FamilyLife Today®

Beth Runkle--author of Another Move, God? 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife--knows being married in the military can feel like losing time, control, even your voice. When duty wins (again), what keeps your marriage from drifting? This episode steps into the tension: respect when it’s hard, staying connected when you’re apart, and quieting the mental spiral. It’s honest about the strain—and speaks to the part of you asking, “How do we not just survive this?” Show Notes and Resources Connect with Beth & get her book "Another Move, God?" at bethrunkle.com. You can also get a free 7-week Leader's Guide for small groups for Beth's book Join a Weekend to Rememeber Marriage Getawat at weekendtoremember.com Lead a transformative marriage study group with Art of Marriage  or Vertical Marriage Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You didn’t sign up for this version of a military marriage: the moves, the silence, the stalled dreams. But what if the chaos isn’t wrecking your life, but reshaping it? This episode gets the grind—deployments, resentment, starting over—and speaks straight to the questions you’re too tired to ask. Beth Runkle, author of Another Move, God? 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife, offers hard-won perspective that meets you where you live. Show Notes and Resources Connect with Beth & get her book "Another Move, God?" at bethrunkle.com. You can also get a free 7-week Leader's Guide for small groups for Beth's book Join a Weekend to Rememeber Marriage Getawat at weekendtoremember.com Lead a transformative marriage study group with Art of Marriage  or Vertical Marriage Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You’re hustling to keep the lights on, the kids alive, and your faith from feeling like a Sunday-only hobby. In this episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Jordan Raynor—host of the Word Before Work podcast and author of the new Word Before Work devotional—about why your job, your chores, and your unseen grind might be doing more for God’s kingdom than you think. Show Notes and Resources Get Jordan's book "The Word Before Work" on our shop. Learn more about Jordan at his website jordanraynor.com Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Faith and work collide in the places you actually live: locker rooms, Zoom calls, minivans, and fluorescent-lit offices where calling can feel like drudgery. Jordan Raynor joins Dave and Ann Wilson to blow up the sacred/secular divide, trace God’s first commission from Genesis 1 into your Monday grind, and show why changing diapers, running routes, closing deals, or pulling espresso shots can all be strategic, eternal work—without changing your job title. Show Notes and Resources Get Jordan's book "The Word Before Work" on our shop. Learn more about Jordan at his website jordanraynor.com Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Blended families face unique battles: guilt-paralyzed bio parents, stepparents feeling threatened, ex-spouses overstepping. Ron Deal and Gayla Grace unpack traps that sabotage marriage and parenting—erase/replace mindsets, unilateral fixes, defensiveness—and show how co-parents can lean in, communicate intent, and send “no-threat” messages. When couples unite around kids, check in before ex-decisions, and prioritize long-term child good, hope, stability, and even transformation become possible. Show Notes and Resources Resources for blended families familylife.com/blended Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Ron Deal & Gayla Grace on common blended family traps Get the Smart StepMom book on FamilyLife's shop.  Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Grandparents and parents face heartbreak when kids walk away from faith—or when rules block spiritual talks. Dr. Crawford Loritts and Larry Fowler (Legacy Coalition) show how leaning in with persistent love, humility, gratitude, and creative prayer keeps relational doors open. Through stories, apologies, and benchmarked traditions, they reveal how small, consistent faith-filled actions can shape family legacies—even amid fractures, resistance, and messiness. Show Notes and Resources Legacy Coalition is a ministry equipping Christian grandparents. Go tolegacycoalition.com The Legacy Grandparenting Summit is an annual conference for Christian grandparentslegacycoalition.com/summit Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Grandparents aren’t spectators—they’re hope-givers with the power to shape eternity. Dr. Crawford Loritts and Larry Fowler show how intentional grandparenting changes family legacies: sharing faith stories, praying boldly, modeling surrendered lives, and passing God’s truth across generations. Walk alongside them as they turn hard pasts into godly futures and show how every moment with grandchildren can echo through eternity. Show Notes and Resources Legacy Coalition is a ministry equipping Christian grandparents. Go tolegacycoalition.com The Legacy Grandparenting Summit is an annual conference for Christian grandparentslegacycoalition.com/summit Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When life tips over, how do you keep trusting God? Pastor Erik Reed, author of Uncommon Trust: Learning to Trust God When Life Doesn't Make Sense, shares his family’s journey through unimaginable loss—his son’s medical tragedy, kidney transplant, and death at 15—and the daily, vulnerable faith that carried them. This episode doesn’t offer easy answers, but it shows how Scripture, surrender, and community beat a path toward wholeness. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of Erik's book, Uncommon Trust: Learning to Trust God When Life Doesn't Make Sense at your favorite bookstore. Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Bitterness eats the soul like poison. Anxiety paralyzes even the strongest. Pastor Erik Reed takes listeners inside the unfiltered journey of forgiving the surgeon who ruined his son’s kidneys—including panic attacks and, in his bones, trusting God in difficult times. Walk with Erik through the Valley of the Shadow—from anger and fear to freedom and uncommon trust. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of Erik's book, Uncommon Trust: Learning to Trust God When Life Doesn't Make Sense at your favorite bookstore. Save the date! Blended & Blessed® is happening April 18, 2026. Find details at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When prayers feel like they’re bouncing off the ceiling and life goes sideways—what then? Pastor Erik Reed shares the gut-punch story behind his book, Uncommon Trust—a 15-year fight for his son’s life after a devastating medical mistake. This isn’t tidy faith talk about trusting God. It’s the gritty road from “God will fix it” to “but if not.” If your faith feels white-knuckled and shaky in suffering, this conversation meets you there. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of Erik's book, Uncommon Trust: Learning to Trust God When Life Doesn't Make Sense at your favorite bookstore. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Think AI is harmless? Think again. Today’s chatbots don’t just answer questions—they offer friendship, romance, even “love.” And the AI dangers aren’t loud… they’re subtle. Easy affirmation. Zero challenge. Total secrecy. On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about how AI dangers threaten marriages, kids, and faith. Before “Google God” replaces real connection, learn what’s at stake in your home. Show Notes and Resources Attend a Weekend to Remember marriage getaway: Register today at WeekendToRemember.com Join the Blended & Blessed one-day event/livestream: register today at blendedandblessed.com Get your copy of The Mindful Marriage by Ron and Nan Deal on our shop Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Lonely? There’s an app for that. AI companions promise instant connection, zero conflict, and someone who always says the right thing. No eye rolls. No baggage. No growth either. On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about how AI companions are reshaping marriages, parenting, and emotional intimacy. Before a chatbot becomes your safest relationship, find out what’s really at stake. Show Notes and Resources Save over 40% on all getaways thru 3/31! Register now at Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Join the Blended & Blessed one-day event/livestream: register today at blendedandblessed.com Get your copy of The Mindful Marriage by Ron and Nan Deal on our shop Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Can seasons of darkness help us see more clearly than ever? Singer & author Andrew Peterson describes his path through depression to resurrection. Show Notes and Resources Get to know Andrew learn about his book Resurrection Letters at andrew-peterson.com Save over 40% on all getaways thru 3/31! Register now at Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

"Ever feel like you’re sharing a calendar… but not your heart? You work the same mission, manage the same chaos—yet something’s off. You're emotionally distant, but it's subtle. Polite. Growing. Show Notes and Resources Explore FamilyLife marriage resources, including the Art of Marriage video series: Get the leader kit, workbooks, or stream at familylife.com/art-of-marriage or through RightNow Media. Get your copy of Vertical Marriage: The One Secret That Will Change Your Marriage by Dave and Ann Wilson in our shop. Save over 40% on all getaways thru 3/31! Register now at Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever feel like life’s flying 78 mph and your marriage is just hanging on? Ministry’s thriving. Career’s climbing. But at home? You’re missing each other—and nobody’s calling it out. That’s what happens when emotional check-ins get skipped and “we’re fine” becomes the norm.On this episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with David and Meg Robbins—now leading Cru—to talk about success, survival mode, and the quiet drift that almost cost them. If you’ve felt unseen, overloaded, or second to the mission… this one’s for you. Show Notes and Resources Explore FamilyLife marriage resources, including the Art of Marriage video series: Get the leader kit, workbooks, or stream at familylife.com/art-of-marriage or through RightNow Media. Get your copy of Vertical Marriage: The One Secret That Will Change Your Marriage by Dave and Ann Wilson in our shop. Save over 40% on all getaways thru 3/31! Register now at Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You can love God, serve people, hit your goals—and still feel strangely empty at home. So what gives? Why does “successful” sometimes feel like “running on fumes”? Stephanie Carter and her husband Bryan, author of Made to Last: 8 Principles to Build Long-Lasting Relationships, get blunt about burnout, counseling at 37, and the wake-up call that reshaped their marriage. If your family gets the leftovers of your ambition, this episode will hit close to home. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Bryan Carter's and his book Made to Last: Eight Principles to Build Long-Lasting Relationships at bryancarter.org. Save over 40% on all getaways thru 3/31! Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Sign up for the free Blended and Blessed livestream: a one-day event focused on building unity in blended families: Happening April 18, 2026 — register at blendedandblessed.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom.  Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You’re checking the boxes—career, church, kids—but something still feels off. Why doesn’t success feel significant? And why does marriage take the hit when life gets busy? Stephanie Carter and her husband Bryan, author of Made to Last: 8 Principles to Build Long-Lasting Relationships, share how burnout, counseling, and hard recalibration reshaped their marriage and family rhythms. If you crave balancing work and family in practical ways that put God first without quitting your calling, this conversation meets you where you live. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Bryan Carter's and his book Made to Last: Eight Principles to Build Long-Lasting Relationships at bryancarter.org. Attend a Weekend to Remember marriage getaway, our faith-based retreat with biblical teaching, practical tools, and focused time for couples: Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Sign up for the free Blended and Blessed livestream: a one-day event focused on building unity in blended families: Happening April 18, 2026 — register at blendedandblessed.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom.  Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You love Jesus—but marriage still feels complicated. Ministry pressure. In-law tension. Career moves you didn’t plan. What does a strong Christian marriage actually look like after 25 years? If you're wondering How can I make a relationship last? Stephanie Carter and her husband Bryan--author of Made to Last: 8 Principles to Build Long Lasting Relationships--get you started in the right direction. They chat about conflict, calling, compromise—and the quiet resilience that keeps love standing. If you’re tired of clichés and want faith that works at home, this one’s for you. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Bryan Carter's and his book Made to Last: Eight Principles to Build Long-Lasting Relationships at bryancarter.org. Attend a Weekend to Remember marriage getaway, our faith-based retreat with biblical teaching, practical tools, and focused time for couples: Register now at WeekendToRemember.com Sign up for the free Blended and Blessed livestream: a one-day event focused on building unity in blended families: Happening April 18, 2026 — register at blendedandblessed.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom.  Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Dennis and Barbara Rainey know marriage is hard, messy, and tested daily. On FamilyLife Today, they share marriage lessons from decades of insight—faith-based, practical, and no sugarcoating—to survive the everyday mess. Show Notes and Resources Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Your world can flip in an instant. One call, one loss, and suddenly your marriage, your faith, your family—all feel torn-open and unsteady. On Family Life Today, Chris Brooks and Yodit Brooks share honestly what it’s like to walk through the dark night of the soul...in marriage. They extend the quiet hope that arrives when you refuse to just survive. Show Notes and Resources Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When it comes to setting goals in marriage, most couples wing it—or copy whatever sounds spiritual. FamilyLife President Luke Middendorf talks about upheaval, faith, and the quiet drift that happens when you’re busy but not aligned. If you want more than vague marriage resolutions, this conversation will steady your aim without piling on guilt. Show Notes and Resources Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You said it nicely. Then louder. Now you’re just tired. This live panel of marriage experts from FamilyLife's Love Like You Mean It Cruise gets real about resentment in marriage, like small frustrations that turn into silent scorekeeping. Why he withdraws. Why you push. And how couples stop fighting each other and start fighting for each other—without pretending everything’s fine. Show Notes and Resources Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You’re busy. Faithful. Grinding. But if you’re honest? Something at home feels off. Music artists and authors Montell and Kristin Jordan get real about success, sickness, marriage strain—and the quiet drift that almost costs you what matters most. If work, church, kids, or “good things” are crowding your covenant, this conversation will recalibrate you without shaming you. Show Notes and Resources Check out Montell and Kristin's website at  montellandkristin.com You can follow them on Instagram Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What does God’s love look like when your earthly father failed you? He Calls Me Daughter, a new Christian movie by Rick Altizer, follows real stories of father wounds, faith, and redemption. Rachelle Starr’s Scarlet Hope ministry brings hope to women in strip clubs, showing how obedience, prayer, and God’s grace transform broken lives. Watch, reflect, and discover how healing from father wounds can restore identity, trust, and purpose. Show Notes and Resources Watch the film He Calls Me Daughter in theaters for two days only: March 17–18 (get tickets and find theater locations now). visit HeCallsMeDaughter.org. Learn more about Scarlet Hope ministry: Visit scarlethope.org for stories, donation options, team info, and ways to get involved. Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

How does a missing, distant, or imperfect dad shape a life? In the movie He Calls Me Daughter, director Rick Altizer and Rachelle Starr explore father wounds and their ripple effect on faith, identity, and trust. Through Scarlet Hope’s bold ministry in the sex industry, real stories of redemption, obedience, and God’s transformative love reveal how compassionate faith can heal deep hurts and restore hope in families and hearts. Show Notes and Resources Watch the film He Calls Me Daughter in theaters for two days only: March 17–18 (get tickets and find theater locations now). visit HeCallsMeDaughter.org. Learn more about Scarlet Hope ministry: Visit scarlethope.org for stories, donation options, team info, and ways to get involved. Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

If your father’s absence, distance, or flaws left a mark, it can echo in your trust, faith, and sense of worth. In He Calls Me Daughter, Rick Altizer explores father wounds and the gospel hope of a perfect Heavenly Father. Through transparent stories, Christ-centered healing, and practical insights, this film offers women—and men—a path to freedom, identity, and relational restoration with God and others. Show Notes and Resources Watch the film He Calls Me Daughter in theaters for two days only: March 17–18 (get tickets and find theater locations now). visit HeCallsMeDaughter.org. Learn more about Scarlet Hope ministry: Visit scarlethope.org for stories, donation options, team info, and ways to get involved. Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When grief, hidden pain, and addiction collide, even strong marriages can crack. Ron and Nan Deal share their searing journey through loss, an alcoholic spouse, and buried marriage secrets that nearly destroyed them. From Nan’s yoga-mat surrender to God’s radical grace, they reveal how confession, trust-building, and God’s mercy restored hope, intimacy, and passion after decades of struggle. Courage, honesty, and faith show the path to true redemption. Show Notes and Resources Get Ron and Nan Deal's book The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself, find it now in our shop. Register for the Blended and Blessed conference (live at Crossings Church Mayfair, Oklahoma City, or free livestream) on April 18, 2026 at blendedandblessed.com. Connect with Ron on Instagram or X Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ron and Nan Deal share the raw story behind a marriage almost destroyed: pride, grief, abandonment, and the death of their son. Nan’s struggle with addiction spiraled for over a decade, while Ron wrestled with guilt, ministry pressures, and heartbreak. This isn’t a polished story—it’s real, messy, and full of hope for couples facing hidden hurts, broken patterns, addiction in marriage, and the long road to grace. Show Notes and Resources Get Ron and Nan Deal's book The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself, find it now in our shop. Register for the Blended and Blessed conference (live at Crossings Church Mayfair, Oklahoma City, or free livestream) on April 18, 2026 at blendedandblessed.com. Connect with Ron on Instagram or X Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What if all the grades, trophies, and accolades your kids chase aren’t enough to make them feel secure? On the final day of the heart-centered parenting series, Start with the Heart author Dr. Kathy Koch shows parents how to root identity in God, affirm kids’ unique gifts, and nurture purpose-driven competence. Through practical examples—dice games, car rides, and coffee-making five-year-olds—you’ll discover how to connect deeply, raise kids who thrive, and feel like you finally “get” what parenting really demands. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch and her book "Start with the Heart" at celebratekids.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Your kid rolls their eyes before you finish a sentence. Screens compete with your voice. Homework feels like a performance review. Dr. Kathy Koch shows how to get past the noise and actually connect. Learn simple, practical ways to be seen as more than a nag, to help your kids feel known, loved, and brave, and to raise relationally strong kids who can thrive—inside and outside the digital world. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch and her book "Start with the Heart" at celebratekids.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Middle schoolers who grunt. Teens glued to screens. You love your kid—but do they feel liked? On Family Life Today, Kathy Koch sits down with Dave Wilson and Ann Wilson to expose performance-driven parenting and show a better way. If you’re tired of comparing, correcting, and panicking about faith, tech, or rebellion—this conversation meets you in the mess and points you toward your child’s heart. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch and her book "Start with the Heart" at celebratekids.com Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On what should have been his son’s wedding day, Tim & Challies stood at a graveside and read the wedding speech he never got to give. Months earlier, 20-year-old Nick had collapsed and died without warning. If God is good, why is the future we imagine buried? When the life we plan is gone and peace feels like a promise meant for someone else, is faith strong enough for the life we'd never choose? Show Notes and Resources Order your copy of "Seasons of Sorrow: The Pain of Loss and the Comfort of God" in our shop Visit Tim's blog at challies.com Follow Tim on facebook: @challies Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On a peaceful fall day, Tim & Aileen Challies' son, a seminary student engaged to be married, suddenly collapsed during a pickup game on campus. He would never come home. In this candid conversation, Tim & Aileen share what followed: shock, isolation, a marriage grieving in different languages, and the search for God in the silence. When the unthinkable happens, you may find yourself asking, “Why does God let bad things happen?”—and wonder if your faith is strong enough to hold you. Or maybe, you'll discover it’s holding you. Show Notes and Resources Order your copy of "Seasons of Sorrow: The Pain of Loss and the Comfort of God" in our shop Visit Tim's blog at challies.com Follow Tim on facebook: @challies Set sail on the Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise! Now through 3/31/26, use promo code CruiseMadness27 and enjoy exclusive savings on your stateroom. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Loss lingers in blended families—resurfacing during weddings, graduations, birthdays—stirring developmental grief no one sees. Couples grieve unevenly, risking distance; church often silences sorrow instead of shepherding it. If you're overwhelmed by grief, exhausted by "move on" pressure, and craving space for honest pain, listen in. Ron and Nan Deal unpack why lament is biblical, not weakness, offering a faithful path through unresolved sorrow that keeps you connected to God and each other. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of Mindful Marriage in our shop Sign up for Blended and Blessed at blendedandblessed.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You’ve heard “What does this verse mean to you?” and felt uneasy, or watched Scripture twisted in ways that hurt. Busy life buries Bible study; guilt piles up over adult kids who’ve walked away. If you’re intimidated by “correct” interpretation or weary of shallow approaches, this episode delivers clarity. YouTube "Bible Nerd" Faith Womack equips everyday believers to read contextually, reframe misused verses, and anchor identity and family in God’s unchanging Word—not performance or outcomes. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Faith and where to get your copy of No More Boring Bible Study at biblenerdministries.com Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now!  Follow Faith on Instagram @biblenerdministries Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You've feel like a failure for not studying enough--or you've even been hurt by twisted Scripture. In family chaos, the Bible gathers dust while guilt builds. If you're hungry for truth without the baggage, tune in. Faith Womack, YouTube's Bible Nerd, shares her rough, raw origins—from spiritual abuse and miscarriage to building a ministry—and reframes Bible engagement as joyful, everyday discipleship. No more boring; just God's Word as the anchor you need. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Faith and where to get your copy of No More Boring Bible Study at biblenerdministries.com Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now!  Follow Faith on Instagram @biblenerdministries Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Fear. Worry. Pain: They can feel all-consuming. Author and speaker Amberley Neese believes that in the questions Jesus asks in the Gospels, there are answers big enough for all three--and a highway to stronger faith. Show Notes and Resources Untangling Faith: Reclaiming Hope in the Questions Jesus Asked Participant Workbookby Amberly Neese. Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now!  Learn more about Amberly Neese on her website amberlyneese.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What if your doubts made your faith stronger? Author, speaker, and humorist Amberly Neese explores Jesus questions--ones He Himself asked--as a way to reclaim your trust all over again. Show Notes and Resources Untangling Faith: Reclaiming Hope in the Questions Jesus Asked Participant Workbookby Amberly Neese. Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now!  Learn more about Amberly Neese on her website amberlyneese.com Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

