Focus on the Family Commentary

Raising a teenager can be tough. When the going gets tough, and you're tempted to pull away, don't. There's important work to be done. Jim Daly offers practical encouragement for struggling parents.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1161501If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

To many people, marriage advice like, "listen to your spouse" simply means "don't interrupt while they're talking." Jim Daly how active listening goes so much deeper that it can transform your marriage.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1161501If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

A few wayward sparks is all it takes to create a fire that can burn through an entire city ... or a conflict that can burn through a relationship. Jim Daly explains how to de-escalate conflict when emotions run hot.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1161501If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Many parents wonder where to draw the line between love and discipline. There is no "one size fits all" approach, but Jim Daly explains which of the four styles of raising children is best for balancing love and discipline.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

In the 2016 Olympic games, one American athlete expressed his patriotism in the unlikeliest of ways. Jim Daly shares the story. (Original air date: Dec. 19, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

No matter how much you and your spouse share in common, you won't mesh in every part of your relationship. Jim Daly explains how couples can allow their differences to bring them together instead of drive them apart.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Do you feel like you don't have enough hours in your day? It's understandable. Life can get busy. Jim Daly explains why problems with time management aren't about the number of hours you have, but how you use them. (Original air date: Oct. 22, 2012)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

What do you do when you're shopping and the child down the aisle has a meltdown? Do you walk away irritated? Or do you offer the mom encouragement? Jim Daly shares how a simple gesture in a difficult moment can transform a struggling parent's day. (Original air date: Aug. 26, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

If you're a mom, the chances are you're really tired. Jim Daly explains why rest is crucial to the rhythm and tempo of motherhood.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Maybe you feel you've reached the end of your marriage and have decided divorce is the only answer. Jim Daly explains why ending your relationship isn’t the easy solution you may think it is. (Original air date: Jan. 14, 2015)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Religious oppression is emerging in the United States. Jim Daly explains why religious freedom lies at the heart of American freedom.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

When your kids make poor choices, is your response measured? Jim Daly explains why overreacting reinforces the very misbehavior you’re trying to eliminate. (Previous air date: Aug. 2, 2013)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Today is National Constitution Day. Jim Daly explains why the best way to celebrate is to protect the ideals of the Constitution as rigorously as we protect the document itself. (Previous air date: Sept. 17, 2020)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Did a year of wearing masks in public during the Covid-19 pandemic teach us anything about human connection? Jim Daly explains why a year of Covid did more than mask our faces, it masked our souls.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Children tend to think everybody ought to be just like them. When they feel that way about their siblings, conflict is likely. Jim Daly shares how parents can teach their kids to respect each other. (Original air date: July 18, 2013)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Guys, there is a difference between loving your wife and cherishing her. Jim Daly shares two simple tips that will help husbands better cherish their wives.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Social media can be a great tool for staying in touch with friends. But technology is stripping friendship of its richness. Jim Daly shares how to teach your children the lost art of making a friend and becoming one. (Previous air date: July 15, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

A lot of people work hard every day, so they can enjoy a better "someday." But what if our "better days" are right here and now? Jim Daly explains why it's so important to enrich your "now" and your "somedays." (Previous air date: May 12, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

The unity candle is one of the most beautiful symbols in a wedding. It's also one of the most misunderstood. Jim Daly explains why a thriving marriage doesn't erase individuality. It puts each person's uniqueness to work in service of the relationship.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

How can you inspire your child to love learning and motivate them to take school seriously? Try this: Help your son or daughter make their primary goal ... having a goal. Jim Daly explains how to help your children plan for success. (Previous air date: Oct. 30, 2018)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Many people believe that America cannot be truly great unless our ancestors were perfect people. Jim Daly explains why the story of our country isn't all good or all bad. It's both.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Giving children every advantage doesn't improve their lives in the long run. Jim Daly explains why sheltering children from disappointment, the pain of waiting, or the discipline of hard work isn't always helpful.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

What makes a man or a woman great? Their achievements? Their skill? Their talent? Jim Daly shares the most important characteristic to true greatness for any man or woman. Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Anger and resentment destroy relationships. Jim Daly shares thoughts from Al and Lisa Robertson of Duck Dynasty fame, who say forgiveness saved their family. (Previous air date: Dec. 26, 2019)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Justifiable resentment is anger that you hold on to after someone hurts you. The question is, "How do you let go?" Jim Daly shares why you don't build a better life by holding on to the past, but by freeing yourself from it.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1144304If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

