The Boundless Show

Launching into adulthood, plus Todd Friel on how to know if you’re a true Christian, and the pressure to use preferred pronouns.Featured musical artist: Daniel Bashta ( https://www.danielbashta.com/welcome ) Roundtable: Welcome to AdulthoodDo you feel like everyone else is independent: paying their bills, doing their taxes, making decisions and just generally “adulting”? It’s easy to feel left behind or experience anxiety around the many changes you must navigate in this season. Some of it is “life stuff” like the above. Some of it is relational — learning how to let go of your parents, make friends and find community. Our guests share the ups and downs of their own adulthood journeys and give encouragement for making the transition a smooth and (mostly) successful one. Culture: A Question of SalvationNews flash: Just because you walked an aisle or prayed a prayer doesn’t mean you’re saved. So what does? All of us have questioned our salvation at one time or another, so can we really be sure? Evangelist and apologist Todd Friel shows how the prosperity gospel, “get out of hell free” gospel, churchgoer gospel and other false gospels lull people into complacency, yet Scripture itself is clear on what it means to be saved. Get ready for an insightful and empowering conversation on what matters most when it comes to salvation and eternity. Link to Wretched.org: https://wretched.org/Link to Todd's "Ten Point Test to See if You Are Saved": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLIWG6JO6NMInbox: Should Christians Use Preferred Pronouns?As a Christian, is it lying or loving to address someone with their preferred pronouns — even if they don’t align with their biological sex? When asked to declare pronouns at work, school or on social media, how should we respond? Family and gender analyst Jeff Johnston weighs in.

Qualities of a humble spouse, plus dating someone who confesses a sin pattern, and how to respond when your friend has a porn problem.Featured musical artist: Kerrie Roberts ( https://kerrieroberts.com/ )Roundtable: The Humble SpouseHumility is to relationships what gasoline is to cars; without it, a relationship can’t move forward. In marriage, humility is especially important since spouses are in covenant together as one flesh. Our guests are honest about where they were on the humility scale going into marriage, and how they’ve learned to be more humble since. They’ll also give insights on how to spot humility in the people you date.Culture: Spotting a Sin Stronghold in DatingAll of us have hang-ups and sins we must address. But what do you do when the person you are dating confesses a serious sin pattern like alcoholism, drugs or porn? Is there a way to balance grace with truth, and at what point do you need to cut off the relationship? Christine Snyder tells her story of facing an unwanted divorce due to her husband’s addictions and unfaithfulness, while counselor Glenn Lutjens provides expert advice on when to pull the plug on a problematic dating relationship.Link to Counseling Services: ( https://www.focusonthefamily.com/get-help/counseling-services-and-referrals/?refcd=1060202 ) Inbox: Does Everyone Have a Porn Problem?She’s known more than a few friends in her Christian community who’ve confessed a problem with pornography. She’s frustrated that porn seems to be “winning” in the hearts and minds of those around her, and doesn't know what to do. When the next friend confesses, what should be her response? Counselor Geremy Keeton weighs in.

How women experience safety with men, plus leaving an abusive relationship, and navigating political differences in dating.Featured musical artist: David Dunn ( http://www.daviddunnmusic.com/ )Roundtable: How Women Experience Relational SafetyFor women, safety is very important. Not just physical safety, but emotional, spiritual and relational safety. But what does this look like in everyday life? This week’s guests share what makes them feel safe when they interact with guys. They’ll also discuss how they feel when a man isn’t a safe person, and some cues for discerning the difference.Get the book "Do Hard Things": https://store.focusonthefamily.com/do-hard-things/Culture: Leaving an Abusive RelationshipSadly, many people face the reality of an abusive relationship. Some are in toxic situations and don’t even know it. What are the signs, and is there a way and a time to get out? Counselors Glenn Lutjens and Jenny Coffey offer hope to those suffering abuse, whether manipulation, gaslighting, physical, emotional or spiritual. In this conversation they define the difference between an abuser and an everyday jerk, what to do in an abusive situation, and how you can support a friend who’s currently being abused.Inbox: When Dating and Politics Don’t MixHe’s dating a girl, and they’re both serious about their faith. But he’s curious if it’s important for them to agree on political and social issues that aren’t explicitly addressed in Scripture. How should they talk about it, if indeed they have a disagreement? Counselor Geremy Keeton weighs in.