If only they knew. You’ve been burned by church—gossip, hypocrisy, wounds that make isolation feel way safer than community. Meanwhile, parenting teens feels impossible: anxiety, porn, loneliness, and digital overload threaten to derail their faith. Turns out self-sufficiency sounds empowering but crumbles under real pressure. If you’re tempted to quit on people or give up on the long game, Shelby Abbott, author of Why We’re Feeling Lonely and What We Can Do About It, calls you back. He explains why going it alone doesn't work...and how messy relationships just might be worth it. Show Notes and Resources Purchase Why We’re Feeling Lonely and What We Can Do About It by Shelby Abbott at your favorite bookstore. Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Watch video versions of your podcast on YouTube Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

If they really knew me, would they still love me? That fear of vulnerability fuels loneliness, curated online masks, people-pleasing, and walls that block deep friendships, marital closeness, or authenticity in ministry. And suffering eventually deepens that fear instead of healing it. If you're weary of performing, tired of fake friendships, and craving courage for real connection, listen in. Shelby Abbott, author of Why We’re Feeling Lonely and What We Can Do About It, exposes the roots of our universal dread--and points the way to freedom from approval-seeking and isolation. See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Got packed days, full feeds--but still that nagging emptiness? The loneliness we hide is real, fueled by tech that mimics friendship but starves the soul. It's not just you. Authenticity feels rare and intentional relationships hard to build. Shelby Abbott, author of Why We’re Feeling Lonely and What We Can Do About It, cuts through the noise with lived experience and faith-rooted truth. If you've been wondering, "Why am I so lonely?", he'll help you stop living at surface-level—and start pursuing what truly satisfies. Your practical hope for deeper belonging starts here. Show Notes and Resources Purchase Why We’re Feeling Lonely and What We Can Do About It by Shelby Abbott at your favorite bookstore. Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Watch video versions of your podcast on YouTube Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Need time management just for moms? Crystal Paine of The Time-Saving Mom explains an easy-to-implement four-step system to organize and simplify your life. Show Notes and Resources The Time Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Watch video versions of your podcast on YouTube Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Too much to do, not enough time to do it? You don’t just have to hustle harder. You can simplify and (yes) enjoy your life. Crystal Paine—mom of six, bestselling author of The Money-Saving Mom, and entrepreneur—delivers real-world, no-nonsense time management advice for moms from her latest book, The Time-Saving Mom. Her ideas will keep you sane and enjoying the things you love most. Show Notes and Resources The Time Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine Begin the Easter story early with Resurrection Eggs. Start your family tradition now Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Watch video versions of your podcast on YouTube Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Your marriage is fraying under trauma's weight: Grief looks different for each of you, perhaps as one withdraws, the other controls, and resentment builds. You misread coping as rejection. But understanding trauma responses changes everything. Sarah and Matt Hammitt of Sanctus Real share raw lessons from their critically ill child's fight. These two know faithfulness isn't a feeling; it's the hard step that redeems connection when hope feels thin. They'll help you stay connected and redeem the wounds. Show Notes and Resources Lead Me: Finding Courage to Fight for Your Marriage, Children, and Faith by Matt Hammitt Marriage After Dark: the podcast where a real couple answers the questions you’re too embarrassed to ask. Get it at FamilyLife.com/MarriageAfterDark Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Know what it's like when anger keeps flying, but nothing changes—because the real hurt stays hidden? Sarah and Matt Hammitt (Sanctus Real) share the raw turning point of their own story, from conflict and defensiveness to expressing mutual need. Discover the unexpected secret that replaces weapons, opens ears, and invites real healing and presence in marriage. Show Notes and Resources Lead Me: Finding Courage to Fight for Your Marriage, Children, and Faith by Matt Hammitt Marriage After Dark: the podcast where a real couple answers the questions you’re too embarrassed to ask. Get it at FamilyLife.com/MarriageAfterDark Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Feel like your spouse is physically present but emotionally checked out—especially after long days, travel, or career demands? Matt and Sarah Hammitt (Sanctus Real) get brutally honest about emotional absence and the tension that builds when one partner carries the load alone. Matt and Sarah offer practical ideas to help true love survive conflict, defensiveness, and absence--for a love that goes the distance. Show Notes and Resources Lead Me: Finding Courage to Fight for Your Marriage, Children, and Faith by Matt Hammitt Marriage After Dark: the podcast where a real couple answers the questions you’re too embarrassed to ask. Get it at FamilyLife.com/MarriageAfterDark Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Tired of Jedi mind tricks, cold shoulders, and "we need to talk" anxiety ruining your marriage? Every couple brings unhealthy patterns into conflict—avoidance, passive-aggression, mismatched timing—but unresolved issues build resentment fast. Pastor-therapist duo Dave and Ashley Willis know how to help you fight better. They deliver real stories, biblical wisdom, and practical tools for your next blowup. Show Notes and Resources Get your Gratikube— a simple family tool to prompt gratitude and conversation Discover resources from Dave Willis in our shop Marriage After Dark: the podcast where a real couple answers the questions you’re too embarrassed to ask. Get it at FamilyLife.com/MarriageAfterDark Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are there ways you’re shooting your own marriage in the foot? Author Ted Lowe knows 5 bad habits that could stealthily undercut all the closeness you crave--and 5 ways to stop them. Show Notes and Resources Get "Us in Mind: How Changing Your Thoughts Can Change Your Marriage" by Ted Lowe wherever books are sold. FamilyLife.com/marriagehelp — free marriage resources Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Dreading the car ride home after your child's rough game? Research shows those tense, critical moments drive 70% of kids to quit sports by age 13—and they remember the emotional peak and ending more than the score. Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski, authors of Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports, show how to turn youth sports pressure and disappointment into gospel grace by choosing connection over correction, preparing words of unconditional pride, and rebuilding trust when you miss it. Show Notes and Resources Helpful tools and encouragement for parents available at FamilyLife.com/parentinghelp "Away Game" by Ed Uszynski and Brian Smith — a thoughtful look at youth sports, identity, and what really matters for families is available at your favorite bookstore.  Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Feel like youth sports have discipled your heart more than church has? Fear, control, and post-game critiques turn you into the "older brother" judging performance instead of the welcoming father extending grace. Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski, authors of Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports, call parents to self-examination, the radical discipline of silence, and redefining wins by fruit of the Spirit—not stats. Reclaim sports as true discipleship ground. Show Notes and Resources Helpful tools and encouragement for parents available at FamilyLife.com/parentinghelp "Away Game" by Ed Uszynski and Brian Smith — a thoughtful look at youth sports, identity, and what really matters for families is available at your favorite bookstore.  Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Tired of pouring thousands into travel teams, private coaches, and endless weekends—only to watch your child's joy disappear? Research shows the more money and pressure parents invest, the less kids actually enjoy sports. Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski, authors of Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports, expose the $50B+ industrial complex fueling fear and youth sports burnout. Discover how to break free, reclaim fun, and turn games into real character-building moments—without chasing scholarships or status. Show Notes and Resources Helpful tools and encouragement for parents available at FamilyLife.com/parentinghelp "Away Game" by Ed Uszynski and Brian Smith — a thoughtful look at youth sports, identity, and what really matters for families is available at your favorite bookstore.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Feeling lonely in marriage? Your relationship starts with fireworks, then reality hits: unmet expectations, silent scorekeeping, and that quiet pull toward isolation. Dave and Ann Wilson get it, because they've lived it. Discover the three biggest threats dragging couples apart and how to fight back with action, not just feelings. Stop drifting. Start building real oneness—before it's too late. Show Notes and Resources Visit familylife.com/marriagehelp for free resources Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Anxiety can feel crippling and heavy with shame. Psychologist and author Dr. Ed Welch fumbled with his own anxiety, and eventually, it led him into life-altering encounters with God—who, it turned out, had beautiful things to say about faith and mental health. Show Notes and Resources Get FamilyLife parenting resources at FamilyLife.com/parentinghelp Get Ed Welch's book "I Have a Psychiatric Diagnosis: What Does the Bible Say?" in our shop Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Tired of feeling too busy to disciple your family? Authors Adam and Chelsea Griffin of the Family Discipleship Podcast stand ready to prove it’s simpler—and richer—than you think. With laugh-out-loud anecdotes, gritty wisdom, and a refreshingly doable framework, they show how small, costly choices shape kids for Christ. It’s practical. It’s hopeful. And it might just reset your whole rhythm. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Good News for Parents: How God Can Restore Our Joy and Relieve Our Burdens." Listen in to The Family Dicipleship podcast at familydiscipleship.com/podcast All small group kits and workbooks are 25% off January 6-31, 2026 Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Parenting has a sneaky way of poking every insecurity you thought you’d outgrown. Authors Adam and Chelsea Griffin of the Family Discipleship Podcast join Dave and Ann to uncover why comparison drains us—and how Christ’s steady love refuels patience, grit, and tenacious joy. With honesty, laughter, and a few wince-worthy confessions, this episode will remind all you weary moms and dads: You’re not alone, you’re not behind, and you’re loved more deeply than you think. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Good News for Parents: How God Can Restore Our Joy and Relieve Our Burdens." Listen in to The Family Dicipleship podcast at familydiscipleship.com/podcast All small group kits and workbooks are 25% off January 6-31, 2026 Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Parenting can feel like a spotlight on everything you wish you did better. Authors Adam and Chelsea Griffin of the Family Discipleship Podcast get it—and they bring gospel oxygen to shame-soaked moms and dads. With honesty, humor, and hard-won hope, they unpack why comparison crushes us, confession frees us, and remembering you’re God’s beloved child changes everything. If you’re craving relief, this conversation feels like a deep breath. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Good News for Parents: How God Can Restore Our Joy and Relieve Our Burdens." Listen in to The Family Dicipleship podcast at familydiscipleship.com/podcast All small group kits and workbooks are 25% off January 6-31, 2026 Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What if the families who feel like “misfits” in church are actually the majority? Therapist Ron Deal and author Gayla Grace explore the pain of exclusion, sharing practical, gospel-centered strategies for how churches can include single parents. From language tweaks to small groups and intentional hospitality, this episode inspires hope, challenges assumptions, and equips leaders and volunteers to create a church where every family feels truly seen. Show Notes and Resources Find Ron and Nan's book, "The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself" in our shop. Join us for our yearly Blended and Blessed event, go to blendedandblessed.com Find more blended resources at familylife.com/blended  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

As a parent, when you’re disciplining, breaking up fights, or chatting in the car—would you believe you’re doing theology? Theologian Kelly Kapic knows theology isn't just a matter of what we think. It affects who we are. Theology is about life, which means our souls can’t afford to avoid it. So what version of God are our kids internalizing? How can we respond thoughtfully in talks with our kids about acceptance, injustice, suffering, poverty, and moral absolutes? Kelly, author of A Little Book for New Theologians: Why and How to Study Theology, offer do-this-now ideas to shape an unshakeable theology that can stand up to whatever life tosses at our kids. Show Notes and Resources Find Kelly Kapic's book in our shop Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Does your wife feel like a treasure—or taken for granted? In this raw and practical episode, Dave Wilson dialogues with pastors Rechab Gray and Ike Todd as they talk man-to-man about humility in marriage, accountability, and loving like Jesus when it’s hardest. From awkward confrontations to life-changing repentance, they show how God uses community and surrender to transform us as husbands—and help marriages become safe, life-giving places again. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Check out New Creation church, at newcreationorl.org Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

If submission makes you bristle and leadership feels confusing, you’re not alone. Pastors Rechab Gray and and Ike Todd dig into what Scripture actually teaches about marriage—why husbands must model submission first, why empathy matters, and how community keeps love honest. It's Ephesians 5, explained--offering clarity, conviction, and hope for couples who want more than surface-level peace, and the men who lead them. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Watch the full episode on our Youtube channel Check out New Creation church, at newcreationorl.org Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Men, you’ve heard “lead your wife.” But what if you missed the assignment? Dave Wilson sits down with pastors Ike Todd and Rechab Gray for a no-posturing, men-only gut check on Ephesians 5:23 and surrounding verses. This isn’t chest-thumping leadership talk—it’s about cherishing, nourishing, repenting, and loving like Jesus actually does. Expect laughs, holy conviction, and practical shifts that make submission safer, lighter, and—yes—happier. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Watch the full episode on our Youtube channel Check out New Creation church, at newcreationorl.org Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Authors Howard and Danielle Taylor intentionally invested in each other, founded a marriage ministry—and then tragedy dealt a gut-wrenching blow. They reveal how their marriage survived, and how a relationship can pull through the worst of times. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Authors Howard and Danielle Taylor didn’t start out thinking they’d run a marriage ministry. They just longed for an intentional, intimate relationship that would go the distance. Hear how their own challenges galvanized a purposeful, more weatherproof marriage. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network     See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Your negative self-talk: It’s sabotaging your marriage—and you may not know how deeply. Author Ted Lowe gets real about identifying and confronting the dark side within. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Could the way you’re thinking about your spouse be shaping your marriage in ways you’ve never imagined? Author Ted Lowe helps revolutionize your marriage…starting with your mind.   Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Your spouse is emotional. What should you do? What should you say? What if you don’t agree? Author Ted Lowe knows changing how you think and respond in moments like this could change your marriage—and he’s got ways to do it. Show Notes and Resources Head to weekendtoremember.com to save 50% on all getaways through January 26, 2026. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