By almost every measure, fatherhood in America is in crisis. Jim Daly shares who can solve the epidemic of fatherlessness, and how. (Previous air date: May 28, 2018)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

It's possible to restore a troubled marriage ... if you ask the right question. Jim Daly explains why the right question isn't, "Do I want to work on my marriage?" but "Am I willing to work on my marriage?"Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

When you and your spouse first fell in love, did you ever dream household chores could have a negative impact on your marriage? Jim Daly explains how chores can bring you together as a team rather than pull you apart. (Original air date: June 6, 2014)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

The power of observation can bring you success in every area of your life. Jim Daly explains how to transform your career, your marriage, and your parenting with the power of observation.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Most parents are happy to praise their child for strong academics. Jim Daly shares why it’s best for parents to focus more on their child’s character. (Original air date: Aug. 12, 2013)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Every day society offers skewed ideas about what's valuable. Jim Daly shares why it's so important to say "no" to ambition and "yes" to your family.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Have you ever wondered how qualities you found attractive when you and your spouse were dating became so irritating once you got married? Jim Daly explains how a couple’s differences can bring them together instead of drive them apart. (Original air date: July 7, 2014)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Do your teenagers rely on you too much to solve their problems? Jim Daly offers ways to help your teen think through challenging circumstances and find solutions on their own. (Original air date: Oct. 28, 2013)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

America is built on the principles of justice, human dignity, and freedom for all, but we've never fulfilled those ideals perfectly. Jim Daly explains why the way forward for America is now what it's always been – a stumbling journey forward.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Is your marriage a struggle because you don't think it measures up to other couples? Jim Daly explains why a peek behind closed doors would reveal just how imperfect other marriages really are. (Original air date: March 12, 2014)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

When we go through tough times, we have two choices: face reality ... or embrace reality. Jim Daly explains how to put your past in the past and set yourself free to embrace your future.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Parenting children is a lot like gardening. Jim Daly explains how to work with what you have, so you can reap a good harvest even when conditions aren't perfect. (Original air date: Aug. 26, 2013)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Many marriages fail because couples are confused about what true manhood is all about. Jim Daly shares how John Wayne helped his son learn two important characteristics about masculinity. (Previous air date: June 16, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Building a strong marriage can be as difficult as hitting a fastball. Jim Daly explains how to hit a home run for your marriage by instilling your relationship with trust and respect.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Have you ever noticed how good things often come from bad experiences? Jim Daly explains how failure can become a doorway to success. (Previous air date: May 20, 2014)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Rules are an important parenting tool. But too many can overwhelm a child. Jim Daly explains how to help your children improve their behavior by doing away with long rule sheets and simplifying your expectations.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

The more expensive something is, the better its quality, right? That may not be true when it comes to a college education. Jim Daly shares why your kids' futures don't depend on attending a college that's out of your price range. (Previous air date: May 9, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Is there meaning in suffering? Jim Daly shares the true story of the only person officially recognized by Japan for surviving both atomic bombs in 1945. (Previous air date: Aug. 16, 2019)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Did you know that the term "teenager" wasn't a part of the American lexicon until 1941? Jim Daly explains how to launch your teenagers into adulthood by giving them the independence they want ... and need.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

The doors that lead to our future can open right in front of us at any given moment. Jim Daly shares a personal story that demonstrates how to notice those opportunities by keeping your eyes peeled and your heart open. (Previous air date: July 1, 2016)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Successful marriages don't thrive because of chemistry, good luck, or wishful thinking. Jim Daly shares how successful couples make their marriage better by excelling in three key areas of their relationship.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Independence is a wonderful thing ... but so is community when you need help. Jim Daly shares the story about neighbors who came together to help a 90-year-old World War Two veteran take his afternoon walks. (Previous air date: June 7, 2018)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1131801If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

When you think of power, words like “strength” and “dominance” may come to mind. But power is a surprisingly delicate thing. Jim Daly shares why it takes wisdom for parents to know when to exert authority and when to let go. (Previous air date: Aug. 21, 2013)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1117301If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

Marriages thrive on desire, not obligation. Jim Daly explains how a man can make his wife’s heart come alive by treating their relationship like a flower in need of TLC, instead of a stuffy rule book to follow.Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1117301If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/

An increasing number of public venues like restaurants and movie theaters are banning children. It’s supposed to create a more hospitable environment for adults. But is there a better solution than excluding children from public places? Jim Daly answers that question. (Previous air date: Feb. 23, 2018)Support family ministry: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/singleitem/checkout/donation/item/panele?refcd=1117301If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback: https://focusonthefamily.com/podcastsurvey/