Kinship

Many would agree that having "the talk" or bringing up "the birds and the bees" with our children gives us a lump in our throat! How can we better tackle this necessary conversation and be faithfully discipling our children ? Join us as we stumble through this topic. Show notes: God's Design for Sex series 4 Principles for Talking to Your Kids About Sex Kids, Let's Talk About Sex - TGC

What's it like to be around others and get drained ? Introverts know that feeling all too well! There are blessings of being an introvert but cons too. Since data shows there are more extroverts in society sometimes introverts can feel the struggle of keeping up with the the group. Join us as we talk about who's an introvert among us and what it looks like. 4 Lies About Introverts - TGC How Do Introverts Guard Against Selfishness?- Desiring God The Christian Introvert- Tim Challies

What's it like to be around others and get re-energized ? Extroverts know that feeling all too well! There are blessings of being an extrovert but cons too. According to data there are more extroverts in society than introverts. Join us as we talk about who's an extrovert among us and what it looks like. Stree-Free Small Talk

Listening to people comes easy to some and difficult for others but essential to healthy relationships . How can we listen well to people in order to love them well? Listen in as we discuss how we struggle and we lean on Christ for help in order to listen well.  Six Lessons in Good Listening-Desiring God Stress-Free Small Talk

We were asked by one of our sisters to talk about insecurity and the struggles (and blessings) that come with it . Join us as we feel insecure even about the topic!  Lay Aside the Weight of Insecurity- Jon Bloom

Busyness is part of the American life . How about the church? Can believers balance being genuinely busy and able to make room for more? Come join us as we chat about how busy or non busy we are! Crazy Busy- Kevin DeYoung Busyness Is Not the Problem - Desiring God

  The pastor of the church is usually well connected but what about his wife ? In many local churches there are many ideas of what the pastor's wife should do or be but are they encouraging to the body or hurtful? Join us after a LONG hiatus as we talk about our experience with being a pastor's wife.  Thank you to our two listeners for hanging with us :)

The dreaded talk that we have to have with someone . We've all felt that at some point. How can we think about conflict in a helpful way? Join us as we compare notes and discuss our imperfect conflict resolutions.  The dreaded talk that we have to have with someone. We've all felt that at some point. How can we think about conflict in a helpful way? Join us as we compare notes and discuss our imperfect conflict resolutions.  Resources: Resolving Everyday Conflict by Ken Sande   Your Family, God's Way: Developing and Sustaining Relationships in the Home   Difficult Friendships Are Good for You

Being friends with like minded people is easy but God has also called us to live in a hostile world . Our family and friends might oppose God so then how should we engage them? Join us as we talk about loving others with Gospel truth.  *technical difficulties for the first 7 mins* Tim Chester B.L.E.S.S The Simplest Way to Change the World: Biblical Hospitality as a Way of Life by Dustin Willis and Brandon Clements Saturate Jeff by Vanderstelt The Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosario Butterfield Wisdom in Friendships with Non-Christians- Desiring God

In this episode we discuss male and female relationships .  In our local churches we are called to be in covenant with our sisters and brothers but what does that look like? Maybe you feel uncomfortable around the opposite sex but want to grow in fellowship with brothers. How should you think about it? Or should you? Join us as we talk about our local church and friendships. 

The local church is filled with mothers of all sorts . But what about those women who haven't been able to bear children biologically? Infertility is lonely and painful. The local church can walk alongside these women and carry this burden. Join us and listen as we talk about the deep struggle of infertility. Resources: Care for Couples Struggling with Infertility Infertility in the Arms of the Church The Silent Struggle of Childlessness

Finding deep friendships in the local church can be a challenge . What can you do to cultivate those type of relationships? Whatever advice is given is easier said than done but something needs to happen in order to grow your relationships. Join us as we talk about not having deep friendships in the church.

Gathering with church family includes chilren . We know children are a blessing because God says so but how do we intentionally incorporate these "blessings" into our Sunday gathering? Join us as we talk about our kids and our local church. Show notes: Should Children Sit Through 'Big Church'? Our Home is Like a Little Church Family Driven Faith: Doing What It Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk with God 10 Lessons on Parenting Big(ger) Kids

  It's been awhile but we are back! In this episode we talk about our engagement stories and things we learned--or didn't learn-- about this special season in dating/courting . It's good to be back. Show notes: Questions to Ask When Preparing for Marriage- John Piper Dating for God's Glory part 1 of 3- PJ Tibayan Gospel Centered Marriage- Tim Chester A premarital curriculum

Being a new mom is hard !   There's tons of blessings embedded in motherhood too and seeing through the trials to enjoy Jesus Christ is essential.  Join us as we take a stroll down memory lane and talk about our motherhood journey . 

For those married, what would you want to tell yourself in your first year of marriage ? If you're not married but want to be, listen to us talk about some foolish struggles we had and learn from our failures! Join us at the table of life struggles.