FamilyLife's new president Luke Middendorf and his wife Kristina pull you into the holy tension of leaving a life you love to follow God into the hard. Kids grieving, parents wobbling, faith stretching—yet grace keeps showing up in the ordinary. If you’ve ever felt stuck in comfortable Christianity, this story will nudge you toward deeper trust, braver obedience, and a Jesus who meets you in the move. See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Stepping into a new year with big questions—about your kids’ faith, your next move, or whether God still writes surprising love stories? This warm, laughter-stuffed episode introduces FamilyLife’s new president, Luke Middendorf, and his wife Kristina--through elevator meet-cutes, campus-ministry moments, and the kind of real-life faith that reshapes families. It’s a hope-packed reminder that God still actively pursues, guides, and opens doors--sometimes literally. Show Notes and Resources All FamilyLife small group kits and workbooks are 25% off January 6-31, 2026. Need prayer? Head to https://www.familylife.com/prayer-requests/" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Calling: Is it just about a vocation? Author Don Everts about discovering your gifts—and the purposes blooming from knowing how you’re made—including everyday assignments in fulfilling God's purposes. Don shares insights from his research, including gender differences in self-perception of giftedness. Tap into the adventure of living out your God-given roles and responsibilities. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Discover Your Gifts" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Family, friends, even our spouses: Can it be a case of familiarity breeds contempt? Author Don Everts discusses the power of staying amazed by your spouse and others—and cultivating a culture of honor and appreciation in your relationships. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Discover Your Gifts" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever wonder what you were made to offer the world? Author Don Everts digs into human dignity, biblical perspectives on spiritual and common gifts, and the power of our gifts to reconnect with our communities. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Discover Your Gifts" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Feeling fried from carrying everyone’s emotions, decisions, and spiritual growth on your back? Kevin A. Thompson, author of Stay in Your Lane: Worry Less, Love More, and Get Things Done, offers a relief-giving rethink on how to let go: what if peace, joy, and actual influence show up the minute you quit steering other people’s lives? With wit, honesty, and real-life questions you’ve probably asked yourself, it’s a clarifying, confidence-building discussion for anyone longing to breathe again. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Stay In Your Lane: worry less, love more, and get things done" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Feeling stretched thin, over-responsible, or stuck trying to fix everyone you love? How do you stop worrying? Kevin A. Thompson, author of Stay in Your Lane: Worry Less, Love More, and Get Things Done, hands you a freeing, you-can-breathe-again framework for marriage and parenting—with clear, faith-filled boundaries that actually build influence instead of anxiety. With vivid stories and a metaphor that snaps everything into focus, anyone craving peace, connection, and a lighter emotional load will find a jolt of hope. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Stay In Your Lane: worry less, love more, and get things done" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When your grown kids’ choices tighten your chest and every instinct says step in, this conversation offers a gentler way. On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Kevin A. Thompson, pastor and author of Stay in Your Lane: Worry Less, Love More, and Get Things Done. He shares a hopeful path — where influence replaces control, love breathes again, and God holds what you can’t. It’s a freeing, real-world guide for parents learning to release without retreating. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Get the book, "Stay In Your Lane: worry less, love more, and get things done" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Sink into a conversation for anyone whispering, “How do I keep going when I’m out of answers?” Ray and Jani Ortlund explore the fierce "good news at rock bottom" — where masks fall, community becomes real, and hope grows stubborn. It’s tender, honest, and quietly defiant — an invitation to breathe again when life feels unlivable. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about the "Good News at Rock Bottom: Finding God When the Pain Goes Deep and Hope Seems Lost" and other books at their website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Theologian Joel Muddamalle, author of The Hidden Peace, knows we have less control than we want, more fear than we're comfortable with, and just enough insecurity to continually remind us of our shortcomings. Joel believes God has better for us, and it begins in an unexpected place. With relatable stories, practical wisdom, and biblical theology broken down into digestible takeaways, unearth a surprising, trusting calm. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Joel's book The Hidden Peace and his other books on his website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When crisis hits, even strong marriages can fracture. In this gripping episode of FamilyLife Today, pastor-therapist couple Jim and Angela Davis share with Dave and Ann Wilson the story of their marriage after a heart attack: how trauma tested their vows, faith, and identity, and how grace rewove the threads. Their journey through fear, recovery, and rediscovery offers hope for anyone asking, “Can love survive the unthinkable?” Honest and healing, find how faith turns pain into purpose and rebuilds connection that lasts. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife Today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Weekend to Remember® marriage conference Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When the world feels unsettled and family life feels small — pastor, author, and ministry leader Ray Ortlund and his wife Jani tip our eyes toward eternity. From Beatles concerts to bedtime prayers, they trace 54 years of everyday love, sharing God’s breathtaking promise to bless families “to a thousand generations.” If you’ve ever wondered whether your family life matters in eternity, this episode will renew your courage — and your awe. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife Today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Get the book: "To the 10th Generation: God’s Heart for Your Family Far into the Future" by visiting the Ortlund's website  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Do doubts about faith ever keep you up at night? Following two decades of debating skeptics, apologist and author Justin Brierley illuminates how the historical brilliance of Christianity withstands scrutiny. He explores doubt as a doorway to belief and deconstruction as a path of transformation — articulating why faith and intelligence aren’t at odds, and offering ideas to help kids navigate their own doubt. Find the clarity and confidence you've been longing for. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Learn ore about his book: "Why I'm Still a Christian" on his website. Watch the dice video & full episode Follow Justin: justinbrierley.com  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever feel stuck in a sin-shame-repent-repeat loop? Karl Clauson, author of Killing Sin, unpacks how habitual sins trap believers in circles. Karl relays practical, Spirit-empowered steps to mortify sin, redeem unseen time, and reclaim the intimacy, freedom, and abundant life you thought you'd lost. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Get the book: "Killing Sin: Breaking the Cycle of Sin & Shame to Find Spiritual Freedom" Check out his podcast Carl and Crew Morning Show Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Think parenting is about shaping your kids? Surprise — it’s God shaping you. On FamilyLife Today's lively, laugh-and-groan episode, Dave and Ann Wilson chat with Bruce and Maria Goff, parents of four, about how kids expose our idols of control, image, and comfort. With humor and honesty, they reveal how gospel-centered parenting means dying to self, finding joy in Jesus, and letting grace — not perfection — lead the home. Thanks for tuning into FamilyLife today. If you heard us on your local radio station, don’t worry you have found that same programming here in a full length episode. Show Notes and Resources Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Can ambition honor God? Creator and author Ruslan KD thinks so — and he’s got the theology to prove it. With humor, grit, and real talk on culture, calling, and character, Ruslan redefines success as stewardship. Hear how godly ambition builds families, communities, and influence without losing your soul. Smart, practical, and a little convicting — this is purpose with backbone. Show Notes and Resources Get the book: "Godly Ambition: Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Time, Talent, and Treasure" Connect more with Ruslan on YouTube Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Comedian and podcast host Sherri Lynn and her mama, Ms. Bev, swap raw and hilarious stories from Sherri's latest book, Holy Ghost Mama. They dish on the Holy Spirit's power through poverty, parenting, rebellion, and undeserved compassion in rough moments. From near disasters to divine rescues, they prove faith still works in the mess. Laugh, cry, and remember: tough love and Jesus can raise a miracle anywhere—even in chaos. Show Notes and Resources Find Sherri's book, Holy Ghost Mama: 21 Old School Lessons That Saved My Life, on her website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Why do so many kids walk away from faith—and what can parents actually do? Brian Dembowczyk brings fresh, you-got-this ways to shape your home into a place where Jesus isn’t just discussed, but seen. If discipleship feels daunting, find small steps can spark big faith. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Brian and get his book "Family Discipleship That Works: Guiding Your Child to Know, Love, and Act Like Jesus" on his website.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Feeling like a square peg in a round church? Author and longtime solo parent Anna Meade Harris breaks down the silent struggles of single-parent families—including grief, isolation, and being the odd family out. Find clear, hopeful insight and no-fluff advice on finding your place. Show Notes and Resources Get Anna's book, God’s Grace for Every Family at shop.familylife.com At rootedministry.com, find gospel-centered resources for youth leaders, pastors, and parents to nurture faith in the next generation. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Murder. Abuse. Addiction. Abandonment. Davey and Kristi Blackburn have lived it—and lived to tell how Jesus met them in the wreckage. Their raw, sacred story proves that nothing—no trauma, no shame—is wasted. If you’re aching for healing or afraid to face the pain, this story is not just powerful. It’s personal. Show Notes and Resources Find helpful resources along with Davey's book, Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain at nothingiswasted.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Tired of pretending strength when all you feel is overwhelmed? Author Gloria Furman can identify. She certainly didn’t plan for her husband’s disability, motherhood overseas, or her own debilitating injury. But she believes powerlessness as a mom isn’t the end of her story--or yours. Show Notes and Resources Get Gloria's book, Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full: Gospel Meditations for Busy Moms and her other books on her website at gloriafurman.com/books Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Motherhood meltdown in aisle five? You’re not alone. Jamie Erickson, author of Overwhelmed Mom, unpacks the chaos in a mom’s mind—from Pinterest guilt to emotional overload. This one’s for the woman juggling 1,000 things and wondering if joy’s still on the menu. It is. She'll help you rewrite your narrative, lean on God, and maybe hand the kids to Dad for 15 minutes. (Yes, really.) Show Notes and Resources Get Jamie's book, Overwhelmed Mom: Quiet the Chaos, Mind What Matters, and Enjoy Your Life Again and learn more about Jamie at her website: jamieerickson.com Find Dave and Ann's Vertical Marriage Small Group Curriculum on our shop Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Tony Navarro and his wife Lymari had given up hope after an ongoing affair demolished their marriage. Decades later, the Navarros lay out their blueprints for how they rebuilt relational trust after betrayal. If it feels like your marriage is in ruins, Tony and Lymari believe there’s still hope to be found. Show Notes and Resources Visit FamilyLife.com/Trust to receive a free devotional and get their book, Ruin to Renewal: Restoring Your Marriage After Trust Is Broken. Need Prayer? Head to familylife.com/prayforme Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ready to make your home a haven that pulls kids in and loves them well? Dave and Ann Wilson spill how to build a wild, warm, welcoming zone where kids feel safe, seen, and straight-up loved. Think capture-the-flag battles, family shenanigans, and enough laughter to prove home is more than a place to grab pizza. It’s holy ground. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of “No Perfect Parents” by Dave and Ann Wilson at shop.familylife.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever craved healing you weren't sure you could find? Ben Bennett, co-founder of the Resolution Movement, takes us on a raw, soul-searching journey through trauma, addiction, and the deep emotional longings that shape our behavior. From TikTok revivals with Gen Z to unpacking seven core relational needs, this episode is a game-changer for anyone navigating pain, trauma, or unmet emotional needs. Ben's powerful story—of childhood abuse, overcoming addictions, and healing through therapy and faith—blends emotional vulnerability with practical wisdom. Whether you're struggling with pornography, anxiety, or seeking fulfillment, Ben’s approach integrates spiritual, emotional, and physical healing in a way that’s rarely seen. Get ready for eye-opening insights on how forgiveness, community, and understanding your core longings can transform your life. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Ben and find his book "Free to Thrive" here Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Struggling to build spiritual habits at home? Join Clayton Greene and Chris Papplardo as they blend “Atomic Habits” with Jesus, turning spiritual discipline into a doable, grace-filled rhythm--and flipping overwhelm into simple, gospel-rooted steps. Get ready to ditch guilt and build habits in your home that actually stick. Show Notes and Resources Find Chris' book, "Building Spiritual Habits in the Home" wherever books are sold  Get your own Gratikude at goodkind.shop/collections/graticube Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Dave and Ashley Willis are ready to talk about raising boys who know how to give respect. From Dave’s raw, real talk about battling porn shame (yes, really) to Ashley’s no-nonsense approach to rebuilding trust, this episode is a masterclass in keeping it honest without the guilt trip. They dish on turning everyday moments—like mall strolls and swimsuit magazines—into teachable, not preachy, moments about sex, boundaries, and respect. Plus, they unpack how dads can lay out the ultimate blueprint for sons. Think parenting talks can’t be real, raw, and refreshingly hopeful? Think again. Tune in and gather the tools (and the courage) to raise respectful, confident boys who won’t settle for less. Show Notes and Resources Get FamilyLife's resource, “How to Talk to Your Kids about Sex” with videos for parents and kids Get Dave and Ashley's book, "Respecting Boys, Raising Boys Who Respect Girls" in our shop Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Forget Disney princesses and Instagram filters. In this episode of FamilyLife Today, Kristen Weatherell—author of What Makes You Beautiful—chucks the cultural script on beauty and reboots it with something far more lasting: identity rooted in Jesus. From the poignancy of her own story, Kristen shows how we can help our girls find real worth. It’s time to stop sprinting after the world’s beauty standards and start fleshing out the beauty that matters. Find essential listening for every parent raising girls in the Instagram age. Show Notes and Resources Find Kristen's book "What Makes You Beautiful" in our shop Learn more about Kristen at kristenwetherell.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

The Old Testament is packed with the narratives of women whose lives foreshadowed Jesus. Author Nana Dolce examines several of their life stories. See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What if prayer is your secret weapon for raising teen girls? Stacey Thacker joins Dave & Ann Wilson for laughs, honest parenting talk, and a powerful reminder: you’re not alone in the chaos. From grocery store judgments to dinner-table truth bombs, this episode dishes real struggles—and real hope. Grab your coffee, open your heart, and pray like it matters—because it does. Show Notes and Resources Connect with Stacey on Instagram Get Brooke McGlothin's books "Praying for Teen Girls" and "Praying for Teen Boy's" in our shop Review our resources at FamilyLife.com/PrayForTeens Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Parenting teens is part heartfelt drama, part low-budget sitcom. One minute, you’re praying for wisdom, the next, there’s a slammed door or a bathroom battle. In this episode of *FamilyLife Today*, authors Brooke McLaughlin and Stacey Thacker join Dave and Ann Wilson to talk about praying for your teens—not just for them to change, but for you to be transformed too. Tune in for real talk on humility, spiritual battles, and why sometimes your best move is to offer fries and wait. Spoiler alert: “Leave me alone” doesn’t mean you stop showing up, it means you knock softer—and pray harder. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Brooke at brookemcglothlin.net and connect with Stacey on Instagram Get Brooke and Stacey's books "Praying for Teen Girls" and "Praying for Teen Boy's" in our shop Get our guide Praying for Teens at FamilyLife.com/PrayForTeens Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Authors Brooke McGlothlin and Stacey Thacker know the rollercoaster of parenting teens: from facepalms, to moments of dread, to triumphs. They offer wisdom and practical help from the trenches to help you fight for your teenagers rather than against them. Brooke and Stacey believe you can unlock the full power of partnering with God through prayer—and navigate your changing relationship with peace, joy, and confidence as you locate the wisdom you need each day. They’ll help you feel purposeful, not powerless, in your parenting. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Brooke at brookemcglothlin.net and connect with Stacey on Instagram Get Brooke and Stacey's books "Praying for Teen Girls" and "Praying for Teen Boy's" in our shop Get our guide Praying for Teens at FamilyLife.com/PrayForTeens Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever wonder who you really are when no one’s watching? Your family knows. On this episode, Dave & Ann Wilson get real about parenting, marriage, and the true test of character—home life. From drywall holes to messy outbursts, they share the raw moments of vulnerability, forgiveness, and how to actually model faith at home. Grab some laughs, a few aha moments, and practical tips to bring your best self to the people who matter most. Show Notes and Resources Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Does explosive anger—your own or your spouse’s—have you concerned? Dave and Ann Wilson can relate. Dave’s unresolved childhood trauma and other issues burst into uncontrollable rage that left his family reeling. Dave shares his slow path out of chronic anger, into healing—and how eventually, he found the ability to forgive and be forgiven. Show Notes and Resources Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever wonder about the women in the Bible? From Eve to Mary, their stories aren't just background noise—they're central to God's plan. Nana Dolce, author of The Seed of the Woman, joins Dave and Ann Wilson, hosts of the FamilyLife Today Podcast, to reveal how the faith and lives of these incredible women point directly to Jesus. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nana Dolce at her website. Find Nana Dolce's book "The Seed of the Woman: 30 Narratives That Point to Jesus" in our shop Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

When hurting people walk into the church, what happens next? Too often, pastors and leaders feel unequipped and overwhelmed — unsure how to respond to struggles ranging from anxiety to trauma to marriage crises. In this conversation, Harvard-trained researcher Shaunti Feldhahn and psychologist Dr. Jim Sells join us to share insights from their groundbreaking research on mental health in the church. Together with Dave and Ann Wilson, they explore why simply “referring out” isn’t enough — and how every believer can learn to listen, care, and walk with people in pain. You don’t need all the answers to make a difference. Sometimes, being present is the most powerful ministry of all. Show Notes and Resources Get the church care kit here: https://www.thechurchcares.com/join-us Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this eye-opening episode of the FamilyLife Today Podcast, guest Brant Hansen gives a "graduation speech" unlike any other. He uses an AI-generated speech to expose how chasing worldly freedom can lead to loneliness and exhaustion. Instead, he shares a profound message: true freedom and purpose are found by binding yourself to relationships, especially with God and in marriage. Through a moving story about two dogs, Gypsy and Snowball, and a look at Psalm 23, Brant shows why trusting God's character brings a life of "poetry" and joy. Show Notes and Resources Visit Brant's website branthansen.com Connect with Brant on Instgram or Facebook Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

The FamilyLife Today Podcast hosts, Dave and Ann Wilson, welcome author Heather Holleman to discuss how to overcome shame, find your identity in Christ, and live a life of purpose. Heather shares powerful insights from her books, including Seated with Christ, and provides practical tools like journaling and simple communication tips to help both kids and adults find freedom from shame and jealousy. Join us as we explore how a biblical understanding of our identity can transform your family and empower you to live "seated and sent" in every area of life. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of "Seated with Christ" Check out Heather's other books on her website: heatherholleman.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

After facing a life-threatening health crisis, Dave and Ann Wilson share five lessons they learned about strengthening their marriage by trusting each other, acting without hesitation, and praying through fear. This powerful episode of the FamilyLife Today Podcast highlights how God can use a crisis to build unity and bring peace that surpasses understanding. Learn how a 99% blockage in an artery taught them the importance of supporting your spouse in a time of need. Show Notes and Resources Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What does it truly mean to be a woman in a world of conflicting messages? Join FamilyLife Today Podcast hosts Dave and Ann Wilson as they sit down with Kristen Clark, co-author of Made to Be She: Reclaiming God’s Plan for Fearless Femininity, to tackle the cultural lies surrounding womanhood. We explore how both secular feminism and rigid Christian traditions can lead us away from God's design. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of  "Made To Be She: Reclaiming God's Plan for Fearless Femininity" Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of the FamilyLife Today Podcast, Christian radio host Brant Hansen redefines the gospel as a transformative way of life that frees you from fear, anxiety, and shame. He shares powerful stories from a maximum-security prison and discusses how practical discipleship—like forgiving in traffic—can revolutionize your daily life. Then, Dave and Ann Wilson share a powerful story of Ann's heart crisis, revealing five lessons on trust and prayer that strengthened their marriage. Show Notes and Resources Visit Brant's website branthansen.com Connect with Brant on Instgram or Facebook Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Motherhood isn't just a journey; it's a transformation. In this episode of the FamilyLife Today Podcast, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson talk with author Abbie Halberstadt about her book, "You Bet Your Stretch Marks." She shares her personal experiences as a mom of ten, reframing the physical, emotional, and spiritual "stretching" of motherhood not as a burden, but as a path to a deeper faith and a lasting legacy. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of "You Bet Your Stretch Marks: Finding Beauty and Worth in the Ways Motherhood Marks Our Bodies and Souls" Learn more about Abbie at her website: M is for Mama Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are digital distractions pulling you away from what truly matters? Join us as we dive deep into a transformative 40-day social media fast with guest Wendy Speake, author of "The 40 Day Social Media Fast" and "The 40 Day Sugar Fast." In this powerful discussion, Wendy and our hosts, Dave and Ann Wilson, explore the surprising parallels between fasting from food and fasting from social media. Discover how intentionally disconnecting from your devices can deepen your spiritual connection with God and strengthen real-life relationships with your loved ones. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Wendy at her website. Get her book, "The 40-Day Feast: Taste & See the Goodness of God’s Word" online Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What if the hardest parts of parenting were actually opportunities for growth? On this inspiring episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Abbie Halberstadt, author of Hard Is Not the Same Thing as Bad. Through candid stories - from the overwhelming joy and challenges of parenting twins with sensory issues to societal assumptions - Abby unpacks her powerful philosophy: difficulty in life isn't negative, but an opportunity for growth and sanctification. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Abbie on her website  Read Abby’s book, Hard Is Not the Same Thing as Bad, to dive into tools for sanctifying hardship Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

