HomeMatters: Recent Episodes
Eric & Gena Boggs
Do you never have an issue with loving your family? Do you never run out of patience with your family? Do your family members ever frustrate you, aggravate you, disappoint you, or challenge you? More than likely, if you’re honest, the answer to all of these questions would be, YES! As hard as we try and as much as we do care and love, we fall short sometimes! We don’t have the capacity to love through every season, circumstance, and issue. That is why we are so totally dependent on God! He pours His love out in our hearts (Romans 5:5) and that is ENOUGH! Tune in and be encouraged to know that your relationship with God will always affect your family relationships! He’s enough to help you love like He loves—-even when people are difficult!
Don’t skip this episode! The whole world is talking about sex—--maybe you don’t hear the word used, but movies, TV shows, advertisements, music—-sex is wrapped up in it all. If you are not talking about it, you are behind. And, be sure to know, someone is influencing your kids thoughts, ideas, and understanding of sex. So, we must make sure we are influencing and saying what needs to be said about the whole topic. Join Eric and Gena in this honest, yet respectful conversation on sex and the need to lead your kids in the Biblical view of what God created and said was “good”!
Have you lowered your expectations just because life has happened? It is easy to get in the habit of expecting more of what we’ve been getting. However, we must not give up on what we’ve believed would happen, or what we’ve thought would happen in our lives. As God’s children, He has made so much available to us and no matter what we have gone through or what we are going through now, He is still all about seeing His plan through for you and your family! You must never stop expecting….a lot!
Today’s episode is intended and believed to bring encouragement! Don’t miss this one! If you don’t think you need it today, there will be a day when you do need it! We all get there some time. We all need someone to remind us that life consists of seasons; some enjoyable and some not-so-much. Whether it is your family life, your kids, your spouse, your finances, or whatever else…..the intent in this podcast is to inspire, to push, to give you confidence to know that God is not done yet! There are brighter days ahead and you are making a difference right now! God has not deserted you and He has not given up on His plan for you and your family!
Most of us know that our company, friends, and associates matter and that they impact our lives. But, we don’t always grasp the vastness of the influence we are receiving from those with which we surround ourselves. It’s important to find people who make decisions we respect, who are grounded in Jesus, and who are intentional. Listen in as Eric and Gena examine the impact of the company we keep—on us as individuals, on our kids, and on our family.
Since its conception, the HomeMatters ministry has been based on this psalm that we find in God’s Word. It’s always important to revisit God’s Word, promise, and instruction in this passage. The Boggs have held tightly to this passage in leading this ministry, in teaching at marriage conferences and events, and in leading conferences on parenting. The word here never gets old and it always brings direction and a path to follow when leading a home and family!
The responsibility of raising children is heavy—-if we take it seriously. The Bible is clear, stating that children are a blessing. It’s also clear that the “blessing” requires our attention, affection, direction, diligence in disciplining, and so much more! The shaping and molding of children is no small task, but neither is it one that we’re left to do alone! Join in this discussion with Eric and Gena about the Bible’s direction in all of this!
Family life can be difficult, just in the day to day. But, we must not forget that we are waging war! We are in a fight—for family, for kids, for relationships, and for so much more! The enemy does not want you to be successful in family life. Unfortunately, we often fall prey to the enemy’s tactics of busyness, exhaustion, and sometimes apathy. When found in these places, we are often overtaken and ineffective in the things God has purposed and planned for us. Join in today and Eric and Gena talk about practical ways you can stay on guard, and moving forward in the war against your family and household.
Are you teachable? Are you willing to lead and teach others who may be younger or less experienced than you? This podcast episode takes from Titus, chapter 2. There we see the examples of Christian manhood and womanhood described. The Bible teaches both the younger and older men and women to find a place where they can be used to lead and teach others—--and a place to receive instruction as well. The roles we find ourselves in within a household are not easy or simple. But, God gives us instruction in His Word and in other people that can help us grow and mature into productive men and women of God. Our job—-stop, listen, and be willing to grow—and then to share what you’ve received!
What does the language of intimacy look like? What does it sound like, and why is it even important? We know that marriage creates a place for intimacy, but the Bible teaches sensual and even erotic communication as a part of the marriage relationship. The conversations we witness in scripture are both mutual and intentional. They are invitational and without hesitancy—-open and honest, revealing desires and feelings. Join Eric and Gena today in this conversation about the importance of the intimate language shared by a husband and wife.
As we arrive at the summer months, traditionally “vacation” time—--don’t miss an opportunity to spend focused time with your family in an out-of-the-routine way and setting. You need this! And, your family does as well! You need a break. They need a break. And, lasting memories are necessary as made in times where all the distractions of everyday life are taken away. Listen in as the Boggs talk about the value of time away as a family! And, after you listen—-Take A Vacation!
What a blessing! What an opportunity we are given in parenting! Psalm 127: 3 says children are a reward! But—do we as parents ever idolize our children? Do we put them in a place God never intended them to be in our lives? This may seem like a hard conversation today, but one that is necessary in making sure we correctly lead and position our children as God intended—-realizing they are ultimately His!
What takes up most of your time in family life? What are the priorities and the main focus items that take most of your money? There’s so much required of us oftentimes in relation to both time and money, and it’s easy for these things to push aside the priorities that God and His Word prescribe for our life. Join in this episode as Eric and Gena talk about the things that we must not compromise on; the things that we must strive for in life….”more than anything”!
For many, the two words of this episode's title just don’t go together. However, the Bible teaches differently from what many have accepted. Sex is absolutely something that God and the Bible hold as a sacred act. It’s to be treated as holy and honorable (Hebrews 13:4). There is a great premium that God places on the sexual relationship between a husband and a wife. In fact, God says that is the only place that this act should be experienced. Listen in as the Boggs discuss the sacredness of sex and the investment that a married couple should be making in this important, intimate part of their marriage.
Money is constantly moving through your home! Some people have more money moving than others, but nonetheless, money is a resource we all have to steward and navigate. The amount of money that you do or do not have does not change the need to navigate this resource. The Bible says so much about money, and money has been proven to be a source of much tension in homes. Therefore, knowing how to steward and to handle this resource is essential! We have a responsibility to teach, lead, and model as well as we do to live a disciplined life that makes the most of what we have been given. Join Eric and Gena today as they share some tips on making the most of what you do have and in managing your “moving money”!
The Boggs love sports! They have always been a part of their family's life! It’s great for kids to be involved in sports and with a team. Sports build discipline and character. Being a part of a team is also a great place to learn life lessons and work ethic. The benefits list could go on and on. So, what is the problem? There’s often a problem with knowing how to balance all the practices, games, matches, etc. etc. with the rest of life, with involvement in a local church, and with schedules of other family members. Join the conversation today as the Boggs share their thoughts and experiences on parenting kids through sports.
So, you’re probably wondering what the Big MO is! It is……..MOMENTUM! So, what does that have to do with home, family, kids, and marriage? Simply—everything! Life brings trials, hardships, disappointments, let-downs…..so on and so on. As a result, we’re often tripped up; discouraged and set off course for days, weeks, and even years. Positive momentum in your life, relationships, and family can keep you moving in the right direction! Instead of having setbacks and being thrown off course, you will see yourself crushing right through things that normally would have stalled you out. Get momentum working for you in your house! Join Eric and Gena today as they help us identify what momentum looks like and how to maintain momentum in our day to day lives.
This podcast drops on April Fools Day, so we thought it only appropriate to talk about wisdom! In building anything, it matters what tools and materials you use. In building a productive, successful home, the Bible is clear that wisdom is an essential tool. It’s important where we seek wisdom, and from whom we accept it. As Christians, we turn to God’s Word for our instruction and there, we find all we need to build a home! In fact, if you want to build a home that will stand the test of time and that will be effective in this world, you must follow God’s prescribed way; build on His foundation; and lean on the wisdom that comes from Him alone! Wisdom isn’t hard to find. Tune in today and learn where wisdom comes from and how to apply it in your home!
These letters spell out a line in a great little rhyme that you may be familiar with from your childhood! The rhyme goes on to say, “...first comes love, then comes marriage. Here comes (someone) with a baby carriage”! Does anyone remember!? It may be a cute little rhyme, but kissing is actually biblical! Yes–we said it! Kissing, according to the Bible, is a passionate, physical expression of love between lovers. Now, it can be less passionate, and used as a greeting in some cultures. But, it is also a very intimate exchange in a marriage; and it should be happening on the regular! Be challenged as you listen to this HomeMatters episode—-to liven up your kissing, to revive the kiss, and to experience the power of this expression of love in your marriage!
Aren’t we all guilty of thinking life, marriage, and family will be easier than it really is? Our “drive-through” culture has taught us to expect things quickly, without undo stress, and to be just as we like it! But, life just isn’t that way! Deep down, we understand that there will be challenges. However, it’s easy to think that we may be able to get away with less effort than is actually required in building a home and good relationships. Tune in to this episode! You will be encouraged as you listen! The challenges, the sacrifices made, and even the disappointments are worth our efforts! We have all the help we need in Jesus!
Don’t disregard this episode of HomeMatters just because you aren’t a grandparent! This one is for all of us! To all those out there that are grandparents, you’ll be encouraged to know that your influence and experience is much needed in the lives of your kids and grandchildren (regardless of your temptation to feel ill-equipped or irrelevant)!. And, if you are still in the role of parenting, you’ll be encouraged to see the value of and the need to add godly grandparents in the mix of your family life! God is a generational God and He values all generations; and He teaches us to honor and learn from those who are a little further along than we are. Join the Boggs as they talk about the need and wealth found in godly grandparents!
There is a leader in every home. Is that your calling and job? Have you taken the responsibility necessary to lead well? Are you a leader worth following; steadfast, not wishy-washy? Do you have strong convictions and do you stick to them? Being the leader calls for living a life of example—an example of love, forgiveness, and patience. If it’s your role to lead, step into that and be the true “leader of the pack” at your house. Listen in to be encouraged in this leadership role that God has called you to!
Parents, welcome to the most exhausting, rewarding, often confusing, many times frustrating, but often fun job you will ever have! Parenting isn’t for cowards (as James Dobson said decades ago). It is absolutely overwhelming on many days, but you must know that you are not alone! God gives instruction and encouragement in His word. If you are a parent, a grandparent, or if you just deal with children—this podcast episode is for you! You’ll be encouraged as you listen to know that in the midst of all the overwhelming things you face, you can find the strength and help you need in Christ!
