FamilyLife Today®

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