Talk About It

PODCAST · religion

Talk About It

We take relevant topics with a Biblical point of view and we, "Talk About It". "Talk About It" with Pastor Don Smith: Where faith meets real life. Each season, we take a deep dive into one relevant topic – from current events to timeless struggles – and explore it through a Biblical lens. We tackle the big questions, cultural shifts, and personal challenges, offering perspective, insight, and meaningful conversation grounded in Scripture. Join us as we "Talk About It", you know you want to..... AND SO DO I! LETS, "TALK ABOUT IT". 

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    Victim to Victor Part 8 - It Aint Over Part 2

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWe've reached the season finale of Victim to Victor, and we're ending exactly where we need to be: standing face to face with the stone that says "The End. Hopeless. It's Over."In this episode, we return to Lazarus in John 11. He's dead. Four days dead. Mary and Martha have rolled the victimhood gravestone over the door of their faith. They met Jesus not as victors, but as victims: "If you had been here, our brother wouldn't have died."But Jesus doesn't rebuke them. He speaks to their faith. "Did I not say that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" The first resurrection that day wasn't Lazarus—it was the faith of Mary and Martha.Maybe you're looking at your own victimhood gravestone today:A marriage hanging by a thread, no spark left.A relationship with your child that feels dead.Sickness that has ruled the day.Financial struggle with no way out.A walk with God so cold you don't even feel His presence anymore.The devil wants you to call it done. Pull the plug. Roll the stone and walk away.But this is the moment for Holy Ghost paddles. You've been praying and seeing nothing but flatline. Don't quit. One more shock, and you could have conversion—from sickness to health, sorrow to joy, bound to free. You're on the verge of a breakthrough. On the edge of a miracle.When Jesus finally said, "Take away the stone," Martha wavered: "Lord, by this time he stinks." Translation: We've moved on. We don't want to be victims again. But Jesus jolted them back: I'm not afraid of the stink of victimhood.Then He cried out, "Lazarus, come forth!" And the dead man came out, still wrapped in grave clothes. Jesus gave the final command: "Loose him, and let him go."That's what God is saying to you today: Victimhood, loose him and let him go.We close with the rest of the story—Lazarus sitting at the table with Jesus, and people coming not just to see Jesus, but the man who was dead and raised. They couldn't dispute the miracle. And they believed.Psalm 126 says, "When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing." God is about to do something so magnificent, you'll say, "Somebody pinch me—this is too good to be true." No, it's not too good to be true. It's because we serve a too big God, a too much God. Not just the God of enough—the God of too much.I prophesy: You're next in line.Say it with me one last time:I don't believe it's over.I am not a victim.I am a victor.Key Scriptures: John 11:38-44, John 12:1-2, 9-11; Psalm 126:1-3Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 7 - It Aint Over Part 1

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comHave you ever looked at a situation that had "done, finished, just give up" written all over it? We've all been there. The devil thrives on our pain and frustration, but God specializes in taking the worst and making it a doorway to His greatest glory.In this episode, we turn to one of the most powerful stories in Scripture: the death and resurrection of Lazarus (John 11). Mary and Martha watched their brother get sick, then die. They sent for Jesus. He didn't come. He waited—deliberately—until Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days.Why the delay? Because God was going for a greater glory. If Jesus had healed Lazarus before he died, people would have said he wasn't really that sick. But raising a dead man? That's undeniable.Here's the hard truth we rarely recognize: When we cry out for a miracle, we assume God's full attention is on our need. But God's ultimate desire is to grow us up, reveal Himself more fully, mature our faith, and be glorified. He is more committed to your confidence in Him than to your immediate comfort.Mary and Martha had "we believe you can heal him" faith. But when Lazarus died, their faith died too. They rolled the stone over the tomb—not just a boulder, but a victimhood gravestone that said, "Our victory ends here." When Jesus finally came, they met Him as victims, scolding Him: "If you had been here, our brother wouldn't have died."But Jesus wasn't after a healing. He was after the focus of their hearts.This is hard to swallow, but it's the key to moving from victim to victor: God loves you dearly, but His ultimate reason for everything He does is His own glory. That means when He does it, how He does it, where He does it—even if He doesn't do it at all—everything is determined by the degree of glory it will bring to Him. Your victory has everything to do with His glory. If God leaves you as a victim, it robs Him of glory.So hold on. Don't roll the stone closed on your situation. The battle isn't about you fighting the devil—victory is ultimately about worship. Who will you serve? You serve what you worship. Fear, doubt, bitterness, hopelessness—these are symptoms of victimhood. But when you intentionally worship God, even in the delay, you step into victory.It ain't over till the Victor sings. And the Victor is Jesus.Key Scriptures: John 11:1-6, 11-44Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 6 - Next Steps Part 2

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWe've talked about the need to cross over—to stop standing still and start moving forward. But howdo we actually make that transition from victim to victor? In this episode, we unpack five concrete steps from Joshua 3–5 that show us the way.1. Keep your eyes on God. Joshua told the people to focus on the Ark of the Covenant—the visible symbol of God's presence. Today, we have the Spirit living in our hearts. In every transition—marriage, parenting, career, cancer, empty nest—God says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5-6). Don't look at the giants. Look at the Guide.2. Prepare your heart. "Sanctify yourselves," Joshua commanded. Not because holiness is earned, but because transition demands renewed consecration. We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). In times of change, we need to become even more conscious of God's presence and set ourselves apart for His purposes.3. Move out! The priests had to step into the overflowing Jordan before the waters stopped. Not after. God often waits for our first step. Don't be the person who always prepares but never pulls the trigger. There comes a moment to commit, to risk, to get your feet wet. "He who began a good work in you will complete it" (Philippians 1:6).4. Make a testimony. God commanded Israel to take twelve stones from the riverbed as a memorial for future generations. Why? Because we have poor memories. Those times when God provided at the last minute? Cherish them. Pass them on. Your testimony isn't just for you—it strengthens others facing their own Jordan.5. Surrender. Before Joshua could face Jericho, he met the Commander of the Lord's army. Joshua asked, "Are you for us or for our enemies?" The answer? "Neither. I've come to take over." The question isn't whether God is on your side—it's whether you're on His. Joshua fell on his face and worshiped. That's surrender. And that's where victory begins.We close with the rest of Lisa's story. Her next step was forgiveness—years before that phone call ever came. When the moment arrived, she was ready.What is your Jordan? The full surrender that must precede taking hold of God's promise? Focus your eyes. Consecrate your life. Move out. Remember. Surrender. The path from victimhood to victory is simply the next step.Key Scriptures: Joshua 3:1-5, 4:1-7, 5:13-15; Proverbs 3:5-6; Philippians 1:6; 1 Peter 2:9; Isaiah 43:2-3 (The Message)Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 5 - Next Steps Part 1

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWe continue our Victim to Victor series with a powerful truth: The journey from victim to victor requires leaving. The paralysis of victimhood is simply not knowing how to leave.Life is full of turning points—transitions from one stage to another. Childhood to adolescence. School to work. Marriage, grief, relocation, aging. Change is inevitable, whether we choose it or it’s forced upon us. The secret to success in any transition? Attitude.In this episode, we look at Israel’s second great crossing—not the Red Sea, but the Jordan River (Joshua 3). The Red Sea ended 430 years of slavery. The Jordan ended 40 years of wilderness wandering—years of going in circles, striving but never arriving, living by sight, fearing the enemy, and being constantly reminded of past failures.Standing on the banks of the Jordan, the Israelites faced a new obstacle. Behind them was the barren wasteland of discipline. Ahead were walled cities, armies, and giants. Forty years earlier, their parents refused this same transition. But this generation, under Joshua, was ready.The crossing of the Jordan is not just an escape—it’s a whole new way of living. Victims spend their lives trying to escape what happened to them. Victors discover a new way of living.We share a deeply personal moment: Lisa’s flashback years into our marriage. Why would God allow that painful memory to resurface? Because that moment became her turning point—no longer just trying to escape the trauma of that night, but a true crossover from victim to victor.Transition is bittersweet. It’s freedom and fear all at once. It’s scary to stop trusting your own resources and start trusting God completely. But the question is: Will you cower in fear of what lies on the other side, or will you move forward in confidence to enter a new place of promise?It’s time to take your next step.Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 4 - Misplace Faith Part 2

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWe've spent three episodes tracing Israel's journey from the edge of promise to the disaster at Hormah. Now, in Episode 4, we pause to ask: What can we learn from their mistakes? And more importantly, how can we avoid repeating them?Drawing from Numbers 14 and 15, we uncover three critical lessons about the victimhood complex:1. Victimhood leads to a wrong interpretation of God's promise.We often take a promise meant for a specific time and apply it prematurely. When God doesn't move on our timetable, impatience sets in, and we try to "help" Him. Victimhood convinces us God has been unfaithful. But the real problem is our "but" attitude: "We have sinned, BUT we will go up anyway." That little word "but" reveals a heart unwilling to accept consequences. Grace is not a license to keep sinning (Romans 6:1-2).2. Victimhood ignores that actions bring consequences.Yes, God forgives. Yes, His grace is limitless. But forgiveness doesn't automatically remove the natural results of disobedience. The Israelites learned that submission to God must come beforeresistance to the enemy (James 4:7). The extent of your submission determines the extent of your victory.3. Victimhood corrupts our motives.Why did Israel suddenly want to fight? Not out of faith, but to escape discomfort—to reverse God's judgment. How often do we pray just to avoid pain, without asking what God wants to teach us? Jesus in Gethsemane prayed for the cup to pass, but He submitted: "Not my will, but yours be done." The world's greatest victim became the world's greatest Victor because He refused to live as a victim.Here's the good news: Israel's story didn't end at Hormah. In Numbers 15, God speaks again: "When you have come into the land I am giving you…" A new generation would arise—full of faith, humbled confidence, and purified motives.Some of you have made wrong choices you can't reverse: a broken marriage, a failed career, a child born into difficult circumstances. You cannot change the past. But that does not mean you must live as a grasshopper for the rest of your life. God's divine power has granted us everything pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Your promised land is still waiting.The victor looks beyond God's promise to God's purpose. Don't let victimhood steal your future.Key Scriptures: Numbers 14:40, 15:1-2; Romans 6:1-2; James 4:7; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Matthew 26:39Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 3 - Misplaced Faith

