Focus on the Family Marriage Podcast
Episodes
The Dangers of a Pornography Problem
23 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Sadly, many married people today have a secret addiction to pornography. If left in the dark, it can destroy the very foundation of your relationship....
Come Out of Hiding
21 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When things aren't going well in your marriage, having supportive friends is one of the best blessings you can have. None of us are meant to go throug...
Loving Without Expectations
16 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Is it possible to love your spouse without expecting anything in return? Truth be told, we can only love that way if we're relying on God's love to fi...
Don't Become a Spider Spouse
14 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Unrealistic expectations are something all of us struggle with, yet they're very damaging to a marriage. John, Greg and Erin share how they've learned...
After the Storm Has Passed
09 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
After your marriage has gone through a hard time, it can be tempting to bring up past hurts to your spouse. The truth is, recovery is anything but an ...
Reconciliation is Still Possible
07 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When there's been a betrayal in a marriage, healing can take a long time. While waiting for restoration isn't easy, God is willing to send you some he...
Replacing Selfishness & Control
02 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
If we're honest, we all struggle with selfishness in marriage. However, a good dose of gratitude can be the best solution for selfishness. John and Gr...
When Little Irritations Meet Grace
31 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
All of us can find something annoying about our spouse. But, you can choose to show grace even when you don't feel like doing so. Greg talks with John...
Community in the Fight
26 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
You and your spouse weren't meant to do life alone. Having other couples around you is key to a healthy relationship. John and Greg discuss how their ...
Deal with Technology Distractions
24 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
While technology is a great tool, spending too much time on a screen can distract you from quality time with your spouse. John talks with Greg, who sh...
What We Long For—Connection
19 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Sadly, many married couples report feeling lonely. Sometimes, it might even take a third-party to help you reconnect. John and Greg share how counseli...
When Your Spouse Needs Empathy
17 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
While you and your spouse cannot trade places, showing empathy to each other can go a long way toward strengthening your relationship. John and Greg d...
Doing it God's Way
12 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
If your vehicle had a problem, sometimes, looking in the owner's manual can help you fix it. In the same way, when your marriage faces a challenge, go...
When God Changes a Husband's Heart
10 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Even when things seem difficult in your marriage, it's never too late for God to do a miracle. John and Greg discuss how seeking the Lord can make a b...
Learning to Become a Team
05 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Is it possible to know whether someone would be a good teammate and show you kindness even before marriage? John and Greg discuss how to show someone ...
Working on You Before Your Spouse
03 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Real change in marriage occurs when we stop fixating on everything our spouse needs to change. It takes true character to focus on what you need to wo...
5 Signs of Spiritual Attack
28 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
What do you do when you and your spouse are constantly getting on each other's nerves? It may be that you're facing a spiritual attack. John, Erin and...
Deal With the Little Irritations
26 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Small problems that aren't talked about in your marriage can turn into big issues later on, John, Greg and Erin discuss why it's important to talk thi...
When Your Spouse is Depressed
21 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When you and your spouse are in a stressful season, the chances of one of you struggling with depression are much higher than normal. How do you navig...
Where You Feel Lonely
19 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Every couple, no matter how good their marriage is, has an area in the relationship where they feel lonely. To offer a word of encouragement, John, Gr...
Why Divorce Isn't the Answer
14 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When you first got married, you hoped it would last for a lifetime. Sadly, many couples who say their vows are choosing to get a divorce. John, Erin a...
Where Unhealthy Expectations are Born
12 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
While romantic music and movies can make us feel good, they sometimes paint an unrealistic picture of what marriage is really like. John, Erin and Gre...
Making Your Husband Feel Appreciated
07 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Whether he verbalizes it or not, your husband wants to feel validated. A little bit of encouragement can go a long way in your relationship. John, Eri...
Wives Want a Selfless Listener
05 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Many times, a wife just wants her husband to listen when she needs to talk. John, Greg and Erin discuss how a husband can be a good listener, even he ...
Subtle Temptation
31 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Temptation is sometimes a very subtle thing, but not dealing with it can cause a lot of problems in your marriage. John, Erin and Greg share some ways...