How can Christian parents confidently navigate conversations about sexuality and gender in today's progressive culture? Rachel Gilson, author of Parenting Without Panic: In an LGBT-Affirming World, Discipling Our Kids with Jesus' Truth and Love, shares her powerful personal experiences and insights with hosts Dave and Ann Wilson. Rachel offers parents a biblical framework for discussing sensitive topics like same-sex attraction and transgender identities. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Rachel on her website  Purchase "Parenting Without Panic" online Buy other books written by Rachel at the FamilyLife online store  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you in the thick of raising young kids and wondering how to keep your marriage thriving? Join Dave and Ann Wilson on this lively "Wilson Original" episode of FamilyLife Today as they welcome author Arlene Pellicane and the candid Bruce and Maria Goff, parents of four young girls. From essential communication and shared responsibilities to the power of laughter and prayer, discover real-life strategies to strengthen your bond. Even with busy schedules, Arlene, Bruce, and Maria share how to prioritize your relationship and find joy in the journey. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Arlene on her website at arlenepellicane.com Does your marriage need prayers? Grab your prayers now. Just tell us where to send them. Find Ten Diagnostic Questions for Your Marriage Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you struggling to reconcile a good God with a hard life? Hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Mark Vroegop, author of "Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy" to explore the vital biblical practice of lament. Mark reveals how lament, though prevalent in Scripture (making up one-third of the Psalms!), is often missing from modern Christian life. Drawing from his own profound experiences with loss, he explains how lament provides a faith-filled language for expressing grief, pain, and doubt directly to God, preventing despair and even the deconstruction of faith. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Mark at his website  Purchase Mark's book, "Dark Clouds, Deep Grace" online Purchase Mark's book "Waiting Isn't a Waste" at the FamilyLife online store See our shop for 25% off Small Group Studies  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever wondered what "that time of the month" really means for relationships? Join us as we courageously tackle PMS with author and comedian Sherri Lynn. Discover her hilarious alter-ego "Patty Michelle Sinclair," get vital "Do's and Don'ts" for husbands, and explore honest insights on singleness and faith. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Sherri on her website and get her book "I Want to Punch You in the Face but Love Jesus" at iamsherrilynn.com Follow Sherri on Instagram See our shop for 25% off Small Group Studies  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

How do you parent when your kids are grown? Dave and Ann Wilson chat with Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, on this episode of FamilyLife Today, offering vital wisdom for parents of adult children. Learn how to release them to make their own choices, even when it's difficult, and maintain a loving influence through open communication. Drawing from his own family experiences, Gary provides practical guidance on respecting their autonomy and navigating tough conversations with grace and humor. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Gary's ministry online  Purchase Gary's books on our shop. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever feel unable to meet Christian life demands? Author Kevin DeYoung explains that running the Christian race is filled with adventure—chasing holiness, battling for purity, and finding the good news in the ordinary. Show Notes and Resources Follow Kevin on Instagram Learn more about Kevin's ministry online  Find Kevin's book "Impossible Christianity" on his website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Strengthen your marriage with practical, faith-based strategies! Join Dave and Ann Wilson as they chat with author Arlene Pellicane about her book, “Making Marriage Easier.” Learn how four key decisions—play by the rules, give thanks every day, serve your spouse, and take fun seriously—can transform your relationship. Arlene shares hilarious and relatable anecdotes, from her husband’s quirky wedding registry suggestions to her own memorable, mud-filled camping adventures. Discover the power of humility in admitting flaws, the importance of shared rules like device-free dinners, and how open communication can build trust around even the toughest topics. Show Notes and Resources Purchase "Making Marriage Easier" online  Learn more about Arlene Pellicane at her website. Does your marriage need prayers? Grab your prayers now. Just tell us where to send them. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you wrestling with grief, depression, or anxiety? In this powerful FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with pastor and author Mark Vroegop (”Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy”) and biblical counselor Christine Chappell (“Midnight Mercies: Walking with God Through Depression in Motherhood”) to explore the biblical practice of lament. Discover how lament is more than just complaint – it’s a prayer language that moves you towards deeper trust in God, even in the midst of profound sorrow. Mark and Christine share insights from their own experiences and ministries, emphasizing the importance of a “theology of sorrow” and why sadness is a valid, even necessary, response to life’s brokenness. Show Notes and Resources Find Mark's book on his website: markvroegop.com/books Learn more about Christine's book on her website.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Finding hope in the midst of depression can feel impossible, especially as a mom. In this powerful FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with biblical counselor and author Christine Chappell to dive deep into her personal battle with depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation that led to a psychiatric hospital stay. Christine openly shares the raw details of her journey, from feeling utterly forsaken to finding profound hope in God’s steadfast love through Psalm 59. Discover how a quirky moment with a sleeping squirrel became a divine invitation to rest in God, not strive. This episode beautifully weaves Christine’s story with biblical examples like Moses, Elijah, and Hannah, who also wrestled with despair but ultimately found God’s mercy. Show Notes and Resources Visit Christine's website at christinemchappell.com Learn more about Christine's book on her website.  Become a FamilyLife partner and get access to exclusive content. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you a parent who feels overwhelmed or ill-equipped to talk about sex with your kids? You’re not alone! In this episode, Mary Flo and Megan from Birds & Bees unpack how to have ongoing, age-appropriate conversations about sexuality, fostering trust and openness from an early age. We tackle common parental fears and discomforts, especially for Christian families, providing practical steps to build confidence. Learn the “”drip, drip, drip”” method for normalizing discussions about body parts, boundaries, and sex starting as young as age one, which is crucial for protecting children from abuse. We discuss teaching anatomically correct terms and clear boundaries to empower kids to report violations. Show Notes and Resources Check out Megan and Mary's website and listen in to their podcast.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Parenting in an LGBT-affirming world can be daunting, but Rachel Gilson, author of “Parenting Without Panic,” is here to equip you! In this FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Rachel about how to guide your children through complex topics like same-sex attraction and transgender identities with biblical truth and grace. Rachel shares her own experiences, from initial fears about her daughter’s teacher to candid conversations with her kids about God’s design. Learn why starting early, using age-appropriate language, and emphasizing God’s “yes-first” vision for male, female, marriage, and singleness is crucial. Show Notes and Resources Purchase 'Parenting Without Panic" at the FamilyLife online shop.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you longing for a deeper, more fulfilling Christian marriage? Join us on FamilyLife Today as hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Dr. Gary Chapman, bestselling author of “”The Five Love Languages,”” to unlock practical insights for a thriving relationship! In this powerful episode, Dr. Chapman, co-author of the new book . A Simple Guide for a Better Marriage,”” shares his own raw marital struggles and the pivotal moment that transformed his relationship with his wife, Carolyn – inspired by Christ’s servant leadership (John 13). Learn the three transformative questions he asked that shifted their marriage toward mutual service. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Gary Chapman's ministry online.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are your kids struggling with who they are in a world telling them to follow their feelings? In this powerful episode, Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Jonathan Holmes, author of Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build Their Identity in Christ, to tackle the pressing issue of identity formation in children and teens. Jonathan, executive director of Fieldstone Counseling, brilliantly uses the “dinglehopper” analogy from The Little Mermaid to expose how society misuses identity, leading to instability and mental health crises in our kids. We dive deep into the cultural pressures — from academics and sports to social media and the rising rates of gender dysphoria — that are shaping our children’s sense of self. Show Notes and Resources Purchase "Grounded in Grace" online.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever feel like you’re running on fumes as a parent? You’re not alone! In this candid episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson chat with Bruce and Maria Golf, parents of four young daughters, about the raw reality of sleep deprivation and how it impacts their marriage and faith. From hilarious (and relatable) meltdowns to practical tips for soothing night terrors (hello, cat videos!), Bruce and Maria share their honest struggles with sleepless nights due to a newborn, child anxiety, and more. Discover how they navigate irritability and resentment, transforming shared suffering into powerful teamwork. Show Notes and Resources Get more parenting resources online. Learn more about the YouVersion Bible App online. View some of the "one another's" in the bible Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Matt & Lauren Chandler get brutally honest about their 25-year marriage, parenting struggles, and ministry life in this raw conversation on FamilyLife Today. Discover how they moved past 7 ”brutal” early years, found healing through vulnerability and Celebrate Recovery, and built a friendship that sustains them through every season. From navigating differing interests to regretting missed opportunities with their kids, Matt and Lauren don’t hold back. They emphasize the power of authenticity, the necessity of deep community, and the illusion of control when raising adult children. Plus, hear candid confessions about spiritual leadership at home and Matt’s ”icy” demeanor. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Lauren Chandler on her website. Take the Mindful Marriage Assessment. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you raising resilient kids in a fear-driven world? In this powerful FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson join Dr. Kathy Cook, founder of Celebrate Kids, to equip Christian parents with the tools to foster true resilience in their children—and themselves—through a biblical lens. Why do kids struggle with perseverance and risk-taking? Discover how well-intentioned overprotective parenting, from “”helicopter”” to “”lawnmower”” styles, can actually hinder growth. Kathy shares eye-opening insights on the importance of allowing natural consequences (yes, even a bad grade or spilled milk!) to build character and faith, drawing wisdom from scriptures like James 1:2–4 and Romans 5:3–5. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch and her ministry, "Celebrate Kids" online.  Take the Mindful Marriage Assessment. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you carrying the heavy burden of sexual shame? Do you long for freedom and healing in your sexuality? In this crucial episode of FamilyLife Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson welcome Dr. Julie Slattery, clinical psychologist and author of Surrendered Sexuality, to address the pain of sexual brokenness and offer a path to liberation.Dr. Slattery compassionately unpacks why so many Christians struggle with shame surrounding their sexuality. She reveals how our sexual issues often stem from deeper spiritual struggles, like doubts about God's goodness or believing identity lies. You'll learn about the four common "identity traps" that keep us bound – self-discovery, shame, performance, and deriving value from relationships – and how to escape them. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dr. Juli Slattery and Authentic Intimacy Learn more about the Love Like You Mean It Cruise  Get Spouseology for free with a donation. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you tired of waiting? Feeling impatient with life's delays? You're not alone. In this insightful episode of FamilyLife Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Pastor and author Mark Vroegop to explore the profound truth that "Waiting Isn't a Waste."Mark, author of the powerful book Waiting Isn't a Waste, shares deeply personal stories and biblical wisdom to reframe our perspective on those frustrating "gap moments" between our current reality and our desired outcomes. Discover why waiting isn't a passive state, but a divinely designed process to cultivate dependence on God and foster profound spiritual growth. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Mark Vroegop  Learn more about the Love Like You Mean It Cruise Get Spouseology for free with a donation. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Making friends as an adult and building authentic Christian community thrives on humility, honesty, and honor, fostering deep bonds through vulnerability and faith, as shared by New Creation Fellowship leaders.Join Dave and Ann Wilson from FamilyLife Today as they sit down with the leadership team of New Creation Fellowship in Orlando, Florida. Pastors Ike and Arian Todd, Recap and Brittany Gray, and Demetrius share their incredible journey of friendship, faith, and church planting. This episode dives deep into what it truly means to build authentic Christian community, emphasizing the power of vulnerability, accountability, and unwavering commitment. Show Notes and Resources Follow Rechab on Instagram. Follow Demetrius on Instagram. Watch this previous conversation with Rechab and Brit Gray on YouTube.  Learn more about the Love Like You Mean It Cruise online. Get Spouseology for free with a donation. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever wonder how to navigate tricky in-law dynamics, prepare for the quiet of an empty nest, or truly "leave and cleave" in your marriage? Join a candid and insightful conversation from the 2025 Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise panel featuring Ron and Nan Deal, Jared and Becky Wilson, and Trent and Andrea Griffith, with wisdom woven in by Dave and Ann Wilson. This episode tackles real-life relationship hurdles, offering practical advice on everything from setting healthy boundaries with family to the crucial journey of rebuilding trust after it's been broken. Plus, get actionable tips on taming those pesky phone and social media distractions that can steal connection. Show Notes and Resources Reserve your spot for the 2026 Love Like You Mean It Cruise. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who has deeply hurt you? This powerful episode with Jared Wilson, recorded during our 2025 Love Like You Mean It Cruise, delves into the profound connection between forgiveness, love, and God's grace. We explore how forgiveness isn't just a feeling, but a conscious act of love – a "relational grace" that mirrors the undeserved blessings God pours out on us. By embracing the radical gift of forgiveness as a powerful way to reflect God's love and grace in our relationships, even when it feels difficult and costly, we're reminded that by forgiving others, we not only free ourselves but also make God known in the world. Show Notes and Resources Reserve your spot for the 2026 Love Like You Mean It Cruise. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

This FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, features Jonathan and Carrie Cronkite, who share their passion for making God real to their children through intentional family practices. The episode begins with a discussion about their recent experience on the FamilyLife Love Like You Mean It cruise, highlighting its uplifting atmosphere and authentic speakers. The Cronkites emphasize the importance of parents modeling faith at home, drawing from Jonathan’s 15 years as a student pastor, where he identified that kids with lifelong faith had parents who prayed and read scripture together. They introduce their PRAY acronym (Praise, Repent, Ask for others, Yourself) and the use of prayer rocks, inspired by Joshua 4, as visual reminders of prayer requests and answered prayers. These rocks, kept in a bowl and later moved to a memorial platter, help kids see God’s faithfulness. The episode addresses handling unanswered prayers, encouraging service to others, and modeling repentance to foster a genuine faith environment. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Jonathan and Carrie Cronkite at their website  Reserve your spot for the 2026 Love Like You Mean It Cruise. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Toxic masculinity is as destructive as we think it is. But professor Nancy Pearcey’s data shows more of the whole story--of the power of a good man. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nancy Pearcey at her website. Get more resources about masculinity on our website  Find Nancy's book The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Author and professor Nancy Pearcey explores sociological data to uncover why it’s open season on masculinity—and the surprising role of Christian men. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nancy Pearcey at her website. Get more resources about masculinity on our website  Find Nancy's book The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Author and professor Nancy Pearcey uncovers why the script for masculinity turned toxic—and how Christianity reconciles the war between the sexes. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nancy Pearcey at her website. Get more resources about masculinity on our website  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On today's FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we continue the conversation with Bill and Pam Mutz, parents of 12 and grandparents to 37, focusing on their experiences with loss and God’s redemptive power. The episode delves into the tragic drowning of their 7-month-old son, Jonathan, and the loss of their granddaughter, Gracie, due to their daughter Carrie’s preeclampsia. Pam recounts the guilt and blame she faced after Jonathan’s accident, emphasizing Bill’s immediate forgiveness as a pivotal act of grace. The couple shares how God’s sovereignty and preparation sustained them, highlighting moments like a premonitory dream and scripture readings. They discuss avoiding fairness in parenting to reduce entitlement and the importance of looking forward to God’s purpose rather than dwelling on past pain. The episode underscores the theme of trusting God through grief, with Bill and Pam’s faith and forgiveness strengthening their marriage and ministry. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Bill and Pam Mutz at their website. Attend a FamilyLife Weekend to Remember conference for marriage enrichment. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On this FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we feature Bill and Pam Mutz, a couple with 12 children and 37 grandchildren, known for their work with FamilyLife’s Weekend to Remember conferences and the Art of Marriage series. The episode introduces their story, starting with their meeting in Indiana and Pam’s initial reluctance to marry or have children. Despite her plans to serve Jesus overseas, Pam agreed to marry Bill after guidance from mentors, and their perspective on children shifted after their first child, Carrie, awakened Pam’s nurturing instincts. They discuss using the family dinner table as a training ground for respect and devotions, and their decision to trust God with family size, leading to 12 children. The episode touches on their mentoring roles, including hosting a student from Colombia, and their surrender to God’s plan, even amidst challenges like the loss of a son and granddaughter, Molly. The hosts highlight the couple’s joy, affection, and wisdom gained through decades of marriage and parenting. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Bill and Pam Mutz at their website. Attend a FamilyLife Weekend to Remember conference for marriage enrichment. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network     See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

This FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, features counselor David Thomas, who discusses signs of an emotionally unhealthy home, drawing from his book "Raising Emotionally Strong Boys." The conversation explores three key practices—recognize, regulate, and repair—that are often absent in unhealthy homes. David explains how ignoring emotional signals, failing to manage stress, and refusing to apologize contribute to dysfunction. The hosts share personal stories, including Dave’s realization of his emotional unhealthiness despite initial denial and Ann’s struggle with comparing her children. The episode emphasizes the importance of naming pain, seeking help, and modeling healthy emotional behaviors for kids. Dave’s childhood experience of suppressed grief and Ann’s encouragement to pray highlight God’s redemptive power in transforming pain. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about David Thomas and get helpful family resource on his website Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On this episode of FamilyLife Today, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we feature counselor David Thomas, author of "Raising Emotionally Strong Boys." The discussion focuses on understanding and managing the physicality and emotional intensity of boys, particularly through the lens of Ann’s story about neighborhood boys breaking wood on their foreheads. David shares insights from his 25 years at Daystar Counseling, emphasizing the need to create outlets for boys’ energy, such as a designated “space” for physical release. He introduces the ABCs of emotional development—coping, breathing, and naming feelings—explaining that boys often need to release energy before identifying emotions. The episode addresses common parenting mistakes, like excessive talk and emotion during discipline, and encourages narrating personal experiences to model emotional health. David’s podcast with Sissy Goff, "Raising Boys and Girls," is highlighted as a resource for parents.   Show Notes and Resources Learn more about David Thomas and get helpful family resource on his website Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On this FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we feature a segment from the FamilyLife Blended podcast with Ron Deal and guest Dr. Adrian Hickmon, founder of Capstone Treatment Center in Arkansas. The discussion focuses on parenting children with addictive behaviors, such as drugs, alcohol, or pornography. Dr. Hickmon explains the underlying causes of these behaviors, including trauma, isolation, and disconnection, likening them to a "magma pool" beneath a volcano.  He advises parents to find facts, triage the situation, and avoid detaching emotionally, instead emphasizing attachment and healthy boundaries. Ron shares a personal story about his son’s near-fatal alcohol incident, illustrating the balance of moving toward a child with love while setting boundaries. The episode underscores the gospel’s rupture-repair-masterpiece model as a framework for family restoration. Show Notes and Resources Listen to the full FamilyLife Blended Podcast online. Contact Capstone Treatment Center for professional help for you or a loved one . Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

This FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, continues the discussion of "The Road to Kay Luma," a five-part audio drama produced by FamilyLife, Cru, and Jesus Film Project. Co-creators Perry Wilson and Landon Holly share insights into the drama’s development, inspired by the Prodigal Son parable, reimagined in a fantasy world from the perspective of the prodigal’s grandson, Orric. The episode explores family dynamics, parental expectations, and the pressure children feel to perform, with personal anecdotes from the hosts and creators. Clips highlight the drama’s immersive storytelling, music, and characters, emphasizing its role in fostering family discussions. A discussion guide is introduced to aid parents and children in vulnerable conversations about identity and approval. Show Notes and Resources Listen to "The Road to Kaeluma" on Apple Podcasts  Listen to "The Road to Kaeluma" on Spotify Learn more about "The Road to Kaeluma", download a family discussion guide and devotional on our website Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On this FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we introduce you to "The Road to Kaeluma," a five-part audio drama by FamilyLife, Cru, and Jesus Film Project. Co-creators Perry Wilson and Landon Hawley discuss its inspiration from the Prodigal Son parable, reimagined in a fantasy world from the prodigal’s grandson’s perspective. The episode features clips showcasing high-quality production, epic music, and compelling characters. Themes include grace, family dynamics, and spiritual growth, with personal stories from the hosts and creators connecting to the parable. The drama aims to spark family discussions on faith. Show Notes and Resources Listen to "The Road to Kaeluma" on Apple Podcasts  Listen to "The Road to Kaeluma" on Spotify Learn more about "The Road to Kaeluma", download a family discussion guide and devotional on our website Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Wondering how to be engaged and do it right? Sean Perron and Spencer Harmon offer biblical, practical wisdom on for a beautiful now and a forever future. Show Notes and Resources Take a deeper dive and grab a copy of Sean Perron and Spencer Hamron's series "Letters to a Romantic." Check it out here!  Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Want to do relationships differently? Authors Sean Perron and Spencer Harmon point you in the right direction for dating, engagement, or marriage with purpose and depth. Show Notes and Resources Take a deeper dive and grab a copy of Sean Perron and Spencer Hamron's series "Letters to a Romantic." Check it out here!  Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