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comCan you fail while relying on God? That’s the uncomfortable question we tackle in this episode as we continue our Victim to Victor series.We pick up the story in Numbers 14. The Israelites have all the evidence of God’s promise, provision, and presence—yet they stand paralyzed at the edge of Canaan, convinced it’s better to return to Egypt than to face the giants. That night, two and a half million people wail in fear. God’s judgment is swift: forty years of wandering for that generation.But then something curious happens. After hearing the verdict, the leaders suddenly decide nowthey have the faith to go into the land. They rush into battle—without Moses, without the Ark of the Covenant, without God’s presence. The result is utter destruction, chased “as bees do” all the way to Hormah, a place whose name means “complete devastation.”What went wrong? They had a promise, but their faith was misplaced. They assumed that because God had promised the land, any attempt to take it—at any time, in any way—would be blessed. They treated God’s promise like a magic formula, ignoring the conditions, ignoring His timing, and ignoring His clear warning not to go.We explore three forms of victimhood that lead to misplaced faith:Deliberate rebellion against God’s commands.Careless application of God’s will—doing what seems good without consulting Him.Taking promises out of context, ignoring the conditions attached to them.Victimhood convinces us that we know better than God. It makes us reject godly wisdom and rush ahead with our own plans, even praying for God to bless them. But when we move without His presence, we end up beaten and wondering why He didn’t show up.The key lesson: faith is not presumption. God’s promises are received by faith, but their application often involves spiritual conflict, timing, and submission to His will. Don’t let victimhood trick you into treating God’s Word like a blank check.Key Scriptures: Numbers 14:1‑4, 19‑23, 44; Deuteronomy 1:44Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 2 - Overcoming the Victimhood Complex part 2

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWe continue our Victim to Victor series by asking a crucial question: How do I know if I’m stuck in a victimhood complex?In this episode, we dig into the hidden signs—the subtle ways victimhood takes root—by looking back at the ten spies who returned from Canaan with a fearful report. Despite overwhelming evidence of God’s promise, protection, and provision, they couldn’t see anything but giants. Sound familiar?We explore how victimhood is ultimately characterized by a doubting heart. It’s that double-mindedness James warns about—keeping one eye on God and one eye on the world, shifting focus from trust to blame. When we’ve trusted God and been disappointed, or tried and failed, victimhood whispers that we can never fully trust Him again.But the cost of victimhood is high:It makes us content with spiritual mediocrity.It blinds us to our own victory (even the Canaanites were terrified of Israel—yet Israel saw themselves as grasshoppers).Most sobering, victimhood risks the future of everyone around us. The ten spies nearly cost an entire nation their destiny.So what’s the remedy? We unpack two critical truths:Recognize the reality of the warfare. This isn’t a small skirmish; it’s an all‑out battle for your mind.Understand the battlefield is the mind. Renewing your mind (Romans 12:2) and wielding the sword of the Spirit—God’s Word—is how we “cast down imaginations” that hold us captive.Whether your wall is a failed marriage, bitterness, fear of relationships, a hidden habit, or the fear of failure itself, you are called to occupy territory. Faith doesn’t operate in the realm of the possible; it begins where human power ends. God delights in impossibilities, and you’ll never test His resources until you attempt what seems impossible.The key question: How will you respond? Will you face your fears and move ahead with God, or shrink back into the comfortable desert of “I can’t”?Do not be a victim to past disappointments or present obstacles. Arm yourself with God’s Word and trust Him in your moment of greatest need.Key Scriptures: James 1:6‑8, Romans 12:2, Ephesians 6, Joshua 2:9Support the show

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    Victim to Victor Part 1 - Overcoming the Victimhood Complex

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWelcome to Season 9! We’re kicking off a powerful new series called "Victim to Victor," and in this premiere episode, we’re diving deep into the foundational issue that holds so many of us back: the victimhood complex.Have you ever been given a challenge or a dream by God, only to shrink back in fear, convinced you aren't able to achieve it? You’re not alone. In this episode, we explore a familiar biblical story through a fresh lens: the 12 spies in Numbers 13. After 400 years of slavery, the Israelites stood at the edge of their Promised Land—a land of prosperity, provision, and peace. But when faced with their destiny, fear took hold.We’ll break down:God's Strategic Instruction: Why facing reality and making a plan isn't a lack of faith, but a prerequisite for victory (Ephesians 6). We’ll discuss how victimhood convinces us our story has no happy ending and blinds us to the resources God has already prepared for us.The Two Reports: Twelve spies saw the exact same thing—a rich land filled with giants. Yet, two (Caleb and Joshua) saw opportunity, while ten saw only disaster. What made the difference? We’ll explore how your perspective determines whether you see giants or see God.The Language of the Victim: The ten spies said, "We felt like grasshoppers." That voice of victimhood whispers the same things to us: This addiction is too big. This marriage can't be fixed. This loss has crippled me forever.The enemy uses your past to keep you a victim, but God has a different idea. It’s time to stop turning back to Egypt and start taking possession of the abundant life Jesus promised.Join us as we learn how to exchange the "grasshopper mentality" for the courageous faith of those who move from victim to victor.Key Scriptures: Numbers 13:25-33, Ephesians 6:10-13, Psalm 27:1, John 7:37-38Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 9 - Counting the Cost

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this powerful final episode of our Sexual Purity series, we gather everything we've learned and ask the ultimate question: Are you ready to commit—or recommit—to a life of sexual purity?Drawing from the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, we explore the cost of impurity, the beauty of true repentance, and the hope that awaits those who turn back to the Father.We begin by confronting the enemy of repentance: rationalization. It's easy to make excuses—"I couldn't help the first look"—while deliberately placing ourselves in compromising situations. True repentance means removing temptation and changing the choices that expose us. For those who have fallen, there is hope: whether you're single and have lost your virginity, or married and have broken trust, God offers forgiveness and the chance to embrace secondary virginity—remaining sexually pure from this day forward (1 John 1:9). Forgiveness doesn't erase all consequences, but it stops the damage today and opens the door to future blessings.We then explore the non-negotiable need for accountability. You cannot win this battle alone. Scripture warns that bad company corrupts good character (1 Corinthians 15:33), and those who fall into sexual sin often lack bare-knuckle, no-nonsense accountability. We share the powerful example of a "911" group—friends committed to being available in the moment of temptation, not just after the fall. Honesty about our sin is good, but honesty about our temptation is even better. Who are your 911 friends?We also count the cost of sexual sin: disappointing the Lord, losing virginity, mental images that plague, greater likelihood of future sin, unwanted pregnancy, and disease. But we make one thing absolutely clear: premarital sex is a sin, but pregnancy is not. Children should never pay the price for an adult's sin.Yet this episode is not meant to discourage—it's meant to rally the troops. Using illustrations from The Hobbit and Greek mythology, we expose the sobering truth: Satan knows the chinks in our armor, and his aim is deadly. The church today has grown careless, morally soft, and entertained by what offends God. But our God longs to forgive, restore, and deliver us from the road to death.We close with a final, urgent call: Is sexual impurity your Achilles' heel? If so, these nine episodes may save your life and family from ruin. God doesn't want us paralyzed by fear, but walking daily with Christ, guarding our hearts, and keeping covenant with our eyes. Then—and only then—we go our way "in safety" and "not be afraid" (Proverbs 3:21–26).One final question hangs in the air: Are you ready? Now is the time. Nothing is more fleeting than the moment of conviction. God has made a universe where righteousness is rewarded and unrighteousness is always punished. Purity is always smart; impurity is always stupid. But for those who repent, there is grace beyond measure—a Father who runs to meet us, robes us in righteousness, and calls us His own.If we plant purity today, we will reap a rich harvest. And by the grace of God, we will look back on our lives not with regret, but with joyful gratitude.Key Scriptures: Luke 15:11–32; Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9; 2 Timothy 2:21; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Proverbs 3:21–26; Jeremiah 17:10Join us for this culminating episode as we answer the call to live set apart, embrace the Father's forgiveness, anSupport the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 8 - Guidelines for Married People

