Summary

In today's episode, Jerrad discusses the challenges of navigating busy seasons of life, particularly for parents. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional in relationships, especially with spouses and children, amidst the chaos of daily responsibilities. Jerrad shares insights on finding clarity in one's mission, the necessity of saying no to distractions, and practical steps to maintain focus on what truly matters. He also highlights the significance of rest and connection with God to fulfill one's calling effectively.

Newt Crenshaw, the president and CEO of Young Life, a global ministry that reaches out to adolescents, discusses the relational ministry and the impact it has on young people. Young Life focuses on building relationships with young people through contact work, club meetings, campaigners (small group Bible studies), and camps. The study conducted by Young Life revealed that Gen Z and Gen Alpha desire authentic relationships, a sense of belonging, and stable relationships with adults. The study also highlighted the challenges young people face with social media and the importance of building resilience. Newt encourages parents to invest in their children's lives and be present for open window moments.

Jerrad Lopes interviews Stephen McWhirter, a worship leader and songwriter, about his journey of faith and fatherhood. Stephen shares his testimony of growing up with a father who was a traveling evangelist but also physically abused his mother. This traumatic experience led Stephen to reject Christianity and engage in a life of addiction and crime. However, through a supernatural encounter with God while reading a book, Stephen found redemption and forgiveness. He shares the importance of repentance and the power of God's grace in transforming lives. Stephen also discusses the challenges and joys of being a father and the importance of authenticity in parenting. In this conversation, Jerrad Lopes and Stephen McWhirter discuss the challenges of church leadership and the importance of humility. They also explore the concept of longing for Jesus' return and how it can impact our lives and relationships. They touch on the theological question of whether we choose God or God chooses us, and the role of free will in our faith. They also discuss the dangers of pornography and the importance of open communication with our children. Stephen shares his journey from addiction to faith and the impact of his song 'Come Jesus Come' on people's lives.

What is the role of a man and woman in marriage? What did God mean when he said it's not good for man to be alone. And, why did God give man a 'helper'?

Have you ever felt stuck trying to explain the trinity to your kids? In this episode, pastor Chris Hilken shares the theology of the trinity, and practical ways to explain it to your children.

Before you're a husband. Before you're a dad. Before you're even a 'man of God'. You're this...

What are your thoughts on Halloween? Do you know why you think what you do? Do you have a game-plan to teach your kids about Halloween and why you've made the decision you have regarding the holiday? In today's episode, Chris Hilken teaches the history of Halloween, and what the Bible has to say about it.

Are you the kind of man your wife and kids feel comfortable following? What does that even look like to lead your family? Sit down with host Jerrad Lopes and his wife Leila to talk about what it looks like to be a man who leads his family well (and the times when a wife will feel uncomfortable following her husband's leadership)

On today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, listen as Jerrad and the "Check Your Vertical" podcast share their raw stories of God redeeming their marriages and how that reflects that gospel.

Very rarely do men have conversations about miscarriage and the grief that it can cause a family. In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with pastor Eric Schumacher to talk about the pain of miscarriage, how a man can grieve well, and how he can lead his family during this painful time.

On today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, pastor Chris Hilken addresses the questions that many of your children will wrestle with: Do all paths lead to heaven?Questions for your local meet-up:* Do all belief systems lead to Salvation?* How do you respect other belief systems while still holding truth that all religions are not the same?* Do you believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven like he claims in John 14:6?* Is there value in learning the difference between the God of the Bible and the god of other religions? What is the value if any? * What does the reality of God sending Jesus (His only son) to die on the cross as the ONLY way to heaven, really mean about God character?* Is it really a big of a difference/deal that ______(fill in the blank of someone you know or may come into your life) believes that there is more than one way to heaven? Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, Jerrad is joined by his wife Leila to talk about a variety of issues facing most families: being too busy, dealing with grief, starting schooling, making big family decisions, and so much more.Questions for your local meet-up: * What do you need to seek Gods wisdom in with your wife?* What do you need to step into even though it doesn’t seem that it doesn’t seem easy or there is a peace around it?* Do you need to parent with the perspective that you’re time on earth is finite.* Are you unnecessarily busy?* What can you cut out to be more present with your family? Is there any vain work that you are doing just to fill time?* I’m what ways can you invite your kids into that may make things harder for you but in turn will grow your relationship with your children?* Have you let off the gas with your kids? How can you press in with your kids even though they may be in a different stage of life than they used to be or than your other kids?

