The Scripture has some very specific things to say about the wife’s attitude and role in family life that I believe will be helpful in this specific situation.

Actually, this is a typical challenge in any family, not just stepfamilies – and for a variety of good reasons. Here are several principles I think are especially important in this life-long growing process.

First of all, let me say that there is good news for you, and you are not without hope in this difficult situation!  Some of what I’ll recommend, you may already be doing, but hopefully, this will give you some encouragement and helpful insight.

Yes to both questions – with some clarification…

In some ways...yes.

In some ways...no.

This is a very common issue in marriage. It is important to remember that men and women are sexually and emotionally wired completely differently...

The short answer is – by being a strong-willed parent! Too many parents are weak-willed and allow the stubbornness of their child to discourage them from their task of parenting.

I think one of the hardest things for any single-parent to accept, is the fact that you simply don’t have control over much of what happens while your children are staying with your ex.  Having said this, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have influence.  This is where your faithful instruction and example come into play.  While it is true that you should always be aware of the potential effect of a bad example, don’t underestimate the power of a good example!

Obviously, this is not the ideal situation; however, single-moms are not without hope.  I know because I was raised by a single-mom!  There is much that could be said in response to this question, but I’ll try to just mention a few key principles.  These principles and ideas come both from the Word of God and from those who have walked this path before you!

It is crucial that a husband and wife have open and honest communication for a fulfilling and intimate relationship...