Advice for marrying in your 30s, plus part two of a dating Q&A with Jonathan Pokluda, and maximizing your engagement season.Featured musical artist: Nathan Tasker ( http://www.nathantasker.com/ )Roundtable: Marriage Challenges For 30-SomethingsMarrying in your 30s gives you the benefits of a little more life experience, stability and (hopefully) maturity. But it also comes with unique challenges. You’ve become more settled in your ways, you’ve accumulated some baggage, and you’re maybe a bit more cynical. Nate and Melinda recently married in their 30s and did the hard work of addressing some of their individual issues before tying the knot. Dr. Trent Langhofer counseled them individually as well as together to help give their marriage the healthiest start possible. All three join us this week to share their journey. Culture: Dating Q&A With Jonathan Pokluda (Part 2) After years of working with young adults, Pastor Jonathan (JP) Pokluda has fielded just about every dating question you could imagine. He joins us to answer even more, and this time they’re your questions — asked by live audience members and submitted on social media. In part two this week, JP answers questions about reaching the commitment stage of a relationship, how to know if a guy is truly interested in you, and the worst dating advice he’s ever heard.Get the book: "Outdated" for your donation of any amount:: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-06-30?refcd=1436602Inbox: Making the Most of EngagementShe’s recently engaged and is wondering how to maximize this season. What are the best ways to prepare for marriage? What should she and her fiance keep in mind? Besides doing premarital counseling, should they read a book, set some goals, focus on certain conversations — or all of the above? Counselor Glenn Lutjens weighs in.Get the book: "How We Love": https://store.focusonthefamily.com/how-we-love/?refcd=1436602

Managing Money Despite Inflation: Episode 752Featured musical artist: Aaron Shust ( https://www.aaronshust.com/ )Tips for fighting inflation, plus part one of a dating Q&A with Jonathan Pokluda, and having boundaries with opposite-sex friends. Roundtable: Don’t Let Inflation Get You DownInflation is hitting all of our wallets. From higher gas prices to the cost of groceries and travel, it seems like everything is getting more expensive. How do we cope? We share money-saving tips, corners we’re cutting, and investment opportunities we’re exploring for the future. We also admit what we’re not willing to let go. Join us for this fun yet practical conversation!Culture: Dating Q&A With Jonathan Pokluda (Part 1) After years of working with young adults, Pastor Jonathan (JP) Pokluda has fielded just about every dating question you could imagine. He joins us to answer even more, and this time they’re your questions — asked by live audience members and submitted on social media. In part one this week, JP tackles questions about crushing on a coworker, not having time to date, and how to handle it when someone doesn’t text you back. Receive the Book "Outdated: Find Love That Lasts When Dating Has Changed" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-06-30?refcd=1433102 Inbox: Boundaries With Opposite-Sex FriendsWhile having friends of the opposite gender is great, it’s important to have good boundaries to avoid confusion, false intimacy, and the dreaded “friendlationship.” The question is, which boundaries are recommended? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in.

Insider tips to express romantic interest, plus evangelism for everyday people, and when you struggle to make friends at church.Featured musical artist: Mosaic MSC ( https://mosaic.org/MSC ) Roundtable: How Do I Know If They’re Interested?Men and women are very different, including how we express romantic interest. This can lead to miscommunication, assumptions or long periods of wishing and wondering where you stand. Our guests share the many missteps they’ve taken in pursuing, wooing and (dare we say it?) flirting with the opposite sex, and what they learned from those experiences. They’ll also break down what works and what doesn’t when it comes to making a move, and what makes a person stand out from the crowd.Culture: Sharing Your Faith in Simple Ways“People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” This principle also applies to how you share your faith, because without a relationship, your attempts at evangelism can only go so far. Pastor Jay Benson and Jill Hill are both passionate about sharing Jesus in their communities and friend circles, and they have many stories of how they’ve invited non-Christians into their everyday lives. They’ll also share simple and effective ideas for engaging our neighbors, coworkers and others who need the gospel.Inbox: Time to Find a New Church? She’s been going to the same church for five years but still doesn’t feel connected. Her schedule is also very busy, so socializing outside of work hours is not an easy thing. Is it time to find a new church or stick it out and hope to make friends? Our friend Josh Zeichik weighs in.

