9 Feb || Stronger Marriages with Ps Donna and John Kipps

·59 min·5 clips

When Donna says 'nothing's wrong,' John knows something is wrong—how do they navigate this marital trap?

The episode begins with a Q&A session where Donna and John Kipps answer submitted questions about marriage, starting with what serving a spouse truly means beyond mere obedience. They discuss checking motivations and using principles of honor, respect, love, and compassion to evaluate requests. A question about interpreting 'nothing's wrong' leads to advice on indirect communication and giving space for discussion. Hormones are addressed as a factor in arguments, with John's strategy of postponing conversations highlighted. The hosts emphasize mutual submission and clear communication of needs. They share tips on praying together, starting simply to overcome awkwardness. Premarital counseling is recommended for discussing finances, children, and in-laws. The session transitions to parenting, with John stating that family starts at marriage, not with children. They stress establishing a Christ-centered home based on Joshua 24:15, with parents responsible for discipleship. The husband-wife relationship is prioritized to reduce child anxiety, illustrated by the 'couch time' technique that stopped a son from entering their bed. Teaching God's word in daily life, like putting shopping trolleys away, is encouraged. Modeling behavior and avoiding hypocrisy are discussed, including apologizing to children. Discipline should focus on changing hearts, not anger, and consider individual differences. Avoiding exasperation and being respectful are key. Seeking counsel from pastors or mentors is advised. Building family relationships through traditions and fun activities is promoted. The funnel parenting model is explained, tightening rules for young children and gradually granting freedom as they age. The episode ends with Q&A on repairing relationships after losing control and handling grandparents with conflicting parenting styles.

As heard by us

A practical, scripture-led conversation on serving in marriage, honouring a spouse, and parenting with faith and boundaries.

Marriage and parenting meet at the same practical question in this church session: what love looks like when family life is tiring, repetitive, and emotionally loaded.

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Why you'd press play

For the marriage question that starts with serving a spouse and ends with choosing fruit before chocolate.

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