  With the upcoming election, things seem tense. How about in our church ? Is the church able to have conversations about politics? As difficult as it is we should be able to express our thoughts and feelings but with love and clarity. Join us as we unpack what politics looks like for us as we engage our local church.  Show Notes:  Prophetic Politics Podcast

Are we there yet ?  That's a familiar question when traveling to your family's planned "oasis." But will it be an oasis when everyone's already on edge? Despite it not being summer vacation anymore we thought it still would be helpful no matter the season! In this episode, we talk about the differences between a family vacation and a family trip.  Show notes: The Disciple-Making Parent podcast: Thoughts for the Summer   

 In  this episode, we discuss losing a loved one. Grieving is part of a process that looks different for everybody . As we grieve, we can lean on the local church family to help support and give us a place where we can mourn. 

We're back ! Welcome to season 3! In this episode of Kinship Podcast, we think about cliques in the church. How do Christians keep close friendships and yet not leave people out? That's a hard balance. Join us as we discuss this common church issue.  Show notes: John Piper-  When the "Want To" and "Ought To" Don't Match

This isn't the best time to practice hospitality but when things settle down (Lord willing!) and we get more answers concerning Covid-19 we'll all be itching to be around others. Despite the social distancng, it's still a good topic to talk about and prepare for once confinement is over. It's been a while but hopefully we'll be back with more episodes in the near future .   

Taking the log out of your eye while removing the speck out of your brother's eye is a tall order . Who can rebuke well all the time? In this episode, we discuss confronting sin and the lessons we have learned and continue to learn. Resources: The Lion King Reframing Foster Care Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands Them-Why We Hate Each Other-and How to Heal Politics According to the Bible When Should You Confront Someone About Their Sin? The Peacemaker The Beginner's Guide to Conflict Resolution

We like how Tim Challies explains it, "the family goes to public school" as opposed to "sending your children to public school . " In this episode, we have a familiar guest back to discuss why her family chooses to go public.  Resources: 10 Lessons from 10 Years of Public Schooling Going Public Book Review-Going Public Interview with Jen Wilkin

What do married couples do to increase connection ? There are lots to do but one thing we've enjoyed is dating our husbands. In this episode, we discuss what gets in the way of connecting in this way to what makes it quality time together. Resources: A Marriage Checklist Date Your Wife Don't Put Your Hope in Date Night Sex, Romance, and the Glory of God You Don't Need a Date Night

This episode might offend some, encourage others and discourage a few, we are not sure hoe it will fall on our friend's ears but this is an honest conversation among us women who vary in seasons of life, love our families, the Bible and strive to seek Christ first and His Kingdom. Join us as we tackle this sensitive topic . is it better for moms to stay at home? will you still work when the baby is born? Christian subculture and the stay-at-home-mom what should a wife's priorities be?

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also . " These biblical words offer great guidance as we handle money. In this episode, join us as we discuss how we manage our finances and think about them. Resources: Money, Possessions, and Eternity Financial Peace University Debt Is Not a Money Problem A Letter to Younger Me About Money The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving

On this episode, we talk about reading the Bible with various people . We briefly talk about our experiences and the blessing they have been. Resources: Six Questions to Ask When Studying the Bible in a Group Faith Hacking: The Swedish Method The Bible Project Read the Bible with Someone Else: Four Benefits of Studying in Community One-to-One Bible Reading

*Warning: contains sensitive topics not suitable for children . In episode 39, we discuss sexual abuse within the local church. The recently published Houston Chronicle article brought to light horrific data concerning sexual abuse and the churches cover up. The #MeToo Movement has ignited a fire of courage in women who have been kept silent. The Kinship ladies talk through these sensitive topics. Southern Baptist Their #MeToo Movement How Can the Church Minister to Victims of Sexual Abuse? On Guard: Preventing and Responding to Child Abuse -Deepa Reju Houston Chronicle: Abuse of Faith

*WARNING: contains sensitive topics not suitable for children . In episode 38, we discuss Frances' sexual abuse story. We pray this topic can help other women deal with the repercussions of sexual abuse within their local church.  Recovering from Child Abuse: Healing and Hope for Victims Sexual Abuse-CCEF Shame Interrupted: How God Lifts the Pain of Worthlessness and Rejection God Hates What Happened to You Dating and Marriage for the  Victims of Past Abuse

With happy hearts, we're proud to introduce our newest member to Kinship . We are now officially back to "four church sisters..." She even got Kelly's blessing. We hope you enjoy getting to know her. She's such a sweet blessing to us and we can't wait to share her with you all.

