When someone you care about struggles with depression, it’s natural to want to help. You might feel uncomfortable with their sadness and want to say something encouraging. But well-meaning words can sometimes do more harm than good. Depression is not a character flaw or a spiritual weakness—it’s a real and often a debilitating condition. Scripture…

Happy Father’s Day! I recognize that not everyone has a great relationship with their father. Father wounds are real and can run deep. But no matter your story, I want to gently encourage you this Father’s Day: take a moment to reflect on your father and try to identify at least one thing he gave you…

“I get triggered every time I am with my sister. Then I walk away upset.” Family conflict is never easy. Emotions run high, relationships are complex, and some dynamics have been years—if not decades—in the making. Take Julie and her brother, John. Julie is furious that John disagreed with a decision she made. Every time…

We’ve all known that special woman who seems to embody the very heart of what it means to be a great mom—wise, nurturing, steady, and full of love. And if you’re a mom, chances are you’ve wondered, Am I doing this right? Will my children remember me as a great mom? Here are four traits of a…

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More from Beliefnet and our partners