Laurie Stroud
Spring Pest Control: Tips & Strategies for a Pest-Free Season
Our House Springtime Pests in Alabama. Here are just a few of the critters found in Alabama that you may need spring pest control services for: Rodents Moths Roaches Mosquitoes Bees and Wasp Spiders Termites Here are a few of our best tips for springtime pest control that you can tackle at home. Indoor Chores. …
Dealing with Self
Encouraging Word It is no accident that Jesus pointed out in Matthew 16:24 that the first step to discipleship is to “deny self.” Deny means to refrain from satisfying oneself. My family doctor, in encouraging me to lose weight said, “Tony, it is okay to deprive yourself.” Jesus was saying to refrain from being selfish. …
Two Ways to Cultivate Marital Vitality in the Golden Years
Special Feature “It’s been 45 years since we said, ‘I do,’ Stan mumbles, “but lately, I’ve wondered if I didn’t make a mistake.” Stan’s sentiments represent a disturbing trend among senior couples. In the early years, Stan and Lisa shared many interests and were best friends. But when children came, and Stan’s job became more …
Financial Freedom: A Gift to Your Family
Money Matters Here’s a sobering statistic: 72% of retirees say one of their biggest fears is becoming a burden on their families, according to a study by Edward Jones and the consulting firm Age Wave. If you are near retirement, how can you prepare yourself to become financially free, so you won’t have to depend …
A Life of Service at Big Oak
Miracle Moments Brought to you by: Molly Maid of Birmingham, www.mollymaid.com/birmingham “But be sure to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you.” 1 Samuel 12:24 Children arrive at Big Oak Ranch in need. They need love. They need guidance. They need the …
Tethered Trust
Best Books The Key to Trusting Comes Down to Knowing His Name. Trust. Sounds simple. But trust is a complicated and delicate matter. We know we should trust God, yet we grapple with the question: How do we actually do that? Especially when life presents unexpected trials, trusting a God we can’t see seems like …
Navigating Transitions: Helping Children and Students Embrace Change
Parenting Points Life is filled with transitions—moving to a new home, changing schools, entering adolescence—each bringing a mix of excitement and uncertainty. For some families, May marks the beginning of a transition season. Navigating these transitions can be challenging for children and students, but with the support of family and trusting God by faith, they …
Local Grads Share Their Faith: 2024 College Scholarship Winners & Finalists
Education Extra Congratulations to Lydia Burnett from Crossroads Christian School, the recipient of the Annual Birmingham Christian Family (BCF) Scholarship! Burnett receives a $2,000 scholarship to the college or university of her choice. Read her inspiring words on how her Christian faith impacted her decision making throughout her high school career. “Throughout my high school career, …
Light in the Darkness: Delivering Hope When It’s Needed Most
Mission Makers The stories pouring out of Haiti have been difficult to watch as seemingly unbridled evil is manifesting in rioting, looting, murder, and other unspeakable atrocities. A veil of fear and panic has gripped much of the nation. It’s certainly easy to become disoriented by the darkness on display and feel hard pressed on …