148 "Our Divorce Didn't Work Out" with Tray and Melody Lovvorn

In this episode, Jay discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy marriage through a structured tool he developed called the 'Marriage Tune-Up.' He outlines different levels of marriage, from crisis to flourishing, and emphasizes the need for regular maintenance and intentionality in relationships. The conversation highlights biblical principles and practical steps couples can take to improve their marriages and become a blessing to others.

Takeaways

• Marriage requires periodic maintenance just like a vehicle.

• There are different levels of marriage, each with unique characteristics.

• Emergency level indicates a marriage in crisis needing immediate attention.

• Stable but stuck marriages function but lack connection and intimacy.

• Growing marriages are healthy and intentional with regular rhythms of connection.

• Flourishing marriages thrive in unity and shared purpose.

• Catalytic marriages serve as a kingdom force, mentoring others.

• Encouragement is vital for softening hearts in a marriage.

• Forgiveness is essential but does not equal trust or lack of boundaries.

• Regular rhythms of repentance and prayer can lead to a healthier marriage.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Resources mentioned:

Join my Things for Thursday Email List to get a copy of the Marriage Tune-Up tool!

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this conversation, Jay Holland, Ed Uszynski, and Brian Smith discuss the complexities of youth sports culture, emphasizing the need for a shift in perspective among parents and coaches. They explore the concept of the 'youth sports industrial complex,' the impact of parental influence, and the importance of character development in sports. The discussion highlights the detrimental effects of snowplow parenting and the need for intentional discipleship opportunities within the youth sports experience.

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of instilling gratitude and character in youth sports, contrasting the focus on competition and statistics with the value of personal growth and relationships. They emphasize the need for parents to support their children in a balanced way, encouraging them to appreciate the joy of sports while also recognizing the pressures of year-round competition and early specialization. The discussion culminates in a vision for families to engage in sports as a means of discipleship and community building.

Takeaways

• The youth sports industrial complex is a billion-dollar industry.

• Parents need to be the first to be discipled in sports culture.

• Character development in sports is influenced by the adults involved.

• Snowplow parenting inhibits children's ability to think independently.

• Winning is often prioritized over character in youth sports.

• Discipleship opportunities arise from observing sports interactions.

• Parents should teach their kids to notice others in sports.

• The culture of sports can shape our values and beliefs.

• Coaches have a significant impact on children's development.

• We need to reform our thinking about youth sports. Training kids to thank referees and spectators is vital.

• The GOAT debate highlights character over statistics.

• Living with gratitude leads to a more joyful life.

• Pursuing excellence doesn't mean sacrificing compassion.

• Recognizing marginalized teammates fosters inclusivity.

• Year-round competition is not necessary for success.

• Early specialization can be detrimental to athletes.

• Parents should focus on enjoying the game with their kids.

• Remove anxiety from the sports experience for children.

• Sports can be a platform for discipleship and community.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

About Brian Smith 

Brian Smith is the author of several books including his latest Away Game: A Christian Parents Guide to Navigating Youth Sports and The Christian Athlete: Glorifying God in Sports. He has been on staff with Athletes in Action since 2008. A graduate of Wake Forest University, Brian has a masters degree in Theology and Sports Studies through Baylor University. He lives in Lowell, Michigan, with his wife and three kids. 

Social Media: 

Website: www.thechristianathlete.com

Twitter: @BrianSmithAIA

Instagram: @brianlinsey

About Ed Uszynski 

Ed Uszynski is an author, speaker, and sports minister with over three decades experience discipling college and professional athletes. His latest book is Away Game: A Christian Parents Guide to Navigating Youth Sports. Hes written articles, essays, and training manuals at the intersection of faith and sport and is the lead strategist for Content Mercenaries. He has two theological degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a PhD in American Culture Studies from Bowling Green State University. He and his wife Amy have four children and live in Xenia, Ohio.

Social Media: 

Website: www.untanglingcrt.com

Twitter: @uszynski32

Facebook: @ed.uszynski.3

Resources mentioned:

Away Game: A Christian Parents Guide to Navigating Youth Sports: https://amzn.to/43QFoQI

Athletes in Action: https://athletesinaction.org/ 

Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! 

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

This episode serves as a parental companion to Jays Guided By Faith Daily Devotional Podcast series on Living the Mission. In this episode, Jay discusses the importance of living a mission-driven life within the context of family and community. He emphasizes that the Great Commission is not just for missionaries abroad but applies to everyday life. Jay provides practical tips for parents to instill a mission mindset in their families, encouraging them to engage with their neighborhoods, practice hospitality, and serve others. He highlights the long-term impact of these actions and invites listeners to join his series on living the mission.