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this crucial eighth episode of our Sexual Purity series, we shift our focus to those in covenant relationships—married couples and parents. Because purity isn't just a personal battle; it's a family commitment. Drawing from Scripture and practical wisdom, we explore how to cultivate a thriving marriage, guard against infidelity, and raise children who understand and embrace God's design for sexuality. We begin with a sobering reality: too many marriages have been destroyed by casual relationships at work, school, or even church that slowly turned into infatuation. We need an early detection system because a relationship can become inappropriate long before it becomes sexual. This means being alert with our words, our eyes, and our body language—and cutting through Satan's smoke screen before we choke on it. The heart of this episode is learning to cultivate and guard your marriage. All adultery begins with deception, and most deception begins with "innocent" secrets. Christian marriages face the same struggles as any other, but we have a supernatural resource to draw upon. When boredom, resentment, or hurt creep in, the answer is never a "new person"—it's a fresh appreciation for the old one.We explore how to rekindle attraction to your mate. Starve your eyes for anyone but your spouse. What we focus on shapes our desires—so by denying bad appetites and meditating on the right things, including being "captivated" by your spouse's love (Proverbs 5:19), you can train yourself to desire what is right. Your spouse's qualities aren't airbrushed or temporary—they're real and lasting.Honesty is essential. Lust thrives in secrecy; nothing defuses it like exposure. If your spouse can't be honest with you about struggles, examine your own response. Do you get defensive? Feel sorry for yourself? Create an atmosphere where honesty can flourish. Confession brings pain, but it also brings growth and deeper intimacy (James 5:16).Then we turn to the next generation: raising pure children. The greatest legacy we can give our children is a loving, affectionate, and pure marriage. Children rarely fail to imitate us. We must:Train them in choice and consequence, wisdom and foolishnessTeach them to love righteousness and hate sinModel and teach self-control—it flows into every areaMaintain gracious but firm control over their relationships and media habitsAvoid double standards—if it's not okay for children, it shouldn't be okay for adultsProtect children through modesty and open conversationFinally, we address your child's sex education. Every child receives sex education—the only questions are when, where, and from whom. Parents should be the primary and ultimate sex educators, framing sexuality not just as biology but in the context of value, responsibility, and marriage. Answer questions honestly and age-appropriately. Don't wait until it's too late. Be positive—talk about the goodness of sex within marriage. And if someone else is teaching your child about sex, it's your job to know what's being said.This episode is a call to action for every married person and every parent. Purity is not just personal—it's generational. By guarding our marriages and discipling our children, we build a legacy of holiness that honors God and protects those we love.Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 7 - Guidelines for Singles

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this essential seventh episode of our Sexual Purity series, we address the unique challenges and questions faced by singles—whether you're young, never married, divorced, or widowed. In a culture that saturates singleness with sexual temptation, how do we live righteously? Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15:33 and other key scriptures, we offer biblical wisdom and practical guidelines for navigating this season with integrity.We begin by acknowledging the unprecedented pressures on singles today: leisure time, money, social media, transportation, and a media culture that portrays premarital sex as normal—all compounded by the gap between puberty and marriage. The result is overwhelming temptation. But God has not left us without direction.So we tackle the question every single wrestles with: How far is too far? The answer is rooted in understanding God's design. Sexual drives are real, and when stimulated, they naturally move toward climax. Foreplay is designed by God to culminate in intercourse—so if intercourse is forbidden outside marriage, so is foreplay. The line must be drawn before either person becomes sexually stimulated. Fondling and any activity that results in arousal is off-limits. Once your body crosses that line, your convictions won't stop it. If you want a different outcome, you must make different choices—and draw the line far enough back that neither of you crosses it.We also explore the power of choosing friends wisely. Bad company corrupts good character (1 Corinthians 15:33). We become like the people we spend time with, so surrounding ourselves with godly influences is not optional—it's essential for survival.For those considering dating, we offer this perspective: dating is an option, not a necessity. Much temptation comes from the social custom of coupling and isolating young people. If you choose to date, we provide clear, biblical guidelines:Date only believers (2 Corinthians 6:14)Remember Christ is with you all eveningTreat your date as a brother or sister in Christ, not a lover (1 Timothy 5:1–2)Go out in groups, not aloneFocus on conversation, not contactAvoid fast-moving relationships and instant intimacyPlan the entire time in advance—no gapsNever be alone in compromising settings: couches, cars, late nights, bedroomsStay accountable to someoneRemember God is always watching (Jeremiah 16:17)Write out your standards and enforce them yourselfDon't do anything with your date you wouldn't want someone doing with your future spouseBeware of the "moral wear down" in long dating relationships and engagements (1 Corinthians 7:8–9)This episode is not about legalism—it's about love for God and wisdom for the journey. Purity is possible, but it requires intentionality, boundaries, and a dependence on Christ that reshapes every decision.If you're single and wondering how to honor God in your relationships, this episode offers clarity, hope, and a roadmap for walking in purity until marriage—or in contentment and holiness as a single person.Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 15:33; Colossians 2:20–23; 2 Timothy 2:3–6; Galatians 5:22–23; 2 Corinthians 6:14; 1 Timothy 5:1–2; Jeremiah 16:17; 1 Corinthians 7:8–9Join us for this practical, grace-filled episode as we learn to navigate singleness with wisdom, honor God with our bodies, and discover that purity is not aboutSupport the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 6 - Getting Radical

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this confrontational and necessary episode of our Sexual Purity series, we tackle the uncomfortable question Jesus Himself raised: How radical are you willing to get? Drawing from Matthew 5:27–30, we examine what it truly means to take drastic action when our eyes, minds, and hearts are under assault.We begin with a shocking illustration: if I invited you to peek through a neighbor's window or hide in the bushes at a make-out spot, you'd call me a pervert. But if I invited you to watch Titanic—which contains those very scenes—suddenly it's "great entertainment." This exposes a dangerous double standard. We have become entertained by sin, normalizing what God calls abomination, and in doing so, we train ourselves and our children to lust.Satan's strategy is simple: make sin normal. But Scripture calls us to something far different. Proverbs 8:13 says, "To fear the Lord is to hate evil." Yet how can we hate evil when we are being entertained by it? Ephesians 5:3–5 warns that impurity must not even be named among us. This episode forces us to hold our entertainment choices up to the light of God's Word.Then we turn to Jesus, the Radical. His words about gouging out eyes and cutting off hands are shocking by design—He wants us to take sexual temptation with life-or-death seriousness. The eye and hand are not the causes of sin, but they are the means of access. If we are going to follow Jesus, we must govern ruthlessly what we see and do.This leads to practical, radical action. If certain people, places, or contexts make sin more likely—stay away. If cable TV is a snare—get rid of it. If the internet is a battlefield—install filters, move the computer to public spaces, or disconnect entirely. These aren't legalistic rules; they're lifelines. As Romans 13:14 commands, "Make no provision for the flesh."We address the objections: "That's too radical!" No—Jesus is radical. Followers of Christ have endured torture and death for Him. Can we not sacrifice television and internet for the sake of our souls? Purity comes only to those who want it badly enough to do whatever it takes.Finally, we offer practical tools: internet filters, accountability partners, resources like https://www.pluggedin.com for entertainment discernment, and even TV fasts to reclaim time for what truly matters. This episode is a call to stop making excuses and start making different choices—because if you want a different outcome, you must make different choices.The battle for purity demands more than good intentions. It demands radical obedience. And the reward is not just freedom from sin, but the joy and peace that can only be found in wholehearted devotion to Christ.Key Scriptures: Matthew 5:27–30; Ephesians 5:3–5; Proverbs 8:13; Romans 13:14Join us for this uncompromising episode as we answer the question: How desperate are you for victory? How radical will you go for Jesus? The path to purity is narrow—but it leads to life.Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 5 - Wise Strategies

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this practical and hope-filled fifth episode of our Sexual Purity series, we move from understanding the battle to equipping you with wise strategies to win it. Using the memorable “Parable of the Doughnut,” we illustrate a critical truth: sincere intentions and prayer alone are not enough—we must have clear, deliberate strategies and diligently carry them out.We open by imagining a man who vows to quit doughnuts—praying, seeking accountability, and meaning business—yet continues to surround himself with doughnut culture. The result? Predictable failure. So it is with sexual temptation. Victory requires more than desire; it demands actionable wisdom.Our first and most basic strategy comes straight from Scripture: Flee! (1 Corinthians 6:18). When it comes to sexual immorality, it pays to be a coward. Like Joseph in Genesis 39, we must not only refuse to sin but refuse to be near what tempts us. We explore why it’s always easier to avoid temptation than to resist it, and why keeping your distance isn’t legalism—it’s lifesaving obedience.But fleeing is only the beginning. We must also cultivate our inner life. Self-reformation and “trying harder” will never break lust’s grip. Lasting change flows from time with God—on our knees, in His Word, and in accountable community. As we set our minds on Christ (Colossians 3:1–5), He empowers us to put to death the works of the flesh.Prayer is our lifeline—not just after we fall, but before the battle begins. Jesus calls us to “always pray and not give up” (Luke 18:1). Many feel defeated, believing victory is impossible, but God would never command what He does not empower. This episode confronts the lie that we must wait for heaven to live in purity, declaring that we are called to be overcomers now (1 John 5:4).Through personal testimony, we share how victory is built one day at a time—in 24-hour increments of dependence on God’s grace. You can turn away, shut your eyes, walk out, and click away. Because of Christ, you are not powerless.If you’re tired of good intentions that lead to failure, this episode offers a roadmap: flee, cultivate, pray, and persevere. Redemption is real. Grace is enough. And victory is not a distant dream—it’s a present possibility for those who live in the power of the risen Christ.Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 6:18; Genesis 39:10–12; 2 Timothy 2:22; Colossians 3:1–5; Luke 18:1; 1 John 5:4Join us as we move from struggle to strategy, and from defeat to daily victory.Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 4 - The Battle Is In The Mind

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this pivotal fourth episode of our Sexual Purity series, we confront the truth that tomorrow’s character is made out of today’s thoughts. Sexual sin doesn’t appear out of nowhere—it’s the predictable result of a process that begins in the mind. Drawing from Matthew 15, we explore how Jesus raised the standard of purity far beyond external behavior to the very thoughts of our hearts.We begin by examining where lust comes from—not from out of the blue, but from within. What we feed our minds determines the person we become. As the saying goes: Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.That’s why your most important sex organ is not your body—it’s your mind.Victory starts with setting wise boundaries. Many of us want purity, but we sabotage ourselves by making choices that feed lust instead of starving it. Through personal testimony, we discuss practical boundaries—from avoiding certain places to guarding our eyes—not as legalistic rules, but as lifesaving habits that protect our hearts “above all else,” as Proverbs 4:23 commands.But we can’t just try not to think about impurity. The mind is not a vacuum—it will be filled with something. Instead, we learn to fill our minds with what is pure, true, and lovely (Philippians 4:8). Using a memorable illustration about snakes and chocolate cake, we demonstrate how pure thoughts actively push out impure ones. You can’t stop birds from flying over your head, but you can stop them from nesting in your hair.Finally, we confront what lust does to us—it’s mental promiscuity, a sickness of the soul that marriage cannot cure. Like arsenic, lust poisons us gradually, but through repentance, accountability, and the renewing of our minds by God’s Word and Spirit, freedom is possible. This episode is a call to make a covenant with our eyes, to flush out the poison, and to experience the superior satisfaction found in a mind transformed by Christ.If you’re ready to move beyond willpower and win the battle where it really begins—in your thoughts—this episode offers biblical truth, practical steps, and hope for lasting change.Key Scriptures: Matthew 15:10–20; Proverbs 4:23; Philippians 4:8; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 10:5Join us as we learn to guard our minds, set life-giving boundaries, and discover the freedom that comes when we think God’s thoughts after Him.Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 3 - Targeted

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comEpisode 3: Targeted — Spiritual Warfare, Lies, and the Superior Satisfaction of PurityIn this urgent third episode of our Sexual Purity series, we face a sobering truth: if you are a Christian, you are a targeted man or a marked woman. Hell has taken out a contract on you. Drawing from the story of Achan in Joshua 7, we explore how Satan seeks to destroy lives through seemingly “harmless” compromises—especially when we are tired, isolated, or discouraged.We begin with a crucial warning: pride is the prelude to a fall. Assuming “it could never happen to me” is the very attitude that leaves us vulnerable. Spiritual warfare is real, and the enemy waits for moments of weakness to pounce. But we are not unaware of his schemes.One of Satan’s oldest tricks is the illusion of privacy—whispering that no one will know. Yet Scripture is clear: there is no such thing as a private moment before God. Sexual sin will be exposed, and its consequences are far-reaching—damaging our fellowship with God, nullifying our prayers, and hurting those around us, just as Achan’s hidden sin brought judgment on his family and nation.But how do we fight back? We learn to identify Satan’s lies. Temptation always looks good—like a beautiful fishing lure designed for destruction. In every moment of temptation, we must choose whose voice to believe: God’s truth or Satan’s deception.Ultimately, victory is not found in mere willpower, but in superior satisfaction. Lust promises relief, pleasure, and happiness—but it cannot deliver. Only Jesus satisfies the deepest thirst of our souls. This episode makes the case that saying “no” to immorality is not saying no to pleasure, but saying “yes” to the greater, lasting joy found in intimacy with God. When our hearts are satisfied in Christ, sin loses its appeal.If you’ve ever felt targeted, trapped, or tempted to believe that purity is too difficult, this episode offers biblical strategy, hope, and the bold reminder that He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.Key Scriptures: Joshua 7:1–26; 1 Corinthians 10:12; 1 Peter 5:5–8; John 8:44; 1 John 4:4Join us as we learn to stand firm, recognize the lies, and pursue the only satisfaction that truly lasts.Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 2 - What's the Big Deal About Sex?

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIn this powerful second episode of our series on sexual purity, we tackle one of the most pressing and misunderstood questions: Why does sex matter so much to God? Drawing from 1 Corinthians 6:18, we explore why sexual sin is uniquely damaging—not just as an act, but because it touches the very core of who we are.We begin by affirming that sex is not a human invention, but a sacred gift created by a holy God—declared “very good” from the beginning. Through passages like Proverbs 5 and the Song of Solomon, we see that God celebrates sexual pleasure within its intended context: the lifelong covenant of marriage.But sex is also incredibly powerful—like fire. Contained within its proper boundaries, it brings warmth, intimacy, and life. Outside of them, it brings devastation. Many have experienced the pain and hopelessness that comes from sexual brokenness, but there is hope. Purity is not a restriction; it is a pathway to beauty, freedom, and a reflection of heaven itself.We delve into the clear boundaries Scripture provides: sex and marriage are inseparable. Sex is designed to unite two persons—body, soul, and spirit—in a commitment that mirrors Christ’s love for His church. God’s design is not to deprive us, but to protect us, because His rules are always enforced, and breaking them always breaks us.Finally, we ask the most important question: Who owns your body? Using a simple but striking pencil illustration, we revisit 1 Corinthians 6:19–20: You are not your own. You were bought with a price—the blood of Jesus. Living in purity is not about following arbitrary rules; it’s about honoring the One who made you, redeemed you, and knows what is truly for your good.If you’ve ever wondered why God cares about sex, how to navigate temptation, or how to reclaim a life of purity, this episode offers biblical truth, honest reflection, and hope for the journey.Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 6:18–20; Genesis 1:31; Proverbs 5:18–19; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8Join us as we pursue God’s best—and discover why purity is worth the fight.Support the show

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    Sexual Purity Part 1

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comHave you ever chosen sexual impurity and then felt angry at God for the consequences that followed? If so, you're not alone. In this raw and honest launch of our new series on Sexual Purity, we tackle the heart of our struggle: we often see God's commands as restrictions stealing our joy, rather than the protective guardrails they truly are.This episode isn't about shaming you for past failures. It's about a fundamental shift in perspective that can change everything. We’re dismantling the lie that purity is a prudish rule and revealing the shocking, practical truth: Purity is always the smart choice; impurity is always a stupid one. There are no exceptions.We'll explore:The Idolatry Trade: How sexual impurity is, at its core, a transaction where we trade God's presence and future blessing for an immediate, empty experience.The Gravity of Consequence: Why, like the law of gravity, the painful outcomes of impurity are built into the act itself—shame, warped relationships, and a hollow soul.Enlightened Self-Interest: How God’s call to purity is His invitation to what is truly best for us, protecting our future joy, family, and purpose.This is a life-and-death issue. The world’s message has blurred the lines, leaving the church struggling with the same bondage. It’s time for clarity. Let's start by clearing the air: God isn't trying to rob you of pleasure. He's trying to save you from the slaughterhouse.If you’re tired of the cycle, feeling defeated, or have never understood the "why" behind purity, this episode is your crucial first step toward freedom and a rewarding life.#SexualPurity #ChristianLiving #FaithAndCulture #BiblicalTruth #NewSeries #GodsProtection #Wisdom #PodcastSubscribe now and join us next week for "What's The Big Deal About Sex?"Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 18 - Fight For Your Family

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comDoes your home ever feel like a war zone? What if the real battle isn’t within your family, but for your family? In this final urgent and empowering episode, we shift from defense to offense, learning how to fight the spiritual battle for our children’s hearts and our home’s health.Using the gripping story of Nehemiah, who rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls amid relentless opposition, we discover a powerful parallel for modern parents. The enemy is crafty and relentless, seeking to devour our families through external pressures and internal discouragement like fatigue, frustration, and fear. But we are not powerless.This episode is a battle plan. We’ll unpack four decisive strategies from Nehemiah’s playbook to help you stand guard and rebuild:Request God’s Help: Learn why prayer is your first weapon, not your last resort, in submitting to God and resisting the devil’s schemes.Rally Your Family: Discover the power of unity and how stationing your family on the “wall” of faith creates an unbreakable bond of love and protection.Remember Who God Is: Combat discouragement by fixing your eyes on the Lord who is “great and awesome,” trading your focus from the rubble of your problems to the Rock of your salvation.Reclaim Your Family: Hear the call to fight for your sons, daughters, and spouse—to never quit pursuing right relationship, no matter how difficult the season.This is a call to arms for every parent. It’s time to put on the full armor of God, sharpen your spiritual knives, and stand in the gap for your home.Tune in and learn how to stop fighting with your family and start fighting for them with faith, strategy, and divine power.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 17 - The Tool of Affirmation

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhat is the single most powerful force shaping your child’s sense of self-worth and future? It might not be discipline or instruction, but something more foundational: the reflection they see in your eyes. In this profound episode, we explore the life-changing biblical tool of affirmation and its crucial role in building the unshakeable, godly self-esteem every child needs.Moving beyond the world’s noisy conceit, we define true self-worth as a quiet sense of value rooted in being created in God’s image. Using Ephesians 5 as our guide, we unpack the divine call for parents to “nourish” (to bring out) and “cherish” (to protect) the priceless potential God has already placed within each child. Discover what happens when a child’s primary mirror is a parent who reflects God’s love, not a world that reflects their flaws.In this episode, you will learn three practical, biblical tools for effective affirmation:The Tool of Understanding: How to become a parent who “draws out” your child’s deep-hearted plans, gifts, and God-given interests (Proverbs 20:5).The Tool of Involvement: Why sharpening your child requires your direct, patient, and costly investment in their daily life and growth (Proverbs 27:17).The Tool of Reflection: How your words and attention act as the primary mirror that tells your child who they are—will you reflect failure or their sacred identity in Christ? (Proverbs 27:19).This is more than positive thinking; it’s spiritual warfare for your child’s identity. If you want your child to find their worth in God and not in the brutal opinions of peers or culture, this episode provides the biblical blueprint.Tune in to learn how to become the mirror that shows your child the saint God sees, not the sinner the world highlights.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 16 - The 7 Worst Mistakes In Parenting