You’re dating—but man, do things get sticky. Authors Sean Perron and Spencer Harmon help you approach marriage on purpose, and done right. Show Notes and Resources Take a deeper dive and grab a copy of Sean Perron and Spencer Hamron's series "Letters to a Romantic." Check it out here!  Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What emotional skills does your son need? Counselor David Thomas sheds light on common emotional struggles, including anger, anxiety, and depression. Find practical ways you can help your son be resourceful, aware, resilient, and empathetic—breaking patterns of dysfunction and embracing maturity for life. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about David and his books at his website: raisingboysandgirls.com Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

What’s it take to raise emotionally strong boys? Veteran counselor David Thomas knows males typically aren’t equipped with skills to name and navigate their experience—and the fallout is grave. Thomas lays out strategies to equip boys for a powerful present and future. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about David and his books at his website: raisingboysandgirls.com Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this emotionally resonant and deeply insightful episode of FamilyLife Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson continue a heartfelt discussion with Jennifer and Allen Parr, focusing on marriage dynamics, spiritual leadership, and the power of softness—particularly from wives toward their husbands. This episode explores the layered meanings of what it means for a wife to approach her husband in a “soft” manner, not as a form of weakness or subservience, but as an intentional act of humility, encouragement, and grace.Jennifer reflects on her personal growth in communication, having learned the transformative power of open-ended questions like "Are you open to this?" instead of using rigid language like "you should" or "you need to." The Parrs discuss how this subtle shift has positively impacted their marriage and can open the door for honest conversations in others.The conversation then pivots to one of the most common marital tensions: the desire for a husband to be the spiritual leader of the home, especially when he either lacks interest or simply doesn't know how. Allen offers practical insight into the nuances between unwillingness and inexperience. He advises wives to approach their husbands with grace and patience, emphasizing curiosity over criticism.Dave and Ann echo these sentiments by sharing their own experiences with unmet expectations and communication pitfalls, including a powerful moment when Ann praised Dave for praying with their kids—an act that motivated him more than any criticism ever had.The discussion also dives deep into childhood trauma, particularly the lasting impact of growing up in a fatherless home. Allen vulnerably shares how the absence of his dad from age six left him feeling inadequate as a husband and father—despite his current devotion to his family and ministry. This leads to a broader conversation about compassion, empathy, and healing through understanding a partner's personal history.The episode wraps with an acknowledgment of the strength in softness: how humility, grace, and genuine encouragement can transform marriages. The Wilsons and the Parrs agree that this kind of softness is not passivity, but rather a powerful way to cultivate connection, spiritual leadership, and long-term relational growth. Show Notes and Resources Follow Jennifer on Instagram. Learn more about Allen on his website. Listen to the "Winning Women" podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

This episode of FamilyLife Today features a deeply personal and insightful conversation with Jennifer and Allen Parr, centered on the concept of redefining success for women, embracing God-given influence, and the power of softness without weakness. Hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) event, the conversation takes place in a relaxed, makeshift studio, giving it an authentic, heartfelt tone.Jennifer Parr shares her emotional journey of stepping away from a high-achieving corporate role—her dream job at her dream company—to fully embrace her role as a present wife and mother. She candidly discusses the identity struggle and internal wrestling that came with surrendering a position she had worked hard to attain. With two young children and a growing ministry alongside Allen, Jennifer felt a divine calling to shift her focus from corporate success to family and faith-driven influence.Throughout the discussion, Jennifer highlights how women are inherently created with a softness and tenderness that is not synonymous with weakness. Instead, it’s a quiet strength—a powerful form of influence that doesn't demand the spotlight but transforms every space it enters. The Parrs discuss how stepping into that softness, rather than bristling at it, has allowed Jennifer to thrive personally and within their marriage and ministry.Allen supports Jennifer’s journey, noting how her stepping back not only brought more peace to their home but also improved her overall well-being, including healing from insomnia and anxiety. The couple explains the importance of shared decision-making, heart posture, and recognizing each person’s capacity in different seasons of life.The conversation also dives into the struggles women face when they feel the need to "do it all", often out of fear, control, or past trauma. Jennifer openly acknowledges how fear rooted in “what ifs” about her husband’s potential absence or failure to provide drove her initial resistance to leaving her job. The panel reflects on how fear, pride, and anxiety can distort our understanding of roles within marriage and family life.The tone turns humorous and vulnerable as Dave and Ann share a story from their past—complete with corded phones, hotel mishaps, and a memorable line from Dave telling Ann to "cut it off"—illustrating the all-too-relatable dynamic of a wife jumping in to "fix" what she perceives her husband can’t handle.The episode wraps with a discussion on healthy communication in marriage, including when to speak, when to stay silent, and how to approach difficult conversations with humility and prayer. Jennifer emphasizes that surrender-driven success—rooted in trusting God—is more fulfilling than any worldly achievement. Show Notes and Resources Follow Jennifer on Instagram. Learn more about Allen on his website. Listen to the "Winning Women" podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Mom of 7, wife of an NFL athlete, and podcaster Kirsten Watson is asked, “How do you do it?” She believes to take a breath of God’s Word is to exhale peace. Show Notes and Resources Get Kirsten's book Sis, Take a Breath: Encouragement for the Woman Who’s Trying to Live and Love Well (but Secretly Just Wants to Take a Nap) on our shop. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

God’s story for Kirsten Watson and NFL Super Bowl champ Benjamin Watson has spiraled them through 15 NFL seasons, seven kids, and plenty of plot twists. Show Notes and Resources Ann's plant Illustration  Get Kirsten's book Sis, Take a Breath: Encouragement for the Woman Who’s Trying to Live and Love Well (but Secretly Just Wants to Take a Nap) on our shop. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Kirsten Watson and NFL Super Bowl champ Benjamin Watson know well the scrabble for identity apart from connections, accomplishments, and best-laid plans. Show Notes and Resources Ann's plant Illustration  Get Kirsten's book Sis, Take a Breath: Encouragement for the Woman Who’s Trying to Live and Love Well (but Secretly Just Wants to Take a Nap) on our shop. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Is it unloving or selfish to set a boundary? Are Christians ever called to walk away from a relationship that’s no longer safe or sustainable? Lysa TerKeurst deeply understands these hard questions in the midst of relational struggles. Show Notes and Resources Purchase Lisa's book, "Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You Are" Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Do you struggle with saying 'no'? You're not alone. Join Bestselling Author Lysa TerKeurst in a compelling conversation about setting healthy boundaries in relationships. True identity, biblical wisdom to navigate chaos and insights on self-care. If you're seeking to enhance relationships and emotional well-being, this episode is a must-listen. Show Notes and Resources Purchase Lisa's book, "Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You Are" Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this emotionally rich and spiritually grounded episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson dive into one of the most personal, transformative aspects of their marriage—how powerful, life-giving words can uplift and transform a spouse, especially within the context of Christian marriage.The episode centers on themes from Ann Wilson’s book, specifically focusing on how women can speak life into their husbands even when all they want to do is criticize or “coach” them. Dave vulnerably shares the impact of Ann's affirmations over their 45 years of marriage—how both praise and constructive criticism shaped him into a better man, father, husband, and spiritual leader.One pivotal story revisited multiple times is when Ann expressed disappointment in the difference between Dave’s passionate presence at church and his disengaged presence at home. While Dave’s initial reaction was defensive, he later realized through prayer that God was speaking through Ann, awakening him to the need for spiritual leadership at home.They unpack the idea of the wife as a “helper suitable” (from Genesis 2:18), diving deep into the original Hebrew words “ezer” and “k’negdo.” These terms, often misunderstood as denoting subservience, are redefined as symbols of strength, equality, and divine partnership. Ann shares insights from theologians and Jewish scholars, painting a picture of a wife not as a passive supporter but a warrior who stands toe to toe with her husband, helping him become all that God created him to be.The Wilsons emphasize the importance of affirming the good in each other rather than tearing each other down, especially when trying to correct faults. Critique alone rarely motivates change; but love-filled truth, built on a foundation of encouragement, does. They compare it to making deposits in an emotional bank account: affirmations are deposits, and critiques are withdrawals. Without a balance of positivity, correction only causes further distance.The episode ends with a reflection on the spiritual reality of marriage. They stress that spouses must first be filled by God, or they will look to each other to meet needs only Christ can fill—resulting in disappointment and relational strain. Instead, if both partners are spiritually nourished, their love and support become an overflow rather than a demand.This candid conversation offers practical insight, biblical wisdom, and personal vulnerability that challenges and encourages both husbands and wives to build marriages that reflect God’s design and grace. Show Notes and Resources Purchase "How to Speak Life to Your Husband" on our website. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this candid and emotionally powerful episode of FamilyLife Today, co-hosts Ann and Dave Wilson sit down to talk about their deeply personal journey of transformation within their marriage — a journey that led to the writing of their new book, How to Speak Life to Your Husband When All You Want to Do is Yell at Him.What begins as a lighthearted moment with Dave calling Ann his favorite guest quickly turns into a raw exploration of how words — especially those said (or not said) in marriage — can either give life or slowly crush someone's spirit. Ann shares the heartbreaking realization that her constant critiques, though intended as help, came across as boos to Dave — a far cry from the encouragement he needed.The episode dives into a pivotal moment when Dave, during an impromptu speaking engagement at a women’s group, publicly revealed that after their marriage, he no longer felt cheered on by Ann but instead heard “boo, boo, boo” when walking in the door. This blindsided Ann and led to a very tense ride home, followed by a powerful personal reckoning with God. Ann’s honest prayer and God’s gentle but firm response (“Yes”) started a spiritual and emotional transformation that impacted their marriage and parenting deeply.They discuss how expectations, unmet hopes, and internal scripts shape how women view their husbands — and how the enemy (Satan) can fuel those disappointments with subtle whispers that deepen discontent. Brain science also comes into play, as Ann notes that 85% of our thoughts are negative and 95% are repetitive, illustrating how easily women can spiral into patterns of criticism.Throughout the episode, the Wilsons reflect on Scripture (especially Proverbs 18:21 and Matthew 7:3-5), the role of pride, and how important it is to take thoughts captive. They talk about how Ann began intentionally looking for and vocalizing the good in Dave. It started with thanking him for simple things — like working hard — and grew into genuine, spirit-building encouragement that transformed not just their marriage but their legacy.They emphasize that this message is not for abusive relationships, but for average, well-meaning marriages where miscommunication and unmet expectations erode intimacy. By inviting God into her mindset, Ann became a woman who spoke life, not just to her husband but to everyone around her. Dave affirms how this change brought vibrancy back into their home — and calls on women to reflect on their own “way of being” toward their husbands.The episode ends with a passionate call to action: support the FamilyLife Today ministry so more marriages can be transformed through God's truth and grace. Show Notes and Resources Purchase "How to Speak Life to Your Husband" on our website. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of Family Life Blended, Ron Deal and Gayla Grace explore the myths surrounding stepfamilies and the myths that often cause harm to blended family dynamics. The conversation is framed around common misconceptions, historical folklore, and personal experiences with step-parenting. They begin by discussing how negative stereotypes have been perpetuated, particularly the myth that all stepmothers are wicked and all stepfathers abusive. This stereotype has roots in fairy tales, notably the Brother's Grimm stories, where stepmothers were often depicted as evil characters. The hosts note that while there is a small grain of truth to some of these stories (as abusive step-parents exist), they don’t represent the reality for most stepparents, who are often loving, hardworking, and deeply committed to their stepchildren. They stress that stepping into a parental role in a blended family requires time and patience, and stepparents should avoid rushing or forcing relationships to develop.Another myth discussed is the idea that stepparents are instantly accepted and integrated into the family. While some young children may quickly bond with a stepparent, the process of blending families typically takes time and doesn’t happen overnight. The hosts explain that trying to assume an immediate parental role, especially in cases where stepchildren have strong loyalties to their biological parents, can be detrimental. They caution against the idea of erasing or replacing the biological parent in the child’s life.Ron and Gala also delve into the myth that calling stepchildren "my children" will create a mutual, instant bond. While it’s important to express care and make the child feel included, they emphasize the need for communication and co-creation between stepparent and child about their relationship. They also tackle the belief that stepparents should love their stepchildren the same as their biological children. The reality is that the connection may not be as strong initially, but that doesn’t mean it can’t grow over time. The key is to be equitable in how stepparents treat both biological and stepchildren, with fairness being the priority.Through these discussions, the episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for families navigating the complexities of blended family life. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the process of building relationships gradually, be patient, and avoid the harmful myths that can cause unrealistic expectations. Show Notes and Resources Purchase "The Mindful Marriage" on our website . Sign up for the Summit on Stepfamily Leadership Conference Learn more about the "Blended and Blessed" conference. Get resources for your blended family online. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this FamilyLife Today podcast episode, Dave and Ann Wilson speak to Johnny and Jackie Gibson as they share their deeply moving journey through grief after the stillbirth of their daughter, Layla. Johnny opens up about the painful experience of losing Layla in 2016, a tragedy that left them both devastated. The couple talks about their personal ways of coping with grief, including how they involved their young son, Ben, in the grieving process. Ben, at just three and a half years old, asked poignant questions that prompted profound conversations about death and faith. Johnny shares how these conversations inspired him to write The Moon is Always Round, a book about grief and hope told from Ben’s perspective.The couple discusses how they handled their grief differently but remained close throughout the process. They mention how they supported each other through the journey and how their marriage grew stronger as a result of facing this tragic loss together. The importance of open communication and space to grieve in different ways is highlighted, as well as the comfort they found in their faith and the church community.In addition, they share touching personal rituals, like visiting Layla’s grave and engaging in a family catechism, to honor her memory. Johnny reflects on how their daughter's legacy continues to impact many people through the book and how the royalties from The Moon is Always Round fund the Layla the Evangelist scholarship, helping train future Christian evangelists. This episode is a powerful testament to faith, grief, and the ways in which even the shortest lives can leave an enduring impact. Show Notes and Resources Get a copy of Jackie's book "You Are Still a Mother" on our shop. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

