Family Matters is a podcast dealing with family and marriage issues in a live discussion forum. Robert and Sharon host the series and bring in experienced couples to give valuable insight and tips into different areas of married and family life.
Family Matters is here to encourage God centered marriages and families. To help relationships grow and thrive by:
Providing practical encouragement and help
Support through teaching and experience.
COMING UP Looking forward to 2024. Please pray for the work of Family Matters for the coming year.
*Topics and people are subject to change due to circumstances.
FAMILY MATTERS – THE GIFT OF INTIMACY
We be discussed The Gift of Intimacy in marriage. Intimacy is essential to a happy and fulfilled godly marriage, yet so many couples struggle in this area. In this session we will be talking about the challenges that can derail intimacy in marriage, and factors that can increase the love and joy a couple can experience within the marriage bond.
Depression and Spirituality We spoke to Cathy Strachan about Depression and Spirituality. Cathy has had a wealth of experience in nursing, palliative care and pastoral care, so brings a professional aspect to this topic of depression. As a Bible student, Cathy is also able to help us understand the links between depression and spirituality. In this session she helps us understand how to recognise depression in ourselves or in someone else, how it affects our spiritual lives, and she gives us tools on how to deal with depression and keep our spirituality safe through the dark times.
Modern Challenges Facing Today’s Teens. We talked to Gary Steel about the unique challenges that teenagers today are facing. We are living in a time unlike any other in the history of mankind. Our children and teens are absorbing the worst of it. Gary had an information packed session to help us understand some of those challenges and the impact they can have in the lives of our teens. He encouraged us to open up conversations with our teens and with each other as we navigate these testing years, and the world we live in.
Please be aware that while this session will be recorded, it has not be made publicly available
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Mental Health and Faith in God. Robert and Sharon talked to Will and Rene Patino about the way God has led them through periods of depression and the way it has affected their marriage and their family. Their journey has taken them on a path of prayer and complete trust in God. We talked about their trials and the steps they have taken to trust in God’s leading through them. This is an epic story. Make sure you hear it!
We talked to James and Jeanette Stephenson about Healthy Family Eating. Jeanette is a qualified dietitian, and while James’ qualifications revolve around soil, they have both been involved in the planning and creating of healthy meals for their family. In this session we talk about what makes a healthy meal, what it takes to eat well, preparing food on a budget, portion sizes, fussy eaters, and the spiritual side of family meals. Prepare for mind food in this information packed practical session.
We talk to John Marsich along with David and Jenny Luxmoore about A Matter of the Heart. John and David have both had heart surgeries. With heart disease a major player in our society as a whole, many families suddenly find themselves thrust into chaos when a family member (often a husband or father) is racing to the hospital in an ambulance. And often we never see it coming! id and Jenny are going to share their experiences of what they went through, the symptoms, treatments and post operation procedures. They might even tell us what they wish that had done if they knew then what they know now. As as we discuss the physical heart, we will also come away with a greater appreciation about looking after our spiritual hearts in the sight of God.
We talk to Arthur and Denise Pankhurst about Second Time Marriage. After the tragedies of being widowed by their first spouses, Arthur and Denise have taken the brave step of getting married again to begin a new life together. Their experience of love, loss and grief, combined with starting again as an older couple complete with their own families, has some powerful life lessons for all of us. Join us as we hear their story along with the difficulties, blessings and wisdom that come from their experiences.
We talk to Kim Shead about Singleness. As one of the most eligible bachelors we know, Kim knows what it is to be single – the benefits and the drawbacks. We talk about the positives and negatives of being single, about building relationships, doing the work of God while we wait, and what the rest of us can do to help and support the singles around us. While the topic is singleness, it is beneficial to all of us, married or not.