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comAre you making parenting mistakes you don't even recognize? In this convicting yet hopeful episode, we turn to the wisdom of King Solomon—a man who learned parenting lessons the hard way—to expose seven of the most common and damaging traps well-meaning parents fall into.From the subtle error of "babying" your child to the spiritual neglect that undermines everything, these patterns can derail your family's health and your child's future. But there is a better way. Grounded in the timeless book of Proverbs, we examine each pitfall not to condemn, but to correct and redirect you toward biblical wisdom.We’ll unpack the seven worst things parents do, including:Babying Your Child: How over-pampering undermines confidence and creates rebellion.Putting Your Marriage Last: Why a child-centered home creates insecurity and endangers your future.Pushing Your Child Into Too Many Activities: The importance of balance and the lost art of the family meal.Trying to Be Your Child’s Best Friend: Why your children need a parent, not a peer, and the safety of healthy boundaries.Failing to Give Structure: How a lack of correction leads to chaos and prevents self-discipline.Expecting Your Child to Fulfill Your Dreams: The danger of living vicariously and how to steward your child’s God-given path.Ignoring Your Own Spiritual Life: Why your personal walk with God is the most critical factor in your parenting success.This episode is a loving intervention and a practical guide. If you’ve ever felt unsure or wish you had a clearer blueprint, Solomon’s divinely-inspired wisdom offers the course correction you need.Tune in to identify the traps, embrace the wisdom, and transform your parenting from guesswork into godly purpose.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 15 - Love and Discipline

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIs discipline the most difficult part of your parenting journey? You’re not alone. But what if our understanding of discipline is what’s making it so hard? In this transformative episode, we tackle one of parenting's toughest tasks by returning to God's original design, revealing that true biblical discipline is not about punishment, but about loving training for eternal life.Moving beyond frustration and anger, we explore what discipline truly is—and what it is not. We'll unpack the purpose of discipline as described in Hebrews 12 and provide the key elements that make it effective, including the non-negotiable roles of love, consistency, and courage. Finally, we look at the sobering story of Eli the priest to see the tragic consequences when a parent lacks the courage to discipline.In this episode, you will learn:What Discipline IS: It’s training in a way of life—an apprenticeship in godliness—not merely punishment for misbehavior.The Essential Elements: Why love is the foundation, consistency is the framework, and courage is the necessary tool for effective discipline.The High Cost of Neglect: The biblical warning of what happens when we fail to "restrain" our children.This episode is for every parent who wants to move from reacting to misbehavior to proactively shaping character. It’s a call to embrace the courageous, loving work of training your children in the way they should go.Tune in to discover how to discipline not from anger, but from love—preparing your children not just for life, but for godliness.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 14 - Parenting in Philistine Territory

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comDoes it feel like you’re raising your children in a world gone mad? Between cultural hostility, moral confusion, and unavoidable influences, parenting today can feel like carrying an open treasure box through a den of thieves. If you’re overwhelmed, you’re not alone.In this timely and empowering episode, we find hope and strategy in the unlikely story of Samson’s parents. They were given a sacred treasure—a promised child—in the middle of land dominated by a subtle, assimilating enemy. Their story provides a powerful blueprint for raising godly children in hostile territory.We’ll explore four crucial lessons from parents who succeeded against the odds:Recognize the Proximity of the Enemy: Understand the subtle, pervasive nature of modern cultural pressures that seek not to attack outright, but to assimilate and conform.Remember the Privilege of the Experience: Rekindle the joy and sacred honor of parenting amidst the daily struggles, remembering that your children are a heritage and blessing from the Lord.Seek the Prescription for Excellence: Learn where to find your “orders” and the importance of shielding your children from spiritual pollution while they are under your care.Prepare for Freedom: Navigate the difficult transition of letting go, understanding that preparation for a godly life in the world must be gradual and rooted in truth.This episode is a battle plan for faithful parenting. It’s for every mom and dad who feels the pressure of the Philistine territory we call modern culture and wonders if it’s even possible to raise faithful children within it.Tune in to be equipped, encouraged, and reminded that with God’s wisdom, you can raise children who not only survive but stand firm.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 13 - Godly Parents & Prodigal Children

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhy does it happen? Even with a perfect Heavenly Father, His children rebel. So why do children from godly homes sometimes walk away from their faith? This heartbreaking question is the focus of this deeply empathetic and practical episode, offering a road map for parents in the waiting.Building on the parable of the Prodigal Son, we move beyond the "why" to the "what now," outlining the three distinct stages of a child's rebellion and how a parent can respond with wisdom and faith in each one. This is for every parent watching their child make choices that break their heart.We walk through the three stages revealed in Luke 15:The Stage of REBELLION: What do you do when your child demands their freedom and walks away? We discuss the difficult but necessary steps of releasing control, allowing them to make mistakes, and resisting the urge to bail them out from the natural consequences of their choices.The Stage of RE-EVALUATION: How do you support your child when they hit bottom? This is the season for steadfast prayer, committing your child completely to God's care, and waiting patiently for the lessons of consequence to do their work.Stage of RETURN: How do you welcome them home? We explore how to love faithfully, accept unconditionally without approving of their lifestyle, and forgive completely—just as our Heavenly Father does for us.This episode doesn't offer easy answers, but it provides a biblical framework for your heartbreak and hope. It’s a reminder that the story isn’t over and that your role as a parent evolves but never ends.If you are in the painful gap between your child's rebellion and their return, this episode will equip you to wait with wisdom, love, and steadfast hope.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 12 - Parenting The Prodigal

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhat do you do when, despite your best efforts and deepest prayers, your child walks away from their faith? The heartbreak, the guilt, the fear for their eternity—it’s a pain many parents carry in silence. In this deeply compassionate and hope-filled episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we tackle one of the most difficult challenges a Christian parent can face: parenting the prodigal.Moving beyond the typical reading of the famous parable, we view it through the lens of the father, uncovering God's blueprint for navigating a child's rebellion without losing hope. This episode is for any parent who has ever blamed themselves or wondered, "Where did I go wrong?"We explore three crucial lessons from the perfect Father on how to handle a wayward child:Release the Illusion of Control: Understand that a child can choose rebellion even with a perfect Heavenly Father, and learn to release the crushing weight of guilt by trusting in their God-given free will.Allow Consequences to Teach: Discover why, like the father in the parable, rescuing your child from the natural consequences of their choices can actually hinder the very repentance that brings them home.Never, Ever Stop Watching and Hoping: Learn how the foundational truths you instilled are not forgotten, and how to keep the path home clear by reaffirming your love, maintaining hope, and being ready to celebrate their return without reservation.This episode is a balm for the weary soul. If you are waiting, praying, and longing for your child’s return, this biblical perspective will replace your despair with steadfast hope and your guilt with grace-filled purpose.Tune in to find comfort, clarity, and a renewed sense of hope while you wait for your prodigal to come home.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 11 - Surviving The Teenage Years

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comThey used to hold your hand; now they're worried you'll embarrass them. They used to think you were awesome; now they think they know everything. If you're in the trenches of the teenage years—or if you're holding a sweet baby and feeling terrified of the future—this episode is for you.In this honest and hope-filled episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we tackle one of the most challenging phases of parenting: adolescence. We get real about the shift from the physically exhausting baby stage to the mentally and emotionally exhausting teen stage. But this isn't a lament; it's a survival guide.We go back to the foundational wisdom of Proverbs 22:6 to unpack two crucial truths for every parent of a teen:Your Influence is STILL #1: Despite the eye-rolls and arguments, studies—and Scripture—confirm that you remain the most powerful influence in your teen's life. We discuss how to wield that influence wisely when it comes to their views on faith, morality, and their future.This is a Team Sport (And Dad's on the Field): We dismantle the myth that parenting teens is solely a mother's job. We explore the vital role of fathers in leading with guidance, not just discipline, and why it truly takes a "Christian village" to raise a child through these years.This episode offers no magic formulas, but something better: biblical perspective, grace, and the freeing truth that God loves your teenager even more than you do. You are not alone in this.Tune in to trade your anxiety for a strategy grounded in faith, influence, and community.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 10 - The Mantle of Motherhood

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comTo all the mothers feeling the weight of packed lunches, endless laundry, and 3 AM prayers—this episode is for you. In this empowering and deeply encouraging finale of our Biblical Parenting series, we speak directly to the heart of the home: the mother.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, underappreciated, or wondered if your daily sacrifices truly matter, get ready for a fresh infusion of purpose and Holy Ghost fire. Motherhood is not just a role; it is a mighty mantle—a God-given assignment to shape destinies.We get real about the struggles and then fan the flames of your calling with three practical, spirit-filled ways to build your children up:The Flame of Prophetic Declaration: Learn how to speak your child's God-given destiny into their present, calling forth the courage of Joshua or the heart of David through your words and prayers.The Flame of an Atmosphere of Worship: Discover how, as the gatekeeper of your home, you can shift the spiritual climate from stress to God's presence through simple, consistent acts of worship.The Flame of Grace-Fueled Connection: Build an unbreakable bridge of relationship through intentional time and the power of modeling humility and repentance, showing your children that faith is real and grace is for everyone.This is more than a podcast episode; it’s a fresh cake and jar of water for your weary soul. You are a prophet, a worship leader, and a grace-dispenser. Your work is sacred, and your labor is not in vain.Moms, tune in to be reminded that you are anointed, seen, and raising world-changers for the King.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 9 - Duct Tape Lessons for Dads

