Articles by David E. Smith
Government Schools Are Failing Students and Betraying Parents
By David E. Smith   |   06.12.26
Public school students are struggling in reading & math, enrollment is declining, and taxpayers are spending billions. Yet school officials have time to push gender ideology, fight religious liberty & keep parents in the dark? Schools exist to educate children — not replace parents.
The SPLC’s War on Biblical Values
By David E. Smith   |   06.11.26
According to the SPLC, believing historic biblical teaching on marriage and sexuality earns you a spot on their “hate group” list. Funny how “tolerance” and “inclusion” so often mean tolerating everyone… while excluding those who disagree.
Prayer Bulletin for June 2026
By David E. Smith   |   06.08.26
The antidote to pride is humility. 1 Peter 5:5 is clear: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” In a culture that increasingly celebrates self above God’s design, Christians are called to a different path: humility, faithfulness, and obedience to Christ. As we stand for what is good and true we must remember that this is ultimately a spiritual battle.
Them Before Us Releases State Scorecard
By David E. Smith   |   06.06.26
Our laws teach the next generation what is right and wrong. When government redefines marriage, parenthood, and the family, culture follows. The Them Before Us scorecard is an important reminder: children need leaders who prioritize their rights and well-being over adult desires.
When Truth Is Under Attack, Stand Firm
By David E. Smith   |   05.26.26
The cultural battles around us are real, but so is the power and faithfulness of God. Christians cannot retreat into silence while truth, families, and children are under attack. It is time for believers to pray fervently, speak truth courageously, and stand firm in the Lord.
Prayer Bulletin for May 2026
By David E. Smith   |   05.20.26
We are in a spiritual battle. Families are under attack. Truth is under attack. Children are under attack. The answer isn't apathy; it is prayer, repentance, and faithful action. We need to turn to God and seek His forgiveness and mercy. Please join us as we pray for Illinois and our nation. We pray this prayer guide will encourage and strengthen your faith.
Illinois Expands Gambling, Then Treats the Disorder
By David E. Smith   |   05.11.26
More than 1 in 3 boys have gambled. Over half of adults have too. This isn’t “harmless fun”—it’s addictive. The house always wins; the player loses. Illinois reaps revenue from those losses—then asks taxpayers to fund programs to address the “gambling disorder” it helped create.
Registration is Now Open for IFI’s Annual Banquet!
By David E. Smith   |   05.07.26
Registration is NOW OPEN for the annual IFI Banquet featuring nationally renowned pro-life speaker Seth Gruber! Join conservatives from across Illinois for an inspiring evening focused on faith, family, freedom, and defending preborn life. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today.
“Highest Property Taxes in the Country”: Illinois Lawmakers Push for Relief
By David E. Smith   |   05.06.26
Illinois families are drowning in rising costs—gasoline, food, insurance, utilities. And now Springfield risks driving property taxes even higher? Enough is enough. Stop squeezing families to feed wasteful and unaccountable government.
Join Us for a Time of Prayer in Springfield
By David E. Smith   |   05.01.26
Our state doesn’t need more politics—it needs prayer. Stand with believers across Illinois on May 20 to intercede for our leaders, families, and future.
“The Rainbow Belongs to God”: A Message Springfield Needs to See
By David E. Smith   |   04.30.26
We’re praying God will use a simple message to turn hearts back to Him: “The Rainbow Belongs to God.” Help us keep this billboard up in Springfield this summer. Please prayerfully consider supporting this billboard campaign.
Prayer Bulletin for April 2026
By David E. Smith   |   04.27.26
This is more than political tension. We’re seeing rising hostility and violence—hatred of our fellow man. We are reaping the seeds of rebellion and unrighteous anger. The response is clear: humble ourselves, pray, repent, and seek God’s mercy. Then, and only then, cry out for revival.
VIDEOS: IFI’s 2026 Worldview Conference
By David E. Smith   |   04.23.26
Drawing on four decades of research and 30 years of worldview analysis, Dr. George Barna offers a sobering, data-driven assessment of where the church stands—and why Christians can no longer afford complacency. His message is reinforced by Dr. Mark Zumhagen and Rev. Ceasar LeFlore.
Easter Blessings
By David E. Smith   |   04.05.26
Easter calls us to reflect on our faith, even in the midst of trials. A culture of death is replacing what was once a beacon of hope, but the Resurrection reminds us that appearances can deceive. He is risen!! And that changes everything. For His glory, let's continue to boldly stand for truth, with conviction and compassion.
Good Friday
By David E. Smith   |   04.03.26
The death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of the Christian faith. That life can arise miraculously from darkness and death, brings us great hope. As Spring and "new life" emerge, God's promise of resurrection can be seen everywhere. This hope that Christians share is something far greater than the changing of seasons.
David E. Smith
Executive Director
David  E. Smith

Dave Smith is the executive director of Illinois Family Institute (501c3) and Illinois Family Action (501c4).

Follow Dave on X: @ProFamilyIL

David has almost 35 years of experience in public policy and grass-roots activism that includes countless interviews for numerous radio, television, cable programs and newspaper articles on topics such as the sanctity of life, natural marriage, broadcast decency, sex education, marijuana, gambling, abortion, homosexuality, tax policy, drug decriminalization and pornography.

He and his wife of 31 years are blessed with eight children, many of whom they homeschool. They believe their first God-given responsibility is to disciple their children—cultivating a love for God through faithful teaching and obedient living. Research consistently affirms that parents, ideally a mother and father, are the primary influencers in a child’s life. True discipleship involves sound doctrine, love for God and others, and a life lived in faithful obedience, all with the aim of raising healthy, productive individuals who honor God and love their neighbors.

Dave has also served as a precinct committeeman and served as an elder in his local church.

Follow David E. Smith
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