Letting go of what others think of you, plus Nick Hall’s modern vision for evangelism, and is it too early to define the relationship?Featured musical artist: Danen Kane ( https://danenkane.com/home )Roundtable: Don’t Be a Slave to Others’ OpinionsWe’ve all been guilty of walking into a room and immediately wondering what everyone thinks of us. But truth be told, most people aren’t thinking about us — they’re thinking about themselves. How can we live confidently without constantly worrying about others’ good opinion? Our guests share their own struggles in this area and give helpful ways to be aware of how we are viewed by others without being ruled by it.Culture: An Evangelism WoodstockIn 1972, a massive event called Explo ‘72 took place in Dallas, Texas. Thousands of young adults gathered from all over the country and were inspired and equipped to take the gospel of Jesus Christ into their communities and around the world. On this year’s 50th anniversary of Explo ‘72, evangelist Nick Hall is hosting a 21st-century version of that historic gathering. Called Together ‘22, this free event will take place at Cotton Bowl stadium in Dallas on June 24-25. Nick joins us to talk about how sharing the gospel in 2022 is both similar to and different from how it was done 50 years ago. What are the unique challenges and opportunities he sees today? Join us for this exciting conversation and details on this once-in-a-lifetime event.Sign up for Together ‘22 ( https://together22.pulse.org/ )Inbox: Defining the Relationship Already? She’s been going on dates with the same guy for eight weeks, but neither of them has defined their relationship. Is it time for her to say something, or should she wait for him to take initiative and speak up? Our host Lisa Anderson weighs in.Article: Whose Job Is It to Define the Relationship? ( https://www.boundless.org/blog/whose-job-is-it-to-define-the-relationship/ )

How family affects us, plus what happens if Roe v. Wade is overturned, and should you have contact with an ex?Featured musical artist: Ginny Owens ( https://ginnyowens.com/ )Roundtable: How Your Family of Origin Affected You (Part 2)Like it or not, we’ve all picked up patterns and proclivities from our family of origin. For some, what we learned was relatively good. For others, talking about our family background is painful. Our guests share the good, bad and ugly attitudes and habits they adopted from their families, as well as the lessons they’ve learned and the cycles they’ve broken by growing and changing. In part two this week, our panelists discuss where they are now in relation to their families as well as the lingering effects of their family systems.Culture: Abortion Laws in America & See Life 2022Since the recent leak of the draft opinion from the Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court case, many Americans anticipate the possible reversal of Roe vs. Wade. If that happens, what are the legal implications? John Stonestreet and Robyn Chambers give us a primer on the ins and outs of this historic decision. They’ll detail what we can expect, how we can pray, and will encourage us to value life not just through legislation but in everyday opportunities. We’ll also talk about the exciting See Life 2022 scheduled for June 14, 2022.Register for See Life 2022 Livestream: ( https://www.focusonthefamily.com/seelife22/ ) Get the book "A Practical Guide to Culture" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-06-09?refcd=1422602Inbox: No Contact After a Breakup? Is it wise to have any contact with an ex after a breakup? Some say “absolutely no contact” while others recommend giving it a certain amount of time before you reach out. Our host Lisa Anderson weighs in.

How family affects us, plus blessing others with your words, and when you’re more introverted than the person you’re dating.Featured musical artist: James Peden ( https://www.jamespedenmusic.com/ )Roundtable: How Your Family of Origin Affected You (Part 1)Like it or not, we’ve all picked up patterns and proclivities from our family of origin. For some, what we learned was relatively good. For others, talking about our family background is painful. Our guests share the good, bad and ugly attitudes and habits they adopted from their families, as well as the lessons they’ve learned and the cycles they’ve broken by growing and changing. In part one this week, they tell their stories and share their observations about what was healthy and unhealthy in their childhood homes and relationships.Culture: Using Words to Bless OthersThe book of Proverbs says that “a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” Knowing what to say when is a mark of a mature person as well as a mature Christian. Whether an encouragement, a rebuke, or a word of instruction, we’ve all been on the receiving end of words we needed to hear. Authors Cheryl Marshall and Caroline Newheiser have navigated many necessary conversations. They discuss insights from their book “When Words Matter Most” and help us discover ways to use words in different situations to bring blessing and healing.Get the book "When Words Matter Most" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-06-02?refcd=1422601Inbox: Do They Have to Go Out So Often?She’s seeing a guy, but he’s more extroverted than she is, and he often wants to be together and on the go. Is it OK to express her desire to go out only once a week, or is that not enough for a sustainable dating relationship? A pastor and young adults mentor weighs in.

