Cheryl Shoemake shares her journey as a stepmom, discussing the challenges of waiting for her stepchildren to open up and her experience of feeling rejected and disconnected. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and waiting on the Lord to find strength and guidance in difficult situations. [... more]

Navigating the complexities of blended families and the grieving process, a couple shares their personal story of loss and how they've helped their children process their emotions. They discuss the importance of creating a sanctuary of peace in the home, grieving out loud with children, and finding ways to honor the memories of loved ones who have passed away. [... more]

Navigating the complexities of blended families, grief, and loss can be challenging for parents and children alike. Ron Deal, director of Family Life's blended family ministry, shares practical advice on how to help kids process their emotions and create a new sense of family. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional in opening up conversations about grief and creating a safe space for children to express their feelings. [... more]

A blended family's story of love, redemption, and the power of God's grace in shaping identity and relationships. A father's absence and a stepdad's influence are explored, revealing the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of forgiveness and understanding. [... more]

Growing up in a blended family can be a complex and challenging experience, but it can also be a powerful opportunity for growth, redemption, and identity formation. One man shares his story of navigating the pain and difficulties of his childhood, but also the ways in which his stepfather's love and influence helped shape him into the person he is today. He reflects on the importance of understanding and processing childhood trauma, and how it can impact our relationships and sense of self. Through his story, he illustrates the transformative power of God's grace and redemption, and how it can bring healing and restoration to even the most difficult and painful experiences. [... more]

Growing up in a blended family can be a complex and challenging experience, but it can also be a source of strength and resilience. Ron Deal shares his personal story of growing up in a blended family and how it has shaped his identity and relationships. He discusses the importance of forgiveness, grace, and redemption in healing from childhood trauma and building a positive family legacy. [... more]

Navigating the complexities of blended families can be challenging, but with the right resources and support, families can build strong relationships and find unity. Ron Deal, director of Family Life's blended ministry, shares practical biblical solutions for blending a family and a marriage in the new online course, Well Blended. [... more]

Navigating the complexities of blended families can be challenging, but with the right resources and support, families can find unity and connection. Ron Deal, director of Family Life's blended ministry, shares practical biblical solutions for blending a family and a marriage, including the importance of being sensitive to children's feelings and creating new traditions. [... more]

Blended families face unique challenges in building trust and intimacy, requiring faithfulness and trustworthiness from all members. Without these essential qualities, relationships can be fragile and insecure, making it difficult to sustain love and connection. [... more]

Blended families face unique challenges in building trust and intimacy, requiring a commitment to faithfulness and trustworthiness. Without these qualities, relationships can be fragile and insecure, making it difficult for individuals to feel safe and loved. [... more]

Building trust and faithfulness in a blended family is crucial for a healthy and loving relationship. Ron Deal, director of Family Life's Blended Family Ministry, shares practical advice on how to establish trust and overcome common challenges in blended families, highlighting the importance of being faithful in the little things, disciplining one's tongue, and being stubbornly persistent in pursuing the heart of stepchildren. [... more]

Navigating blended families can be challenging, especially when adult children are involved. A couple shares their story of blending their family with adult kids, highlighting the importance of communication and understanding each other's feelings. They discuss how to bridge the gap between adults and kids, and how to create a sense of unity and belonging in the new family dynamic. [... more]

Blended families face unique challenges, and preparing for these changes can make a significant difference in the success of the family. Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal discuss the importance of premarital counseling, understanding step-family living, and navigating financial and estate planning to create a strong foundation for a blended family. [... more]

Couples preparing for marriage in blended families can benefit from premarital counseling and education to navigate the challenges of merging two families into one. Ron Deal's book Preparing to Blend offers practical guidance and exercises to help couples and their children build healthy relationships and a strong foundation for their new family. [... more]

Blended families often struggle with holiday expectations, leading to tension and hurt feelings. It's essential to discuss and plan holiday traditions, focusing on what's truly important. By lowering expectations and being an example of Christ, parents can help their children understand the true meaning of the holiday season. [... more]

Blended families face unique challenges, including intersecting hopes and expectations between biological and step-parents, leading to complex relationships and conflicts. Ron Deal, author and speaker, offers resources and guidance to help blended families navigate these challenges and find wholeness and restoration. [... more]