Following Jesus has never been harder. In a culture that glamorizes sex, chases fame, and shames those who dont fall in line, it takes a rebel to be a Christian.In today's interview, Sean McDowell sits down with host Jerrad Lopes to encourage and inspire a generation of rebels who will dare to stand up to the madness in a just and loving manner.“We have to be living in a way that our kids find compelling” -Sean McDowell* Do you think your kids think “I want what my parents have!”? Why or why not? And what can you do to enhance that further or change in your life to start that?* Are you having Intentional spiritual conversations with your kids? How can you start or what are you doing that is working/not working?* Are you willing to ask your kids the tough questions, and to listen well to what they are thinking?* Do you listen to what your kids are talking about so that you can start conversation with them or do you only wait till they bring things up or talk to them about what you want?* Are you prone to lecture rather than start conversations with your kids? How can you flip this habit to be more intentional about asking your kids questions?* Do your kids know you love them, are on their team and are for them, and working for their good? How do they know? If not, how can you make this a priority for your kid to know this fully?* Are you thinking Christianly or Biblically? Is there is a difference to you? How can you apply this concept in your daily life?Questions from Jerrad & Sean:* What is the most effective way to pass on faith to your kids? (Sean)* How do you start to have tough conversations with your kids? Do you initiate? Do they bring it up to you?(Jerrad)* How do you measure success as a dad? When will you know that you did a good job? Or what are you aiming for? (Jerrad)Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

Dr. Julie Slattery, a clinical psychologist and founder of Authentic Intimacy, discusses the topic of sex and intimacy from a biblical perspective. She explains that healthy sexuality within a marriage is built on four pillars: faithfulness, intimate knowing, sacrificial giving, and passionate celebration. Dr. Slattery emphasizes the importance of understanding the neurochemical differences between men and women and the need for vulnerability and open communication in a marriage. She also addresses the issue of pornography and the importance of seeking help and accountability. Overall, Dr. Slattery encourages couples to embrace God's design for sex and intimacy in order to experience deep connection and fulfillment in their relationships. In this conversation, Juli Slattery and Jerrad Lopes discuss the importance of addressing sexual intimacy in marriage. They cover topics such as the impact of pornography on relationships, the need for vulnerability and support from other men, the importance of sacrificial giving, and the misconception of sex as a need. They also provide practical advice for couples to improve their sexual relationship and emphasize the importance of communication and understanding each other's needs.

Does it make sense for God to say, "Do not be afraid" based on how you're living right now?

If you put the 66 books of the Bible into just one sentence, what would you say the Bible is all about? In today's episode, Chris Hilken talks through some confusion of the Bible and what it means for us as dads who are trying to lead our family well.Podcast Discussion Questions for your Meet Up Group:* Do you see yourself as a theologian? Why or why not? How can you become a better theologian?* What’s the Bible about? If you had just one sentence, what would you say?* Do you see the topics (marriage; parenting; comfort; etc.) of the Bible as part of the grand narrative (which is God redeeming us) of the Bible?* How can you better understand or live out the grand narrative of the Bible?* How right now am I playing a role in Gods redemptive plan to move sinners and enemies to children and heirs in His kingdom?Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