This episode features a heartfelt discussion with FamilyLife Today hosts, Dave and Ann Wilson, and Jackie Gibson, who shares her deeply personal experience of losing her daughter, Layla, to stillbirth at 39 weeks. The conversation focuses on how one can endure suffering, offering guidance on how to walk through valleys of grief and loss. Jackie opens up about the challenges she faced after Layla's death and emphasizes the importance of having a strong spiritual foundation to withstand such hardship. She credits the teachings of scripture and the support of a solid church community for helping her through this immense trial.Jackie talks about the importance of acknowledging the reality of suffering, not expecting an easy walk through life as a Christian, and finding comfort in knowing that suffering is part of the process of being shaped into Christ's image. She reflects on the pain of loss, the process of grief, and the healing that gradually begins over time. While the pain never fully disappears, Jackie discusses the possibility of joy returning and shares how she now finds solace in the resurrection hope.She also shares practical advice on how to support those grieving, specifically offering tips on what to do and what not to do when someone experiences a loss. Showing up, offering practical help, and acknowledging the loss are the key themes of her advice. Jackie recounts how, despite the pain, her family continues to honor Layla’s memory and celebrate her life, marking her birthday with special traditions.The episode also touches on the complex emotions surrounding abortion and miscarriage. Jackie explains how she came to understand the gospel's hope for those who have experienced abortion, sharing that, like any mother who has lost a child, women who have had abortions can find peace and forgiveness through Christ. The conversation is full of compassion and support for anyone struggling with grief, guilt, and the complexities of loss.The episode ends with a powerful prayer for those listening who are experiencing grief, especially the mothers who have lost children, and a reminder of the hope found in Jesus Christ's resurrection. Show Notes and Resources Get a copy of Jackie's book "You Are Still a Mother" on our shop. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this heartfelt FamilyLife Today podcast episode, Jackie Gibson, author of You Are Still A Mother, joins Dave and Ann Wilson to discuss the deep emotional pain of experiencing miscarriage and stillbirth, offering both personal insights and spiritual reflections on how to navigate such immense grief. Jackie begins by sharing the heartbreak of losing her second child, Layla, a daughter born still in 2016. As a mother and grandmother, Jackie offers a profound and vulnerable perspective on the loss of a child, especially when you have no baby to hold, and no tangible evidence to show for your motherhood. Jackie recounts the anticipation and joy that filled her life leading up to the pregnancy with Layla, only to face the devastating news that her daughter had passed away before birth. The emotional rollercoaster began with a seemingly ordinary Sunday morning when Jackie noticed the baby’s movements had slowed, leading to a phone call to the hospital. After being advised to stay home and monitor the baby’s movements, Jackie found out the following day that there was no heartbeat. This moment was the beginning of a grief journey that led to a profound wrestle with God's sovereignty, loss, and questions about His goodness. Throughout the episode, Jackie opens up about her family's story, including how her husband Johnny, a seminary professor, supported her during this traumatic time. She discusses the significance of her relationship with the Lord during this time, sharing how God’s nearness and the comfort of scripture provided solace amidst the confusion and sorrow. Despite the overwhelming pain of Layla’s death, Jackie emphasizes that she clung to the belief that God was still sovereign and good, even when it felt incomprehensible. Jackie’s book, You Are Still a Mother, was written from the place of her own journey through grief, with the aim of offering support and hope to other women and families facing the loss of a child. She highlights how many mothers who experience miscarriage or stillbirth often feel invisible, as though their motherhood isn’t valid since they did not bring a baby home. She explains that motherhood is not defined by the child you bring home, but by the love and bond shared, even if the child is not physically present. The conversation also touches on the importance of community and how the support of friends, family, and the church during moments of grief can be life-changing. Jackie discusses how scripture, such as the verse from Deuteronomy 33:27, was a source of strength for her, helping her through moments of despair and fear. She shares advice on how to be supportive when someone else is grieving, and the importance of offering presence, scripture, and prayer without needing to have all the answers. The episode ends with a powerful encouragement for listeners who are going through similar grief, reminding them that they are still mothers, even if their children are no longer with them. Jackie invites listeners to embrace their grief with God, acknowledge the pain, and trust that He will guide them through their suffering. The podcast also highlights Jackie’s book as a resource for those who are struggling with miscarriage or stillbirth. Show Notes and Resources Get a copy of Jackie's book "You Are Still a Mother" on our shop. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson explore the lives of five remarkable Christians who changed the world without holding traditional religious titles like pastors or missionaries. Jordan Raynor, the author of "Five Mere Christians", joins the discussion and introduces these figures, starting with Fannie Lou Hamer, whose activism played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Raynor reveals that while Hamer's story is well-known among African Americans, many white people are unaware of her contributions, highlighting the racial divide in historical knowledge.Fannie Lou Hamer, a poor Black sharecropper from Mississippi, took the courageous step of attempting to register to vote in 1962, a move that led to her imprisonment and brutal beating by a police officer. Despite the violence she endured, Hamer went on to form the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, which aimed to challenge voter suppression in the South. Hamer's testimony at the 1964 Democratic National Convention, despite being disrupted by President Lyndon B. Johnson's efforts to suppress it, brought national attention to the injustices in Mississippi and helped secure voting rights for African Americans. What stood out in her story was her ability to fight for justice without hating or canceling her enemies, maintaining a Christ-like approach of praying for those who wronged her.The conversation then shifts to how justice and love should intersect in today’s world. The hosts explore how modern Christians, in their pursuit of justice, should avoid adopting worldly methods such as cancel culture, which contrasts with Christ's teachings on loving one's enemies and praying for them.Next, the discussion takes a turn to the founder of LEGO, Ole Kirk Christiansen, whose life was marked by incredible perseverance and faith. Christiansen’s story of overcoming tragedy—including multiple factory fires and the deaths of his wife and child—illustrates his deep trust in God’s plan. His commitment to creating toys during difficult times showed his belief in the power of play and its connection to God’s joy in creation. His ability to persevere through extreme hardships and still focus on bringing joy to others is a testament to his Christian faith and work ethic.The episode concludes by discussing how these individuals demonstrate the importance of both trusting in God’s sovereignty and hustling to make a difference in the world. Rainer encourages listeners to engage in their work and relationships with a balance of prayer, action, and rest, as exemplified by these extraordinary individuals. Ultimately, the podcast emphasizes that even in the most difficult of circumstances, faith, perseverance, and trust in God can bring transformation. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Jordan at his website. Download our "Best of Faith" resource online . Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson bring back Jordan Raynor to continue their conversation about how to integrate faith into everyday work. Jordan passionately discusses the concept of sacred versus secular work, challenging the common divide between the two. He emphasizes that everything, including our "secular" jobs, can be sacred if we approach them with the right mindset—recognizing that Jesus is Lord over all of life. This idea is rooted in the belief that God is with us everywhere, and that it’s not the nature of the work that makes it sacred, but the intention behind it, the manner in which it is done, and the communion with the Holy Spirit in the process.Jordan shares a personal story from his college years, recounting a moment when he was offered a chance to try out for the Cincinnati Bengals, but he turned it down, believing that God was calling him into full-time Christian ministry. Reflecting on that decision, Jordan critiques the advice he was given, noting that many young Christians are told to pursue "full-time ministry" while neglecting the value of secular work as a calling in itself.Jordan also discusses his new book, Five Mere Christians, in which he highlights five influential individuals who lived out their faith through their work in ways that impacted the world. These figures include Fred Rogers (Mr. Rogers), Fannie Lou Hamer, Ole Kirk Christensen (founder of LEGO), Hannah Moore (a poet and abolitionist), and C.S. Lewis. He explores how these individuals exemplified what it looks like to glorify God through everyday work, even when it was not considered traditional Christian ministry.Jordan goes into detail about Fred Rogers’ life, particularly his deep commitment to serving children through his show, Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. Fred’s life was marked by his understanding that his work in television was a form of ministry. His compassion, especially for underprivileged children, came from his own childhood experiences and his deep relationship with God. Fred's intentional choice to be present with people, to slow down and offer them his full attention, is highlighted as a critical aspect of his Christ-like behavior.Throughout the episode, Jordan challenges listeners to rethink how they approach their own work. He offers practical advice on how to eliminate hurry, make space for margin in our calendars, and prioritize relationships over tasks. The conversation emphasizes being fully present with the people we interact with and cultivating a pace of life that allows us to show the love of Christ in tangible ways, just like Fred Rogers did. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Jordan at his website. Download our "Best of Faith" resource online . Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this podcast episode, Dr. Ryan Rush and his host discuss the significance of mealtime in family life, focusing on the emotional, spiritual, and physical transformations that can take place when families gather around the table. Dr. Rush, who is also known as "Dinner Table Ryan," talks about his book, Restore the Table, which advocates for the power of shared meals in fostering strong familial bonds. He explains that mealtime is one of the most impactful habits a family can adopt, and it doesn't have to involve gourmet dishes or elaborate plans to be effective.The discussion begins humorously with Dr. Rush admitting he’s not much of a cook but emphasizes the importance of the shared experience over the food itself. He elaborates on the "overachieving meal" as a major mistake many families make when trying to make meals too complex, which often leads to burnout. He advocates for simplicity, recalling his mother’s recipe for sloppy joes and how it became a cherished memory for him, highlighting that meals should be about togetherness rather than perfection.The conversation touches on common pitfalls families face during mealtime, such as diving too deep into heavy conversations too quickly. Dr. Rush and his host share a funny story about a dinner guest who was uncomfortable with a deep question about marriage, illustrating how it's essential to keep conversations at the table light and natural at first. They also discuss the balance between allowing deeper conversations to flow naturally and avoiding turning mealtime into an interrogation. A strategy they recommend is asking open-ended questions like, "Tell me your story," to let people share at their own pace.Additionally, they talk about how mealtimes shouldn't turn into a lecture, particularly for parents who might feel the need to impart lessons to their kids during meals. Instead, mealtime should be about connection and fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and loved. They recount stories of their own experiences with over-serious meal discussions and the importance of creating a joyful atmosphere around the table.The episode also addresses the distractions that modern technology can bring to mealtime, such as phones and TVs. Dr. Rush emphasizes the importance of being fully present during family meals and advises parents to set boundaries around media use during mealtimes. They reflect on how phones, even when not actively being looked at, can still send the message that the person in front of you isn’t as important as whatever might be happening on the device.Lastly, Dr. Rush and his host encourage parents to embrace the chaos of mealtime with young children, understanding that even when things get messy, the act of sitting together and sharing a meal has lasting benefits. They talk about the future regrets parents may have when their children leave home, urging families to cherish these moments before they are gone. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Ryan Rush on his website. Download conversation starters for the family table at familylife.com/tabletalk. Get Ryan's book "Restore the Table" on our shop.  Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dr. Ryan Rush and FamilyLife Today hosts Dave and Ann Wilson discuss the power of mealtime and its profound impact on families, relationships, and spiritual growth. The conversation begins with a humorous remark about how the interview feels "wrong" because there's no food present, highlighting the importance of food and mealtimes in their daily lives. This sets the tone for a discussion on the significance of shared meals, something that has been studied by Dr. Rush for years.Dr. Rush explains how meals around the table can restore and strengthen family connections, noting that while people universally agree that mealtime is important, it is often neglected due to busy schedules. The episode delves into the challenges families face in making mealtimes a priority, especially when schedules are jam-packed with activities. However, Dr. Rush emphasizes that finding just a few moments to gather around the table—whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—can make a huge difference in maintaining strong family bonds.The idea of a "Trunk Picnic" is introduced, showcasing how creative solutions like eating in the back of a car can make mealtime a special occasion, no matter how busy life gets. Dr. Rush also shares insights from his own experiences, offering personal anecdotes of how his family has maintained mealtimes despite hectic schedules. This includes how his family holds a weekly meal together at a local restaurant after church and how even in the midst of tough circumstances, meals continue to be a bonding time.The episode further explores the spiritual significance of mealtimes. Dr. Rush highlights how mealtime can be an opportunity for evangelism and building relationships, particularly with neighbors. By inviting others to the table, families can engage in meaningful conversations and show Christ’s love without explicitly preaching. He shares stories from his diverse neighborhood, including connections with people from different cultural and religious backgrounds.The emotional and spiritual growth that can occur around the table is also discussed, especially in light of Dr. Rush’s family’s experiences with their daughter Lily, who has special needs. Despite Lily's nonverbal communication, she plays a central role in the family’s mealtime practices by encouraging prayer and helping the family stay focused on what truly matters.Throughout the episode, Dr. Rush invites listeners to participate in the "Restore the Table" challenge, encouraging them to spend 40 days prioritizing mealtime as a way to strengthen family and spiritual life. He offers practical advice and tips for making mealtimes a regular, cherished part of daily life, and the hosts encourage listeners to read his book, Restore the Table, for further insights. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Ryan Rush on his website. Download conversation starters for the family table at familylife.com/tabletalk. Get Ryan's book "Restore the Table" on our shop.  Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson discuss the profound importance of family meal times, a topic that resonates deeply with both the hosts and their guest, Dr. Ryan Rush. The conversation begins with a heartfelt recollection from one of the hosts about the special memories they have of their childhood dinner table, where laughter, stories, and a sense of security thrived. Dr. Rush shares his own passion for the family dinner table, emphasizing how the simple act of sitting down together can have a lasting impact on relationships, mental health, and overall family cohesion.Dr. Rush, who pastors in Katy, Texas, explains his approach to family life through the lens of intentionality, highlighting how meals together offer families a unique opportunity to connect and foster relationships. He references his book Restore the Table, which explores how families can cultivate meaningful, distraction-free meals, even in today's fast-paced world. According to Dr. Rush, studies have shown that families who share meaningful meals regularly (about five times a week) experience better mental health, improved academic performance, and stronger relationships. These meals, while seemingly simple, serve as a place for connection and bonding.Dr. Rush also discusses how his own family’s journey shifted when they embraced Christ, which brought about a deeper commitment to intentional family time, especially around the table. His upbringing in a busy household with a father who worked hard and was often absent contrasts with the transformative shift they experienced when they began prioritizing shared family meals.The conversation dives into practical advice on how families can make meals meaningful, emphasizing the importance of setting aside distractions (such as phones and TV), scheduling regular meal times, and creating an environment where meaningful conversations can happen. Dr. Rush gives examples of simple conversation starters and shares tips on how to make mealtime a time for connection, even for families that may have struggled in the past or are dealing with conflict.The hosts and Dr. Rush also discuss the broader impact of mealtime discussions, particularly for teens, who may seem distant but still deeply desire connection with their parents. Dr. Rush stresses that family meals can be transformative, even if it initially feels awkward or forced, and encourages parents to be intentional in carving out this time. He also highlights how this approach has led to restored marriages and reconnected families in his church, demonstrating how powerful family meals can be in the healing process.The conversation also touches on the role of single parents or families with different dynamics, noting that meaningful meal times are not exclusive to traditional family units. Dr. Rush shares his experiences mentoring young people, illustrating that even if a child lacks one or both parents, meaningful connection over a meal can still have a profound impact.In conclusion, the podcast episode emphasizes the transformative power of shared family meals. Through intentional time at the table, families can foster deep relationships, create a culture of meaningful conversation, and experience spiritual growth. The episode serves as a call to action for families to make mealtime a priority and restore the tradition of connection that can strengthen bonds and build lasting memories. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Ryan Rush on his website. Download conversation starters for the family table at familylife.com/tabletalk. Get Ryan's book "Restore the Table" on our shop.  Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this podcast episode, Dave and Ashley Willis return to discuss their ministry, Naked Marriage, with hosts Dave and Ann Wilson, focusing on the importance of emotional and spiritual openness within marriage. The episode starts with an update on their four children, including the unique characteristics of each child and how they keep the couple both young and old at the same time. The conversation then dives into the topic of “secrets” in marriage, specifically addressing the issue of pornography and its impact on relationships. The Willises explore the emotional pain caused by hidden secrets, especially when one partner reveals something like pornography use, which feels like a betrayal. Ashley shares her personal experience of battling anxiety, which she kept hidden from Dave, and the impact it had on their relationship. A major point of discussion centers around how couples can navigate such revelations, with Dave sharing his past struggles with pornography and how he dealt with them. He discusses how keeping secrets, particularly regarding pornography, can lead to guilt and shame, and how the act of keeping such secrets can create a cycle of deceit in relationships. Ashley offers advice to women who are dealing with the revelation of such secrets from their husbands, emphasizing the need to feel and process emotions like anger and grief, but also not to let those feelings dictate the future of the relationship. She underscores that it’s important for couples to face the truth and the pain together. The couple also talks about how boundaries and accountability tools are critical in relationships to avoid temptation, especially in today's digital age. The conversation also touches on the importance of open communication with children about pornography and the necessity of setting up safeguards, like filtering software, to protect young minds. Dave and Ashley emphasize how their open dialogue about sex with their children has been crucial to creating a safe space for them to ask questions without shame. Finally, the episode delves into the broader theme of healing from past trauma and secrets, encouraging listeners to bring the truth into the light for healing and freedom. They discuss the importance of not keeping any secret that might weigh heavily on the relationship, with both partners sharing their past struggles and the power of vulnerability in marriage. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dave and Ashley Willis and sign up for their  9 Days to Great Sex eBook at their website. Listen to the "Marriage on the Line" podcast. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of "Naked Marriage" with Dave and Ashley Willis, the conversation delves into the often sensitive and crucial topic of sexual intimacy in Christian marriages. The episode is described as unfiltered and raw, with the couple tackling a wide range of questions and issues surrounding sexual intimacy from a biblical perspective. They begin by discussing common questions that arise in Christian marriages, such as whether certain sexual acts are biblically acceptable, and how to navigate sexual intimacy in a world that can be sexualized and confusing. See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ashley Willis, alongside hosts David and Anne Wilson, share their journey of navigating marriage, mental health, vulnerability, and the struggles that come with facing hidden struggles, such as anxiety, depression, and pornography. The conversation is deeply personal as they explore the challenges they've faced in their own marriages, offering listeners practical advice and powerful stories of grace and healing.The episode opens with a humorous and warm exchange between the hosts and guests. Dave and Ashley Willis drive down from Atlanta to Orlando and talk about their marriage ministry, which has flourished through Facebook, podcasts, and other online resources. They began with a simple Facebook page called "Marriage," later rebranded as “Naked Marriage.” This title, while provocative, is grounded in the biblical concept of "naked and unashamed," emphasizing the importance of emotional intimacy in marriage. They highlight the idea that marriage should be a place of full vulnerability, where secrets are laid bare, and trust is developed.Ashley shares a personal story about the struggles with anxiety and depression she faced early in their marriage. For years, she kept her anxiety a secret from Dave, feeling deep shame. However, after a painful moment of realizing she couldn’t carry the burden alone, she finally confided in Dave. His patient, understanding response played a pivotal role in her healing process. This moment is a beautiful example of what it looks like when partners support each other in marriage, choosing presence over the need to fix.The conversation then turns to the topic of pornography, which, despite its prevalence in society, remains a taboo subject in many marriages. Dave shares his own battle with pornography, acknowledging the secrecy and shame he felt, and how it became a significant obstacle in his marriage. He describes his initial decision to keep his struggles hidden from Ashley, believing he could overcome them on his own. However, when Ashley discovered his secret years later, the initial confrontation was intense, filled with emotions of betrayal, anger, and shame. Over time, with grace, accountability, and the support of each other, they worked through the difficulty together.The couple discusses the ongoing challenges that many couples face regarding pornography in their relationships, and they emphasize that it is a problem in and out of the church. They point out that while it’s a difficult issue to confront, bringing it into the light is the key to finding freedom and healing.The episode wraps up with an invitation for listeners to access their free eBook, Nine Days to Great Sex, a resource designed to help couples break free from barriers like pornography and rediscover intimacy. It’s clear from this conversation that both Dave and Ashley, and David and Anne, have made it their life’s mission to help married couples build trust, communicate openly, and develop deeper emotional intimacy. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dave and Ashley Willis and sign up for their  9 Days to Great Sex eBook at their website. Listen to the "Marriage on the Line" podcast. Every donation to FamilyLife in May will be matched. Donate today on our website. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson dive into the concept of how husbands can lead and cherish their wives, focusing on advice from Brad Merchant, a pastor from Indianapolis, who wrote a blog titled "Six Ways to Lead and Love Your Wife." The hosts discuss what makes wives feel cherished and loved, offering both humor and practical advice for husbands.The episode opens with the hosts highlighting the importance of this topic, especially for wives who might be multi-tasking—whether at home or at work. One of the hosts introduces Brad Merchant’s blog, and they begin to walk through the six ways mentioned in it. The main focus is on encouraging husbands to ask meaningful questions that show care and interest in their wives' feelings and experiences. These questions could include things like, "How are you doing?" "How can I help you?" and "What’s the heaviest thing you're carrying emotionally?"Incorporating a faith-based perspective, the hosts discuss how the Apostle Paul’s teachings in Ephesians 5 about self-sacrifice and love can be applied to relationships. They unpack the meaning of cherishing a wife, which goes beyond the traditional idea of buying gifts; it’s about truly treasuring and caring for her deeply. The hosts share some humorous and personal stories, including one about a husband's obsession with his guitars and how it connects to his lack of attention to his wife’s needs.The episode also touches on the idea of a husband humbling himself and leading in a way that empowers his wife. They discuss practical ways to serve wives, like doing household chores, asking for their input in decisions, and giving them quality time. The hosts also provide examples from their own marriages of how asking questions and listening can strengthen a relationship. One host shares an insightful story about realizing how his love and attention to his daughter’s car was a reflection of how he should treat his wife with the same care.The show concludes with a reminder for husbands to act on these principles, even if they don’t announce them, and to consider the impact of simple actions in showing love. They suggest that wives might want to share the podcast with their husbands as a subtle way to encourage growth in their relationships. The episode wraps up with mentions of other FamilyLife resources and encouragement to visit their website for more relationship advice. Show Notes and Resources Purchase Vertical Marriage at the FamilyLife shop.  Purchase the Vertical Marriage small group workshop book online. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson reflect on the journey of their book "Vertical Marriage," sharing both the highs and lows of public feedback. The episode takes a playful and light-hearted approach to discuss the one-star reviews they received on the book, focusing on those that are negative or critical in nature. The hosts make fun of some outlandish reviews, like one that claims reading the book was less satisfying than slamming a body part in a car door, while also acknowledging reviews that stem from real pain and misunderstanding.One review they address highlights concerns about the book’s portrayal of gender roles in marriage, with the reviewer claiming it promotes "sexist propaganda." The hosts discuss this critique openly, clarifying their intent and emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and love in marriage. They touch on the sensitive issue of how their message may have been misinterpreted, especially by women who feel disrespected by their husbands or burdened by unrealistic expectations.Throughout the episode, they dive deeper into the motivations behind their book, explaining that it’s not a self-help guide but rather a tool to help couples apply the gospel to their marriage. They discuss how the teachings in the book are based on biblical principles of love, respect, and mutual submission, particularly focusing on the idea that only through Christ can a marriage truly thrive. They also reflect on the importance of repentance in a marriage and the role it plays in healing and growth.One particularly emotional moment occurs when they discuss the personal impact of marriage struggles. They recount a past moment where Dave, in the midst of a marital challenge, humbled himself by kneeling and repenting before his wife, Ann, which allowed their relationship to heal. This is presented as a poignant example of the power of humility and surrender in marriage.The episode closes with a prayer for couples who are struggling, offering hope for those who may feel exhausted or hopeless in their marriages. The hosts encourage listeners to get the book and reflect on their own relationships, reminding them that true change comes through a relationship with God, not through relying on self-help advice alone. Show Notes and Resources Purchase Vertical Marriage at the FamilyLife shop.  Purchase the Vertical Marriage small group workshop book online. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson dive into the power of storytelling and theology in Jordan Raynor's latest book, "The Royal in You." The conversation begins with a surprising endorsement of Jordan’s book from Candace Cameron Bure, who praises it for being one of the best ways to help children understand God. Jordan shares the inspiration behind his first book, "The Creator Knows," and elaborates on why he wanted to continue the story with "The Royal in You," which focuses on the future hope of heaven and the New Earth.The episode dives into the heart of the theological message Jordan is sharing with kids: that heaven isn't the place where people will live eternally in the clouds, but rather it will be a renewed Earth where believers will reign with Christ. Jordan and the hosts discuss how common misconceptions about heaven have been perpetuated, particularly the idea that heaven is a boring, disembodied existence where people will do nothing but sing for eternity. They correct this idea by referencing Scriptures like Revelation 21, where it’s clear that the New Earth will be a place of joyful, meaningful work with Christ at the center.Jordan shares insights on how work in the New Earth will be fulfilling and exciting. He contrasts the work we know today, which is marred by the curse of sin, with the future work in the New Earth, which will be perfect, untainted, and done alongside Jesus. The episode encourages listeners to view their work today as a practice for the eternal work they will do with Christ in the renewed world.The discussion also touches on the importance of teaching children these biblical truths, emphasizing that understanding the New Earth will help them look forward to eternity with Christ. Parents and grandparents can instill hope and excitement in their kids by reading "The Royal in You" to them, as it offers a vivid portrayal of what the future holds. In addition, Jordan offers resources for parents, including a free e-book and a devotional app, to deepen their understanding of heaven and the New Earth.The conversation concludes by reflecting on how the church’s traditional teachings about Heaven have often fallen short, and how reimagining heaven as a renewed Earth can inspire both adults and children to live with greater joy, anticipation, and faithfulness in their everyday lives. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Jordan Raynor at his website. Get Jordan's book, The Royal in You, free for any donation at FamilyLife's website. Get Jordan's YouVersion devotional on The Kids' Guide to Heaven and the New Earth online. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Sam Allberry to discuss a key aspect of identity and self-worth, focusing on how our understanding of being "in Christ" reshapes how we view ourselves and others. The conversation starts with a personal reflection on social anxiety and the desire to impress others in social situations. The hosts share their experiences of walking into rooms of strangers and feeling the need to prove themselves. There’s a candid exploration of the insecurities many people face, especially when dealing with social situations and a lack of self-confidence.Sam Allberry shares his journey of shifting from a mindset focused on impressing others to understanding who he is "in Christ." Anne Wilson echoes this sentiment, highlighting how one's identity in Christ offers freedom from the need to seek validation from others. The conversation moves into the idea of being "self-forgetting" rather than self-absorbed, with a significant mention of Ray Ortlund's advice: "There you are" as a mindset to adopt when entering a room, instead of "Here I am."The conversation dives into the role of identity in relationships, especially marriage and family life. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing our union with Christ and with others who share that union, which impacts how we relate to both fellow Christians and people who may not yet know Christ. The hosts discuss the significance of church fellowship, pointing out that, even in difficult times or personal struggles, the church community is vital for spiritual growth and encouragement.The guests reflect on how understanding and believing in who we are in Christ helps us navigate our relationships, particularly in healing broken relationships or experiencing spiritual abuse. A moving moment occurs when the hosts talk about a woman who gradually learned to trust again through the support of close friends and church members, showing the slow yet steady process of healing and growth.In the final moments, the hosts emphasize that transformation in Christ takes time and requires the support of a Christian community. The conversation concludes with a reminder that "being in Christ" means not just a vertical relationship with God but a horizontal relationship with others who are also "in Christ." This mutual connection is foundational to the Christian faith, underscoring the importance of fellowship and encouragement within the body of Christ. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Sam Allberry at his website. Get Sam Allberry's book, One With My Lord, with any donation  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of Family Life Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson engage with Sam Allberry, a renowned speaker and author, exploring the profound theme of identity in Christ. The episode kicks off with a light-hearted banter about accents, showcasing a playful dynamic among the guests. The conversation quickly transitions into a deep theological inquiry: what is more crucial—what one believes about God or what one believes about themselves? Both Allberry and the hosts affirm that understanding God is paramount to understanding oneself. Allberry elaborates on his insights from his book "One With My Lord," emphasizing the biblical concept of being "in Christ." He explains that the New Testament predominantly uses this language to articulate a believer's relationship with Jesus, which transcends the idea of merely following Him. Being "in Christ" signifies a profound spiritual union that defines a believer's identity and shapes their understanding of the Christian life. Throughout the discussion, Allberry draws parallels between theological understanding and everyday experiences, likening the awakening of this spiritual identity to the realization of needing glasses to see clearly. He emphasizes that the concept of union with Christ clarifies many aspects of the Christian faith, providing a lens through which believers can view their lives and struggles.  Key points include the significance of understanding our union with Christ in relation to sin, holiness, and identity. Allberry challenges the notion that holiness is an alien concept to believers, suggesting instead that living in accordance with one’s identity in Christ feels natural and fulfilling. He posits that true transformation and growth come from recognizing one’s new identity rather than adhering to a distant standard of behavior.The episode also touches on the challenges of sin and the internal struggles faced by believers, illustrating that feeling tempted does not define one's identity but rather highlights the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Allberry encourages listeners to affirm their identity in Christ, suggesting that a deep understanding of this truth can lead to a more vibrant and authentic Christian life. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Sam Allberry at his website. Get Sam Allberry's book, One With My Lord, with any donation  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson are joined once again by Dr. Mark Bailey, an esteemed scholar and former president of Dallas Theological Seminary. The conversation centers around the powerful story of the resurrection of Lazarus from John 11, particularly reflecting on its theological and personal significance as we approach Good Friday and Easter. Dr. Bailey elaborates on how this story demonstrates the power of Jesus over both physical and spiritual death.The episode begins with light-hearted humor, with Dr. Bailey being praised as one of the best seminary professors and an important figure in the hosts' lives. The discussion moves to an in-depth exploration of the passage, focusing on the structure of John’s Gospel. Dr. Bailey explains that the Gospel of John is divided into two sections: The Book of Signs (chapters 1-12), where miracles like the resurrection of Lazarus demonstrate Jesus' divine power, and The Book of Glory (chapters 13-21), which explores the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection. He highlights the pivotal role of Lazarus’ resurrection as the seventh and climactic sign that emphasizes Christ’s power over death and serves as a precursor to His own resurrection.Dr. Bailey uses the concept of "chiasm" (inverted parallelism) to break down the structure of the passage and point out the mirrored themes throughout. For example, the sickness and death of Lazarus frame the miracle of his resurrection, and this parallels with Jesus' own journey toward His crucifixion and resurrection. The hosts discuss the theological implications of this passage, particularly the importance of belief in the resurrection. Dr. Bailey dives deep into the personal and familial implications of the resurrection story, offering reflections on how it relates to marriage, family, and the legacy we leave behind.The narrative also explores the delay of Jesus in coming to Lazarus, which initially perplexed Mary and Martha but was revealed as a purposeful act for the glory of God, the immediate glory of Jesus, and the strengthening of the disciples’ faith. Dr. Bailey discusses the irony of the reactions to Jesus' miracles—how some believed, while others became hostile and plotted to kill Jesus.As the conversation transitions toward Good Friday, the hosts reflect on the suffering of Christ and the importance of understanding His humanity. Dr. Bailey shares poignant insights on the deep emotional impact of Jesus’ weeping over Lazarus and the broader suffering He experienced throughout His life, including the daily rejection He faced. This segment connects to the broader narrative of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for humanity, with the hosts reflecting on how believers can find hope in the face of sorrow and death.Finally, the episode concludes with a discussion on how to apply the lessons from Lazarus’ resurrection to contemporary life. Dr. Bailey offers advice on how to deal with God’s timing, emphasizing that delays in answers to prayer are not signs of divine indifference but opportunities to strengthen faith. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the significance of the resurrection in their lives. The episode ends with Dr. Bailey praying for listeners, particularly those who may be encountering the Gospel message for the first time. Show Notes and Resources Need prayer? Let us pray for you!  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of FamilyLIfe Today, Dr. Mark Bailey from Dallas Theological Seminary shares his insights and experiences from his long tenure at the seminary. Starting as a professor in 1985, Dr. Bailey transitioned into leadership roles, ultimately becoming president in 2001, a position he held for 19 years until 2020. Now serving as chancellor, he reflects on his career with humility, giving credit to others, including his colleague Mark Yarbrough, who succeeded him as president.Dr. Bailey’s personal life is also a focal point of the conversation, notably his marriage of 53 years to his wife Barbie, and the strong family dynamic he has built with their children and grandchildren. They all attend church together, which Dr. Bailey views as a testament to their strong family bonds.The episode dives into Dr. Bailey’s approach to teaching the Word of God, with a particular emphasis on the importance of love in instruction, referencing 1 Timothy 1:5. His approach to teaching is designed to foster a deeper connection with God through Scripture. He talks about his love for teaching the Bible, especially the parables, which he views as a window into God's wisdom. He references a parable from Luke 11, "The Friend at Midnight," to explore the role of persistence and audacity in prayer. Dr. Bailey compares the perseverance demonstrated in the parable to the persistent prayers God encourages in the Bible. The discussion extends to broader lessons on prayer, including the importance of asking, seeking, and knocking in faith.Dr. Bailey also touches on some real-life struggles and challenges in faith, particularly in times when prayers appear unanswered. He candidly discusses personal experiences with family members suffering from illness and how, despite unanswered prayers, God’s faithfulness has been evident. The conversation encourages believers to keep praying with persistence, even when answers seem delayed or unclear.Overall, Dr. Bailey emphasizes the deep relationship between prayer, persistence, and trust in God’s sovereignty, urging listeners to maintain their faith, especially in tough circumstances. The episode concludes with a hopeful look forward to the celebration of Good Friday. Show Notes and Resources Need prayer? Let us pray for you!  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson explore the powerful story of the golden calf from the Book of Exodus, focusing on the dangers of idolatry and the human tendency to replace God with false idols. The discussion is centered around the devotional book "You Are Redeemed," written by Nana Dulce, which highlights God’s redeeming love for His people, particularly through the lens of the Exodus narrative.The episode opens with a light-hearted conversation about the golden calf, but quickly transitions into a deep dive into how idolatry manifests itself in modern life. The hosts address the fact that while many of us would scoff at the idea of physically worshipping an idol like the golden calf, the more subtle idols in our lives, such as career, money, and even family, can take the place of God in our hearts. One of the hosts mentions a quote that compares our hearts to “idol factories,” suggesting that idolatry is an ongoing temptation for everyone.The conversation then moves to the idea that God chose Israel before they obeyed and that His love for them was unconditional. Even as Israel failed miserably in their idolatry with the golden calf, God’s grace and love were evident in His commitment to them. The episode highlights the significance of the Exodus 19 passage, where God reminds Israel that He had already chosen them, long before giving them the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20. This foundational truth is emphasized—obedience to God is a response to His grace and redemption, not the cause of it.As the hosts examine the story of Aaron and the golden calf, they reflect on the hypocrisy of trying to worship both an idol and God simultaneously, much like some modern-day attempts to Christianize or spiritualize wrong actions. A powerful example from Frederick Douglass' autobiography is shared, showing the disturbing contradiction of people who claimed to follow Christ but lived in opposition to His teachings. This hypocrisy is connected to how people today might use God’s name to justify actions that are clearly idolatrous.The discussion doesn’t just focus on conviction, but also on grace. The hosts remind the audience that though we are all guilty of idolatry in some form, God’s love is steadfast and His grace is ever-present. Christian community, the hosts argue, plays a crucial role in helping one another recognize and tear down the idols in our hearts. Accountability and being open to correction is key to maintaining our focus on God.Toward the end of the episode, the hosts discuss how to “tear down idols,” offering practical advice on how to relinquish control of things that hold us captive, like our children or our desire for financial security. Giving is suggested as a way to break the grip of idols, particularly in areas where people often place their trust, such as money.The episode concludes with a lighthearted exchange about supporting FamilyLife financially, tying it back to the theme of idolatry, and encouraging listeners to give in order to help spread the message of redemption. Nana Dulce also mentions her video devotional series "Unseen," which is available for those seeking to deepen their spiritual journey. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nana Dolce at her website. Recieve Nana's new devotional You Are Redeemed for a donation of any amount.  Get encouragement when you feel unseen.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode of the podcast, Nana Dolce, a guest and author, discusses the powerful themes from the Old Testament book of Exodus, particularly how it points toward Jesus. The conversation begins with a reflection on favorite Old Testament books, where Nana shares her deep affection for Exodus, highlighting its role as a foreshadowing of Jesus, the greater Redeemer. The Book of Exodus is seen as a narrative of God’s deliverance, with significant moments like the burning bush and the Red Sea crossing, and Nana connects this historical story to the Christian journey of salvation.The main topic of the episode is Week 3 of Nana's devotional “You Are Redeemed,” focusing on God’s provision. This section explores the Israelites’ journey after their deliverance from Egypt, especially their struggle with thirst in the wilderness. Despite their miraculous escape from Pharaoh's army and the parting of the Red Sea, the Israelites quickly begin to complain about their thirst. This transition from praise to grumbling serves as a reminder of human weakness and our tendency to forget God’s provisions when faced with new challenges.The conversation includes an illustration about a man named Chaz Powell, who walked the Zambezi River trail in Africa without adequate water, underscoring the desperation of thirst and the crucial need for water. Nana draws parallels to the Israelites’ experience, showing how their situation led them to bitter water at Mara, which, despite their hope, turned out to be undrinkable. However, God shows mercy by healing the water and providing them with sweet water and leading them to Elam, where they find twelve springs of water.The episode dives deeper into how God's provision is not just about physical sustenance, but also about spiritual healing. Nana shares that even in moments of longing and dissatisfaction, God provides us with the living water that satisfies, as seen in the story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well in the New Testament. The episode touches on real-life issues like disappointment and unmet desires (such as in marriage) and encourages listeners to trust that God, through Jesus, is the ultimate source of fulfillment.The conversation also highlights the importance of prayer and spiritual practices in finding contentment. The hosts share insights on how moms and women, in particular, can turn to prayer to combat feelings of fatigue and dissatisfaction. There’s a recurring theme that despite feeling empty or frustrated, turning to Jesus and acknowledging the dryness in one’s soul leads to sweet mercy and a renewed sense of hope. The hosts emphasize that by relying on God’s strength and grace, even in the mundane aspects of life (like parenting and marriage), individuals can experience God’s provision in deeply meaningful ways.The episode ends by promoting Nana's devotional series, encouraging listeners to engage with the devotional to experience more of God's redeeming power in their lives. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nana Dolce at her website. Recieve Nana's new devotional You Are Redeemed for a donation of any amount.  Get encouragement when you feel unseen.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