When women make more money than men, plus advice for difficult relationships, and does a physical disability hurt your dating chances?Featured musical artist: Ellie Holcomb ( https://www.ellieholcomb.com/ )Roundtable: When Women Make More Money Than MenStudies show that in many cases, women now outpace men in education and in the workplace. What are the implications? In an age where career and calling are so important, does money play a part? Many Christians are uncomfortable with the conversation about salaries and earning power, especially in a dating relationship or when thinking about a future marriage and family. Our guests discuss their experience with this topic, including biblical wisdom and common sense for addressing it in their own lives. Culture: Dealing With Difficult PeopleIt’s easy to assume that we should never have conflict with fellow Christians. But such an approach to relationships is unbiblical — even dangerous — and can prevent us from leveraging growth opportunities. Pastor Brian Noble admittedly struggled with this until he realized that not facing conflict produced a harvest of contention in the long run. Now the CEO of Peacemaker Ministries, Brian shares how he’s learned to deal with difficult people in varied situations, and why handling conflict healthily sets you up for relational success.Get the book "'Living Reconciled" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-05-26?refcd=1414402Inbox: Dating With a DisabilityShe’s interested in getting to know a guy, but feels limited by her physical disability. How much will this impact her ability to date? Counselor Joannie DeBrito weighs in with encouragement and advice.

Our best wedding planning strategies, plus God and technology, and when your friend can’t seem to break up with her boyfriend. Featured musical artist: Liz Vice ( https://www.lizvice.com/ ) Roundtable: Insider Wedding TipsWedding season is officially in full swing, but planning the big day takes a lot of work. Between choosing the right dress, sending invitations, booking a DJ and finding a venue, the stress can be overwhelming. To help sort through the madness, we invited newlyweds to share their best tips for planning a wedding, including prioritizing their wish lists, navigating timing issues, and managing others’ expectations. They also share their “must-haves” for a meaningful wedding day. Culture: What’s God’s Opinion on Technology?With technology seemingly taking over the world today, it’s fair to ask, “How does God feel about all of this?” Desiring God’s Tony Reinke co-hosts the “Ask Pastor John” podcast with John Piper, and joins us this week to share a biblically-balanced approach on everything from smartphones to cryptocurrency to space travel. He’ll answer questions including: What’s God’s relationship with technology? What are technology’s limitations? How can we use tech for God’s glory?Get the book "God, Technology, and the Christian Life" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-05-19?refcd=1414102Inbox: Breaking Up Is Hard to DoHer best friend is in an unhealthy dating relationship and has expressed a desire to break it off, but it seems like nothing is changing. Is it time for our listener to speak up? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in.

The “children/no children” conversation, plus navigating death with a loved one, and when you and your friend like the same person.Featured musical artist: About a Mile ( https://www.facebook.com/aboutamile )Receive the book "The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-05-12?refcd=1414304Roundtable: Let’s Talk About Having KidsWhen dating someone and considering marriage, it’s common to eventually ask: Do you want children? Obviously, it’s a big decision that should be discussed before tying the knot. But what if the two of you disagree on the subject? What if one is undecided, or you both have different opinions on timing, number of kids, or something else? Is the “kids” convo a dealbreaker? Our guests talk through this tricky issue with grace and wisdom for us all. Culture: Death and DyingHelping a friend or loved one navigate the dying process — whether in old age, sickness or tragedy — is one of the most challenging things you will ever do. At the same time, it is also a journey filled with meaningful moments. Dr. Margaret Cottle and Dr. Bill Toffler are physicians specializing in end of life issues. They’ll share helpful perspectives on how to cope when you receive hard news, how to support someone who is dying, how to walk through grief, and how to embrace caregiving and be a support to other caregivers. They also share a biblical perspective on assisted suicide.Article by Lisa: My Mom Is Killing Me ( https://www.boundless.org/blog/my-mom-is-killing-me/ )Inbox: When Your Friend Likes the Same GuyShe’s liked a guy for a while but didn’t tell anyone, and now one of her friends happens to like him too. What should she do — confess her feelings for this man, or wait and see what happens? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in.