Recognizing Spiritual Warfare
29 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
The fact is, spiritual warfare is part of marriage. The key to victory is in relying on God's strength and not on your own. John, Erin and Greg provid...
Ending Isolation in Your Marriage
24 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When you don't feel as close to your spouse as you'd like, how do you reconnect? While some seasons are busier than others, feeling disconnected long-...
Sharing Your Spouse's Burden
22 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In marriage, it's sometimes easy to get caught up in your activities. However, focusing too much on what needs to be done can leave you feeling alone ...
Where is God When Your Marriage Hits the Bottom?
17 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Even when your marriage hits rock bottom, God will never leave you. John, Greg and Erin provide encouragement to couples who feel like there is no hop...
Hope for the Emotionally Broken
15 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When your mate has suffered past abuse, it might take years or even decades for him or her to heal. The process can be very difficult and full of twis...
Symptoms of an Affair
10 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When a person chooses to cheat on his or her spouse, it will have devastating consequences on the marriage. John, Greg and Erin will address this heav...
When It Seems Good, but It Isn't
08 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, it can look like you have a good marriage on the surface. But underneath, something is harming the foundation of your relationship. In thos...
Establishing New Family Rhythms
03 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
One of the biggest adjustments young couples have to make is in prioritizing your spouse over your family of origin. Sometimes, it's not as easy as yo...
Focusing on The Good in the Early Years
01 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Starting your marriage off well won't happen by accident. To have a thriving relationship, it's important to develop good habits early on. To help cou...
Why a Christian Marriage Should Stand Out
24 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
No marriage is perfect, but as Christians, it's important for our marriages to reflect the heart of Christ. Sometimes, that will mean asking a friend ...
Getting Help in Winter
22 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When the winter season comes, it's important to be prepared in order to stay warm. The same is true for when your marriage goes through a chilly seaso...
The Roots of an Addiction
17 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Destructive addictions usually start with small compromises. The same is true with a pornography problem. John, Greg and Erin discuss some helpful fir...
Owning Your Sin Too
15 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When you've been hurt by your spouse, it's easy to be blind to your own sins and shortcomings. But what do you do when you find out your spouse is add...
When and When Not to Talk
10 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In marriage, learning to bring up certain discussions at the right time with your spouse is very important. John, Greg and Erin share some helpful tip...
Honey, What Did You Mean By...?
08 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever heard your mate say something, only to ask her about it later and she says, "What? That's not what I meant!" Sometimes, what we mean to ...
Accountability and Forgiveness
03 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When your marriage faces a crisis, two of the most important things you need are supportive friends and to choose forgiveness. But what about when you...
After an Affair is Confessed
01 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Even if your spouse has betrayed you, God promises to still be with you. The Bible reminds us that He is close to those who are brokenhearted. If your...
When You Face a Winter Season
27 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Every season your marriage goes through has benefits to it. Even if it's a difficult time, your relationship can come out better on the other side. Jo...
Five Styles of Conflict
25 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How does the word "conflict," make you feel? Like it or not, it will be part of your marriage. The key is in how you deal with it when it comes. Greg,...
When Past Hurts Come Up
20 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When a wife finds out her husband is struggling with pornography, many times, she feels a sense of, "I'm not good enough." The sting of the betrayal c...
Finding Healing from Sexual Brokenness
18 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Pornography is a dangerous trap that sadly many people are caught in today. But instead of keeping it a secret, it must be brought into the light. Joh...
How Would God Respond to Marriage Conflict?
13 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Getting to know your spouse can feel like driving down a road with unexpected turns. On the journey, there will be situations where you bump into conf...
"I Married the Wrong Person"
11 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When you're frustrated with your spouse, it's easy to say hurtful things. In fact, some couples have even said things like, "I married the wrong perso...
The Roller Coaster of Recovery
06 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When a marriage has been hurt by betrayal, the road of recovery takes time. It's not an easy journey, but healing is possible with God's help. John, G...