This episode features Nana Dolce, a beloved teacher and author, who discusses her 40-day devotional called "You Are Redeemed" that takes women through the Book of Exodus. Nana reflects on her life journey, her experiences with adoption, and the importance of understanding God’s redemption story. She shares deeply personal stories about her son, Kian, who was adopted as an embryo through the National Embryo Donation Center. Kian was frozen for 20 years before being adopted by Nana and her husband Eric. This miraculous story is deeply tied to Nana’s perspective on God's redemption and care for the seemingly unseen and forgotten.Nana also recounts the emotional meeting between Kian and his genetic mother and grandfather, who met him for the first time after years of waiting. The story touches on the miraculous nature of God’s work in preserving life even in seemingly impossible situations. She connects this narrative to her devotional, which explores the themes of God's plan for redemption through the Exodus story. Nana highlights the story of Moses and the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom, emphasizing that God’s plan for His people has always been to dwell with them.The episode also explores the deep theological insights of God’s love, presence, and redemption. Nana’s book reveals how the Book of Exodus is not just a historical account but a foreshadowing of a greater redemption found in Jesus Christ. Through personal stories and reflections, Nana emphasizes that God sees, hears, and knows the pain of His people, drawing parallels to the experience of Jesus, who suffered deeply for humanity. The episode concludes with a call to those feeling unseen or forgotten to know that God’s love is constant, and He is always with them, even in their pain. Nana’s devotional aims to reassure readers that God's redemption story is for everyone, and it will ultimately lead to a time of eternal dwelling with God. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Nana Dolce at her website. Recieve Nana's new devotional You Are Redeemed for a donation of any amount.  Get encouragement when you feel unseen.  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this engaging and insightful podcast episode, Dave and Ann Wilson dive into the topic of faith, questioning God, and navigating life’s challenges, especially when those challenges lead to feelings of resentment or doubt toward God. The discussion starts by emphasizing the importance of asking children—and even oneself—when they've felt resentment toward God. The hosts share personal experiences, including one host reflecting on the loss of her sister and the deep, unresolved questions that came with that loss. The conversation then transitions into addressing the belief gap between what people often expect from God and what they experience in reality. Lisa Fields, the guest speaker and author, shares her wisdom, acknowledging that doubt, questioning, and wrestling with God is a natural and important part of spiritual growth. She suggests that these struggles don’t signify the death of faith but rather the key to it. The hosts also discuss how wrestling with faith brings believers closer to understanding their beliefs and the concept that theological growth is not just about memorization but about heartfelt conviction.Lisa Fields emphasizes that wrestling with difficult questions allows people to form stronger beliefs that are rooted in both knowledge and personal experience. She talks about the importance of recognizing pain points in people’s struggles—such as peace, provision, protection, and purpose—and how people often look for peace in temporary solutions, like drugs, relationships, and other distractions, rather than in God. A significant part of the conversation touches on the concept of peace, explaining that true peace is not about the absence of negative emotions but about the assurance of God's presence in the midst of trials. Fields also shares her personal story of heartbreak, where she had to wrestle with forgiveness after being betrayed by someone close to her, illustrating how faith, forgiveness, and personal growth can intersect. She also talks about how peace with God, peace with others, and peace within are all necessary to experience true inner peace.The episode further explores the idea that many people, particularly younger generations, struggle with finding purpose and meaning in life, often seeking it in things like social media validation or material success. The hosts emphasize that true purpose comes not from what we do but from who we become in Christ. Fields challenges the notion of purpose tied to achievement, instead shifting the focus toward becoming a person of integrity, compassion, and love. As the conversation wraps up, the hosts encourage parents and believers to engage deeply with the Bible and to understand the full scope of what Scripture promises and teaches, which includes not just prosperity but the reality of trials and suffering.The episode concludes by stressing the need for families to navigate these faith struggles together, acknowledging that faith can be complicated and sometimes disappointing but that God uses these challenges to grow us. Lisa Fields’ book "When Faith Disappoints: The Gap Between What We Believe and What We Receive" is highlighted as a resource for those wanting to bridge this gap and engage in deeper conversations about faith, doubt, and the complexities of spiritual life. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Lisa Fields on her website and get her book, "When Faith Disappoints" on our shop.  Learn more about the "Jude 3 Project".  Get marriage and family help right now by calling 1-800-358-6329. Experience the Easter story with Resurrection Eggs and explore more resources in our shop  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson engage in a deep and insightful conversation with Lisa Fields, the founder and CEO of the Jude 3 Project. They explore themes of faith, doubt, disappointment, and the emotional struggles Christians often face when their experiences seem to conflict with their beliefs. The conversation opens with a question about a book titled "When Faith Disappoints," which deeply resonates with Dave, due to his own past struggles with faith crises.Lisa shares that the book is, in part, a memoir of her own faith journey, including her struggles as a seminary student who faced a crisis of faith. Dave and Lisa discuss an emotionally impactful moment in Dave's life when he questioned the reality of his faith after encountering the harsh realities of the world, like terrorism and violence against innocent children. Lisa recounts a memorable conversation with her professor, where, instead of offering deep theological explanations, her professor simply said, “me too,” which helped validate her doubts and let her know that her struggles were normal.The discussion then shifts to Lisa’s ministry, the Jude 3 Project, which she started as a passion project to equip Black Christians with apologetics and engage skeptics. She reflects on the lack of representation of African Americans in the apologetics space and her motivation to fill that gap. The project began humbly, but grew to serve a significant need within her community. Dave and Lisa also discuss the challenges of working in ministry while dealing with the pressures of maintaining a personal connection with God. Both share their own experiences of burnout, disillusionment, and the crucial importance of community and therapy in overcoming these crises of faith.Dave and Ann talk about the emotional toll that disappointment can take on a believer, emphasizing that doubt is a normal part of the Christian journey and should not be repressed. Lisa emphasizes that it’s important for Christians, especially parents, to create spaces where young people can vocalize their doubts and disappointments. She believes that listening to their struggles without judgment and offering shared vulnerability helps foster a safe environment for growth.Finally, the episode touches on the rising trend of Gen Z exploring spirituality outside of traditional Christianity, seeking supernatural experiences and peace. Lisa and Dave discuss how understanding this generational shift can offer opportunities to engage young people in conversations about faith in a way that respects their experiences and questions.The conversation is heartfelt and practical, offering listeners valuable insights on navigating doubt, disappointment, and spiritual growth. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Lisa Fields on her website and get her book, "When Faith Disappoints" on our shop.  Learn more about the "Jude 3 Project".  Get marriage and family help right now by calling 1-800-358-6329. Experience the Easter story with Resurrection Eggs and explore more resources in our shop  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson discuss the concept of a "sacred home" and how to cultivate an environment that prioritizes faith, simplicity, and connection over perfection. The episode opens with a humorous and relatable story about Ann's embarrassing moment as a young mom when her parents unexpectedly visited and her house was a mess. Despite the chaos, she emphasizes the importance of creating a home where Jesus is at the center, not one that's always perfectly tidy.Jennifer Pepito shares her wisdom on the importance of simplicity in the home and the role women play in setting the tone for a sacred environment. She discusses the importance of decluttering, minimizing distractions, and ensuring that family time and connection with God are prioritized over maintaining a pristine home. This leads to a conversation about the need for balance in life, and Jennifer talks about the nine habits of rural life that bring peace and stability to mothers. One example she shares is the story of Madeleine L'Engle, who, despite personal struggles, maintained her commitment to faith and family, illustrating that balance can help moms navigate the chaos of life.The conversation turns to the topic of forgiveness, both in terms of personal relationships and the necessity of forgiving oneself as a mother. The hosts reflect on how unforgiveness can create bitterness, affecting both personal well-being and family dynamics. They share examples of how bitterness has affected families and relationships, noting that letting go of anger and resentment is crucial for fostering a sacred home environment.The episode also explores the topic of simplicity, specifically how it can help reduce distractions and allow for more meaningful connection with God and family. The hosts discuss how the culture of busyness, particularly in America, often leads to the accumulation of excess stuff, which becomes overwhelming. Instead, they suggest practicing simplicity by minimizing possessions and focusing on the things that truly matter: family, faith, and purpose.Finally, Dave and Ann touch on the importance of prayer in creating a sacred home. They share the story of Amy Carmichael, a missionary who was deeply committed to prayer and sought to create a sanctuary for those she served. They emphasize the importance of making prayer a daily priority, even in the midst of a busy family life, and how doing so can align a mother’s heart with God's purposes. The episode concludes with an invitation to dive deeper into the principles shared in Jennifer's book, Habits for a Sacred Home, which offers practical advice for living a faith-centered life in the home. Show Notes and Resources Follow Jennifer Pepito on Instagram.  Learn more about "The Restoration Home" community, listen to Jennifer's podcast, and find her book, "Habits for a Sacred Home" on our shop.  Experience the Easter story with Resurrection Eggs and explore more resources in our shop  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this podcast episode, Jennifer Pepito returns to discuss creating a "sacred home" and how families can live intentionally and peacefully by establishing routines and habits that honor God and foster connection. The conversation begins with an exploration of the concept of a "sacred home," which Jennifer clarifies is not about perfection but about setting a home apart for the Lord, even in the midst of chaos. She reflects on her own journey of parenting and the importance of establishing habits that promote peace and spiritual growth within the home.Jennifer introduces the idea of a "rule of life," which she likens to a family mission statement, offering structure and guidance for daily living. Drawing inspiration from the Rule of St. Benedict, she and her husband created a family mission statement that helped them focus on their core values—like a love for nature, missions, and time spent together—while making decisions in line with those values. They prioritized certain family essentials and, throughout their life together, chose to sacrifice materialism and structured activities in favor of a simpler, more meaningful life that aligned with their spiritual beliefs.The conversation dives deeper into specific habits that can make a home more peaceful and sacred, beginning with the first: the habit of work. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of teaching children the value of hard work and how this principle can foster not only practical skills but also spiritual maturity. Through examples like her own family’s tradition of hard work in manual labor, she explains how work is a reflection of one's spiritual life and relationship with God.The podcast also touches on the importance of spiritual practices like prayer and Bible study, suggesting that they are not always about immediate joy but about the discipline of showing up regularly and putting in the work. Jennifer points out that habits are the framework through which values like spirituality, responsibility, and community are lived out in daily life. She encourages moms and dads to be intentional with their time, to avoid distractions like social media, and to practice simple actions—like eye contact, hugs, and spending time outside—to create meaningful connections with their children.The discussion moves to focus on the necessity of balance in family life. Jennifer, despite her busy schedule as an entrepreneur and mother of six children, emphasizes the importance of pacing oneself and not overcommitting. She encourages listeners to write down their vision for family life and to regularly audit how their time aligns with their goals. Jennifer advises moms to avoid feelings of guilt, offering practical solutions for making time for connection, including a "connection challenge" that includes simple actions like giving your children a 30-second hug or looking them in the eye for 20 seconds a day.The episode also addresses the needs of working moms, who may feel torn between their jobs and their families. Jennifer emphasizes that it's possible to nurture both roles, offering the "connection challenge" as a simple way to reclaim precious time with children. She encourages mothers not to feel guilty for needing to work outside the home, but to ensure they are creating meaningful connections with their children and maintaining balance.The episode ends with a profound reflection on the importance of family legacy. Jennifer and her co-host stress that the most important thing parents can do is create a godly legacy that will endure beyond their lives. Ultimately, it’s about creating a life centered on Christ and prioritizing relationships over material pursuits. They encourage listeners to embrace small, manageable habits that will help build a sacred, peaceful home, one step at a time. Show Notes and Resources Follow Jennifer Pepito on Instagram.  Learn more about "The Restoration Home" community, listen to Jennifer's podcast, and find her book, "Habits for a Sacred Home" on our shop.  Experience the Easter story with Resurrection Eggs and explore more resources in our shop  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In this podcast episode, Dave and Ann Wilson discuss the concept of a "sacred home" with Jennifer Pepito, a mother, author, and entrepreneur. Jennifer, who has seven children and has been homeschooling for years, shares her journey and insights into creating a home environment rooted in faith and devotion to God. She introduces her book "Habits for a Sacred Home," which draws inspiration from the Rule of St. Benedict, focusing on developing habits that bring peace, structure, and connection in the midst of life’s chaos.The conversation explores the challenges of motherhood, particularly raising children in today’s uncertain world. Jennifer speaks candidly about the struggles of fear, control, and perfectionism, emphasizing the importance of consecrating one’s home to God. Through personal stories, such as her own struggles with perfectionism and a challenging experience with her daughter’s eating disorder, she highlights the significance of grace and attunement to God in creating a peaceful home environment.Jennifer also addresses the fears and anxieties modern moms face, from worries about homeschooling to concerns over societal changes. Despite the chaotic nature of family life, Jennifer encourages moms to build spiritual disciplines and healthy habits that align with God's will for their lives. She stresses that living with a Christ-centered perspective helps moms foster stability, hope, and a sense of purpose in their homes.In addition to personal insights, the episode delves into practical advice on nurturing sacred homes. Topics like prayer, connecting with children, setting boundaries, and cultivating routines based on faith are discussed. The conversation also touches on the idea of "sacred chaos," suggesting that while homes may not always be perfect, they can still be holy and dedicated to the Lord. The episode encourages listeners to surrender their homes to God, marking them as consecrated spaces where His presence can dwell. Show Notes and Resources Follow Jennifer Pepito on Instagram.  Learn more about "The Restoration Home" community, listen to Jennifer's podcast, and find her book, "Habits for a Sacred Home" on our shop.  Experience the Easter story with Resurrection Eggs and explore more resources in our shop  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Author and podcaster Rosie Makinney knows the aftermath of a porn-wrecked marriage. She offers hope and steps forward for a radically different tomorrow. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Rosie Makinney's "Fight For Love" ministry.  Purchase "Fight For Love" online. Find our Resurrection Eggs here Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