Heartache and Hope. We talked to Luke and Vickie Smith. Luke and Vickie experienced the heartbreaking loss of one of their children some years ago. Their journey through heartache, but comforted by hope, is inspiring. We learn how to sit alongside those who have experienced such losses, and join them in their tears. Be encouraged by Luke and Vickie’s implicit faith in God’s hand in their lives and how hope in resurrection has been foundational in helping them cope with the pain of loss.
Bible Study with Kids. We talk to the Knox Family, Andrew and Naomi, and their children, Josiah and Juliette about Bible study with kids. We not only heard what the parents had to say, but also we also heard the perspective of their children! Forget the boring and drab, Bible study with your family can be a highlight of your week. If sharing the word of God with your family is something you would like to do better, then listen and be encouraged and inspired to dig into the Bible at a deeper level with your family.
Pornography Update. NOTE: This may not be suitable for pre-teen listeners. Parental discretion is advised. We talk to Gary Steel with some important updates on the topic of Pornography. It’s not something we want to talk about, but because so many people and families are affected by it, it needs to be addressed. This is particularly so considering the promotion of “ethical porn” and the mind blowing numbers of people using pornography. In this session we discuss the Biblical perspective on pornography and Gary will share with us some practical ways to deal with it if we or other family members have fallen into its trap.
We talk to Ben Pitcher about Social Media. Social media has grown up all around us at an incredible speed since it first arrived in 1997. Today it seems there are hundreds of social media platforms all demanding our participation and emojis. The question is, what is actually happening when we use social media? What are its benefits and dangers? And where do our kids stand with it? Ben shares with us some insights about this beast that invaded our lives, what the Bible says about it, and how we as families should react to it.
We talk to Jonathan Bowen about Gaming. Times have moved on since the Space Invaders and Pacman arcade games of the 1980’s. Now, instead of spending all that time in 20 cent games in the local fish and chip shop, it takes place in the privacy of our own personal device whenever and wherever we want. Games in the 2020’s are much more graphic, realistic, violent and addictive. Today’s gaming is not restricted to teenage boys with nothing else to do, instead it affects males and females of all ages. Jonathan shares some gaming statistics with us, as well as some principles to help us and our loved ones get our priorities right.
Resentment. We hear some great examples from their lives and marriage where resentment started to take over, and at the same time, they share with us how they have overcome and how love has been able to shine through the darkness that resentment brings. For some really relatable examples and practical pointers toward overcoming, please watch!
In-laws and out-laws. John and Leslie have been married 55 years and have a wealth of experience in marriage and relationships. Married into families with vastly different world views, they have worked hard to maintain relationships with their extended families while living out their faith in very practical ways. As a marriage celebrant, John, with his wife Leslie, have mentored numerous young people and couples in the areas of marriage and relationships. For a wealth of great advice and experience about getting on with your in-laws and extended family, have a listen!
Mindfulness. We talk to John and Rachel Launchbury about Mindfulness and Meditation. John is the author of Change Us Not God, and Rachel is the editor of the newly established Press On Journal. Both of them are busy and driven people. Meditation and mindfulness have proven to keep them grounded and sane in the busy life they lead. We will talk to them about mindfulness and meditation, about slowing down in a fast paced world and about taking time to be with God. John and Rachel even have some practical exercises to share with us.
We talk to Heather and Paul Bourke about a new novel Heather has written, called Vaughan’s Vision. This is a wake up call to us all to install and grow a vision of God’s kingdom in our minds, to make it personal, and to develop that vision in our children and grandchildren. Paul and Heather also discuss the role of suffering in our journey to the kingdom. Life can sometimes leave us inwardly focused and living for the day, but God designed us for much bigger things. Our discussion about Vaughan’s Vision help reset our priorities and to turn to God with our families.
Loss and Grief. All of us are affected by loss and grief sooner or later. Cathy is a trained spiritual carer who currently works in nursing, specializing in palliative care, and supporting the elderly who live in their own homes. In our discussion this week, we talk about what loss and grief are, what happens when we go through it, how to help and what to say (and what not to do and say) when we someone we know is going through a period of loss or grief in their lives. Cathy’s experience is a valuable resource as we discuss this challenging topic.