Why Blaming is So Dangerous
04 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
If your spouse has hurt you, it's easy to start playing the blame game. But doing so will only make things worse, not better. John, Erin and Greg disc...
Finding True Peace and Prosperity
30 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Having financial goals as a couple can greatly bless your marriage. The key is to get on the same page as a team. John and Greg share how to work toge...
When Your Spouse Repents
28 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There's a temptation to think you can change your spouse's bad habits. However, no matter how hard you try, true repentance is only possible with God'...
The Season of Conflict
23 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Conflict is part of marriage. But if you're willing to work through it, your relationship can become stronger even after a fight. John talks with Greg...
Spider Webs & Glass-Blowing Classes
21 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you're engaged, it's easy to think you know your future spouse really well. However, getting to know someone takes time. John talks with Greg and...
In-Laws and Staying Committed
16 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There's an old saying about marriage, "you don't just marry your spouse, you marry the person's family." If we're honest, sometimes learning to get al...
Choosing Love, Even When You Don't Feel It
14 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
As you get to know your spouse, you learn so many things about him or her. While learning new things can be funny, some situations can lead to tension...
When God Reaches Us in Our Mess
09 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you've made several mistakes in your marriage, it can seem like things could never be restored. But even when you've turned away from doing thing...
When God Showed up on Easter
07 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We've all known a couple who's thought, "Our marriage can't make it." If that's you, John, Greg and Erin will share how they've seen God restore broke...
Changing Bad Money Habits
02 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What do you do when it feels like you and your spouse can't agree about money? John and Erin will share how to be patient when you and your mate are s...
When Your Money Habits Clash
30 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Money. It's one of the most common reasons couples fight. To help ease financial tension, John and Erin will share a helpful key for when you're frust...
Confessing Sexual Sin to Your Family
25 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sexual sin grows in the dark. But when you bring it into the light by confessing it, the healing process can start. John, Greg and Erin discuss how to...
When a Secret Sin is Uncovered
23 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Statistics reveal that many married men are struggling with a pornography addiction, even in the church. If this has impacted your marriage, please kn...
Growing Spiritually in Every Season
18 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Homes need a strong foundation, and marriages need to be established on God's love. Without it, you won't be nearly as ready when challenges come your...
Overcoming Fear in the Spring Season
16 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you're falling in love, it can feel like the start of the spring season. Flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and romance is strong. But if w...
Remembering What Brought You Together
11 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, it's good to reflect on why you married your spouse. To help you do that, John and Erin discuss the benefits of remembering how you fell in...
Having Fun With Your Opposite Personalities
09 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You married someone who's very different from you! It's part of God's design. While your differences can be a lot of fun, they can also create a lot o...
Opening a Closed Heart
04 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
It's one of the worst things that can happen in a marriage: when your spouse's heart closes. If that happens, it can take a long time for the relation...
Eliminating Distractions, Finding Intimacy
02 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Let's be honest, sometimes, it's easy to get distracted when your spouse is trying to tell you something. John talks with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley ab...
Purpose of the Seasons
28 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Each season of marriage has a purpose. The key is in choosing to make the most of the one you're in, even when it's not easy. If you feel stuck in a w...
The Seasons Your Marriage Goes Through
26 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Every marriage goes through seasons. Some are wonderful, while others are difficult, but each one can help you improve your relationship. John talks w...
Representing Jesus in Our Marriage
21 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
If there's a lack of love in your marriage, it's good to evaluate the strength of your relationship with God. The more you prioritize obeying God, the...
Honey, That's Not What I Meant
19 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You said something to your spouse, and thought your point was clear. But after a day or two, your mate is really upset. It turns out, your spouse misu...
When Unfaithfulness Meets God's Grace
14 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When your spouse has hurt you, it's easy to hold on to unforgiveness. But doing so will only make things worse. John talks with Greg and Erin about wa...
The Immediate Damage of an Affair
12 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sadly, many couples experience the sting of betrayal. When the unfaithfulness comes to light, the damage is shocking. John talks with Greg and Erin ab...
Questions and Answers
07 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You long for meaningful connection with your spouse. However, there are moments when it feels like life and responsibilities keep getting in the way. ...