All the single ladies (All the single ladies) All the single ladies (All the single ladies) .  In this episode, we talk about being single and ready to mingle. No, we don't. We talk about the local church body and singleness. How does the local church serve and encourage our singles? Come along with us as we chat with our guest speaker Hannah. To the Church on Valentine's Day Singleness: A Personal Testimony Sick of Singleness and Satisfied in Christ 5 Misconceptions About Singleness Love Thy Neighborhood-Where the Gospel Meets Singleness Not Yet Married: The Pursuit of Joy in Singleness and Dating

To homeschool, or not to homeschool, that is the question . In this episode, we have a disclaimer towards homeschooling yet, we tease out both sides...at least as best we could!  Homeschool Will Not Save Them 3 Reasons Not to Homeschool Why I Do Not Homeschool (Part1) The Great Vision of Christian Education How to Create a Gospel-Centered Homeschool

The Scriptures remind us to consider how to stir each other up in love and good deeds . What and how should we be thinking in regards to Sunday morning as we gather with our local church family. Dive into the conversation with us as we sift through ideas. How Should Christians View Sunday? Why Do Christians Worship Together on Sundays? What Does It Mean Practically to Keep the Sabbath Holy? Spring Sports and Sunday Church

Sunday after Sunday we hear God's word preached and walk away either applying the text to our lives or forgetting what the point of the text was and how it applies to our lives . In this episode, we discuss not being hearers only but doers. Resources 7  Ways to Become a Better Sermon Listener Take Care How You Listen  (free e-book) How to Listen to an Expository Sermon How To Listen To An (Expository?) Sermon

"Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to look after  orphans  and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained from the world . " James 1:27 Our very own church sister Linda joins us as we discuss something dear to her heart. She pulls on our heartstrings and asks God to move in us and our churches to love the orphans. Get ready for some life changes people! Koinonia Family Services Olive Crest Services Foster LA Kids Jason Johnson Blog Foster Care as the Way of Christ - article Adopted for Life - book An Adoption Story

Our beloved Kelly returns to help us discuss how to leave a church . She shares the process they are currently in and the deciding factor. We were so thankful Kelly joined the conversation and for the short reunion. We pray this episode can be helpful for the local church.  Resources:  How to Leave Your Church Well If You're Thinking About Leaving a Church 7 Bad Reasons to Leave a Church When Should I Leave My Church? What to Say to Church Members Leaving for Bad Reasons What Should I Look For In a Church? #7: Church Membership - Kinship Podcast When a Member Wants to Leave the Church - Shepherd LA

In this episode, we walk a tightrope as we balance social media . Join us as we handle this tough topic. This can be a touchy issue to deal with individually and within your local church family.  Show notes: A Social Media Heart Check   How Has Social Media Changed Bible Reading The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness  by Timothy Keller The Liturgists Podcast  (we don't necessarily agree doctrinally but a good episode) There are more resources about this topic, so read up and be encouraged! Kinship's social media accounts :) Twitter  Instagram Facebook

Summer's over in our neck of the woods and that means it's time to get down to business . We begin with quick updates and talk about the new season ahead. Join us as we begin Season 2 of Kinship!

In episode 28, we share our experiences and struggles with learning how to live in joyful submission in our marriages . This is our final podcast before our summer break, so stay tuned for SEASON 2 coming in September! We want to thank you for all the support we have received throughout Season 1, and we hope you spend the summer in good conversation and fellowship with your church family!  6 Things Submission is Not   What Women Want and What Obedience Gets   I'm a Better Leader   A Godly Unsubmissiveness Seeing Jesus on the Stage of Marriage   Defining Submission and Headship within Marriage Happily Ever After   50 Crucial Questions About Manhood and Womanhood

* WARNING: contains sensitive topics not suitable for children. In episode 27, we discuss the trend of pornography addiction amongst women in the church and other sexual sins . We share our own struggles, experiences and think through how to relate to one another as we fight sexual sin together.  15 Ways to Fight Lust with the Sword of the Spirit Top 10 Books On Fighting Porn Statistics: Christian Women and Porn Addiction  Heart of Man - documentary Covenant Eyes Breaking Porngraphy Addiction The Pain of Porn

In this episode, we discuss the progression of a dating relationship towards marriage . As a couple moves towards matrimony, things will evidently change. Time management, communication, and spiritual intimacy differ in each stage. Join us as we seek to unravel this topic.  Back in episodes 3, 5, and 6 we delved into dating boundaries and marriage. Take a listen if you missed those episodes!

Since 1949, May is Mental Health Awareness Month . In honor of it, we invited our sister Sally to come and share her story. The mental health stigma harms our culture and our churches. The fear of not knowing how to help overwhelms the church family. Being known as a person with a mental disorder is a heavy burden. The truth of the gospel combats displaced identity and encourages hope.  My Name is "Beloved": Finding Identity in Mental Illness The Root of Mental Health Nami  (a secular organization) Biblical Counseling - ACBC blog Truth in Love Podcast Christian Counseling & Education Foundation  (CCEF) Podcast A Theology of Biblical Counseling The Biblical Counseling Guide for Women Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands

In Episode 24 we discuss the "tasty" sin of gossip, and how to help one another avoid falling into this easy and harmful trap . We hope that sharing our struggle with this sin and discussing ways to fight it, is as helpful and encouraging to you as it was to us. Resources: Questions to Ask Before We Gossip How Can I Share Conflicts with My Spouse Without Gossiping? What Gossip Says About God Slander- Worse Than You Think  (sermon)