Men overcoming low self-esteem, plus a Q&A with pastor Jonathan Pitts on grief, and should you change churches when dating?Featured musical artist: Jonathan Cain ( https://jonathancain.org/ )Roundtable: Low Self-Esteem in MenWhen you’re one click away from seeing the highlight reels of your friends' lives, it’s easy to think you’re not as important or special as anyone else. Or maybe you’ve thought that since childhood; old wounds don’t always heal, do they? Hurtful experiences, poor relationships and false comparisons can drag us into the pit of low self-esteem. Is there a way to protect yourself and even overcome the lies? In part two of our series on low self-esteem, we’ll ask a group of men what brings them down, and more importantly, what it looks like to turn things around by understanding our limitations and embracing our identity in Christ.Culture: Surviving Grief and Loss (Part 2) When Jonathan Pitts and his wife, Wynter, celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary, they had much to look forward to, including writing books and doing ministry together. But less than a month later, Wynter died suddenly at age 38. Her passing sent Jonathan and their four daughters into a tailspin. But through that difficult season, Jonathan saw God’s faithfulness. In part two of our conversation, he’ll answer your questions on grief and loss.Get the book "My Wynter Season: Seeing God’s Faithfulness in the Shadow of Grief" here: ( https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-boundless-2022-04-28?refcd=1410406 )Inbox: Dating Someone From Another ChurchIf you start dating someone who attends another church, should you leave your own congregation to join theirs? Lisa Anderson weighs in.

Women overcoming low self-esteem, plus pastor Jonathan Pitts on grief, and how do you share your opinions humbly?Featured musical artist: Love and the Outcome ( https://loveandtheoutcome.com/ )Roundtable: Low Self-Esteem in WomenWhen you’re one click away from seeing the highlight reels of your friends' lives, it’s easy to think you’re not as important or special as anyone else. Or maybe you’ve thought that since childhood; old wounds don’t always heal, do they? Hurtful experiences, poor relationships and false comparisons can drag us into the pit of low self-esteem. Is there a way to protect yourself and even overcome the lies? In part one of a two-part series on low self-esteem (men, you’re next week!), we’ll ask a group of women what brings them down, and more importantly, what it looks like to turn things around by understanding our limitations and embracing our identity in Christ.Culture: Surviving Grief and Loss (Part 1) When Jonathan Pitts and his wife, Wynter, celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary, they had much to look forward to, including writing books and doing ministry together. But less than a month later, Wynter died suddenly at age 38. Her passing sent Jonathan and their four daughters into a tailspin. But through that difficult season, Jonathan saw God’s faithfulness. In part one of our conversation, he shares the impact of grief and how God can sustain us in unexpected waysInbox: How Can I Share My Opinion? Whenever she gives her thoughts on a matter, people push back. How can she speak up and give her opinion with kindness and humility? Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in.That's Just My Opinion: ( https://www.boundless.org/blog/thats-just-my-opinion/ )Link to Counseling Services ( https://www.focusonthefamily.com/get-help/counseling-services-and-referrals/?refcd=1349703 )

How to set boundaries and say “no,” plus the pros and cons of marrying young, and where to turn when it feels like your life has stalled.Featured musical artist: Audio Adrenaline ( https://www.facebook.com/audioadrenaline/ )Roundtable: It’s OK to Say “No” Your friend invited you to a party, your church is asking you to volunteer, and you’re thinking about joining a new small group. While opportunities in life are endless, saying “yes” to all of them is a recipe for burnout. Sometimes it’s best to decline, even when the opportunities are good ones. Our guests describe how they’ve struggled with setting boundaries in life, and why doing so is important.Culture: Better to Marry Earlier or Later? Many of us think that before getting married, we need to have our lives, careers and finances in order. But research shows this is not always the best approach. Dr. Jason Carroll is a respected professor and researcher who co-authored a study on the pros and cons of marrying young. In this thought-provoking discussion, he shares what the study shows about timelines and milestones for tying the knot.Inbox: Getting Your Life Back on TrackShe took care of her mom who was struggling with serious health issues. But she feels this necessary “detour” got her stuck, and now she’s discouraged and wondering how to get her life back on track. Where should she start? Counselor George Stahnke offers a word of encouragement.