Kinship

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)

In episode 23, us wives recap the previous discussion between our husbands on lust . We discuss how we, as their spouses, help to fight it and how to navigate confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Caution: blatant language regarding sexual topics is used in this episode. 

In episode 22, the Kinship husband's come in to lend their perspective on the topic of lust . They discuss the sin of lust and how to fight it as married men and as Christian brothers. Caution: blatant language regarding sexual topics is used in this episode.  Resources: 15 Ways to Fight Lust with the Sword of the Spirit 3 Biblical Strategies for Fighting Lust Self-Centered Sex part 1   Self-Centered Sex part 2  Sex, Romance, and the Glory of God Sex and the Supremacy of Christ

In episode 21, we discuss the difficulty of making hard decisions . As we all try to decide what is best, many things come into play. How do we as believers think through tough choices? How can we keep from being crippled over every decision? We hope this encourages your journey with your local church. Resources: Why Making Decisions Is So Hard How Do I Make Decisions That Please God? A Prayer for Wisdom and Peace How Much of My Decision-Making is Emotional? Knowing God's Will-Recommended Resources Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will Finding God's Will-J.I. Packer Guidance-Capitol Hill Baptist Church, Core Seminar

In this episode, we speak loosely about the idea of getting your church ladies together for the purpose of fellowship and eating good food .  For some of us, food HAS to be involved. Sometimes the plan will fail, other times it'll succeed, either way, the effort is not lost if there's a simple goal in mind. How do we plan ahead to get together with other ladies we'd normally not feel gravitated towards? Or set time aside despite our busy schedule? Join us as we share our ideas and get your juices flowing for your local church unity. 

In episode 19 we answer questions from listeners, cast our own movies, and talk through the issue of anxiety in our own lives and broader culture as a whole . What does anxiety look like? How can we as Christians support brothers and sisters who struggle? What even is the Kinship email address anyway? All this and more coming your way, enjoy!  (articles) Fear & Anxiety Some Things You Should Know About Christians Who Struggle With Anxiety Anxiety: My Thorn in My Flesh From Anxiety to Peace (books) Blame It On the Brain Anger, Anxiety and Fear: A Biblical Perspective The Biblical Counseling Guide for Women Running Scared (podcasts) The Bible and Anxiety- Association of Certified Biblical Counselors Christians and Psychiatric Medication various topics- Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation

In episode 18, we talk through worshiping God in our homes with our families . We discuss the many different ways to incorporate this precious time into family routines and use it to praise the Lord while encouraging our spouses and training our children. We hope you are encouraged by what you hear.  Resources: Leading Family Worship 5 Reasons to Prioritize Family Worship Family Worship- Laying the Foundation for Heart-Centered Parenting A Baptist Catechism The New City Catechism The Jesus Storybook Bible The Big Picture Story Bible The Action Bible The Biggest Story Sticky Situations Dangerous Journey: The Story of Pilgrim's Progress Our Home Is Like a Little Church

In this episode, we share stories and examples of God's grace to us through our fathers . We recognize that each of our relationships with our fathers is unique and encompass both positive and negative experiences. However, we also recognize that they are used by God to teach us many important lessons. By sharing these lessons with our sisters in Christ, we can grow in understanding of one another as sisters and as people. We hope you enjoy these stories as much as we did. 

In this episode, we look back on the examples of our mothers and their impacts on our lives . We recognize that each individual mother-child relationship is unique in their ups and downs, but we also recognize that God uses our mothers' strengths and weaknesses to teach us different and valuable lessons. By sharing these lessons we can grow in understanding of one another as sisters and as people. We hope you enjoy these stories as much as we did.  Resources: The Amazing Calling of Being "Mom" by Trillia Newbell What Makes a Good Mom? by Abigail Dodds

This week we explore the current issue of sexual assault in our cultural, and the various cultural movements responding to it . Show Notes: How Church Leaders Should Respond to Sexual Abuse Encouragement to #MeToo Victims Inside the Church 4 Lessons For Christians From the Harvey Weinstein Scandal Art Exhibit Powerfully Answers The Question 'What Were You Wearing?'

In this episode, we review a sermon addressing racism . This issue is not a political one but a gospel one. It's a weighty and important topic for everyone, but especially for believers. We all felt the weight of the conversation, as there is so much to learn and grow in. Our hope is that the discussion, although not a complete or conclusive one, will bring about the asking of hard questions amongst church family and a growing love for one another through ethnic harmony.  God and Ethnic Harmony  Bethany Baptist Church  The Table of Nations Are There Many Races, or One?  by Voddie Bachaum How Race Works, and Why it Matters For the Church  (Powerpoint) by Michael Emerson Symposium  by Michael Emerson Divided By Faith  by Michael Emerson On Race Part 1  Pastors' Talk On Race Part 2  Pastors' Talk

In episode 13 we discuss evangelism, or how our church likes to say it, gospelizing . If you're like us, the fear and anxiety of failure can inhibit you from spreading the Gospel. By God's grace though, we have church sisters to "gospelize" us and encourage each other in boldness and love even as we struggle. We hope you are emboldened and encouraged as well!   Show Notes: Questioning Evangelism  by Randy Newman Who Is Jesus?   by Greg Gilbert Story Training videos  by GCM Collective two ways to live  by Matthias media Show Hospitality & Share the Gospel