Facing FUD in Real Time Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC As a psychotherapist, I’ve been hearing from wonderful people on both sides of the political spectrum. Since none of us knows exactly what’s going to happen, many are experiencing confusion, an emotion that can emerge when one simultaneously experiences two or more emotions—ranging from joy, hope,…

The Adventure Begins! Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC May your 2021 be a magnificent adventure! According to Webster, the word adventure means several things. It can range from a dangerous or exciting incident to a delightful experience. Adventure also includes risk, being exposed to danger, or to venture. In 2020, our world faced unimaginable challenges, dangers,…

Choices and Changes Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC This holiday season looks much different from anything we could have imagined—with masks, hand sanitizer, and social distancing—but we can still make it the best Christmas ever! Although none of us chose 2020’s trauma, we can make choices to transform what’s next. Here are some ideas. Being brave…

Loving Yourself Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC Asked by Jewish scholars which commandment is the greatest, Jesus cited Deuteronomy 6:4-5. Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. What Jewish people know as the “Shema”—the quintessential Jewish statement of faith—is vitally important for Christians, too: God, the LORD is one. Jesus reiterated, And you…

Hangin’ by a Thread? Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC In my home state of Wisconsin, October is a time of crisp fall days, crunchy apples, and vibrantly colored leaves. In Florida, fall is a time to enjoy sunshine and anticipate Christmas. For many, like me, it’s not too early for Christmas carols. During a New York…

Your Gift of 1,440 Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC Today, imagine receiving official notice explaining you’ve qualified for a daily gift of $1,440! (Would you be excited?) Reading the fine print, you see there’s only one catch: you have to find a way to spend every cent of your gift the day it arrives. Could you…

Be Kind (but not nice)! Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Those words, from Ephesians 4:32, aren’t in the form of a suggestion; they’re a command. We can be kind—not because someone deserves it but because of what Christ did for each…

Difference Makers Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC In recent weeks, troubled by escalating civil unrest, I’m wondering how those of us who follow Christ can actively demonstrate the “ministry of reconciliation” described in 2 Corinthians 5:16-21. Amid the complexity of current concerns, we can appreciate the beauty of diversity. As Dr. Paul Brand and Philip Yancey explained in Fearfully &…

How to Be Present in a Pandemic Marti Wibbels, MS, LMHC While the world focuses on social, physical, and financial ramifications of COVID-19, increasing rates of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, suicide, and domestic violence point to a growing mental health pandemic. Research from Kaiser Family Foundation indicates “45% of Americans say the coronavirus pandemic is…

Shepherding Your Family During a Global Pandemic Joel McDonald Pastor Joel McDonald (Family Church West, West Palm Beach, Florida), is this month’s guest blog writer. We appreciate his encouragement for all of us navigating the ongoing challenges of COVID-19. As a father of three young children, Joel provides practical ideas, perspective—and hope to keep on…