Are you busy? I bet you are! Games, practices, work, meetings and other important things consume our days. We get so busy we sometimes forget what is truly essential. Recently I have been reminded that there are two things I have been neglecting or forgetting to do for my family. And while I can build a great plan to succeed in life, if I'm not leading and caring for my family, emptiness will surely follow.

Weeks ago I realized that I was not meeting the needs of two members of my family: my wife and our oldest son. As a result, I made a promise to my wife that we would pray together every day until God called one of us home, which we've been doing. Second, my oldest son, Caleb, needed more time with his dad. Now we started reading God's Word together each day. I'd been trying to get him to start reading his Bible each day, and what better encouragement for him than his father reading verses alongside him? He reads a section, and I read a section until we finish a chapter. I have seen a huge difference in our relationship already.

FCA friends, I hope you have a firm grasp on these things, but if not, let me encourage you to build a solid foundation with your family. If you are a parent, pray with your spouse and get into God's Word with your kids daily. If you are student, ask your mom or dad to read the Bible with you each day and encourage them to pray together. Create a habit that will last a lifetime and will bless you and all those who will come after you. I pray that you can learn from my shortcomings and be challenged to start today to make a difference in your family for Jesus Christ!