Takeaways

• The Great Commission applies to our daily lives.

• Living missionally can transform family dynamics.

• Prayer walking helps engage with the community.

• Hospitality is a key aspect of living on mission.

• Serving together as a family fosters unity.

• Sharing faith authentically normalizes conversations about Jesus.

• Being rooted in community strengthens faith.

• Long-term relationships have a greater impact than short-term mission trips.

• Small, faithful steps lead to significant changes over time.

• Engaging with neighbors opens doors for ministry opportunities.

Listen to the episode and let it inspire you to see your summer with fresh eyesready to live on mission as a family!

Resources mentioned:

Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.net

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cLI2d7

Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/4cOVBbK

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcast

Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! 

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

For the first time in the history of the Barna Research, more young women are leaving the faith than young men. Jay Holland and Cicely Corry discuss the work of Barna, focusing on the intersection of church and culture. They explore the methodologies used in their research, the importance of data for parents and leaders, and the concerning trend of young women disengaging from faith. Cicely shares insights into the reasons behind this trend, including social dynamics and perceptions of safety within church communities. The discussion emphasizes the need for churches to create welcoming environments for young women and the role of community in fostering faith. This conversation explores the dynamics of friendships between genders, the importance of intentionality in building relationships, and the empowerment of young women in leadership roles. It discusses the challenges faced by Gen Z in navigating faith and spirituality, emphasizing the need for mentorship and community support. The dialogue highlights the role of parents in fostering curiosity and community among their children to help them thrive in their faith journey.

Takeaways

• Parents can benefit from Barna's insights to raise their children in faith.

• Young women are increasingly identifying as having no faith, a concerning trend.

• Social dynamics and safety perceptions impact young women's engagement with church.

• Community and friendship are vital for youth engagement in church.

• Churches need to create safe spaces for young women.

• Men's friendships often thrive on shared interests. Women tend to have more complex social dynamics in friendships.

• Shared experiences help deepen connections among individuals. 

• Visible female leadership in churches empowers young women.

• Mentorship plays a significant role in young women's development.

• Gen Z shows intrigue in spiritual matters despite declining church affiliation.

• Parents should engage in curious conversations with their children.

• Community involvement is essential for faith retention.

• Encouraging young people to step out of their comfort zones fosters growth.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

Cicely Corry is Editorial Director at Barna Group, where she leads online content strategy to help Christian leaders understand key trends affecting the Church. Previously, she managed social media strategy and content for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and wrote for the Christian Broadcasting Network. Cicely has served in student ministry for over 10 years, and founded Three Minute Study, an online Bible study community helping others understand, enjoy and apply Gods word

She holds a M.A. in journalism from Regent University and a B.A. in print journalism and marketing from Hampton University. Cicely is an Atlanta native now living in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and two sons.

Resources mentioned:

Barna site: https://www.barna.com/  

Gen Z Vol. 3 Study: https://www.barna.com/gen-z-volume-3/ 

Barnas Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/barnagroup/?hl=en  

Barna Access Plus: https://www.barna.com/access/ 

Cicely Corry's Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/cicelycorry/   

Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! 

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this conversation, Jay and Virgil explore the concept of missional households, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning, community, and intentional practices in family life. They discuss how to create a nurturing environment for spiritual growth, the significance of regular rhythms in the household, and adapting to life changes while maintaining a missional mindset. Through personal stories and practical advice, they highlight the transformative power of faith in everyday life.

Takeaways

• There's a difference between knowing about something and truly knowing it.

• Learning requires experience, community, and a compelling story.

• Discipleship is best understood as a relational network rather than individual mentorship.

• Deep learning occurs in community settings, not just through sermons.

• Intentional rhythms in the household can foster spiritual growth.

• Experiential learning can be integrated into family gatherings.

• Simplicity in practices makes them easier to maintain.

• Children learn through repetition and experience in their environment.

• Creating a missional household involves being consistent with values and practices.

• The narrative of a household can guide the family's mission and identity.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

As the Senior Director of OneTree, Virgil is responsible for leading the team to help mission, marketplace, and ministry leaders thrive holistically, do beautifully integrated work, and become everything God dreamed them to be, believing this to be a primary means for stewarding the reviving life of God through His people into the world.

Virgil holds a B.S. in Biology, an M.A. in Religion and Cross Cultural Studies, and an MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction. He is presently working on an EdD in Christian Leadership.

Resources mentioned:

https://www.onetreeministries.org/

Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! 

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/