Every marriage will face disaster. Illness or cancer. Job loss or financial burdens. Addiction. Anxiety. Infidelity. Loss of faith. It's not a question of if your marriage will face trials. It's a question of when. Whether you've been married for five years or fifty, your marriage will either become part of the problem or part of the solution, and it's within your power to ensure your marriage is prepared for those seasons, is a place of refuge and safety throughout those seasons, and can recover well after those seasons. In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with best-selling author Gary Thomas (Sacred Marriage) to talk through how to build a marriage that can withstand life's many storms.Podcast Discussion Questions for your Meet Up Group:* Do you look at your marriage as something that draws you closer to God?* What if you looked at and leaned into your marriage as a place where God is challenging you and showing you weaknesses in your character?* Is there some characteristic/attitude that you have in your life outside of the home that you need to check to connect with your family at home.* What are you chasing after to make you happy? Is it the kingdom of God? (Matt. 6:33)* Are you trying to turn your wife into a “love me how I want to be loved machine?” Or do you want to treat your wife like Christ who came not to be served but to serve.* Are you spiritually healthy enough to handle life when the storm hits? Will your marriage be a refuge or part of the problem.* Are you training your brain to escape the pain and pressure in your life today, that may only get worse when the storm comes?Questions from Jerrad and Gary* What is Gods agenda for my marriage? * What if your wife needs joy today in what she is doing? * Do I expect my wife/kids to exist for me? Or am I here to serve them and love them and help them grow?* How can you cherish your wife if you are living in terror of her finding you out? * What does your spiritual life look like outside of you wife? Are you relying on your wife’s relationship with Jesus?Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

On today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with Patrick Morley to talk about the Four Voices playing out in the heads of most men.Questions for your local meet up:* Do you know God loves you because he made you or are you working hard to be acceptable to God? Do you need to accept God‘s grace?* The 4 voices in your head: The world, the flesh, the devil, the Holy Spirit. What voice do you feel like you hear the most? Is there one of those voices that you struggle to hear?* What does the voice of the world normally tell you? What does the Bible say in contrast to that?* What does your Bible reading habit it look like? Are you reading the word everyday?* Are you serving someone else? Do you have any ideas on how/who to serve?* Do you take the Devil seriously? What does it look like to give him the respect he deserves but also treat him like you know God is more powerful?* What are you taking in? What podcast, music, apps, news, social media are you meditating on? Is it beneficial or should it be cut out?* Are you aware of your spiritual strengths and weakness’? Does it shape the decisions you make? If not, how can it?* Are you seeking the God you want, or are you seeking the God who is? What is the difference?Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

On today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes shares what it looks like to teach our children how to remember the faithfulness of God, and why that's so critical to their faith journey.Questions for your local meet up:Do you trust the good reputation of God? How can you impart this on your family and children?Are you good at remembering the Goodness of God?How do you mark specific seasons in your life? If you are not, how would you like to mark specific seasons in your life?What impact does this or would this have on your legacy if you do/did this well?Do you worship God in seasons that God is faithful to you?What distracts you from praising God in moments where He was faithful to you?What are some ways that you can remember Gods faithfulness when you are in a season that isn’t exactly what you hoped?What are some major moments in your life that you can look back on and remember Gods faithfulness?How can we enter seasons good or bad with an attitude that we know how the whole story ends(God making all things new), even if we don’t know how this season ends?How can looking at life in seasons or chapters help us lead our families better?Jerrad’s questions in his podcasts1. As a son of God, what does it look like for you to remember?2. What does it look like for you to teach your kids to stop and remember?3. What season are you in right now? Are you in the middle of something hard? Are you in the middle of a Good season? Are you in the middle of something big? Are you about to start a season? Are you coming out of a season?Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

In today's episode, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with Pastor and Author Winfield Bevins to talk about how liturgy leads to family worship.Questions for your local meet up: * Are you familiar with liturgical practices, or are they fairly new to you?* The liturgical structure of the early church would have been to gather, read the scriptures, eat, and then be sent out. In what ways can you model this structure in your home and with your family? * When thinking about “gathering”, who in your current life could you gather in your home? * How can you structure rhythms within your home where the scripture is read, memorized, and valued?* Does your family practice a regular sabbath? What would it look like for you to value a day of rest as a family?* What would it look like for you to “lean in” more to your local church?* If you think of your home as a “little church” what would you do differently on a given week? * When you think about re-capturing the dinner table, what comes to mind? Are there rules or rhythms that you can set within your family that would allow the dinner table to become a more sacred space? How could you use your dinner table as a way to live on mission in your neighborhood?Table top fire-pit mentioned in the episode: click here. Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