Is sex in marriage really that important? Should we even discuss it or talk about it in the church? Sex is God’s idea and creation; not that of our culture or of humanity. Sex is God-ordained and part of His plan—for procreation, but also intended for intimacy and enjoyment between a husband and wife. The Bible has a lot to say about sex, so yes—-it is important! Additionally, our culture has a lot to say about it so why are we afraid to speak of it in church? Join this hot topic, in this episode, as Eric and Gena answer…. “Is sex important?”
If we are talking about the feeling and emotion of love, it does have something to do with marriage and family. However, the action and essence of all that love is, has way more to do with our intimate relationships than the feeling of love! Emotions and feelings are ever changing, but true love weathers the emotions and continues to act out of love whether the feeling is present or not. Join Eric and Gena in this episode as they discuss the God kind of love that takes home life to another level!
Have you developed a hardened heart towards your spouse, your children, or anyone in your life? There are true signs and there are godly answers about how we can have our hardened hearts softened towards God and towards others. Don’t live in the danger of a hardened heart! Be willing to confront it and willing to start the journey back to tenderness—first with God and then with others. God will help you and He can replace the heart you have now with a heart that is pliable, forgiving, kind, and full of mercy. Give God a chance!
Shame will cause you to hide. It will paralyze you. It will keep you from living your life with purpose and will hold you back from all the amazing things that God has planned for you! Shame isolates and convinces you that you are the only one in your situation. Eric and Gena challenge us all in this episode to seek the help needed—-in every area of life; whether it’s in marriage, parenting, or just navigating the challenges of home and family life. Be intentional about seeking help when you know it’s needed!
True intimacy will always cost. There’s the cost of selflessness, of time, of vulnerability. There’s the cost that can come financially and emotionally. Most of us crave true intimacy, and at certain times in our life, we are more than willing to pay the costs to experience and enjoy intimacy. This episode will challenge you. If you once paid the price of intimacy, what happened? If you’re married, it’s time to evaluate and start putting in the work once again!
Does the phrase “expect a fight” excite you or make you want to hide? People respond differently to a fight. The fact, however, is that all of us are in a fight; and it IS a fight of our life! The devil has targeted every home, every marriage, and every family. We must expect a fight. And, we must be ready and equipped to handle it. Tune in to this edition as Eric and Gena talk about the fight we can expect and what we can do to win the battle every day!
In this new year, are there changes you’ve needed to make at home? Should you have already done some things differently—-maybe last year—-to move your relationship along, to do better in your parenting role, or to mature in your spiritual life? Whether it’s your marriage, your parenting, your individual self—-just start somewhere. Today. THIS year! Don’t put off today what needs to be done. Take a step, now, towards building the life God intended you to have all along!
Christmas comes so very quickly! The hustle and bustle of all the things going on this time of year can usher Christmas right past us. Eric and Gena challenge all of us to pause; to be intentional about directing our focus towards the manger and the birth of the Christ child. We cannot lose sight of the reason for our Christmas celebration! As families, we must stop. We must visit the manger. We must be intentional about our celebrations and about the story of Christmas!
Christmas brings the greatest love story ever! Jesus, born in a manger—what a story! Christmas is the beginning of His journey to Calvary and in His “love gift” of providing salvation for all of us! In this episode, Eric and Gena examine the great love story of Joseph and Mary, the parents of Jesus. What did their relationship look like? What was their life like as Jesus’ parents? They had a great love story—full of faith, intimacy, and deep love!
What do you think needs to happen for you? What are you waiting on? We seek out so many avenues that supposedly lead us to happiness, thinking that “happy” is what we’re after. We believe the lie that situations, things, and the “perfect” life would make us happy. What we really need is to find Jesus—and a place of contentment in the life He has given us. This isn't to say that we settle or just accept whatever we’re given, but we need to find the purposes of God being fulfilled in our lives. With that, true contentment—an overwhelming happiness” may be closer than you think.
Thanksgiving is upon us! This is the official kick-off to the holiday season! With this season, many experience fun and excitement, but many deal with stress, anxiety, worry, and even depression. This episode keys in on Philippians 4:4-8 and pushes you to choose joy! Do not let the craziness of the season still the joy that is supposed to accompany the season! This is a Thanksgiving edition that will prepare you for what is ahead!
Parenting can be such an overwhelming responsibility, and any given day you can feel like a failure. It’s easy in our culture to question your parenting—am I doing enough; what about discipline; how can I protect my children; how can I afford my children? In addition to all the questions, we often feel out of touch with younger generations. We don’t understand what they deal with daily and we don’t even understand their language! Is that you? Do you ever wonder what in the world your kids are saying, thinking, or doing? Because of all of these things, we can parent from a fearful, overwhelmed place rather than the powerful place God has called us to. Tune in as Eric and Gena encourage you to parent fearlessly!
As Christians, living a spirit-led life at home is something that can be mistakenly assumed. Too often, we think that the things we do, or the religious acts we carry out make us “spirit-led”. In contrast, the Bible says that life in the Spirit is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Actions and conduct are important, but are you experiencing “rightness”, peace, and joy in your home? If not, maybe we need to reevaluate how well we are doing at letting God lead us daily in our home life. Listen in today and be encouraged and challenged as well. A Spirit-led home IS attainable, and profitable, and possible at your house!
No one enters marriage with the hopes of “just surviving”! We all enter that relationship with big hopes, lots of dreams, and never expecting to fall out of love or arrive at the “merely existing” place. This podcast will challenge and encourage you at the same time. Eric and Gena want you to know—survival mode is not what God intended for you! God desires that all of your life flourish; that you live with passion; and that you live with significance and purpose on the daily. This episode will inspire you to make decisions today and to create habits today that will lead you to a more successful life and a mode of living that you dreamed of, but that has eluded you to this point. You are not meant for survival mode only!
This is a PG topic today, but not one that the Bible doesn’t speak to. Scripture leads us in healthy sexuality, and it outlines the boundaries of the sexual relationship. God created us as sexual beings, and it’s important to know what He says about sex and that we align our lives to all that He says. In this episode, Eric and Gena share God’s directives, His desire for the sexual relationship in marriage, and the fact that what God has created in our sexuality is good! Marriage flourishes when sex and intimacy are good. Don’t miss this conversation! God probably has more for you than you’ve realized!
The Bible has so much to say about how we use our words! It also tells us that we will give an account of all the words we use, and how we use them. Home is a place where we can sometimes be careless with our words, and we may not understand the power of our encouraging words or of our negative language. Words have a huge impact on our home and family. Tune in to this episode and be challenged in making sure you speak wisely, with compassion, and always to bring encouragement.
The passage in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 offers 4 principles that we can’t afford to ignore. What is offered there works in any relationship, and is most often applied to friendships. However, in this episode, Eric and Gena apply it to the marriage relationship. If couples will adopt these 4 principles, and live them out daily in their home and marriage, they’ll make an instant difference! In this episode, you’ll be encouraged to attend to “the other”----to make a difference in “the others’” life, and to serve as Christ has so perfectly exemplified. With a heart dedicated to these principles, any of us will find our relationships enhanced!
In this “part 2” episode, Eric and Gena continue to dive into biblical wisdom for those seasons of life that leave us confused and second guessing where to turn and what to do. They continue in sharing 6 steps to finding clarity and answers in the situations that leave us lost and wondering what our next steps should be. God’s Word and our relationship with Him will lead in every situation we face, but it is our responsibility to seek Him and to take the appropriate steps and precautions that are necessary to rise above that which faces us. Tune in for Godly wisdom and answers that will work and over and over again!
In marriage and family life, we all undoubtedly arrive upon situations and circumstances that stump us, that confuse us, that leave us without answers for the things we are facing. Our first step in finding the answers we need is always in knowing where to turn for those answers we seek. The advice we accept and the voices we entertain will be key to survival! Join this first part of this 2-part episode as the Boggs discuss tried and true wisdom for the times that we just do not know what to do.
Every marriage, no matter how strong today, is susceptible to the ebb and flow of life that sometimes leads us away from intimacy. We must be aware and focused on recognizing when these “intimacy killers” are taking over. Eric and Gena share 6 things in this episode that can move in on us, oftentimes as we are going along life—maybe doing many things right; but easily overcome, and being drawn away from our spouse even when we are unaware. Identify and be ready for the “romance and intimacy killers” before they show up so you can stand against them and keep the romance hot!
It is important as parents that we understand the reward and blessing our children are to us. But, it is equally important that our children understand what a blessing they are to us and to the world they live in right now. Tune in to this episode as The Boggs encourage us and give scriptural basis for leading our children to see and understand not only the blessing they are, but the future God has for them; the destiny He has purposed for them; and the unavoidable challenges and temptations that may come along with all of this!
Have you ever wondered about God’s real purpose for sex in marriage? Is it more than a way to continue to populate the world? If you’ve ever listened to a HomeMatters podcast before, you can probably know what Eric and Gena would say. But, don’t miss this conversation about sex and how it brings oneness and intimacy into a marriage! Sex is a God-given gift. Listen and learn to appreciate the gift of sex in your marriage!
Your marriage relationship should never cease to grow in intimacy, passion, and desire. Your interest in learning more about one another should be forever on the increase. God will continue to increase your capacities for all of these if you’ll give Him room! Tune in to this episode to hear how your capacity for all of these can be restored and increased throughout your lifetime together as a couple.
We don’t think that it's a coincidence that Jesus performed His first miracle at a wedding! Weddings bring marriage, and marriages often come upon times where the miraculous is needed! This episode is an encouragement to any who may feel like they’re losing hope in marriage; that things are too far gone; that restoration is needed, but the hope of such is merely that…, just a hope. Well, God is in the miracle working business and your situation is not beyond help, or hope! Tune in now!
Is it possible to stay “in love”? YES! It is possible to love and be in love for the life of a marriage! If you doubt it, or if you’re in a place where you question your own love for your spouse, we encourage you to tune in to this episode. Sometimes, couples feel like they lose love, and fall away from the loving feelings they entered the marriage with at its start. This doesn’t mean you married the wrong person and it doesn’t mean the relationship is over. It simply means that you’re experiencing L I F E and you just need to find your way back to the “first love” you experienced! Tune in now to “In Love”!
By definition, the “long game” is a strategy for reaching long range goals. It implies patience and persistence. It means we are looking beyond the moment to a future, a greater purpose. The Boggs offer this as a perfect strategy for marriage and family life! They believe that it is possible to stay focused and on target, even in the day to day of life and in this podcast they share suggestions for staying in the “game”---for the long haul as you realize the big picture of all that God has planned for you!
If you’ve been married for any length of time, you know that marriage can come with good days as well as bad. From the vows that most married people take on their wedding day, we see that couples are called to a commitment that essentially stands the test of all things—the good, the bad, the ugly, the times of great riches and the times of no wealth; the times of health and the times of sickness. There isn’t usually a problem with the positive sides of these contrasts. It’s only when we experience the negative sides that pose a test to our commitment. Listen in to see what the Boggs have to say about the good and bad of marriage.
Intimacy in marriage was created, by God, for spouses to enjoy, to delight in, but it must be guarded. This special part of a marriage relationship is a strength to your marriage and needed. However, everything in your life will pull against this intimate time. Your schedule and energy will be depleted from all the responsibilities of your life and you’ll never just seem to fall upon time for intimacy. Join The Boggs as they share ways to fight for this important aspect of your marriage! Intimacy matters, but it won’t always come easy! You may have to fight for it!
Great results and huge improvements don’t usually come after just one step in the right direction! Progress is a result of many seemingly little things sometimes. It’s the little things that add up! It’s the little things that can have big impacts. In a world that is often obsessed with the big and bold, it’s easy to forget that the consistency of doing the little things and the intentionality of carrying out the seemingly insignificant that often make the biggest impact! Join the conversation about the little things in relationships that can have the biggest impact!
Join Eric and Gena in this episode as they define a home that worships. It may be more than you think at first glance! The Boggs make one guarantee in this HomeMatters podcast. If you will become a home that worships, it will revolutionize your home life, the atmosphere of your home, and your effectiveness at doing home life well! Learning to be “carriers of worship” is the call and the plan God has for us all. Don’t miss this encouraging discussion!
Freedom. Have you ever asked yourself what that looks like in marriage? We’re not talking about a present-day culture “freedom” that says freedom is about doing what we want to do with no regard or restrictions. We are talking about a freedom that lives within the prescribed boundaries of God’s Word. We misunderstand how boundaries and freedom go together in our society. But today’s discussion brings light to how comfortable, refreshing, and freeing it is to live in a God-ordained and ordered freedom!
Today’s edition of HomeMatters is a continuation of episode #156. We encourage you to jump back and listen there if you haven’t already. The demise of any relationship comes with warning signs. It’s easy to ignore those, or think that they aren’t as bad as we may believe them to be at the moment. However, self-evaluation, and even marriage-evaluation is necessary on a continuing basis to make sure we are not leaving situations, conflicts, and real day-to-day issues out there to grow into things that separate and isolate us from our spouse. There may be some warning signs that you’ve been ignoring, or some that you are aware of but have dismissed. Tune in! Be challenged! And, do what needs to be done to heed the signs and save your marriage and home!
Self-awareness and self-examination are always good. Many people only do this type thing in seasons of crisis or at the beginning of the year as they set new resolutions for themselves. However, there are always warning signs when a relationship is headed towards trouble. People may wake up one day and just feel like everything has changed overnight. But in reality, something has been going on for some time that has led to the distance one feels or the isolation they are experiencing. Join Eric and Gena in this episode as they discuss the warning signs that show your marriage is in trouble.
This episode is for adults only. You may not want to listen with your children, but—be confident, there’s nothing here that isn’t talked about in the Bible! In fact, you (married couples) may blush at all God has to say about your intimate, sexual relationship to your spouse. Your intimacy and lovemaking doesn’t embarrass God—-in fact, just the opposite. God never intended our love life with our spouse to be boring and if yours is, it’s time to make some intentional changes. Tune in today and be encouraged to make the changes needed to bring your intimate sexual relationship up to date and away from anything that looks boring!
This weeks’ episode continues to examine the “play it safe” style of living versus the life that is willing to make some hard decisions, have some hard conversations, and even do some things that may seem “risky” to continue to move forward in relationship and love. Progress and productivity never come easy and risk will always be involved. Will you be the “Hero” in your home? Will you be willing to take some risks to have all that God intended for you? You may just find that it’s the best risk you ever take!
Is it your tendency to play it safe—in all aspects of your life and relationships? Or, are you the risk taker? Are you more comfortable with the predictability of routine or are you willing to step out and take some risk sometimes by stepping into the unknown or the uncertain things? Relationships will never be totally predictable and our unwillingness to step into the unknown can hinder love, passion, affection, and even our ability to be as productive as God would desire us to be. Eric and Gena may provoke you in this episode, but hear them out! Your willingness to be vulnerable and to embrace an opportunity could just be what takes your relationship to the next level!
The discussion in this episode of HomeMatters dives into the Song of Solomon passage in chapter 2, verse 15. The scripture enlightens us in the fact that it isn’t always the big things that “spoil” or hinder a relationship. In this episode, the Boggs discuss this warning from the Bible; share a list of possible “foxes” that we can deal with; and challenge their listeners to “tend to the garden” of their love and rid their relationship of these things that can steal away intimacy, affection, and even productivity from a marriage! Join in today and discover what “little fox” you may need to deal with.
Would your spouse say you were romantic? Is romance even necessary after marriage? And, if it is, who has time for it? All these are legit questions when it comes to marriage. The Bible answers each of them and in this episode, Eric and Gena share great insight on what it means to be romantic; why you may need to entertain the idea—even after marriage; and what this “romantic, flirty” marriage should look like. Additionally, the Boggs define romance and reveal that romance isn’t always what we’ve come to think it is! If you’ve given up on romance or if you think there isn’t really a need for it any more in your marriage, tune in and be challenged!
In part 2 of “Managing at Home”, this episode turns to managing all the blessings (resources) and finances that God has given us. As discussed in part 1, there is a great responsibility we have as leaders in our homes to “manage”! Resources are abundant and even where finances may seem strained, God has given us clear direction on how we are to manage all His blessings in our life! Eric and Gena talk about all of this and how being a giver is key to it all!
The schedules around a home and family life are usually hectic to say the least. Finding the time we need to accomplish all the things that need our attention is overwhelming. We also have people to manage (a spouse, children, co-workers, etc. etc.). So, how do we manage? How do we stay productive? How do we decide what needs our attention and what can wait? In all of this, we have a great responsibility as leaders in our home! As Ephesians states, we must be very careful how we live—not as unwise but as wise. We should also make the most of our opportunities. So, join in and listen today as the Boggs discuss godly time management in this episode.
To level up—to increase your productivity and impact as a family, it will take a plan and calculated steps, taken with intention. Today, the Boggs offer 3 places to begin this “leveling up” process. They discuss leveling up in our actions, thoughts, and conversations. This episode concludes this series on taking our home and family life to the next level with these practical applications. Don’t miss this and don’t ever underestimate all that God can do with you and your family! He wants to take you to places you’ve never been before with Him! It is time to LEVEL UP!
It will be the things you do on purpose and on the regular that will move you forward and up to your next level of living. That’s what the Boggs call “intentionality”. It works whether you're exercising or cleaning out a closet! It will work in family life too—-marriage and parenting. Most of us know some things we could do immediately that would make us a better spouse and a better parent. Join the podcast today and be encouraged to get started! If you’ll just start; you can be assured that results are on the way.
What if God had a life for you and your family that you have yet to experience? He does! There are always new levels with God because we can never exhaust all His resources. Don’t underestimate what God can do with you and your family! It doesn’t require perfection, thankfully. It just requires an obedient heart that’s turned toward God, and a willingness to “level up-–meaning, we’re willing to put some action to our desires. Be encouraged today as the Boggs encourage you to get a plan and level up!
The “IT” is sex! And, how and what you think about it is important! Do you think about sex like God thinks about it? Did you know that God does actually have thoughts about it? He created it! It was His masterpiece; so—yes, God has big thoughts about sex and He shares those with us in the Bible. Do you see it as precious and pure? Do you hold a worldly perspective or a Biblical perspective? It matters what you are thinking. Join The Boggs today in their conversation on what God says about sex and how that should affect how we think about it. The “IT” is sex! And, how and what you think about it is important! Do you think about sex like God thinks about it? Did you know that God does actually have thoughts about it? He created it! It was His masterpiece; so—yes, God has big thoughts about sex and He shares those with us in the Bible. Do you see it as precious and pure? Do you hold a worldly perspective or a Biblical perspective? It matters what you are thinking. Join The Boggs today in their conversation on what God says about sex and how that should affect how we think about it.
Legacy. Heritage. Inheritance. We all have a responsibility to leave something behind, but that often seems a distant thought in the light of just getting through the day to day. What was left for you is important; but what you leave behind is of more importance! The Boggs discuss the responsibilities that belong to each of us as related to what we are leaving behind. Your impact in this world is meant to outlive you! Join us in realizing what it will take to leave a mark on this world before we are done here. It matters for generations to come!
As parents, our job is many-faceted, and often overwhelming for sure! This episode of HomeMatters focuses on our need, in the home, to bring guidance, to offer instruction, and to administer discipline as necessary. All of this can be controversial, oftentimes, in our culture today. However, the Bible isn’t quiet on any of these aspects! Join The Boggs in their conversation today and be encouraged to know…..God blessed you with this “job”, and with His help…..You Can Do It!
The struggles of parenting are R E A L! No matter the age of your child, there will be moments when you just feel lost in knowing what to do! There seems to be a lot of information out there, but where and who do you turn for answers? The Boggs address the topic today with Biblical instruction. They believe that God’s Word has the answers we all need for parenting, and when we follow His instructions; we can be productive and successful in the “parenting job”! Along with that, know that your leadership in the home begins with who YOU are as a parent.
From the day you get married, everything in your life will work against you having the time and energy to continue in romance as you did while you were dating. However, maintaining and feeding romance and intimacy in your marriage is very important. It takes determination, commitment, and lots of “on purpose” affection. Join the podcast today, married couples! Take new steps in being intentional about romance and intimacy in your relationship. It will make a huge difference!