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comCalling all dads! In this unique and down-to-earth ninth episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we’re grabbing a roll of every handyman’s secret weapon—duct tape—to uncover five powerful lessons for biblical fatherhood.Just like the versatile tape that has held everything from ammo cases to spacecraft together, God calls dads to be strong, resilient, and crucial to the family's mission. Drawing from 1 Timothy 3, we break down the "Duct Tape Doctrine" into practical, memorable takeaways for every father:STICK TO THE MAIN THING: Learn how to adhere to Christ above all, because without Him, we can do nothing.BE STRONG BUT FLEXIBLE: Discover the quiet strength of meekness—holding your ground on major issues while being wise enough to bend on minor ones.HOLD IT TOGETHER: Embrace your God-given role as the leader who maintains the fabric and unity of your family.DON’T GET EXPOSED TO THE WRONG ELEMENTS: Identify what breaks down your integrity, health, and relationships—and how to avoid it.DON’T THINK YOU’RE THE PERMANENT SOLUTION: Find freedom in the truth that you are not meant to fix everything, but to point your family to the One who truly holds all things together.This episode is a challenge and an encouragement for every dad who feels the pressure to be everything. It’s a call to be the strong, faithful, and godly leader your family needs, all by relying on the ultimate source of strength.Dads, tune in and get equipped to stick to your calling.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 8 - Mentors Not Tormentors

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comDo your children see you as a guide or a critic? Are you building them up with wisdom or tearing them down with demands? In this practical and empowering eighth episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we turn to the Book of Proverbs to discover how to become a positive mentor in your child's life.We explore the profound truth behind the command to "train up a child," focusing on the upward journey you are called to lead. Moving beyond frustration and friction, we break down four foundational principles for positive, effective parenting straight from Proverbs Chapter 1:Give Clear INSTRUCTIONS: Learn how to set loving, understandable boundaries and explain the "why" behind them, so your discipline is rooted in teaching, not just punishment.Provide Godly INSIGHT: Discover how to move beyond teaching your kids how to make a living, and instead teach them how to live—grounding them in the most important things: a relationship with God and healthy relationships with others.Exert Positive INFLUENCE: Understand why your example speaks louder than your words, and how spending consistent, intentional time with your children is the most powerful teaching tool you have.Instill Lasting INTEGRITY: See the beautiful outcome of this process—raising children whose character is a beautiful ornament of grace, more valuable than any cultural trinket.This episode is for every parent who wants to trade the cycle of criticism and correction for a legacy of wisdom and influence. Learn how to guide your children upward by becoming the mentor they need.Tune in and transform your parenting from a source of tension to a fountain of godly wisdom.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 7 - Parenting Like An Eagle

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comAre you raising your children to be dependent on the nest, or are you preparing them to soar? In this inspiring seventh episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we look to one of God's most majestic creatures—the eagle—for a stunning model of how to move our children from dependence to independence.Using the powerful imagery from Deuteronomy 32, we contrast the ineffective parenting styles of the chicken (teaching our kids to scratch for anything) and the ostrich (hiding from problems) with the purposeful, strategic methods of the eagle. We break down the five crucial stages of "Eagle Parenting":DISTURB the Nest: Learn why, as a loving parent, you must sometimes turn your child's comfort zone upside down to show them they were meant for more.DRAW NEAR: Discover how to flutter nearby with encouragement and support, assuring them of your presence even as you push them to grow.DEMONSTRATE: Understand the critical importance of "spreading your wings" and showing them—not just telling them—how to handle people, problems, prosperity, and pressure.DEVELOP Them: Find the courage to "shake them off" and let them make their own decisions, understanding that the fear of their failure should not stop you from giving them the test.DELIVER Them: Learn how to keep a watchful eye, ready to swoop in and bear them up just before they hit the ground, teaching resilience through your support.This episode is a call to action for every parent to stop settling for low-flying goals. If you want to raise children who are equipped to fly on their own and fulfill their God-given potential, this biblical blueprint is for you.Tune in and learn how to trade your apron strings for eagle's wings.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 6 - Parenting In Perilous Times

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comDo you ever feel like the culture is slowly seducing your family, not with a direct attack, but with a series of subtle compromises? In this urgent and empowering sixth episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we look at the story of Samson’s parents, who raised their son in a time eerily similar to our own—a time of spiritual decay and cultural pressure.Using a powerful analogy of a wolf being seduced by its own thirst, we expose how the enemy works to make us complicit in our own downfall. But in the midst of this spiritual crisis, a faithful couple shows us the way forward. They reveal the four pillars of successful parenting, even in perilous times:Recognize the PRIVILEGE: See your children not as burdens, but as a sacred gift and trust from God—your most important assignment.Embrace the RESPONSIBILITY: Understand your role in guiding your child toward God’s purpose, communicating vital truths about life, sin, and consequence.Admit Your DEPENDENCE: Learn to “leave the driving to God,” trusting His direction through prayer and obedience more than your own strength.Accept Your LIMITS: Find peace in the sobering truth that you cannot live your child’s life for them, releasing them to God while never ceasing to pray.This episode is both a warning and a source of great hope. It’s for every parent who feels overwhelmed by the cultural currents and wonders if it’s even possible to raise godly children today. The answer is a resounding yes.Tune in to learn how to build a family that doesn’t just survive our cultural moment, but stands out within it.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 5 - Who is in the Driver's Seat Part 2

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comYou’ve identified the pressures and recognized the need to lead—but how do you actually do it? In this empowering episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we move from diagnosis to prescription. We're sharing four practical, biblical steps you can start implementing today to parent the way God intends and confidently lead your children.This episode is your action plan. We dive into four transformative strategies that will help you reclaim your role as a loving, godly leader in your home:Let God’s Word Speak: It’s more than just reading Proverbs. We discuss how to make the Bible the ultimate authority on everything from finances to morality, and how to model this so your kids catch a passion for God’s truth.Encourage Godly Values: With stats showing we criticize far more than we encourage, we explore how to become a student of your children, actively praising signs of godliness and modeling the values you want to see.Always Be Approachable: Shocking surveys reveal who teens really turn to for help. We tackle how to become a safe harbor for your children—the first person they come to with any question or problem, not the last.Teach Obedience: This isn’t about harshness; it’s about love and character. We break down why your primary concern isn’t your child’s temporary happiness, but their lifelong character, and how teaching first-time obedience is a profound reflection of their future relationship with God.This is where the rubber meets the road. If you’re ready to trade overwhelm for a clear, biblical game plan, don’t miss this concluding episode.Tune in and get equipped to lead your family with faith, confidence, and love.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 4 - Who's In The Driver's Seat?

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comFeeling like your family is being driven by financial pressures, hectic schedules, social comparisons, and moral chaos? You’re not alone. In this pivotal fourth episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we tackle the overwhelming pressures modern parents face and ask the critical question: Who is really in the driver's seat of your home?We start with a foundational truth from Psalm 127: your children are not a burden or an inconvenience; they are a precious gift and heritage from the Lord. From that starting point, we identify the four major pressures pushing parents out of the driver's seat:The Financial Pressure: The endless cycle of costs that can strain any budget.The Time Pressure: The frantic pace of life that leaves little room for connection.The Social Pressure: The exhausting race to keep up with what "everyone else" is doing.The Moral Pressure: The sobering reality that our kids are bombarded with immorality, and the stats show the church is not immune.This episode is a wake-up call and a reset. We confront the uncomfortable truth that when we yield to these pressures, we often abdicate our God-given role as leaders, allowing our children to take the wheel. But there is a better way. We discuss what it looks like to reclaim your place, not as a harsh dictator, but as a loving, steady leader who steers the family toward God's design.If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed and ready to lead your family with confidence, this episode is your roadmap.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 3 - Faithful In Parenting

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comFeeling the pressure to be a perfect parent? You're not alone. In this encouraging third episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we're letting go of the impossible standard of perfection and embracing the biblical call to be faithful parents.Using the powerful and relatable metaphor of the Apostle Paul as a spiritual parent, we explore a practical blueprint for raising our children. This isn't about a flawless recipe, but about a faithful relationship aimed at one primary goal: helping our children "live lives worthy of God." We break down this mission into two key parts:The TARGET: What is the ultimate goal of our parenting? It’s not just well-behaved kids, but children who grow into adults who love and serve God. We discuss how keeping this eternal target in sight changes our daily priorities.The TACTICS: How do we hit that target? We explore three essential, grace-filled tactics Paul models for us:Encouraging: How to be our child's biggest cheerleader, building them up with our presence, touch, and words.Comforting: How to create a safe, "skin-on" refuge in our homes—a place where hurts are healed and hearts are accepted.Urging: How to motivate and discipline not with threats, but by bearing witness through our own godly example.If you’ve ever felt like you’re at your strength’s end, this episode is for you. Join us for a hopeful conversation that will equip you to build a legacy of faith, one encouraging word and comforting hug at a time.Tune in to trade the burden of perfection for the freedom of faithfulness.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 2 - God's Plan for Parenting

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIs your parenting style building up your child or breaking their spirit? In this powerful second episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we move from theory to practice, examining God's clear and practical plan for the parent-child relationship found in Colossians 3.We tackle the often-challenging command for children to obey and explore the crucial parental responsibility that makes it possible. This conversation is for any parent who has ever felt too harsh, too lenient, or just plain lost. We break down the three key components of God's plan:The Command to Obey: We discuss why teaching obedience is an act of love, how it shapes a child's character, and what the startling statistics about parental influence really tell us about our own faith.The Role of a Steward: Your children are a gift from God, entrusted to your care. We explore what it means to be a steward of their hearts and how to faithfully pass down your faith to the next generation.The Balance of Discipline: How do we correct our children without crushing them? We delve into the two extremes—being too lenient or too harsh—and look to God’s model of fair, loving, and grace-filled discipline that corrects without discouraging.This episode is a challenging and hopeful look at our God-given role. Join us as we learn how to raise responsible, faith-filled adults without exasperating them along the way.Tune in to discover the balance of biblical discipline and grace.Support the show

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    Biblical Parenting Part 1 - The World's Greatest Undertaking