What does spiritual leadership look like practically in real-life? Do you have the right expectations for yourself when it comes to leading your family well? In episode two of the Killing The Myths of Spiritual Leadership Series, we talk about the actions that spiritual leaders take.Questions for your meet-up:* God used Jesus to make peace with the world and show people what the kingdom is like. Now, as Jesus followers, or ‘ambassadors’, we are called to show our family what the kingdom is like. How does this reality change the way you think about parenting? (Minute 9 of the episode)* As an ambassador for Christ and his Kingdom, what are you biggest goals for your children and family? What do you want to be said of them at the end of their life? (Minute 10 of the podcast)* When you think about the verse that says “follow me as I follow Christ” in the context of your parenting and marriage, what thoughts and emotions come to mind? (minute 15)* What are some regular situations in your family life that can turn into Gospel-tunities, if you were more intentional? (minute 17)* When do you find yourself wanting to disengage most as an intentional dad? (Minute 20)* What’s the last thing you had to apologize to your wife or kids for doing? How did it go? Would you consider yourself a good ‘apologizer’? If not, where do you need to grow in that area? (Minute 22)* Are there any areas of your personal life where you feel like you’re modeling discipleship well for your kids? Are there areas you can improve? If so, how do you feel led to grow in terms of modeling discipleship for your family? (minute 27)Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

What does spiritual leadership look like practically in real-life? Do you have the right expectations for yourself when it comes to leading your family well?Questions for your meet-up group:* How would you define “spiritual leadership?” Would you consider yourself a spiritual leader? Why or why not? * Are there certain areas of your life where you’re more prone to “selfish ambition?* Would you say you have a “right view” of yourself? Do you tend to have a puffed up view of yourself, Or do you tend to have more Eeyore syndrome and see yourself too “low” or less-than?* What does 'meekness' or 'power under control' look like as a husband and father?* If you acted like today was your wife's birthday, what would you do differently?* What does it mean to have an attitude like Christ when it comes to you as a father and husband?* How does the character of Jesus change the way you serve your family? Does it change the way you think about equality of fairness within your marriage and home?Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

Jerrad Lopes sits down with former NFL quarterback Jeff Kemp to talk about what real-life Godly friendships look like for the busy dad.Discussion Questions for your meet-up: * In the past, has it been easy or hard for your to find deep and meaningful relationships with Godly men?* How did becoming a dad change your friendships?* What do you think stops men from going beyond surface level conversation?* Are there any guys who really know you at a deep level?* What stops you from being more vulnerable with Godly men?* How would you describe a healthy friendship with another Godly man? Is that something you have? Is that something you're looking for?* Describe the best-case scenario for having deep and meaningful friendships. What does that look like in real life?Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDo you believe in the Dad Tired ministry? Partner with us here: https://www.dadtired.com/give.html

In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with Sathiya Sam to talk through the root problems of porn habits, and how to overcome them.Find a Dad Tired community near you: https://www.dadtired.com/meetup.htmlJoin the online Dad Tired community: https://connect.dadtired.comDiscussion questions for your meet-up:* How were you first exposed to pornography?* What has been the biggest cost porn has had on your life?* When you have engaged in pornography (or other sexual misbehavior), what does it offer you on an emotional level (ie. comfort, escape, connection, acceptance, etc)?* What does "addressing the root issues" mean to you in this context? What might that look like practically?* Who is the most impacted by you getting free of porn?* What else changes in your life when you get completely free?* What is one further step you can take in your recovery today?

In this conversation, Jerrad Lopes and Shane Winnings discuss their experiences with Promise Keepers and their journeys to becoming dads. They also talk about Shane's unexpected transition from law enforcement to becoming the CEO of Promise Keepers. They share their passion for evangelism and the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Shane shares stories of praying for people and witnessing miraculous healings. They encourage listeners to be open to God's leading and to step out in faith to share His love with others. The conversation explores the importance of obedience and discipline in the Christian life. The speakers discuss the biblical principle of being faithful in the little things and how it leads to being entrusted with greater responsibilities. They emphasize the need to obey God even when it's uncomfortable or goes against our fleshly desires. They also highlight the balance between being strong and bold, yet tender and compassionate. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of discipline in shaping behavior and the importance of training ourselves to do things we don't want to do.