Do you believe that you can have a 100% success rate in marriage—or in family? Can we really see the relationships we have at home be productive? Eric and Gena answer with a resounding, “YES”! God gives clear directives for our success and if we follow His ways, it will always work! Be encouraged in today’s episode as the Boggs share some simple places to start in moving towards success. We believe you’ll be inspired; knowing that you can be successful and you can win at doing marriage and family!
So when is sex and lovemaking supposed to expire in the life of a marriage? Or, is it supposed to expire at all? Should older couples even put in the energy to sustain a romantic, intimate relationship? Should you just give up on sex, or is there hope in the golden years? Many ask these questions, privately, but today’s podcast will explore some real answers found in the Bible! Join Eric and Gena as they share what God says. How old IS too old for sex?
It’s Valentine's week, and a great opportunity to “amp up the love”! In this edition of HomeMatters, Eric and Gena remind married couples that they should be living Valentine’s Day, every day! They’ll encourage you to make a new start this Valentine’s Day, and to consider how you can live all your days together as if it were the “day of love”! Join in for practical tips on amping up your love.
How amazing would it be to have all the instant answers in the day to day of parenting? We do have the Bible, but all parents have made the mistake of acting without conferring with the Bible! Today’s podcast addresses our imperfect parenting and how we can work through our own parenting mistakes to see some amazing results. Tune in for some encouragement, parents! You are probably doing a better job than you realize!
The pursuit is too often over at the altar—-or wherever you said your vows! The ceremony was never meant to be the ending place of the pursuit. In fact, it is essentially the license to pursue more passionately than ever before! How exciting is that? We should continue to invest and to “pay the price” that pursuit costs. Join the Boggs as they discuss the continued need for pursuit and passion in the marriage relationship. Get More Encouraging Videos Each Week by Subscribing: https://www.youtube.com/@homematters1327Visit: https://www.homematters.family/Follow: https://www.instagram.com/homematters.family/Like: https://www.facebook.com/homematters.family/Email: info@homematters.family
In this follow-up part 2 episode, The Boggs share some practical steps to starting over daily. What do we need to embrace and what do we need to leave behind to be able to keep moving forward in our relationship? Starting over will take intentionality and a willingness to let some feelings and emotions go. It will take a passionate pursuit of our spouse and a determination to experience all that God has for you as a couple. Starting over is not just for those who have failures or mistakes. All of us can benefit from a “do-over” sometimes!
There is much to be said about the power of starting over. A new day; a new opportunity; a clean slate and a fresh start—-each of these can bring a hope that says “this time things will be different”! The Bible says that God offers us new mercy and love every single day! How amazing and refreshing is that? At home, we often need to offer the same—new, daily doses of mercy and grace. As well, we often need the same extended to us. Join part one of this topic as Eric and Gena encourage us to consider a “do–over”!
Intentionality is always the subject for HomeMatters podcasts it seems! Again, today, we are encouraged to be intentional about carving out time in our life; our week, our day—-and even in our thought processes to think about our spouse. The Boggs always talk about date nights and the getaways, but today we are reminded to take time—-mark off time—and set aside time, daily, to intentionally think good thoughts about our spouse. Engage your good thoughts even before you are in each other's presence and watch the difference it can make in your relationship and in your shared time together.
Psalm 127 has been the foundational scripture for HomeMatters ministry since its inception. The Boggs believe the foundation of this ministry MUST also be the foundation of every home and family unit. Everyday life can lend itself to frustration and discouragement. Those negative feelings are multiplied when we try to navigate on our own, without God! But—if we allow the Lord to build our homes and our lives, we will find the success, fulfillment, and joy that has been intended for us from the beginning! Listen in as the discussion goes today and choose to let the Lord build YOUR home!
Join us for this abbreviated podcast today, New Year’s Day! What a great day for looking forward to all that God has in the coming year! A New Year can serve as a great benchmark for all of us. Join this discussion about new beginnings and new expectations! The Boggs encourage us to be more productive and intentional than ever before in the new year.
It is so easy to be caught up in the busyness and rush of Christmas! There’s really nothing wrong with the busyness or the celebration. In fact, we should celebrate…..and celebrate BIG! The problem with the busyness only comes when we lose our focus on the purpose of the celebration, and when we lose focus on our intimate family relationships during the season. Don’t allow the season to draw your focus away from the things that are most important. This is a great episode that will draw our attention back to being intentional about our Christmas celebrations!
Healthy change is always a necessary part of family life. It’s often necessary to lead our family in various changes; as well, we–individually must entertain personal changes. It isn’t that we change just to say we changed, but it’s that we change so that we can move forward; so we can see marked improvements; and so that we can experience all the amazing things that God has intended for our lives, personally and as a family unit. Join this episode as Eric and Gena discuss those things that will produce healthy change in our lives.
To answer the question…… EVERYTHING! There are many incredible books written on marriage. There are amazing, Christian leaders and counselors who have addressed the subject and who give great guidance and advice. However, there is no book that’s ever been written that addresses marriage better than the Bible! To enjoy marriage to the fullest—-as God intended, we must check out the “owner’s manual”---and for marriage, that is the Bible!
With this being what we know and celebrate as “Thanksgiving week”, The Boggs stop today to encourage us all in living, daily, with gratitude! The key to that is always having the word of God in our hearts. Scriptures on being thankful can help us discover thankfulness and feel thankful even when times are difficult. ONE WORD from God! Not just a spoken word, but a word from THE Word. It has the power to change everything! Join this episode as we’re reminded of God’s call to thankfulness in our lives.
We live in a time where many are self-centered and selfish. It’s nothing new, but it seems to be the “norm” all around us. People often live with an expectation of entitlement no matter the amount of work or effort that they may, or may not, have put in. So, how do we teach our children the pathway of gratitude and thankfulness? Simply, as parents, we model it! In this season, join The Boggs as they focus on building habits of gratitude into our everyday home life.
Is the passion gone? Ever think you married the wrong person? Do you feel like you’ve fallen out of love? Is there hope of ever regaining the passion that brought you and your spouse together or are those days gone forever? As you can imagine, The Boggs encourage us in this episode to realize that all hope is not gone! And, they offer some steps for regaining the passion and finding an answer to your passionless relationship!
There is much in life that we have no control over. We can’t control how we feel or the emotions that come our way. We can’t always control what our spouse or our children do or say. However, we CAN control our response to our emotions and feelings that we incur as a result to all of this. We CAN control our attitude and we CAN control our actions. Tune is as Eric and Gena talk about the things that we have the ability to control and how that connects with all the crazy emotions!
Does the original “glow” of romance have to wane? Eric and Gena say, “NO”! Life and marriage become stale and boring—IF we allow them to. As well, the stresses and busy schedules of life will forever get in the way of romance. However, Eric and Gena believe that intentional attention to your marriage relationship will keep, and even grow the excitement and passion that was experienced from the very beginning! What can YOU do to increase the romance? Tune in to this podcast today and be encouraged to know that romance is only dead if you allow it to be! Nurture and rekindle the romance and watch what can happen!
Crisis will come! That may not encourage you, but it is reality for every home and every family. However, we are not left to face our crisis alone! Every family and every marriage goes through times of crisis—-financial, conflict, physical/health, kids, tragedies and trouble. These times put added pressures on relationships. Therefore, we must know how to respond! Join Eric and Gena in this podcast as they share Biblical responses to crises that will help you move through your crisis, learn the lessons you need to learn while in the crisis, and move on to a place of contentment like the one that Paul speaks of in Philippians 4:10-13! It IS possible!
God outlines the way we should live in His Word, the Bible! Not only does He give instruction to us as individuals, but specifically to the roles of every family member in a home—-husband, wife, parents, and children! As we each align our lives to God’s plan, we experience blessing! Obedience leads to a life beyond any we will ever live or imagine outside of obedience. We can do things “on our own” and we will have only what WE can make happen. However, as we live according to God's instruction, we open our lives up to all that God can make happen! That is why obedience matters! Why not plug in to the abundant life that Christ offers and let Him live in and through you as a family? Join the discussion today and be encouraged! You CAN live a life of obedience!
Sex (unless there are health issues or unless you’re abstaining as in 1 Corinthians 7) should be a regular part of the love, the relationship, and the experiences of a husband and wife! It’s essential to oneness, to intimacy, and to the emotional connection. AND it’s Biblical! So, why don’t all married couples experience pleasure in sex—-or regular sexual relations? What are the reasons—-the stumbling blocks that inhibit this part of intimacy? Tune in to this episode as The Boggs share some of those distractions that steal some of the enjoyment out of the sexual relationship that God intends for you to enjoy as husband and wife.
What kind of question is that? The opposite of the blessed home would be the cursed home, so……surely we’d choose the blessed one, right? Maybe you wonder if it is possible for your home to be blessed. You’ll find encouragement as you listen to this episode! The Boggs share with us that God wants to bless our home! It’s His desire to bless His children and scripture tells us how to walk in that blessed life. God desires to bless, and we all NEED that blessing in our lives: not just for our sakes, but so that the glory of God will be revealed in and through our homes. Join in as Eric and Gena encourage us in how to have THE BLESSED HOME!
If we are truthful with ourselves, most of us could use some help in knowing how to communicate, effectively, with our family members. This is something that is learned in a relationship and that is so necessary in building a strong relationship!! In this episode, Eric and Gena share some tips and scripture—--instruction straight from God’s Word—--about how we should communicate; how we should and should not talk to one another; and how we can use our language to bring positive results and reactions instead of hurt and anger. Tune in! Why? Because…… “It matters how you talk to me”!
Knowing God’s Word and being confident of what you believe as a Christian has never been more important! Everything we say we believe will be challenged in this age. Culture will question why you do the things you do; why you love your spouse like you do; why you raise your kids like you do, etc. etc. It is so easy to fall into places where our homes are influenced, subtly, through deception that comes through many different sources. So—-we must know what we believe!
God puts a high premium on the intimate sexual relationship—so much so, that He only approves of the sexual relationship within a marriage relationship. However, in that setting, God intends for both husband and wife to pursue and to enjoy sex. He intends for there to be comfort, fun, fulfillment, and pleasure. Join Eric and Gena in this episode as they discuss how the Bible instructs married couples to pursue and to enjoy the gift of sex in marriage.
