Articles by David E. Smith
IFI Worldview Conference: Rebuilding a Biblical Worldview in a Babylonian Culture
By David E. Smith   |   01.27.26
What is really happening to the church in America? On March 7, 2026, join us in Downers Grove for the IFI Worldview Conference featuring Dr. George Barna. Drawing on four decades of research and 30 years measuring worldview, Dr. Barna will deliver a clear-eyed, data-driven assessment of the church’s condition—and why Christians can no longer afford complacency.
The Price of Life: What Is a Human Soul Worth?
By David E. Smith   |   01.23.26
In this compelling Sanctity of Life message, Pastor Jim Scudder exposes how our culture devalues life—and why Scripture declares every human being priceless. Watch, listen and be challenged to defend life, extend grace, and stand for truth.
Predatory Gambling in Illinois Continues to Expand
By David E. Smith   |   01.22.26
Illinois now hosts nearly 50,000 state-licensed slot machines — and that growth has consequences. Gambling revenue depends on predictable human loss, not prosperity. When government profits from addiction and false hope, it stops serving the public and starts exploiting it.
Order Your Primary Voter Guides Now
By David E. Smith   |   01.20.26
The 2026 Primary Election Voter Guides are headed to the printer, and orders are now open. IFI’s nonpartisan Voter Guide helps citizens make informed decisions by clearly outlining where candidates stand ahead of the March 17, 2026 primary.
Prayer Bulletin for January 2026
By David E. Smith   |   01.19.26
The fall of Roe was an aswer to prayer—but it was not the end of the battle. As abortion numbers surge in blue states like Illinois, Christians are being called to something deeper than politics: prayer, courage, and faithful engagement.
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday
By David E. Smith   |   01.16.26
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a call to prayer, compassion, and faithful action. Discover practical, Christ-centered ways you and your church can help build a culture that honors every human life.
How Christianity Revolutionized Marriage
By David E. Smith   |   01.14.26
Biblical marriage put men under God’s law and gave women dignity, security, and protection. Yet today we are drifting toward cohabitation and away from the protective, stabilizing institution of marriage that God ordained. Read this powerful excerpt from Love Thy Body.
Are You Registered to Vote?
By David E. Smith   |   01.09.26
God has blessed America with the gift of self-government -- a "government of the people, by the people, and for the people." Voting is a privilege that millions of people in other parts of the world are denied. But this unique blessing also comes with a tremendous responsibility. In Romans 13, we are told that all authorities are appointed by God. Who is the authority in America?
Scripture Is More Essential Than Ever
By David E. Smith   |   01.05.26
In a culture drowning in confusion and lies, God is calling His people back to truth, clarity, and courage. If we desire to be mature, fruitful, and spiritually discerning Christians, we must devote ourselves to the regular reading and meditation of Scripture.
Happy New Year!
By David E. Smith   |   01.01.26
God has placed this ministry here for such a time as this. As we step into a new year, IFI remains committed to standing for truth, life, family, and freedom—no matter the challenges ahead.
Last Day of 2025 – Last Chance for Matching Challenge
By David E. Smith   |   12.31.25
If we are called to be the salt and light of our nation — if we are to overcome evil with good — then we cannot stand by while the noxious lies of our culture go unchallenged. As the year comes to a close, we urge you to support the work of Illinois Family Institute by taking advantage of the Matching Challenge that expires at midnight tonight.
You Can Help Us Reach Our Goal!
By David E. Smith   |   12.30.25
We’re over 80% of the way to unlocking a $150,000 year-end match—with less than 24 hours left. Every gift right now helps equip Christians, defend families, and shape Illinois in 2026. Help us cross the finish line before midnight.
2025 Matching Challenge Update
By David E. Smith   |   12.30.25
Christian families across Illinois are standing with IFI — and right now your support goes twice as far. Every gift is doubled through December 31. Help defend faith, family, and freedom in Illinois.
Why IFI Matters More Than Ever
By David E. Smith   |   12.27.25
The lies of Satan are intensifying — but your support today can make a powerful difference. Give now and your gift will be matched dollar for dollar.
Ending Federal Funding for Irreversible Gender Procedures on Children
By David E. Smith   |   12.19.25
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced new steps to curb irreversible “sex-rejecting” procedures on children—citing evidence of lasting medical harm. Federal funding may soon be cut off to hospitals that continue putting radical so-called "gender" ideology ahead of the welfare of children.
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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