Work-Life Balance. Rod, Sarah and their family almost lived separate lives. As a nurse, Rod was always working long hours and often night shift, so the family would find themselves passing in either the early hours of the morning or late in the evening. When one was awake, the others were asleep. Family life and balance in their lives were missing out. When Rod and Sarah realized this, they chose to make a major adjustment in their lives to rectify the work life balance. In doing so, they have put their trust in God and prioritized the important things in their lives, while making major sacrifices in other ways to achieve the balance their family deserves.
Date Nights. Joy filled marriages are more fun, stronger and last longer. Date nights are a great way of growing joy in your marriage. Date nights are a time to pray together, play together, share experiences, try new things, have adventures, laugh, talk and create memories. Robert and Sharon didn’t really date before they were married, but they have certainly made up for it since! We share some ideas to invest into your marriage, to help get you out of the weekly rut of “What do you want to do?” “I don’t know, what do you want to do?”, and find solutions for when you can’t find baby sitters. Date nights and weekends away are a must for every married couple.
Love Languages. Are you, your spouse or your children running on an empty love tank? Where does the in love feeling go after marriage? How can you you keep love alive in your relationships? Understanding love languages is so important in building relationships, whether with a spouse, our children or even in our relationships with people outside our family. Hearing and speaking the love language of another person can make a world of difference to both them and to us. It can make the difference between a relationship prospering or falling apart. Make sure the people you care for thrive in your love. Be refreshed, reminded and motivated to practice showing love to those we love.
The Dynamics of Communication. We talk to Gary Steel in a conversation that explores the dynamics that go on in communication. Gary gives us some of the keys to unlocking effective communication in our relationships. From his years of experience working with people and teaching communication at all levels, Gary has some really practical insights that will help us both hear and be heard. We hear stories of how people have put the ideas he shares into practice, and have changed lives. In a marriage, between parents and children, work colleagues, or brothers and sisters, communication is key and so often misunderstood.
Making Lemonade From Lemons. When God called Jeremiah, he said, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1 v 5). Art was born into a family of unbelievers, but like Jeremiah, God had a plan for Art’s life. We talk to Art about the way God has worked in his life through some good circumstances and a lot of painful ones, to bring him to the place where he is now. We see how God was with Art every step of the way from childhood, through his youth, how he has coped with a debilitating hip issue and a heart attack, to where he is now, coordinating a worldwide video ministry.
We talk to David about Forgiveness. David is the author of the Book, The Wonder of Forgiveness, but more importantly, he knows what forgiveness means in a personal and practical way through encounters with abuse and the more ordinary daily struggle with sin. Some of the questions we discuss are: How can we forgive when we have been so hurt or abused? Is it okay to keep having to forgive? What about when someone keeps pressing our buttons all day every day? How does forgiveness affect our relationship with God? David also shares with us the joy and healing of forgiving and being forgiven.
Ageing Parents. We talk to Kim Shead about his experiences in caring for his elderly parents. Over the last 10 years or so, Kim has been a chief caregiver for his parents as age and dementia began to take its toll on them. Kim shares the journey he and his parents have been on, how he coped with the frustration and commitment, and what it took to continue to grow his relationship with his parents over this time. Kim’s story is an encouraging one for all of us who might be facing the effects and changes that age might have on our loved ones.
Grandparents are so important in the lives of their grandchildren. Ross and Wendy speak to us with encouragement for grandparents in their roles as supporters for their children, and show grandparenting to be a solid and inspirational influence in the lives of their grandchildren whether living close by or far away. Ross and Wendy also encourage us – even if we do not have any grandchildren of our own – to become surrogate grandparents to others who are missing out.