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhat is the greatest accomplishment of your life? In this foundational episode of our Biblical Parenting series, we explore why successfully raising your children is of the highest magnitude—a legacy that outlasts careers, accolades, and personal achievements.Drawing from Deuteronomy 6, we unpack God's blueprint for parenting that shapes not just behavior, but hearts. We discuss the three non-negotiable pillars every Christian parent must build upon:Right Living: Why your personal relationship with God is the absolute starting point. You cannot lead your children further than you have been yourself.Right Loving: The critical importance of loving the Lord supremely, ensuring nothing—not a job, a hobby, or anything else—becomes an idol that sends a mixed message to your kids.Right Learning: How to diligently teach God's Word to your children, not just with rules, but by saturating your everyday life with it, creating a lasting appetite for Him in their hearts.This is a challenging but hopeful conversation for every parent. We are building a legacy. Join us as we ask the crucial question: If my child grew up to be a Christian just like me, would I be pleased?Listen now and be encouraged to embrace this holy calling.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 10 - Marriage Season Finale - Contract or Covenant

    Send us Fan MailWhat if your wedding wasn’t just a ceremony—but a blood oath before God? In this seismic season finale, we uncover the ancient covenant roots of marriage (Genesis 15:9-21) and why treating vows as "loophole-friendly contracts" destroys relationships. Discover how Abraham’s bloody path with God redefines everything about your commitment.You’ll learn:The gruesome ritual: Why couples walked through halved animals (and what it means for you)4 non-negotiable pillars of covenant marriage:Before God’s face: He’s not a guest—He’s the enforcer of your vows (Deut. 23:21-23)Before witnesses: Why your community must hold you accountable (Matt. 18:16)Serious enough to die for: No “outs” for bad behavior, poverty, or sickness (Ruth 1:16-17)Escape-proof: Death is the only exit (Matt. 19:6)We confront modern myths:“I deserve happiness” → Covenant says: “You deserve faithfulness”“We grew apart” → Covenant says: “Grow together or bleed trying”“But the state allows divorce” → God says: “What I joined, man can’t separate”Raw moments:The pastor who told a divorcing man: “Oh no you’re not—I heard your vow!”Why Lisa and I argue differently: “We’ll be together in 50 years—fix this NOW”God’s shocking solo walk through the blood path: “If you fail… I’ll pay” (foreshadowing the cross)Ask yourself:Do I treat my marriage like a crackerjack contract (looking for loopholes)?Or a blood-sealed covenant (staking my life on it)?Where have I valued “happy” over faithful?Final call:Your marriage isn’t about you—it’s a living portrait of God’s relentless commitment to His people. Stop negotiating terms. Start walking the bloody path.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 9 - Marriage Value # 6 - Holiness

    Send us Fan MailForget choir robes and checklists—real holiness is your marriage’s secret weapon. In this paradigm-shifting finale to our core values series, we unpack Value #6: Radical Holiness (Galatians 5:22-23) and why reflecting God’s character creates fiery, life-giving unions. Discover how misdefining holiness nearly destroyed one couple’s marriage… and how reclaiming it unleashes supernatural connection.You’ll learn:The holiness myth: Why “prayer/Bible time = holy” is incomplete (and dangerous!)Eddie’s wake-up call: How he judged his wife’s gentleness as “unholy”—while missing his own joyless religiosityThe 9-Point Marriage Makeover: How love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control transform:Conflict → ConnectionResentment → RepairDuty → DesireWe expose toxic traps:Measuring holiness by tasks (not transformed character)Overestimating your spirituality while underestimating your spouse’sLetting religious performance mask relational brokennessWhy holiness = ultimate intimacy hack:Reality alignment: Closeness to God = closeness to true life (John 10:10)Toxic-proofing: “Nothing poisonous grows” in holy groundConflict disarmament: Ownership > blame (James 5:16)Addiction breaker: Relentless growth crowds out destruction3 Game-Changing Reflections:Does your “holiness meter” prioritize fruit (Gal 5) or just functions?Where is God’s character (patience/kindness/gentleness) visibly growing in your marriage?Are you pursuing self-transformation… or Spirit-dependent surrender?Stop checking boxes. Start bearing fruit. Tune in to discover why holiness isn’t stiff—it’s the soil where fierce passion, radical honesty, and unbreakable faithfulness take root.Take off the choir robe. Get holy.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 8 - Marriage Value # 5 - Compassion and Forgiveness

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhat if the greatest threat to your marriage isn’t your spouse’s failures… but your response to them? In this raw episode, we confront Value #5: Compassion & Forgiveness (Colossians 3:12-14) – the divine armor for imperfect marriages. Discover why "hardness of heart" (Matt 19:8) kills more relationships than any sin.You’ll learn:The unavoidable truth: "Honey, I’m a sinner. I will fail you." (Eccl 7:20)Why demanding perfection:Builds walls of resentmentTurns you into judge/jury/executionerDestroys far faster than any failureThe 4 Pillars of Radical Compassion:Humble Identification: “Your sin is my sin” (no moral superiority)Weakness Partnership: Using strength to heal, not condemn (2 Cor 1:3-4)Dangerous Vulnerability: Tearing down walls you built (like Christ on the cross)Repentant Ownership: No cheap grace – change proves forgivenessWe expose toxic patterns:Punishing imperfections instead of covering sins (1 Peter 4:8)Using your “strength areas” as weaponsBuilding walls then blaming your spouse for distanceHope for broken places:“No failure is larger than grace”“No hurt exists love cannot heal”How God’s model of stooping (Phil 2:5-8) redeems marital woundsTransform your response today:→ Trade criticism for co-suffering→ Swap judgment for joint healing→ Replace walls with wartime vulnerabilityClothe yourselves. Because only compassion lets imperfect people love imperfectly—forever.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 7 - Marriage Value # 4 - Faithfulness

    Send us Fan MailWhat if "being faithful" means far more than just avoiding an affair? In this eye-opening episode, we unpack Value #4: Radical Faithfulness (Mark 10:1-9) – the bedrock of trust that lets you rest care-lessin your marriage. Discover why many "physically faithful" couples are emotionally unfaithful... and why that’s just as dangerous.You’ll learn:Why physical faithfulness alone is incomplete (and what "emotional adultery" looks like)The 8-fold meaning of faithfulness: Trust, Confidence, Assuredness, Conviction, Fidelity, Truth, Permanence, RestHow avoidance breeds unfaithfulness (the husband who turned to porn/flirting to escape his critical wife)Why hobbies, workaholism, or secret crushes sabotage connection as much as affairsThe critical difference between covenant (unconditional) vs. contract (performance-based)commitmentWe confront hard truths:"If you’re using anything to avoid your spouse, you’re already unfaithful""Blaming your spouse for your unfaithfulness is spiritual immaturity" (2 Tim 2:13)"All physical unfaithfulness begins with emotional detachment"Special grace for:• Singles • Widowed • Divorced • Those in broken trust(Your stake in godly marriage matters!)Ask yourself:Can my spouse rest care-less knowing I’ll keep promises?Where am I withholding parts of myself?Do I depend on work/hobbies/fantasies more than my marriage?Rebuild your safety net:Reject excuses ("I wasn’t getting what I deserved")Close escape routes (emotional, digital, relational)Anchor in covenant, not conditionsTune in to discover why faithfulness isn’t dogged determination—it’s the freedom to be fully known, fully trusted, and fully secure.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 6 - Marriage Value # 3 - Honesty

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhat destroys marriages faster than affairs or financial betrayal? Deception. In this raw episode, we confront Value #3: Radical Honesty (Ephesians 4:25) – and why hiding the truth is the ultimate intimacy killer. Discover why God designed marriage as a "fig-leaf-free zone" and how lies silently suffocate your connection.You’ll learn:Why deception is the "unforgivable sin" of marriage (it makes forgiveness impossible)The 5 hidden fears driving dishonesty (fear of abandonment, being "known," control, inadequacy, and your own desires)How small lies create doubt tsunamis that reduce communication to "small talk"The critical balance: Honesty WITHOUT love/grace destroys – but honesty WITH them rebuildsThe moment deception enters, true relationship ENDS (even if you stay together)We expose common dishonesty hotspots:• Hidden feelings • Sexual struggles • Secret spending • Unspoken disappointments • Covering failuresBut there’s hope! 6 Practical Ways to Build Trust:Ban punishment for truth-telling (consequences ≠ shame)Give "free rein" to verify facts without defensivenessGently police each other’s honesty (accountability > accusation)Heal the fears behind lies (e.g., "I’ll never abandon you like __")Get external accountability for your own dishonestyUse discernment (timing matters for hard truths)Why this transforms marriages:"Knowing" your spouse deeply is the closest thing to paradise on earth. When you remove the fig leaves, you reclaim God’s design for intimacy. Tune in to learn how total honesty – bathed in grace – becomes your marriage’s unshakeable bedrock.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 5 - Marriage Value # 2 - A Love For Spouse

    Send us Fan MailWhat if "real love" in marriage has almost nothing to do with feelings—and everything to do with surgery tables, marathons, and daily choices? In this raw episode, we unpack Value #2: Love for Your Spouse** (1 Corinthians 13:4-8) and why it’s the non-negotiable engine of lasting connection.Discover why most couples misunderstand love: - It’s NOT about gratification, romance, or security (though those are sweet byproducts)  - It IS about seeing your spouse "as yourself" —especially when you least want to  - The shocking moment a husband "finally saw his wife’s terror" during his anger (and wept)  You’ll learn how covenant love transforms marriages through:  Deep Identification: "Would you want to be married to YOU?" Why feeling *the weight of your actions* changes everything  Costly Commitment: "Why marriage is heart surgery"—and why *jumping off the table early* kills relationships  Security > Performance: How the promise "I won’t leave" unleashes true growth (vs. anxiety-driven perfection)  Action Over Emotion: Why "do the things you did at first" (Rev 2:5) reignites cold marriages more than feelings ever could  We confront hard truths:  - Why emotional checkout is just as destructive as physical abandonment  - How self-centeredness masquerades as "love" when we only value what gratifies *us*  - Why confronting addiction or spiritual stagnation *is love*—even when it’s painful  Practical steps to live out 1 Cor 13 love daily, even when your spouse feels undeserving. Because covenant love isn’t magic—it’s the daily choice to, "fight for your marriage like it’s fighting for its life".  Support the show