In this week's episode of A Parents Guide to Apologetics, pastor Chris Hilken walks us through the argument titled: The Problem with Evil. You can find a list of recommended resources for apologetics at: https://www.dadtired.com/homework.html

In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with author and counselor David Thomas (LMSW) to talk about what it looks like to raise emotionally healthy children.Are you connected with our online community? Head to https://www.dadtired.com/community.html to get connected with like-minded guys near you.

In today's episode of A Parents Guide to Apologetics, Chris Hilken teaches dads how to walk their kids through the "moral" argument.

In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with Dove-Award winning artists Shane & Shane to hear their journey of fatherhood, friendship and music. The two share their own story of God's faithfulness, while encouraging listeners with practical ways to bring scripture into your home through music.

In week three of A Parents Guide to Apologetics, host Chris Hilken walks dads through the Argument of Design.

If you had 40 letters to write to your kids, wife, or loved ones before you died, what would you want to say? Our wife and kids know that we love them, but how often do they hear it? In today's episode, host Jerrad Lopes sits with author John Sowers to talk about what it's so important to say all the unspoken things.

In week two of A Parents Guide to Apologetics host Chris Hilken walks us through one of the most important questions our kids will ever ask: Why is there something instead of nothing? or How did we all get here?

Join host Jerrad Lopes as he sits down with Best-Selling author Hillary Morgan Ferrer (Mama Bear Apologetics) to talk about the subtle lies that creep into our child's theology from both the world and The Church.

In week one of A Parents Guide to Apologetics host Chris Hilken helps dads understand the major worldviews in our culture, and how they impact our children.

What happens when a man decides to lay down his own ways in order to better serve his wife and family? Join host Jerrad Lopes as he hears the story of Ashley & Dino Petrone.

Jeremy Pryor discusses the cultural shift in defining fatherhood and motherhood, and the impact it has on families. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the roles of fathers and mothers and the unique contributions they bring to the family. Pryor also explores the idea of ideals and how they provide something to aim for in family life. He addresses the challenges of individual freedom and the need to balance it with the responsibilities of parenthood. The conversation touches on the pain and trauma that can arise from past experiences and the importance of healing and redefining these roles in a healthy way. The conversation explores the topics of gender roles, fatherhood, and the importance of honoring parents. Jerrad Lopes and Jeremy Pryor discuss their experiences and perspectives on these subjects, highlighting the need for a biblical understanding of fatherhood and the impact of erasing traditional gender roles. They emphasize the importance of fathers in the lives of children and the significance of honoring and caring for parents. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating relationships with parents and in-laws in today's culture. The conversation explores the importance of honoring and caring for aging parents and the need to redefine family beyond the nuclear unit. It emphasizes the value of intergenerational relationships and the privilege of creating a culture that includes and honors parents and in-laws. The discussion also addresses the challenges of setting boundaries and dealing with toxic family dynamics. Practical suggestions are given, such as creating regular family meals and inviting parents into the rhythms of the household. The conversation encourages grace, discernment, and intentional efforts to build healthy relationships with parents and in-laws.

Can the way we see money actually impact the way we lead our family spiritually? Join host Jerrad Lopes as he sits down with financial expert Bob Lotich to talk about money, generosity, and the Kingdom of God.

We all long for homes where we can thrive and flourish. What does it take to have a spiritually vibrant household? Don Everts sits down with host Jerrad Lopes contemplate what the Bible says about households and consider what a new research project has revealed by pulling back the curtains on everyday households of faith.

In today's episode host Jerrad Lopes sits down with author and mother Elrena Evans to talk about the realities of navigating the faith journey as a family with special needs.

In today's episode, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with Chris Hilken as he shares his powerful story of leading his children toward Jesus in the midst of unexpected tragedy.

Your masculine instincts are neither curse nor virtue. They can not be ignored nor indulged. They are the raw material and experiences by which you develop a new and better instinct—an instinct of faith. Sit down with pastor and writer Chase Replogle as he shares the 5 masculine instincts.

Jerrad Lopes sits down with best-selling author Andy Crouch to talk about what it looks like to be dads who create meaningful connections, rebuild abundant communities, and live in a way that engages our full humanity in an age of unprecedented anxiety and loneliness.