Fostering. Paul and Judith have three young children of their own. As well as bringing up their own children, they have chosen to be a blessing to many more babies and young people that have come through their home as foster children. Paul and Judith share how they got involved with fostering other children. We talk about the trials and blessings that have come from their fostering experiences, and discuss what any of us can do to share or support the call to foster care. With such a desperate need for foster parents in our society at the moment, we hope their experience inspires others.
Fatherhood. Darryn and Josie are the parents of three young children and they are going to share their journey in parenthood, particularly in the way Darryn has grown into his role of fathering. He will be sharing with us how he has discovered God’s design for a Father’s role in the family. Becoming a father is easy. Being a father is a much harder and life changing task. Prepare to be inspired to fulfill your God given role as a parent, and especially as a father, of the children God has given you.
Simpatico in Marriage. We talk about John Billeo’s book, Bible Guidelines for a Happy Marriage. John and Mary share their experiences about marriage, what makes their marriage happy and how to grow together as one.
The Process of Parenting and Discipleship. Tonight we will be discussing The Process of Parenting with Ben Pitcher and his adult children Sebastian and Zoe. Parenting is probably one of the most challenging assignments any couple has ever been given. All of us struggle. We face the dilemmas between discipline and grace, how to deal with kids at various ages, and how to keep up with change. Ben, Sebastian and Zoe are going to help us walk through that together.
Mission Work with a Family. We talk to Rob and Rachelle Oosthuizen about doing missionary work as a family. Rob and Rachelle have spent years doing mission work in Sri Lanka, Cambodia and other places along with their family. One of their children was born while living in Sri Lanka. They are going to share their experiences and advice about doing mission work with a family. Now that the COVID-19 vaccines are becoming available and borders are beginning to open up, people are beginning to think about traveling again. Maybe now is the time to start planning your mission trip.
A Praying Family. We talk to Nathan and Susanna about developing a family culture of prayer. Often a prayer routine between a couple or a family can become quite monotonous or even non existent. Nathan and Susanna are going to share with us some of the things that have helped them and their growing family build a dynamic relationship with God through prayer and stay connected in a spiritual way. Have you ever wondered how to teach your children to pray? What would you do if you were challenged to spend an hour in prayer? How can you make family devotional time something that all the family can benefit from? And will prayer actually make a difference?
We talk to Geoff Richards about Addiction. Geoff is a Physician who specializes in substance abuse and addiction. He will speak to us from a biblical and professional perspective about what addiction is and some of the steps we can take to help prevent and overcome any addictions – especially to nicotine, alcohol or other drugs. He will give us tips on how we can support any of our loved ones who are struggling with these addictions. Even if it is not you that is directly affected, you probably know someone that is.
We talk to Andrew and Naomi about Home Schooling. Home Schooling has become quite popular over the last few years, particularly as parents observe the moral decline and political agendas in our public schools. Andrew and Naomi are going to share with us some of the reasons to home school, how they go about it, what home schooling can look like in a day, a week or a year, budgeting, family dynamics, social aspects and much more. If you have ever wondered whether home schooling is the thing for your family, or if you already home school and want to hear another perspective, then have a watch!
We talk to Mark and Paula Buckler about the Marriage Course. They have run numerous marriage courses for both married couples and couples planning to get married. It used to be that the course would be run in a hall or home, but lockdowns have changed all that and the more recent courses they have run have been on line. We are going to hear how they got introduced to the marriage course, what is in it and how we can all benefit from it.
58 Years and Counting. We talk to Anthony and Pat Oosthuizen about the hand of God at work in their marriage. The romantic story of how they met, trials and adventures of their 58 years together, and celebrations of God’s goodness. This is a fantastic start to the Family Matters year.
Thriving with Kids in the Holidays. We talk to parents of younger children, Brendon and Jess Mudge, and parents of teens, Josh and Anna Tunnell about making the most of the holiday season with your family. “Are we there yet?” “Muuum, He’s looking at me!” How do you stay sane with your kids in the car on a long trip? How do you keep kids entertained without an addiction to i-pads? From the long car rides, to enjoying Bible Schools, and family games, you will hear it all this week. So let’s prepare to grow closer and stronger as a family this holiday season.