In this episode, Eric and Gena discuss the resilience that a strong emotional, spiritual, and mental intimacy brings to a marriage. There is a “knowing” that can be enjoyed in a relationship that will enable couples to withstand difficulties—-simply out of their knowing of each other at deeper levels. These deeper levels of intimacy bring maturity into a marriage that enables it to go the distance in the midst of all that life can bring.
Our initial response to the culture of our day, as a believer, is often to retreat or to pull away. However, our call is never to pull back but to engage our society; to intersect where we can; and to bring the light of Jesus Christ into the everyday rhythms of our life. The “how” is the challenge! Thankfully though, we are not left alone to navigate with our family! Join Eric and Gena as they challenge us all to engage, to love like Jesus loves, and to realize that we—and our homes—are to make a difference, daily! Know that God can use your family!
In part 2 of this topic, Eric and Gena give practical insight as to how our individual homes can bring light to the world we find ourselves in daily. They discuss how the “Christian” home should be different and what that looks like in real, livable, attainable ways.
Culture runs deep. It is affecting you and your home. Your response is of utmost importance as you realize that God desires to use your home and family to set a Kingdom Culture—-one that is exemplary of Jesus Christ and His ways. How is that done? How can we (as un–perfect as we are) make an impact at all? Join in this discussion today as The Boggs talk about the present culture and our role as believers.
As Christian, married couples, we need to get our cues on how we think and feel about marriage and sexuality from God and not from the culture or the spirit of our surroundings (movies, social media, etc.) In fact, Hebrews 13:4 instructs us to honor the marriage bed. So, what does that mean and how do we do that in a way that God intended? The Boggs share some tips in today's episode about how we can live a life that does just what this word instructs us to do, practically, day to day.
Today’s episode is part 2 of an important discussion. The spiritual health of a family is crucial and in today’s discussion, Eric and Gena share some tips for a good start on the spiritual journey of a family. They cover things like self-awareness, determination, and ways we can daily reflect who Jesus is—-at home, and everywhere we go! It’s really about how we live out our Christian walk, daily! It IS ALWAYS more than Sunday church attendance or wearing the tag, “Christian”. Listen in and be challenged to live Jesus, model Jesus, and be Jesus—every day and everywhere!
Just what does a “healthy Christian home” look like? Is it a family of “church-goers”or “good people” that are able to look the part? The Boggs push us today, in this episode, to realize that a healthy Christian home is made up of more than our ability to check the boxes of good Christian living. They encourage us to think about our family’s spiritual health——something that affects EVERYTHING!
Is there an expiration date on the intimate sexual relationship of a husband and wife? Eric and Gena say, “No!” and they believe that God’s Word says “No!” as well! Sex wasn’t created, by God, for just the newlyweds or young to middle aged. God created it with purposes that extend beyond procreation. (And all the “older” people should be excited about that!) Intimacy was intended to be “until death do us part”, just like the commitment we made in marriage. Join the discussion today! No matter how long you’ve been married, this one will be good for you today!
The discussion continues in this episode about the role of parenting. It is no job for the weak at heart or for “wimps”! Determination and resolve are needed because your children, and our society today, need strong parents! The job can seem daunting for sure, but God will grace and enable you. He may even grow you, as the parent, in the midst of your “parenting” your children----even preparing you, and cultivating in you your own gifts and talents!
The challenge of parenting is real! The overwhelming responsibility and the feelings of inadequacy are felt by all who fill this role at one time or another. In this episode, Eric and Gena remind us that our role as parents is more valuable than we often realize and our capability to do the job well is within grasp as we allow God to empower us.
This isn’t “family”, “everyone-listen-together” content today! But, this is a good episode for you to listen to together, as a couple! Eric and Gena get real candid in this podcast about the importance of pursuing the sex life that God intended for married couples to enjoy. Good sex doesn’t just happen, but a thriving sex life is God-ordained and a component of a thriving marriage relationship. So, as a couple, you can’t deemphasize or downplay the importance of your passionate pursuit of sex! Join The Boggs in this episode as they discuss the “gift” of sex to you as a married couple. Listening today could be your first step in your passionate pursuit!
Fun at home is not a luxury! It is a necessity for a healthy family life! All of us need to laugh. We need a break from the routine, and we need to experience those times as a family! These times don’t have to be expensive or even very structured. Learn to step away from the schedule sometimes (or maybe you NEED to schedule a fun day!) and celebrate—even the smallest things. Be silly, sing, dance or play a game. You AND your family will benefit from some good ole’ playtime! If the topic today seems unimportant to you, you are the one that needs to listen! Tune in—-you need to get off the treadmill of life for a few minutes and enjoy some playtime!
Register for Marriage Matters Getaway 👉https://www.homematters.family/copy-of-marriage-matters-getawayEach of us has a tendency to want to “go our own way” and live selfishly. We pursue “ME” time, feel like we “deserve” or have the “right” to do what WE want to do, sometimes, even at the expense of people we love. At the same time, we crave intimacy in our lives by virtue of how we were created. See the problem? Intimacy will come as you lay your life down; as you put yourself and your desires second to those of another; as you serve and make others life better. It’s really a choice, daily! You may be challenged as you listen, but it will be good! Join Eric and Gena today!
The word “serve” isn’t always popular in our culture, unless it is focused upon self. The whole idea of serving another is often lost on us in society today. However, as followers of Jesus, we are called to serve with a heart and attitude that looks like Jesus. AND—Eric and Gena believe that the heart to serve should always start at home! Serving is simply about making another person's life better—even at home! Read Mark 10:45 and Phillippians 2: 3-8 and then tune in for this discussion.
Married couples—don’t discount the importance of your intimate sexual relationship in marriage. God has great things intended for you—more intimacy, more passion, more connectedness, and even more sex! This edition of HomeMatters focuses on making this holy, God-ordained, and God-created part of your married life all that God intended it to be. Register for Marriage Matters Getaway 👉https://www.homematters.family/copy-of-marriage-matters-getaway
Don’t be depressed or saddened by the title—but do keep eternity in mind! In this edition, Eric and Gena purposefully encourage us all to enjoy every day, live life to the fullest, and always think of your present reality in light of the reality of eternity. None of us are promised tomorrow, so we must live every day with thankfulness, gratitude, and with intent to keep the MAIN thing the MAIN thing—every day! The Boggs' thoughts today come from their own life experiences and from the tragedies they’ve faced that have brought them to a reset—more than once. Let their experiences speak to you in this podcast!
How important is it to you to win? Do you feel it’s necessary to be right—all the time? Is it possible that you could be wrong, occasionally? And one more question—-in home and married life, what do you “win” if you “win” the argument? The picture of Ephesians 5 is a give–give. The Bible is also clear about our need to forgive, to lay down pride, and to put our own personal desires aside. You could be right. But, what is it worth to prove that? It may just help if you’re willing to be “wrong”.
The need for confrontation in relationships is inevitable. Truly, if we love as Jesus loves, there are times when the uncomfortable practice of addressing issues is needed. Love doesn’t always feel good. Sometimes love even hurts. BUT, if we love and if we are concerned and have the others’ best interests at heart, we’ll be willing to speak to the hard issues; and to lead in correction—for the good of all involved. Join Eric and Gena as they speak to us about the truth of Romans 12:9—”Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.”
Leading homes can be very challenging and even complicated in this society. How do we lead our family? How do we navigate the times? The thoughts may seem simple in this edition of HomeMatters, but they’re profound in dealing with the culture and directing our homes. 1 Peter 3:15 says we should always be able to give an answer. Tune in to see how we can be prepared in this crazy world!
Is desire really needed in marriage? Can you increase your desire for your spouse? Is it possible to fuel desire? Is desire even Biblical, and if so, in what context? There are many questions about desire when it comes to the marriage relationship. Some people have some desire. Some people have lots of desire, and some have little to no desire. So, how do we navigate? In this episode, join Eric and Gena as they share thoughts on what spouses can do to increase desire in their relationship and to fuel their passions for one another.
Does what you believe about marriage align with what God believes about marriage? Whether we realize it or not, what we believe shapes everything! Eric and Gena push us, in this podcast, to know what God believes and says about marriage and to compare it with what each of us have believed. Maybe there are some lies that you’ve believed that need to be confronted with the truth of what God says. The truth can change everything! Be challenged today as you join in this episode of HomeMatters.
As believers, we are encouraged to be content. However, there’s a difference between contentment and in settling with where we are in life and relationships. Settling is dangerous. But—contentment is necessary! We must find the place of contentment in marriage and family life, even as we continue to push forward and pursue all that God has for us every day. In response to all that life brings, the Apostle Paul says that he learned “...the secret of living in every situation…”. May God help us do the same!
The importance of intimacy in marriage can’t be overstated! Oten, however, we confine “intimacy” to sex. Sex is definitely included, but not all that intimacy is about. Eric and Gena spend time in this Home Matters episode discussing the importance of intimacy outside the bedroom—-the communication, the touches, the time couples spend together, and more; all of which ultimately lead to better intimacy inside the bedroom! It’s a fact—-intimacy should be going on all day, every day!
Whether you planned on them or not, changes are coming! Change is inevitable! And, how we deal with change, in family life, is crucial. We will grow, or we’ll drift apart in relationships depending upon how we navigate changes. This episode gives advice on how to make it through all the twists and turns of life, especially when you’re in close family relationships.
This may not be the “happiest” topic ever discussed on the HomeMatters podcasts, but—-it’s a real reality check for all. Without sounding too gloomy and depressing, Eric and Gena point us to realize that we should treat every day as if it were our last day. The events of a day can leave us tired, aggravated, and incognizant of the fact that we never know what the next day will bring. This episode encourages us to make the most of every moment, every opportunity, and every bit of time we have with the ones we love—-spouses, children, parents, extended family, and friends. As we live every day, we must focus on what’s really important and what lasts—--live and love, cherish and celebrate—-your people are worth it!
How we view intimacy should be led by how God views intimacy, and by what the Bible says. Clearly, the Bible encourages us to celebrate and enjoy this level of closeness that is only intended for a husband and wife in a marriage relationship. Come on, married couples! Let the celebration begin! Join the Boggs as they look at how married love is supposed to be celebrated! Is your celebration up to date? If not, here is the challenge you need!