Planets and the Sun
05 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Raising kids with your spouse is one of life's greatest blessings. But anyone who's had children will tell you it's not easy to balance them with your...
Planning for a Thriving Marriage
30 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Success doesn't happen by accident. It requires planning and making intentional decisions. The same principle is true for your marriage. Greg and Erin...
The Story You Tell Yourself
28 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you're frustrated with your spouse, it's easy to tell yourself things about him or her that aren't true. We've all been guilty of that before. Gr...
Working Through Triggers With Honesty
23 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You love your spouse so much, but we're all still human. Part of being human is getting on each other's nerves. John, Erin and Greg discuss what it lo...
Overcoming Tension in the Early Years
21 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The early years of marriage are filled with bliss and lots of adjustments. With so many changes, getting on each others' nerves is very common as you'...
When Jesus Saved Her Marriage
16 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When it seems hopeless, Jesus will still meet you where you are. Your marriage might be struggling today, but God can do a miracle in your relationshi...
God Can Redeem Any Marriage
14 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Many marriages go through a dark season. If you're feeling discouraged today and wondering whether you and your spouse are going to make it, you've co...
Healthy Expectations for Busy Seasons
09 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When we get angry at our family, there's typically a deeper reason why. It might even be rooted in unrealistic expectations. Erin, Greg and John discu...
Listen to the Metronome
07 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Like music needs a metronome to sound good, your marriage needs a rhythm to help you stay connected. But is that possible when your schedule feels ove...
Brain Magnets and Joy Buckets
02 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Do you remember what it was like when you and your spouse first fell in love? The attraction was so strong. As time goes on, that same attraction can ...
Marriage is Like Maintaining a Garden
31 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Just like a garden needs water, your marriage needs simple acts of love in order to thrive. John, Erin and Greg explain how they've seen little things...
Stop the Sarcasm!
26 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Telling jokes can be a great way to liven up your marriage. But, a good punch line should never come at your spouse's expense. Greg, Erin and John exp...
When Super-Husband Isn't Enough
24 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
While doing things to help your spouse is wonderful, activities should never replace the joy of being together. Greg, Erin and John discuss how they'v...
All My Expectations!
19 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you and your spouse were dating, what did you expect marriage to be like? The truth is, many of us go into a lifelong commitment with over-the-to...
When the Pressure is Too Much!
17 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you get married, it's easy to believe that marriage will solve your problems. However, such an unrealistic expectation can do great harm to your ...
Catch the Little Foxes
12 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The truth is, small things can have a very big impact on your marriage. But as the little things add up, it can be hard to make time for each other. J...
More Than Just Roommates
10 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When you and your spouse were dating, you probably found each others' quirks to be funny. However, those same things you once thought of as cute can t...
Regaining Passion in Your Marriage
05 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
For a lot of couples, talking about sex can feel awkward and uncomfortable. But it doesn't have to be that way. John, Erin and Greg offer encouragemen...
Let's Talk About Submission
03 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Submission is a biblical principle that will help your marriage. But what does it look like to practice it? John talks with Greg about what submission...
The Gift of Affection
29 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A small note, a gentle hug, a tender kiss. These things can add so much to your marriage. But what do you do when you don't feel like being affectiona...
Small Actions That Show You Care
27 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, a small act of love from your spouse can go a long way to brighten your day. But if we're honest, it's easy to neglect showing affection to...
Allowing God to Paint Your Financial Picture
22 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In marriage, it takes relying on God's wisdom to make wise choices. The same can be said for the financial choices you make. Erin Smalley and John Ful...
Overcoming Your Fears About Money
20 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In a marriage, each spouse tends to have different priorities when it comes to money. In the same way, husbands and wives usually have different fears...
Replacing Lies With the Truth
15 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You and your spouse are on the same team. But if you believe lies about your mate, it can feel like you're competing against each other. John Fuller a...
Listen to Your Feelings
13 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Learning to be more honest about how you feel is a wonderful way to grow with your spouse. John Fuller and Erin Smalley discuss how to get better at s...