Most of us dads under-estimate how much scripture our kids are able to memorize. More importantly, we often under value how vital that practice is for their spiritual journey. Join host Jerrad Lopes as he sits down with Hunter Beless to talk about why it's so important to be a family that takes the word of God seriously, and learn practical tips on how to implement that spiritual practice immediately.

What if our fulfillment wasn't the primary purpose of our work? Join host Jerrad Lopes as he sits down with best-selling author Jordan Raynor to talk about what God had in mind when he created us for work.

In today's episode of the Dad Tired Podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with best-selling authors Melissa and Michael Kruger to discuss practical ways to build healthy prayer routines in your family.

Most men feel like they don't have a good Bible reading routine. On top of that, they often feel like when they do read the scriptures, they aren't always sure how to interpret what they're reading. In today's episode of the Dad Tired podcast, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with professor Randy Richards to hear how many of us are misreading scripture with Western eyes.

In this conversation, Jerrad Lopes and Sam Jolman discuss various topics related to men's emotions, anger, and the use of pornography as a coping mechanism. They explore the importance of self-awareness, curiosity, and finding healthy outlets for stress and emotions. They also highlight the need for men to give themselves space to reflect on their behavior and seek healing with the help of others. Shame registers as trauma and can feel like a threat to the body, leading to fight or flight responses. Men often cope with shame by shutting down, disconnecting, and hiding. Overcoming shame requires vulnerability and community support. In Christian culture, there is often a subtle message that sex is bad before marriage and then becomes awesome but not talked about after marriage. Healthy sexuality as a disciple of Jesus involves appreciating beauty, experiencing awe, and worshiping God. Practical steps for shaping the story of young boys include guarding devices and having ongoing, age-appropriate conversations about sex and relationships. Therapy should lead to repentance and a deeper reliance on Jesus as the healer, rather than becoming self-focused and narcissistic.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:21 The Challenges of Raising Boys

06:48 The Role of Pornography as a Coping Mechanism

13:34 Exploring Deeper Pain Points and Acceptance

27:48 The Power of Confession and Seeking Support

28:30 Understanding the Impact of Shame and Coping Mechanisms

34:56 Navigating Christian Culture's Messages About Sexuality

37:01 Appreciating Beauty, Experiencing Awe, and Worshiping God

44:26 Practical Steps for Shaping a Healthy View of Sexuality in Young Boys

50:06 The Role of Therapy in Repentance and Reliance on Jesus

Key Takeaways:

• Boys and girls have different ways of expressing and dealing with emotions, and it's important for parents to understand and guide them accordingly.

• Many men struggle with anger, especially after getting married and having children. It's important to find healthy outlets for anger and not just bury or suppress it.

• Alcohol and pornography are often used as coping mechanisms to de-stress, but they can have harmful side effects and should not be relied upon for emotional regulation.

• Understanding the deeper reasons behind certain behaviors, such as pornography use, can help in finding lasting healing and freedom.

• Self-awareness and curiosity are key in exploring one's own story and addressing underlying pain or trauma.

• Finding a trusted community or accountability partner can greatly aid in the journey towards healing and overcoming addictive behaviors. Shame can feel like a threat to the body and lead to fight or flight responses.

• Men often cope with shame by shutting down, disconnecting, and hiding.

• Overcoming shame requires vulnerability and community support.

• Healthy sexuality as a disciple of Jesus involves appreciating beauty, experiencing awe, and worshiping God.

• Practical steps for shaping the story of young boys include guarding devices and having ongoing, age-appropriate conversations about sex and relationships.

• Therapy should lead to repentance and a deeper reliance on Jesus as the healer, rather than becoming self-focused and narcissistic.

In possibly the most riveting interview to date, host Jerrad Lopes sits down with former Force Recon Marine to talk about his multiple Afghan deployments, his rise to MMA super stardom, his battle with PTSD and how all of it almost cost him marriage and family.

Jerrad sits down with Skillet lead singer, John Cooper, to talk homeschooling, social media and the rise of relative truth in 2022.

How do you know when to keep being faithful at your current job, and when to start looking for something new. What does the Bible the Bible say about work and vocation? In today's episode, host Jerrad Lopes tackles that question with author and theologian Gordon T. Smith.