5 Toxins of the Tongue That Can Poison Your Marriage

Toxic words poison, and sometimes even kill, relationships. Words like, “I hate you” or “I wish I never met you” can cause irreparable damage. I confess there have been too many times when harsh, harmful words have come out of my mouth toward my wife, Susan, my kids, and others. It grieves me. I’m continually working hard to choose my words wisely.
4 Ways Your Marriage Might Be Like the Fiscal Cliff
It’s been hard to avoid all the talk about the economic “Fiscal Cliff” over the past few months. Going over this cliff meant a combination of higher taxes for everyone, cutting vital programs, and the continued deficit spending. While some action has been taken, major issues still remain that must be addressed in the […]
4 Things Dr. Seuss Teaches Us About Perseverance

I grew up reading Dr. Seuss books. Cat in the Hat, Hop on Pop, and Green Eggs and Ham were some of my favorites. Theodor “Dr.Seuss” Geisel is the number one children’s author of all time having written and illustrated 44 books. But did you know he was rejected 27 times before being published? So, what enabled […]
Confession: My Husband and I Struggle Too
Today, my wife Susan, director of iMOM, is going to share with us about how we struggle in our marriage. I’m listening carefully. Be sure to check out her new book, The Passionate Mom, and also follow Susan on Twitter. There is this misconception that I have it made being married to Mr. Family First, Mark Merrill. […]
4 Ways to Overcome an Awkward Valentine’s Day

What makes Valentine’s Day uncomfortable for many of us? Is it the weird feeling of forced spontaneity? Are we afraid our plans won’t work out? Maybe your spouse won’t like what we’re doing. A lot of us fear the possibilities of an awkward Valentine’s Day. Here’s some insight on what makes Valentine’s Day awkward, and a few tips to help you overcome the possibility of a sticky Valentine’s Day
What Do the Super Bowl and Parenting Have in Common?
At first glance, the Super Bowl and parenting may not seem related. However, Tony Dungy makes a great connection between being a parent and preparing for the Super Bowl. Both involve setbacks and disappointment throughout the process, but the determination to stay committed to the ultimate goal is what leads to success. Here’s more […]
How to Take Your Marriage Beyond Ordinary
Today, Justin and Trisha Davis, are going to share with us about how to take your marriage beyond ordinary. I’m taking notes. You can follow Justin Davis and Trisha Davis on Twitter as well as purchase their book, Beyond Ordinary, from any major retailer. When Trisha and I separated in 2005 due to my affair, […]
How to Be More Than a “Good Enough” Father
What makes a father more than “good enough”? How can you be a father who is great? Dads, start by making a list of your priorities. What is the first item on your list? Is it your relationship with God? That is an amazing start. If the next item is your family, you are on […]
One of the Things I Love Most About Family First
One of the things I love the most about working here at Family First is the opportunity to impact thousands of families around the country with our monthly dads & kids and moms & kids school breakfasts called All Pro Dad’s Days and iMOM Mornings. We’re in about 1,200 schools nationwide, and each month […]