Gender and Marriage. Mark talks to us about gender differences and marriage. This is something that nearly all of us struggle with in today’s culture. Mark leads us in discovering God’s plan for the battle of the sexes through the Bible, and shows us how that plan is consistent from Genesis to Revelation. Whether married or not, the topic of gender in the Bible is important for all of us to understand. Mark is married to Anita, and they have 3 children whose ages range between 10 and 18. He is the author of For Better, For Worse and the workbook that goes with it. He is also a regular contributor to the Christadelphian Magazine, writing and speaking frequently about relationship issues.
The Porn Subject. We talk to Gary Steel on the subject of Pornography. Pornography is easier to find than ever before. One third to one half of men are or have been affected by it, and so are a growing proportion of women – and those statistics even apply to believers. Pornography is one of the best kept secrets in many lives, but is the silent destroyer of relationships – marriages, families, communities and especially God. It leaves it’s victims addicted, empty, and burdened with guilt. Gary is going to share with us how to overcome the temptation of pornography, and how our thinking can lead us into and out of temptation. Note: This session may not be so suitable for children.
Story Time. It is so important to read to our children from a very young age – but what books do we read? Public libraries have a seemingly unlimited selection of books, challenging us to make a wise selection. Tobi and Mishael have sifted through thousands of children’s books and will share their thoughts, not only on what makes a good book as far as the words and pictures are concerned, but what makes a Good Book when it comes to bringing up a godly family. Parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles, and especially the children you love, will all benefit from Story Time.
Guard Your Heart. Many of us will relate to Geoff’s personal story as he shares how his heart, mind, and even his caring personality were led astray by enjoying too much watching of streamed spy thrillers and crime mysteries. He ended up realizing just how destructive it can be spiritually to be overexposed to the worst in human nature. Streaming movies, gaming and even other more harmful things online can cause families to grow apart and also cause people to drift away from God. And it is so subtle – even when we are not watching anything “bad.”
Burnout. Always busy, Robert suffered a burnout six years ago. It brought on Chronic Fatigue and caused big changes in their lives. Robert and Sharon are going to share their story of burnout so far and what has helped them to cope with its challenges. If you or someone in your family is living a busy life, wondering where the next break will come from, or how to get of the treadmill, make sure you take time to watch! This weeks episode was hosted by Darryn and Josie.
Technology and Internet Safety. Part 2. We talk to Glen about the dangers of technology and how to fight back. Glen works with software development so not only knows and uses technology, but he is also very aware of the dangers it poses. In Part 2, we will be discussing some really practical ways of keeping ourselves and our families safe. This is a really important discussion. It could be life changing.
Technology and Internet Safety. Part 1. We talk to Glen about the dangers of technology and how to fight back. Glen works with software development so not only knows and uses technology, but he is also very aware of the dangers it poses. In our discussion, Glen talks about the danger technology poses to our relationships both with God and with each other.
The Bitter and the Sweet – Trusting God through Miscarriage. This week we are talking to Nathan and Susanna Lewis about their experiences through multiple pregnancies and miscarriage. Miscarriage affects more families than we realize, and all too often those going through it feel like they need to hold it all together or suffer and grieve alone, not being able to share the pain with anyone – not even a spouse. Nathan and Susanna’s inspiring story will help us to understand and support each other, to bridge the intense feelings of separation, to accept God’s work in our lives, to grieve, to rebuild, and to trust in God.
Struggles and Victories from Suffering. Part 2. 13 years ago the Anderson family’s life was turned upside down when Grant, on his way home to Detroit from a young people’s Bible camp in Canada, had a horrific accident that left him with traumatic brain injuries and multiple injuries to his body. The medical professionals didn’t believe he would live. Today we are going to hear about the Struggles and Victories of Suffering that Grant and his family have been through in the past thirteen years. We will hear how their music, faith, prayers and determination to make the most of every moment has led them on a journey of healing and amazing growth.