How important is it to you to win that argument? What are you willing to sacrifice to be right—-to get your way—to have the last word? It’s hard to live life in close relationships without having conflict and disagreements. Those things are coming, but do you know how to handle it? Do you know when to speak and when to be quiet? The value of knowing how to deal with conflict is essential to any relationship! Join this conversation and see……Who Should Get the Last Word!
For the health of your family, children, and marriage, there are times that you must be intentional about STOPPING! Busyness and routines that turn into ruts, drain the passion from our relationships. It can happen to any of us. That’s why we must make sure we are “Breaking Up Busy”, every chance we get! Join this episode as Eric and Gena share tips to lead us away from autopilot and mechanical lives, back to passion-filled, purpose-led lives.
There are many people that would like to share their opinion with you about how you should behave as a husband/wife/father/mother/employee/Christian. But—-really, whose opinion matters most? There are really only a couple people we should be concerned about, and God should always be at the top and forefront of that list! If you are easily carried away with trying to perform so that all opinions are fostered to, find freedom! There’s a great freedom found in living for an audience of ONE—-The One, Jesus Christ!
This episode airs on Valentine's Day and comes with a challenge. What will you do today, to show and express love, that is a carry-over from your everyday life? In other words, have you waited until today to do or to say the things that you should be doing all along? Light a candle. Say, “I love you!”. Go out for a nice dinner. Today? For sure—but today should be a continuation of your everyday life! Listen to this Valentine’s Day Special Edition with Eric and Gena!
Join the Boggs as they share their personal parenting experiences gained from raising their 4 children. They candidly share that they made many mistakes; but by God’s grace, did do some things that made a difference for the good of their children and family! Eric and Gena share their “top 6”----the 6 things that they believe absolutely made a difference!
The Bible is clear! Parenting is a great responsibility. But, thankfully, the Bible is also clear in instructing parents in perfect parenting skills! Parents—this edition of Home Matters is for YOU! God desires to be honored and can be honored in the way we parent our children! Join Eric and Gena as they discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of parenting and how all of that can come together to bring God honor!
In establishing the covenant of marriage, God desired that the relationship would reflect Him—and His love and relationship with us. Marriage is supposed to reflect the mercy, grace, and forgiveness of God, as well, in the way we relate to one another. In this episode, Eric and Gena encourage their listeners in the fact that, although there isn’t a perfect marriage, every marriage can honor God. Tune in. Give yourself a break. And–have confidence in what God can do in AND through your marriage!
Maybe your home is more “perfect” than some, but most of us see our home as “questionable” in bringing God honor. Our homes, however, can honor God if we build according to His plan. No matter what your home looks like; or the dysfunction you feel; the failures that have been; or even the victories you may have won—God desires to be honored! Join this discussion today and see how your home can honor God in the way He desires.
This weeks’ episode is a continuation of “New Year's Home and Family Resolutions” that can grow your family in the coming weeks and months. God is always about growing us, blessing us, and helping us be all that He intended for us to be in this life! Take the challenge and see your home and family grow in the year to come!
The New Year often brings resolve and determination to accomplish the things we missed on previously. In this first podcast of the new year, Eric and Gena challenge their listeners with “resolutions” that can enhance and grow family relationships and life at home.
As we all close out 2023, Eric and Gena encourage us to look forward with expectation and anticipation! Maybe this last year didn’t meet your expectations. However, important in moving forward, is realizing what things we need to let go of and what we need to take with us into the days ahead. Close out your 2023 with this edition of HomeMatters and with a huge expectation about what God can do, in you, in 2024!
Married couples—-this episode is for you! The Christmas story itself is the greatest love story ever told! So, in this podcast, Eric and Gena encourage married couples to be attentive to their love story during this Christmas season! It is easy to get distracted, busy, and overwhelmed with all the different moving parts of the holiday season and to let intimacy and romance go cold. Don’t allow that to happen at your house! Keep the fires of intimacy lit and let the lights of the tree encourage your romance as you take time to focus on YOUR love story this Christmas season!
Traditions are and have always been part of the Christmas celebration. In light of that, how do we establish healthy Christmas family traditions, carry-on traditions handed to us, and stop the traditions that are not adding to the meaning of Christmas? Making changes isn’t easy and figuring out what traditions are needed can be challenging. Examine your traditions as you listen to this episode and ask God to lead you in establishing traditions that make a difference!
With all the things that pull on us at Christmas, how do we maintain the right focus and keep the “reason for the season” at the forefront of all that we do as a family? How do we balance the commercialism, Santa Claus, and Rudolph with our celebrations of the Christ Child? And, should we even balance all of that together? Join HomeMatters today as Eric and Gena encourage us as families to keep our focus and to gather at the manger—in the midst of all that is going on!
It’s the most wonderful time of the year—and especially for family! However, entering the holiday season without a plan can make this “wonderful time of the year” feel much less wonderful than it should. Over the next few weeks of HomeMatters podcast, join Eric and Gena as they try to help us be ready for the season by being able to navigate the tedious things that can come along with Christmas and family.
Join this special Thanksgiving edition of HomeMatters with Eric and Gena! All attention is pointed towards being grateful during this time of year, but do you look for reasons to be thankful as a couple and as a family in every season of your life? Maintaining a sense of gratitude can change the atmosphere of your home and the trajectory of your life if you can learn to look for the blessing and opportunity to tell of the goodness of the Lord!
The Bible is pretty clear! The primary responsibility assigned to children, by God, is to honor and obey their parents! Why should they obey and why are parents instructed to teach them in this principle? These thoughts are the topic for today's podcast with Eric and Gena. The teaching may not be popular, or easy—but, if you are a parent, you don’t want to miss this conversation! Parenting well is possible and required according to God’s Word!
This is part 2 of a very frank conversation about intimacy and sex in marriage. Do men really spell intimacy, S-E-X? Are men really interested in intimacy at all? What does “intimacy” look like to your husband, ladies? Hopefully, this weeks’ episode will help give understanding to some of these often asked questions. Eric and Gena are open in this conversation as they discuss the sexual needs of a husband and how those can be met and understood by his wife.
Join this candid conversation between Eric and Gena about sex and intimacy and about what men might need to know about their wives. Gena is honest and straightforward in revealing the heart of a woman, a woman’s intimate needs and sexual desires that may be overlooked or unknown to her husband. You don’t want to miss this episode! And–in case you’re wondering—YES—the next episode will be What Women Need to Know About Intimacy and Sex!
On what things do you expend your energy? Are you busy fighting battles that you really have no need to be involved in? Do you really know those things that are “fight worthy”? This episode of HomeMatters challenges us to make sure we are fighting—because marriage and family are a worthy cause! At the same time, we’re challenged to make sure that the “enemy” we’ve named, or chosen to fight, is the real enemy who is worthy of our time and energy. Join the fight—the right fight!
There is much to navigate in relationships, in parenting, and in life in general! There are decisions to make and challenges to handle, daily. The good news is that there is a right way to handle all of that—every decision that needs to be made. And–many times, we already know what needs to be done. It is just the strength to do that “right thing” that challenges us. Occasionally, we may also have real questions about what is truly “right”. Tune in as the discussion unfolds on how to know what is “right”.
Eric and Gena believe that intimacy and sex are NOT meant to be seasonal in the life of a marriage. Do things change? Absolutely! However, if we make the transitions we need to make, intimacy and sex will continue to be a healthy, thriving part of the relationship. Join this real talk about the needed transitions that will keep intimacy alive in every season of your marriage!
Could your relationship be stunted in its growth by what’s going on in your head? Are you allowing negative thoughts to sabotage intimacy and oneness? It’s easy to get caught up in only thinking about what is wrong in a relationship. It is vital however, in marriage and family life, that we follow the guidelines of God’s Word in Philippians 4:8 where we’re told to think on the good stuff! Join Eric and Gena as they look at the signs that prove you’re focusing more on the “wrongs” than you need to. It really does matter what’s going on in your head!
Many studies have shown that young adults are leaving the church. The reasons for that are varied, but Eric and Gena believe that this does not have to be the case! Yes—we should teach our children to love God first, but a healthy love and appreciation for the church is also a necessary ingredient in passing on godly heritage and legacy that lasts through generations. Whether you’re a parent, a grandparent, or an adult without your own children, tune in and see what we all can do together—-for the next generation—to cultivate not only a love for God, but a love for His Body, His Bride—the Church!
Today’s episode is a call-out to the married folk! The value of a date night (or a day date) to your relationship, can’t be measured! You need focused time together as husband and wife. You must make this time a priority for the health of your marriage. The Boggs share 4 benefits of the “date” in this edition of HomeMatters! You don’t want to miss this! Listen, and then go schedule a date!
In continuing from episode #63, Eric and Gena discuss 5 elements that aid in building a positive home environment. Tune in as they talk about their real-life experiences in working together to create a positive atmosphere in their own home as their children grew up and beyond. The negativity of culture does not have to invade your home! Create a safe-place and an atmosphere of security and growth that yields productivity!
With so much negativity, divisiveness, and hate in culture, it’s more important than ever that our homes be a safe place, a fun place and a refuge. We need a refuge from the argumentative spirit of the world. What is the environment of your home? Is it good and pleasant and productive? Finding the good, and realizing all that is in your favor, and living out of thankfulness for all that will affect the atmosphere of your home. In addition, find out what is coming into your home—the music, the movies, the TV shows, the internet. What attitudes are allowed in your home? All those things help set the atmosphere and all of that is under your control as leaders in your home! Join this episode where Eric and Gena discuss some things that help set a positive home atmosphere. The atmosphere matters!
Each generation, as it says in Psalm 78:7, must set its hope anew on God. Your children and grandchildren are dependent on you to pass on what you know and what you’ve experienced of God. The Bible is clear about parents' responsibility in relation to establishing a heritage and a legacy for future generations. How seriously do you take this call that God has given? What are you doing to make sure that your family is solidly set in a foundation built on God and His truth? The Boggs challenge us in this episode to make sure that we are passing along all the goodness of God to our family and to the generations to come.
Visit us at https://www.homematters.family/
You’ve probably discovered that marriage, parenting, and family life can be overwhelming at times! We often face opposition inside and outside our own homes. The struggle is real and frustration can take over quickly. The temptation to give up, to quit trying, or to just settle into a survival mode of living can seem to be our only resolve. Eric and Gena encourage us in this podcast to be persistent—-to keep loving; to keep pursuing; to keep giving and forgiving. We must keep teaching our kids and keep instructing them in “right” living. No matter the present situation, you can not give up!