From her own blistering story, author and podcaster Rosie Makinney offers biblically-based, proactive action to take back your marriage from porn. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Rosie Makinney's "Fight For Love" ministry.  Purchase "Fight For Love" online. Find our Resurrection Eggs here Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

On this episode of FamilyLife Today, Ron Deal, along with hosts Dave and Ann Wilson, introduces Devon and Asha Still as they share their personal journey of overcoming the challenges that come with a blended family. This conversation dives deep into how they navigated both blended family struggles and personal battles, focusing on communication, faith, and intentional effort.Devon and Asha came together under difficult circumstances. Devon, a former NFL player, had to make life-changing decisions when his daughter, Leah, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. He decided to retire from football to care for his daughter. After Leah went into remission, Devon and Asha married, but they soon realized they had not fully prepared for the challenges of blending their families. Both came from divorced homes, which made it difficult to establish a clear understanding of what a healthy marriage and blended family should look like.Their relationship struggled in the early years, as they didn't have tough conversations about roles and expectations within their marriage and blended family. This lack of communication led to unnecessary chaos and hurt. However, they learned to lean into their faith and make intentional efforts to course-correct. They discovered the importance of creating an environment of empathy, understanding, and trust. This enabled them to navigate challenges together, and over time, their relationship started to grow stronger.Devon and Asha also discussed how critical it is to take accountability and seek resources to help them through difficult seasons. The couple admitted to feeling tired at times, but they emphasized that the key to making it through tough situations is not to give up, but to stay intentional. Their journey shows that when couples prioritize communication, faith, and intentional effort, they can overcome the challenges that come with blended families. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about FamilyLife Blended on their website. Get tickets for Blended and Blessed 2025 online. Purchase "The Smart Stepfamily Marriage" online Listen to the full episode of Asha and. Devon on FamilyLife Blended Find our Resurrection Eggs here Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

“My spouse is having an affair. What do I do now?” Affairs expert Dave Carder walks through searing betrayal, what you need to know, and what to do next. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dave Carder on his website.  Purchase "The Anatomy of an Affair" by Dave Carder online. Find a Weekend to Remember event in your area today!  Find our Resurrection Eggs here Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Counselor Dave Carder, author of "The Anatomy of An Affair," explains how attractions and addictions develop—and how to guard your marriage against them. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dave Carder on his website.  Purchase "The Anatomy of an Affair" by Dave Carder online. Find a Weekend to Remember event in your area today!  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Ever feel lost trying to explain marriage and love to your kids? Author Sam Alberry discusses how to have these important conversations—and others around sensitive subjects—with grace and understanding. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Sam Allberry at samallberry.com Receive his book, "God's Go-Togethers"  for a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us. Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Does the Bible turn off millennials and Gen Z? Authors Michael and Lauren McAfee discuss the growing disconnect between younger generations and Scripture and how to bridge the generational gap and open up conversations about the Bible's relevance. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Lauren Mcafee at laurenamcafee.com Her book, "Not What You Think" is available at no cost to you with a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us. Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Wondering "Where is God in my pain?" Maybe He's closer than you think. Author Dane Ortlund digs deep into what God tells us about Himself--and what that means for our lowest, messiest, most desperate moments. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dane Ortlund at Daneortlund.com Get his book, "Gentle and Lowly" in our FamilyLife shop Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

In rough days, it's easy to see God as our #1 critic. Is He fighting for us--or fed up with us? Author Dane Ortlund examines whether God's adding the unbearable weight of perfection on top of our pain...or if it's true His burden is light. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dane Ortlund at Daneortlund.com Get his book, "Gentle and Lowly" in our FamilyLife shop Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Where is God in our families' lowest moments? Bestselling author Dane Ortlund paints an image of a God in the mess with us at rock-bottom--who's advocating and compassionate, gentle and lowly. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Dane Ortlund at Daneortlund.com Get his book, "Gentle and Lowly" in our FamilyLife shop Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network   See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Do happy couples really never go to bed angry? Surprising research might challenge the age-old advice revealing how to navigate conflict constructively, even if it means hitting pause for the night. Show Notes and Resources Listen to the "Married With Benefits" podcast. Get Shaunti's book "The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Couples." in our shop  Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Could one of the long-held beliefs of happy couples actually be wrong? Guests from the "Married With Benefits" podcast discuss why going to bed angry can sometimes lead to better marriages. Show Notes and Resources Listen to the "Married With Benefits" podcast. Get Shaunti's book "The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Couples." in our shop  Learn more about our Weekend to Remember events at weekendtoremember.com Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Intentional parenting isn't accidental. Author Kathy Koch shares how to consciously cultivate biblical character in your children, navigate tough topics like sleepovers and sex, and model the very traits you hope to instill. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch's ministry "Celebrate Kids" on her website. Listen to the "Celebrate Kids" podcast  We will send you Kathy's book, "Parent Differently" at no cost to you with a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Raising kids with character means focusing on their development over performance. Author Kathy Koch discusses how everyday moments can shape a child's moral compass and faith journey. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch's ministry "Celebrate Kids" on her website. Listen to the "Celebrate Kids" podcast  We will send you Kathy's book, "Parent Differently" at no cost to you with a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Are you tired of the same old parenting advice? Are you ready to parent differently? Author Kathy Koch shares her powerful insights on raising children with purpose and love, emphasizing the crucial role of character development, empathy, and gratitude. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Kathy Koch's ministry "Celebrate Kids" on her website. Listen to the "Celebrate Kids" podcast  We will send you Kathy's book, "Parent Differently" at no cost to you with a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

It's not easy to build a marriage that lasts, but it can be done! Dave and Ann Wilson share their experience navigating a health crisis and the challenges it presented to their relationship. They open up about a time of disconnect and the crucial lesson they learned about supporting each other through difficult times. This episode explores how trials, while painful, can be opportunities for growth, individually and as a couple. The Wilsons emphasize the importance of vulnerability, not just with each other but within the church community, highlighting how shared struggles create connection and offer hope. Discover how their faith became a cornerstone in their journey, reminding us that God is present even in our darkest moments. More than just a story, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for building a marriage that not only survives but thrives, empowered by faith and the transformative power of shared experiences. Learn how to embrace vulnerability, find God in the midst of hardship, and build a lasting bond that impacts the world around you. Show Notes and Resources Reserve your spot for the 2026 Love Like You Mean It Cruise  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Unexpected challenges, or "cows," can appear in any marriage–from financial struggles and rebellious children to illness and infertility. These "cows" can cause damage if left unaddressed. In this episode, Brian and Jen Goins explore how to "tame the cows" in your marriage by building resilience through intentional habits. We'll discuss how resilience is crucial to navigating adversity and why it's vital to avoid isolation by seeking support from your community. Discover practical habits like prioritizing quality time ("play"), intentionally praising each other, pursuing connection after conflict, and regularly praying together. Learn how these "small acts of love" can cultivate a strong and resilient bond, helping you and your spouse face any "cow" that comes your way. Show Notes and Resources Reserve your spot for the 2026 Love Like You Mean It Cruise  Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy