Yet Hopeful

Steven and Mary Beth Chapman have not despaired since their daughter’s tragic death. In this deeply moving conversation, Dr. Dobson and Steven talk about the journey of grief and our ultimate hope in Christ. Anyone who has lost a loved one will appreciate the tenderness of a hurting heart and the eternal promises of comfort - even when understanding eludes us.

Listen into the broadcast here.

Your Feedback About Depression

We’ve struck a nerve. Knew we would with this topic! Comments we received today about the series with Pastor Tommy Nelson about depression:

We really track your input, and thank you for the comments we’re receiving about the programming. Keep talking to us!

Coming Up: Steven Curtis Chapman

You’ve been so supportive of Steven and Mary Beth Chapman and their family in the days since they lost their beautiful Maria. You’ve offered prayers for them, you’ve sent notes, you’ve contributed to their orphan care initiatives. And you’ve seen the Chapmans on national television and in magazines.

What you’ve not heard, though, is a decidedly spiritual conversation with them about their loss and the ways God has intervened in their lives. Dr. Dobson will be talking with Steven later this week. I hope you’ll be listening. And help spread the word, if you will? Thanks.

Finding Light In Dark Days Of Depression

Tommy Nelson seemed to have it all: a deeply spiritual walk with God, a successful pastorate at a large and growing church, a wonderful wife and some beautiful grandchildren. His speaking and writings had helped thousands better understand the Scripture. His winsome personality naturally attracted followers.

And yet…there was a side to Tommy Nelson’s personal life that few could imagine. Despite his outwardly successful life, Pastor Nelson struggled inwardly with depression. Not just an occasional “blue” day, but full-blown, paralyzing depression.

I’ve enjoyed hearing Tommy Nelson’s messages as they’ve been broadcast several times on the Focus on the Family. And it was an especially gratifying experience to have this good man in the studio. He courageously stepped up to share his difficulties, going where few willingly go. Because of what transpired in that time together, I know God will use this conversation to help people for years to come.

Hearing Pastor Nelson share so transparently about his journey through depression, I thought of the thousands in our audience who have dealt with - or are in the midst of - a crisis of faith and confidence. Here at Focus, we know there are plenty of folks who try to face down that darkness on a daily basis, looking for hope and the strength to carry on with the day’s responsibilities — we hear from many of them.  We know there are people who need to see a little light today, enough to help carry them through the challenges they are facing.

If you are wrestling with depression, I hope you’ll listen in. And then, follow-up by stopping by here - a powerful web-exclusive.

WIR: August 15

This past week the daily Focus on the Family program has addressed the subject of chronic dieting, how to avoid raising “wimpy” kids, and how to be an authentic woman - despite the fears and difficulties that seem to plague every woman (even the outwardly successful woman has insecurities!).

Some of the extra content offered online included this audio about over-protective parenting, a link to “Proud vs. Broken”, and an excerpt from Dr. Juliana Slattery’s bok about women and their fears. Also, if you are interested, an assessment for “weird eating habits.”

WIR: August 8 - Practical Parenting

This past week was pretty fun for the “daily broadcast” team. We featured five days of programming with Dr. Kevin Leman, well-known psychologist, speaker and author - and a good friend of Dr. Dobson’s.

For three days, Dr. Leman talked about his book, Have A New Kid By Friday. He was funny and engaging - and a little provocative, too (in a good way, really!). Filled with common sense discipline approaches, the three-day series generated a significant amount of response from our listeners. It’ll surely be one of the top programs for 2008!

By the way, here’s a funny story Dr. Leman shared about pie…and that’s all I am going to say about it. You really have to hear this. Maybe you can relate?

We also featured author Trish Berg for two days of conversations, again hosted by Dr. Leman. The discussion was all about that crucial first year of mothering…as it affects the child - and the mom! - so very much. Good, practical stuff about crying babies, adjustments to having a little one who is totally dependent upon you, and more.

Question for you: Did you listen to any of these broadcasts? If so, what did you think?

Cheating - Is It Wrong?

In case you missed it, a prominent pastor suggests that cheating is permissable…even more, it is preferable in some circumstances, and can benefit the family.

A Father’s Influence

According to study by Olivia N. Saracho, published in May 2007,  a father can influence his young child’s future level of literacy:

Research provides evidence that fathers can promote the development of their child’s literacy skills, including reading books to them that are appropriate, engaging their children in discussions about books they read, recording in a notebook the books the children have read and encouraging their children to read more books.  (Source: Early Child Development and Care, v177 n4, p403-415, May 2007)

Research is pretty clear that dads DO influence their children in many ways. Over the years, Dr. Dobson has stressed that a father can can make a special impact on thie life of his son. His best-selling book, Bringing Up Boys addresses that in some detail.

In a compelling two-part broadcast, Dr. Steve Farrar stresses that dads have to step up and be there for their sons. This is a great message, and I wish every father would  listen and pay heed.

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