Register for the Marriage Matters Getaway at: www.homematters.family/copy-of-marri…tters-getaway
Can marriage really get better and better? What can make that happen? Join the Boggs as they celebrate their 37th wedding anniversary on the podcast, and as they share their thoughts on how they’ve made it 37 years. No matter how long ago you said your “I do’s” as a couple, the Boggs will encourage you to realize that marriage can keep getting better and better and you can still be in love decades into your relationship! Join the Happy Anniversary Celebration!
There is much to be said about authenticity in our relationship with Christ! Jesus wants to impact every aspect of your home and family life! Trouble comes when we compartmentalize our lives into “Sunday religion” versus all the rest of the week and its activities. Our children need to see Jesus making a difference in how we do everything, every day, every minute! Let’s discuss how the “genuine faith” that Paul recognized in Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5) can show up in our homes on a regular basis.
Register for the Marriage Matters Getaway at: https://www.homematters.family/copy-of-marriage-matters-getaway
As a husband, wife, father, or mother, it matters how you see yourself! It’s easy for the overwhelming task of these roles to leave us feeling less than and never enough! However, you can be confident—no matter your role—that God will enable you to do what He has called you to do. God gives grace and ability beyond what we find in ourselves alone! Tune in today and be encouraged as you work to fulfill the roles that have been assigned to you! With God’s help, YOU ARE ENOUGH!
Register for the Marriage Matters Getaway at: https://www.homematters.family/copy-of-marriage-matters-getaway
If the romance in your marriage relationship has exited your life, tune in today! This aspect of married life is never to be dull or boring, and surely not non-existent. The Bible is clear in the fact that the expressions of love, the excitement of love, and the intimacy in the marriage relationship is to be ongoing throughout the life of the marriage. What does it take to keep romance moving forward for you? Join the Boggs today as they discuss what it takes to keep the romance hot and the love alive!
The often overwhelming job of parenting affords many opportunities for us to settle in and decide that survival mode is our only option! In this HomeMatters Podcast, the Boggs encourage us to keep pressing forward; to keep applying the “components of family growth” as they’ve shared in previous parts of this series; and to be confident in your ability to parent the children that God has blessed you with! With commitment, perseverance, and consistency, it is possible to keep your family moving forward.
There’s always room for growth and forward movement in all areas of your marriage and family. But, to keep moving forward, you can’t allow the good or the bad times to keep you living in that particular moment. We can easily be caught in either! It can be a challenge to be productive in all the seasons of life, but absolutely possible! Join Eric and Gena as they discuss what it takes to keep your family moving forward.
Register for Marriage Matters Getaway: https://www.homematters.family/copy-of-marriage-matters-getaway
It’s a celebration! Podcast #52! One year in, Eric and Gena still believe what happens in your home matters! They haven’t given up on what God can do in and through your home and they always want to encourage you to believe the same for yourselves! Day in and day out—God has a plan and it works! This is their message and it won’t change. Join the one year celebration as the Boggs look back over the podcast and look to the future for year two!
Discipline is Biblical and necessary as we are instructed throughout scripture. In addition, the Bible gives guidelines for Biblical discipline and for how parents and children should relate to each other. And, for both the parents and the child, there is great promise for doing things God’s way. Tune in as Eric and Gena explore God’s Word for His instruction.
In a matter of a few minutes, parenting can be exhausting or exhilarating! For sure, it is work! Keeping the goal of parenting in mind is always important as we walk out this process of parenting. Our dedication as parents and the many hours we put in is realized in raising productive, not perfect, children. This only comes as we build into our relationships with our children, the instruction and guidance that comes through consistent discipline. Join the Boggs as they tackle the discipline dilemma in this podcast.
Family life can offer many opportunities for anxiety, stress, and worry! But, God’s Word instructs us that worry can add nothing to our life (Matt. 6:27)! So, what do we do with our concerns about our children, our finances, our job—--what do we do with all the “what if’s” that crowd our mind. Eric and Gena offer Biblical solutions to the temptation to worry. There is much to be concerned about, but God’s Word offers solutions, hope, and peace!
The pleasure, joy and fun that are to be enjoyed in the marriage relationship are clear in the Bible! Even sexual love is encouraged and celebrated. Too often, couples expect the fire of love to go away or at best, be dimmed with time, years, and experiences. However, the Bible leads us to believe that enjoyment should be the norm well into the later years of the marriage. The value of intimate love and expression within the marriage relationship, and the encouragement to “enjoy” is the discussion for this weeks’ podcast.
Can you really win at home every day? Sometimes, it’s easy to feel like you’re just killin’ at home and some days you feel like you are an utter failure with all home matters. Every day may not feel like a sure victory, but we can always be moving in the right direction. There is a path to victory that works in the day to day of home life. Join Eric and Gena as they discuss how you can win at home, regularly!
Romance and intimacy are so vital to the marriage relationship! The Bible is clear about the intimate love of a husband and wife. Marriage should never become stale and boring. Husband and wife, both, should take initiative in keeping the marriage romance alive and hot! Today's podcast is an encouragement to keep pursuing romance; keep marriage exciting. Understand that years and experiences bring changes, but the fire of love never has to go out!
“Fans” go to extreme measures to show allegiance, love, and gratitude to that or to who they are a fan of. In this podcast, the Boggs encourage us to be fans of marriage and family! Are you a fan of your spouse? Who knows that you are really in love and thankful for your spouse? Is it clear to the whole world? As a fan, we build up marriage and individually encourage our spouse. Let’s be marriage fans, champions of marriage, showing the whole world the love of Christ as we love one another!
The Bible is clear; we have an enemy, an adversary, that desires to “devour” us! Because of that, we are warned to be attentive. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life and find ourselves lulled to sleep by our routines. In turn, we are often numbed to the tricks that the enemy can play to keep us distracted. In this episode, Eric and Gena encourage us to wake up, to pay attention, and to be intentional about the things and the people that God has given each of us! It is time to Wake Up!
Sex is a big deal and it’s God’s plan for marriage! In this episode, Eric and Gena talk plainly about the value of sex in marriage. As a married couple, is your sex life all God intended it to be? What can you do to make it better than it is today? Some simple changes could bring a new level of satisfaction and fun! And—- God would be pleased with that!
Each of us have an attitude. Is yours worth catching? Does it match up to the “…attitude of Christ” we are called to in Phillipians 2:5-10? In episode #42, the Boggs discuss attitude, effort, and emotions and how they all affect us and our relationships. It’s true in life as a whole, but especially true in marriage and family—- “Attitude is everything!”
How do you deal with conflict at home? Are you good at resolving conflict? Many of us are terrible at dealing with conflict and confrontation. However, with it being a real part of life and relationships, we must be able to conquer and move forward from these times in life. We can come out on the other side of these times as stronger, better, and closer if we navigate effectively. Will you be the peacemaker in your home? Join Eric and Gena as they discuss the value of conflict!
Discussions this week continue from episode #38. Have your thoughts about your spouse, your family, and your home gotten stuck in the negative? Are you building tension in your home by consistently thinking the worse or assuming the worse. We must move away from negativity! But, how? This podcast gives some practical ways to set your mind on the good things and in that, see your home and family relationships transformed.
In close family relationships, it is easy to get caught up in the negatives—the things that were not done, or not said, the frustrations and aggravations, the let downs and the failures. It takes an intentional effort to focus and set our mind on the good things! A foundation built with a focus on strengths changes everything. If you look for what is wrong, you’ll always find it. So, where is your focus set? Tune in as Eric and Gena talk about thinking on the good things!
Eric and Gena continue discussions on parenting in this podcast. They encourage us to see that there’s no room for passivity in our parenting approach. The focus today is unconditional love— in the form of affirmation, acceptance, and approval. How can we be intentional about these aspects? How can we exemplify our Fathers’ great love in our love to our children? It can all seem overwhelming, but God graces and leads and enables us all as we parent! Be encouraged as you listen today! Parenting with love IS POSSIBLE!
Parenting with love may not always appear so loving. As parents, we must love unconditionally, but that means that sometimes, we love with a tough love—meaning that we, as parents, are willing to do the hard things in parenting. We must be willing to correct, to lead, and to encourage children towards all that God planned for their lives. In that, we must be willing to provide direction and even discipline, if needed. Eric and Gena share their experience and godly wisdom in this podcast to lead us in parenting with love!Visit our website at homematters.family
In his perfect description of love in 1 Corinthians 13, Paul says that love never gives up! In other words, it is tenacious, committed, and not easily stopped. It is the love that Jesus—our Savior—-has for us! It is a love that stands by its vow even when others are unloveable and not lovely. Join podcasts #34 as Eric and Gena talk about this tenacious, never-give-up kind of love.
This episode is romance–part 2! Eric and Gena discuss how romance is interpreted by men and women individually within the marriage relationship. They also spend some time talking about how the enemy attempts to steal what God intended from couples in relation to romance. There are “romance killers” that sneak up on couples and being aware of those is the first step in maintaining romance through the years!Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/
How does romance fit into a marriage relationship? Is romance alive in YOUR marriage relationship? We can’t negate the picture of romance that is painted in God’s Word. The embrace of a couple and the intimate relationship that’s addressed is clear. For a married couple, romance is intended; but intent must be taken to keep the romantic love alive! Join in for part 1 of this discussion on romance!Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family
What an incredible gift that God has given us— L O V E! The emotion of love is the fun part, but there are also components like the commitment of love and the truth of love that often require some work. This episode takes a walk through the well known “love chapter”….. 1 Corinthians 13. This episode takes a practical look at how we apply this LOVE chapter in our everyday lives! Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
The Bible is clear about the power of words! The Boggs are always adamant in making sure that the people they lead know—--”Your life is being framed by the words that you speak, and constructed by the decisions that you make.” Keeping our words and emotions in check is key to building solid relationships that weather the storms that family life can offer. We must be able to overcome the temptation to be led by feelings and swayed by the desire to say whatever we “feel” in a particular situation or moment. God, help us all to Shut Up & Grow Up!Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
Since we’ve just moved past the Christmas season, the story of Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus is fresh in most minds. In this episode, Eric and Gena take a look at the responses of Mary and Joseph in their “not-so-ideal” situation. What they modeled about dealing with difficult circumstances can serve as a lesson to us all! Marriage and family life can offer some uncomfortable situations at times, but the principles outlined here, from a very old story, will work in 2023!Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
In this abbreviated version of HomeMatters podcast, Eric and Gena take a few minutes to share about family in the holidays and to wish all HM podcast listeners a very Merry Christmas!Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
In this second part of The Intentional Marriage series, Eric and Gena share some practical steps to living the EXTRAordinary life in marriage that God designed for us. Your marriage isn’t to be ordinary; and surely not status-quo. However, some new habits may need to be formed, some intentional pursuit may need to become our mode of operations, and some planning may need to be incorporated. These along with several other tips may help move us towards the relationship in marriage that we now only dream of having. The “Intentional Marriage” will result in an EXTRAordinary marriage!Visit our website at https://www.homematters.family/Sign up for the Marriage Matters Getaway at https://beechsprings.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1469221
God has an EXTRAordinary life planned for each of us! He’s also been preparing us, all of our lives, for what He has prepared for us. However, the life God has planned for us won’t just happen! We must be intentional about doing the things we can do to usher in that amazing life. No less is true for your marriage! Marriage is a good thing—created by God for companionship and pleasure and to reveal God’s love to this world. But—that incredible fairytale marriage won’t just happen either. There must be some action put behind our words and some habits of intentionality formed. Join Eric and Gena in part 1 of this eye opening discussion!
Do you ever find yourself trying to be a people pleaser? We often look for approval from people by trying to align our lives with the opinions those people have expressed. With that, it is easy to succumb to building our home and family on culturally accepted opinions rather than on the opinion of the only One that really matters—Jesus Christ! The importance of knowing God’s opinion on home and family, and knowing God’s nature is the focus of this podcast. It is truly ONLY His opinion that matters!
As a follower of Christ, your best days are ahead! But—it won’t just happen! In this episode, Eric and Gena continue with thoughts about living an intentional life and they share several “intentional acts” that will make a lasting difference. With some intent and pursuit, you can have the marriage, family, and life that God desires you to have. “...the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.” Psalm 33:11 No matter where you are in your marriage and family life, God still has a good plan for your home! Will you partner with Him to see all that He has for you and your house?
Most of us are aware of at least a few things that we could start doing today to make our marriage and family life better. Eric and Gena talk about the importance of the intentional life; the life that turns knowledge and gained wisdom into action. God never intended our lives to be ordinary and status-quo! But—-rising above ordinary, will take intention and pursuit. Ask God to soften your heart and show you where you can start—today—on a new journey to an extraordinary life!
Although each of us are given the same amount of time, how do some people seem to accomplish so much more than others in their allotment? Being good stewards of time takes being intentional, every minute of the day! How well are you doing as a family in managing and making the most of your time? Is your life led by your schedule? Or, do you set the schedule and manage your activities and appointments? Has busyness become your constant mode of operation? Take a few moments and join Eric and Gena as they talk through the importance of managing life well when it comes to our time.
How willing are you to give up your preferences when it comes to having your way? Are you willing to admit when you’re wrong? Compatibility—Flexibility—Willingness to bend. Each of these are necessary in any relationship. It’s just not easy to give in or give up when you know you’re right or when you want your way! In this episode, Eric and Gena discuss navigating through these times when the need to “give” shows up!
In this episode, Eric and Gena continue discussing God’s big expectations for each family member in a household. God clearly defines the roles of the husband, the wife, the parents, and the children in a home. These may seem like big expectations, but they come with big promise when lived out in obedience to the design! Be challenged, as you listen, to examine your personal expectations and how they align with what God has outlined for you and the other members of your family. God’s expectations, when realized, lead to big things in a home—much productivity and much fruitfulness! We aren’t left to figure out the “job” description on our own. Get God’s design on it all and see how well it works!
In any job we undertake in life, clear expectations are of much benefit. In the corporate world, job expectations are outlined and are usually followed with evaluations. In family life, we often waver between what others expect and what we expect. However, God has clearly defined His expectations and has plainly established parameters for every “position” in a family. In part 1 of “Big Expectations”, Eric and Gena begin discussing God’s big expectations—for each family member in general and specifically. This episode will challenge you to reconsider your expectations and to evaluate how you’re doing on your “job” in your family.
Could your expectations be less than what God intended for you, your home, your marriage, and your family? Eric and Gena challenge us in this episode of HomeMatters to look past our unmet expectations and the delays in life that may have disillusioned us. They challenge us to commit to live into God’s amazing plan and into His desired destiny for our lives—as couples and as a family. God hasn’t changed His mind about all the good things He has for us! “The plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations.” Psalm 33:11
Family life can easily consume all of our time and energy. In that, we can become very inward focused. In this episode, Eric and Gena remind us of the bigger picture—--of the higher calling that we all have. That calling is to serve, to be involved in community, to give back wherever you can, and to realize that family life isn’t just about you and yours—-the moment, your accumulation of stuff, or your momentary happiness. There is always a bigger picture where God is involved!
In this episode, Eric and Gena continue their discussion from podcast #12, “I Want Your Sex”. God did create sex, us as sexual beings, and the act of sex as a part of married life. Scripture is shared on the importance of intimacy in this episode. The Boggs also encourage married couples to schedule, plan and enjoy this gift and their intimate relationship as God has instructed!
Statistics show that many couples do not experience true intimacy nor do they enjoy or find fulfillment in their sexual relationship in their marriage. Eric and Gena share on this subject from the premise that God has given married couples this gift—to be enjoyed, prioritized, valued, and not ignored! God–the creator of sex—places not only a high premium on sex in the marriage relationship, but He makes it clear that this part of our life is to be enjoyed within the marriage relationship. Sex IS God’s big idea! AND—-He wants your sex life! Give it to God, nurture this part of your life and see what God can do!
Busyness, full schedules, and the never ending list of things to do—all these real life things often make it difficult to enjoy the journey of life. Outside of the everyday life things, family life can bring negative experiences and struggles that drain the fun and enjoyment out of life. However, God’s Word is clear that we should find times of laughter, joy and fun in family life! It takes time, planning, and intentional energy, but enjoying the journey is possible!
In this episode, Eric and Gena look at the needed commitment in a marriage to continue growing and learning—learning about each other and about your own role in the relationship. There is always room for improvements and change for the better! Don’t settle or get stuck in stubbornness, careless ways and irritability. Know that the best is always ahead if you will commit to maintaining your sense of wonder and enthusiasm about all the possibilities of what God has in store for your marriage. Isaiah 1:17 is a good marriage life verse–”Learn to do well”!
Stop! If you hesitate to listen to this podcast about a getaway, you probably need it more than you think you do! Are you bored in your marriage? When was the last time you and your spouse went out on a date or had a weekend away? Most everyone is busy. It may not seem like you have the time, the money, or even the energy for a getaway. However, you may be robbing your relationship of valuable time that you need to refresh your marriage. Every married couple needs a getaway! Every married couple must be intentional about finding times to exit the routine of their busy lives to refocus and renew their love! Join Eric and Gena in this podcast as they share the benefits of a getaway to marriage.
Is love really a choice and a decision? Is love an emotion? Can you choose to love when you feel no emotion of love? In this edition of HomeMatters, Eric and Gena discuss just what love is and how we can continue to operate in love towards people when their behaviors and actions toward us make it difficult.
Raising kids can be both challenging and rewarding. The perception of parenting is usually not cast in a very positive light in the world in which we live. In this episode, Eric and Gena talk about how raising children can actually make a home and marriage stronger.
High demands? Unrealistic expectations? Does this describe you or the perception you have of your spouse? Too many demands may be causing the atmosphere of your home to be unhealthy. Lighten up….. It may be the key to a more healthy home and more enjoyable atmosphere!
In podcast episode #4, Eric and Gena began the discussion about the importance of discovering, or rediscovering, and aligning our homes and family relationships with God’s design and plan. In this episode, they revisit the book of Genesis to share 3 starting places for getting back to the original design.
Discovering and following God’s original intent and design for marriage and family helps us and our homes be more effective in establishing a godly culture in a world that desperately needs direction! As we align our homes with God’s plan and order, we will see positive results that prove to be a testimony of how God intended it all to work from the start.
Join Pastors Eric and Gena as they share thoughts from Genesis, where it all began!
Most of us have dreams, plans, and a vision of what marriage and family will be like. However, sometimes we find ourselves living beneath our dreams. Just a few years into the relationship, we may be disillusioned or disappointed at our place in life. It’s important to examine our starting place—our foundation. We must find the truth of God’s Word as it relates to our marriage and family and we must get the starting place—-the foundation, right if we are going to build a home that is strong.
God created marriage and He knows how it works best. We must acknowledge God and His desired involvement in our home and family. We don’t have to do family life alone! God gives instruction and He wants to be involved! He has much to say about how marriage and relationships work. In this time together, examine the scriptures with Eric and Gena as they lead you in seeing what God has to say about building your home and about the importance of your home's foundation.
No couple enters marriage with a plan to fail. No couple enters marriage anticipating the day when their marriage isn’t fun anymore, or when they don’t feel in love anymore, or when they just aren’t enjoying life together anymore. So what happens to get marriages in a place of stagnation, or even the point of no expected return?
In this episode, Eric and Gena encourage you to ask yourself some hard questions and to evaluate where you are in marriage. Are you on the road to more intimacy, more love, more fun, and more impact in your world as a couple? Or, has your marriage taken THE DIVE? They will also talk about 4 things that may be leading you into THE DIVE. God’s intent is always MORE for your life! You don’t have to lose that first love!
Everything that happens in our homes matters. The relationships that are based there and all the matters of the home affect everything about our everyday lives. There are decisions to make, children to raise, and relationships to navigate. Eric and Gena admit that they have so often needed help and direction in navigating home and family life and how they’ve found that there are Biblical principles and a God-ordained plan that, if followed, will prove to bring productivity in all aspects of family life.
In this first episode, Eric and Gena introduce themselves and the HomeMatters podcast. They share their vision for this weekly podcast; why they feel the topics of marriage and family are so important; and how the Biblical principles shared in God’s Word are the answer for making sure the matters of your home matter in all of life.