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    Marriage Part 4 - Marriage Value # 1 - A Love for God

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWhat if the greatest source of hope for your struggling marriage isn't found in your spouse... but in your relationship with God? In this powerful episode, we dive into Value #1 of lasting marriage: A Love of God (Mark 12:30). Discover why this isn't just a spiritual ideal—it's the lifeline for couples who've hit rock bottom.You'll learn:Why changing for your spouse often fails (and who you should be changing for instead)The surprising truth: When all human love feels gone, there's still hope if this one value is presentHow your marriage is a direct reflection of your relationship with God (Ephesians 5:22-33)Why religious guilt ("God hates divorce") destroys marriages—and what fuels true transformationThe critical question: "Can you only love your spouse as much as you love God?"What to do when one spouse loves God deeply and the other doesn't (1 Cor 7:12-14)We tackle raw realities: resentment, bitterness, defensiveness, and the lie that divorce is the only option. You’ll discover how surrendering to God empowers you to:Drop judgmentalism. Bite back sarcasm. Listen without defensiveness. Take ownership of unresolved hurts. PLUS: 4 Practical Ways to Cultivate This Value:Pray togetherRead Scripture togetherWorship togetherServe togetherIf your marriage feels limited by human effort, this episode reveals the divine reset button: "Lose your life to Him, and you will gain it." Stop trying to fix your relationship out of your own limitations—discover the power that redeems hopeless situations.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 3 - In Marriage You Have What You Value

    Send us Fan MailThe Worst Marriage Value Ever: Why Chasing Happiness Destroys RelationshipsEpisode Description:What if the #1 value couples chase in marriage is actually destroying their relationships? This week, we confront a dangerous myth: "You get what you tolerate." While it’s true that tolerating bad behavior invites more of it, we reveal the deeper truth from Matthew 6:21: What you value is what you’ll ultimately have.We expose why making happiness your core value is relationship poison. Through raw stories (like the man who wanted a "goldfish" instead of a wife!), you’ll discover:Why demanding constant happiness makes you miserableHow avoiding "unhappy" work sabotages true intimacyWhy crisis moments (James 1:2-5) are often God’s pathway to growth, not signals to quitThe childish mindset that sees marriage as mere gratificationBut there’s hope! We introduce the 6 life-changing values that transformed our marriage and will anchor yours:Love of GodLove of Your SpouseHonestyFaithfulnessCompassion & ForgivenessHolinessLearn how to:Build your marriage "frame" with these non-negotiablesCultivate your relationship garden for lasting harvestReplace happiness-chasing with righteous indignation against what destroys loveBecome the couple who does the work rather than just wants the rewardStop tolerating emptiness and start building what lasts. Tune in to discover why values shape destiny—and how choosing the right ones unlocks the marriage God designed.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 2 - Marriage Math, 1+1=1 Part 2

    Send us Fan MailMarriage Math: Why Adulthood is the Secret Ingredient to Lasting LoveIs your marriage truly a union of two adults? This week, we dive deep into the essential requirements of adulthood that make or break a thriving partnership. We explore why personal responsibility is the greatest gift you can give your spouse – and how blaming them for your unhappiness sabotages your connection. Discover why valuing your partner's unique "treasures" (and your own!) is non-negotiable for intimacy.We tackle the crucial mindset shift: "You Are Not Me." Learn why seeing your spouse as an extension of yourself is a recipe for self-centered disaster, how empathy is the bedrock of true closeness, and why respecting differences – not just tolerating them – is where real love grows.Finally, we confront the paradox of freedom: Why is it the prerequisite for deep love, yet so terrifying? Understand how control turns you into a slave master or parent (not a spouse!), why space strengthens connection, and how misused freedom fuels resentment – even affairs. We’ll explore the divine design of "Marriage Math" (1+1=1) and how balancing separateness with togetherness fulfills our deepest longing for relationship.Tune in to learn how embracing true adulthood – responsibility, valuing individuality, empathy, and respecting freedom – unlocks the marriage God designed you for.Support the show

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    Marriage Part 1 - Marriage Math: Why 1+1=1

    Send us Fan MailMarriage Math: Why 1+1=1Subtitle: The Surprising Truth About Biblical OnenessWhat if Hollywood’s version of marital "oneness" is missing the real math? In this eye-opening episode, we explore God’s radical equation for marriage: 1+1=1 (Mark 10:7-8). You’ll discover:Why the intoxicating "you complete me" fantasy often leads to marital hangoversHow true oneness demands two whole adults—not two halves seeking completionThe critical difference between complementing your spouse vs. demanding they complete youWhy marriage fails when we avoid personal growth (and how to fix it)Brace yourself for a truth bomb: Marriage isn’t a shortcut to wholeness—it’s where the already-whole build something sacred. If you’ve ever wondered why "happily ever after" feels elusive, this episode unpacks the mature, biblical blueprint for oneness that actually lasts.Where faith meets real-life relationships.Support the show

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    Dealing with Fear Part 7 - The Fear of Getting Out of the Box Part 2

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the "safe" Jesus you imagined vanishes in blazing glory? In this seismic conclusion to our Fearless series, we confront the uncontainable God revealed at the Transfiguration – and discover how holy fear shatters every chain holding us back.You’ll experience:🔥 THE DANGER OF GLORY (Matt 17:1-3)Why seeing Jesus' true ferocity ("a consuming fire" - Heb 12:29) wrecks our comfortable idolsThe raw power of His otherness: No hidden motives. No compromise. Absolute purity.How we shrink God to fit our boxes... and why that steals our courage🔥 HOLY FEAR UNLEASHED (Matt 17:4-6)Why the disciples fell face down – and why this awe is the antidote to toxic fearThe stunning truth: Without this fear, we’re spiritually foolish (Prov 1:7)When was the last time God’s glory left you breathless?🔥 TRANSFORMATION IGNITED (Matt 17:6-8)How holy fear births unstoppable boldness (Moses → Egypt, David → Goliath, YOU → ?)Your "big brother" moment: Walking with the Ferocious Jesus changes everythingWhy a "puny, fireless Jesus" leaves us terrified – but the real God makes us fearlessScripture doesn’t soften Him: "I kill and make alive" (Deut 32:39). "No one can hold back His hand" (Dan 4:35). This is the God who walks with you. When you meet Him – cancer cells, Africa, and giants crumble.Stop fearing life. Start fearing GOD.Your breakout life demands a breakout God.Support the show

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    Dealing with Fear Part 6 - The Fear of Getting Out of the Box Part 1

    Send us Fan MailAre we worshipping a "safe" God? In this powerful episode, we confront how fear keeps us trapped in spiritual smallness. We tear down the illusion of a tame, manageable Jesus and rediscover the ferocious, uncontainable God revealed at the Transfiguration.Jesus never called His followers to be cowards—yet we often cower from challenges, cling to comfort, and shrink from the unknown. Why? We’ve boxed God in. We want Him on-demand, predictable, and non-disruptive… but that’s not the God of Scripture.We unpack how:🔥 Our fear of God’s "big asks" (like the dreaded "missionary to Africa" scenario) exposes our small view of Him.🔥 Ephesians 3:20-21 reveals the real limitation: not God’s power, but our willingness to let it work through us.🔥 Knowing God intimately—like Moses, Isaiah, and the disciples—explodes our fears and fuels boldness (Dan. 11:32).This isn’t about comfort—it’s about awakening to His glory. Stop managing God. Start letting His magnitude in you unleash a fearless life.Join us as we begin tearing down the boxes and prepare to stand unafraid.Support the show

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    Dealing with Fear Part 5 - Overcoming Fear In A World In Crisis

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comWe are called to become a people of great confidence and boldness when facing the fears that plague our culture and the world we live in. In this world of problems and calamity we need not fear, we just need to be still and know that our God has all things under His amazing control. Support the show

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    Dealing with Fear Part 4 - The Fear of Disappointing God

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comA discussion I’ve often heard, a question often asked is: what is the unforgivable sin? When is that we cross the line and can’t come back? Is there a time when God is finished with us and we are beyond saving?Why do people ask that?Because we are worried that maybe we have gone too far, done that thing once too many times, played with fire and now it’s too late, that we have really done it this time, that the door is closed and won’t open to us again. We fear that God has shut us out.Today we want to look at this nagging fear that we’re disappointed God so much that he holds it against us. And we want to get fearless about believing that we are fully and freely forgiven.Support the show

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    Dealing With the Fear Part 3 - The Fear of Death

    Send us Fan MailClick here to support Talk About It!For more information or booking details, visit www.donmsmith.comIt's "fear" that convinces us that death has the final say. It is a true saying, "whatever you fear controls you". What if I told you that you dont have to fear death because the curtain on the mystery of death has been removed?!!!!!Support the show

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

We take relevant topics with a Biblical point of view and we, "Talk About It". "Talk About It" with Pastor Don Smith: Where faith meets real life. Each season, we take a deep dive into one relevant topic – from current events to timeless struggles – and explore it through a Biblical lens. We tackle the big questions, cultural shifts, and personal challenges, offering perspective, insight, and meaningful conversation grounded in Scripture. Join us as we "Talk About It", you know you want to..... AND SO DO I! LETS, "TALK ABOUT IT".

HOSTED BY

Pastor Don M Smith

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