Technology and Internet Safety. Part 1. 13 years ago the Anderson family’s life was turned upside down when Grant, on his way home to Detroit from a young people’s Bible camp in Canada, had a horrific accident that left him with traumatic brain injuries and multiple injuries to his body. The medical professionals didn’t believe he would live. Today we are going to hear about the Struggles and Victories of Suffering that Grant and his family have been through in the past thirteen years. We will hear how their music, faith, prayers and determination to make the most of every moment has led them on a journey of healing and amazing growth.
Youth Edition. So this week we will be shining the spotlight on youth. We are going to find out from what it is that helps set young people on the right path to find God and how to stay faithful in the days of your youth. We have three expert youths with us from various backgrounds and various parts of the country
Twisting the Cube, Changing the Paradigm. Ron and Catherine have been through the stress and pain of a business demise and have experience God working in their lives through it. Talking about their experience in keeping your faith when everything seems to go wrong. Sometimes we need a new paradigm in life and God will use all sorts of circumstances to achieve it. Ron and Catherine will share the trials and triumphs of God shifting the paradigm for them.
What to Do When You Really Mess Up. We were thinking that we would like to explore a topic based around the role of repentance, confession, apology and forgiveness – as it relates to marriage relationships and family life. Perhaps we could call it “What do you do when you really mess up!”
Good Foundations for the Early Years of Marriage. Ben and Ally discuss the early years of marriage, dating, engagement and boundaries before marriage. They have great insight and practical wisdom.
Depression. Part 2. Dan suffered from severe depression for well over eight years, so he and Gina have first hand experience of the tough times that come with a mental illness. Over the next two weeks Dan and Gina will share their story, along with some really practical pointers to help us cope with depression in either ourselves or in someone we love.
Depression. Part 1. Dan suffered from severe depression for well over eight years, so he and Gina have first hand experience of the tough times that come with a mental illness. Over the next two weeks Dan and Gina will share their story, along with some really practical pointers to help us cope with depression in either ourselves or in someone we love.
Finances and Debt. Matthew and Lydia Nutter. Matthew and Lydia have been running Kiwidebt, personal debt solutions since 2008, so they have a wealth of experience to offer in this regard. With the recent downturn of the economy worldwide, and the potential loss of income, investment or employment that has come from the Covid-19 crisis, this is something that affects us all – if not us personally, then certainly people we know and love. Matt and Lydia have great advice from many years of professional experience helping people through trying economic times.
Mark and Ruth Morgan talk about Making the Bible Come Alive for families. So often we can struggle through Bible reading with our family, not knowing what to say or how to make it interesting. Mark and Ruth have developed ways of walking and talking with kids to make the Bible real, interesting and living. Mark is a great storyteller and the author of at least nine books and multitudes of short stories. Mark and Ruth have 8 children with ages ranging from 34 to 17. They have taken their family into far places preaching the gospel often under testing circumstances.
Aggression in Children. Part 2. Andrew and Naomi talk about aggression in children, how to recognize it and what to do about it. In this session they describe the Alpha parent and child and how to build attachment in your children.
Aggression in Children Part 1. Andrew and Naomi talk about aggression in children. We learn what an aggressive child looks like and what causes them to be aggressive. They also discussed getting off the aggression highway and some very practical ways of making the whole family feel included.
Dealing with Teenagers. Alvin and Cyndy have six children, some of whom are still in their teenage years. They are also a popular boarding house for teens. Alvin and Cyndy give some great advice about teens, boundaries and faith.
Money and Budgeting. Robert and Sharron discuss budgeting, financial hardship, trusting in God, and lots of tips for having good financial and relationship sustainability.
ThinkyThings 