Anchored In Grace Marriage Podcast

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🎙️ Marriage Lessons Taught by Nature
Episode: Grow Together – Not Apart
In this inspiring episode of Marriage Lessons Taught by Nature, hosts Eric and Sharris invite you to step outside and look at how God’s creation mirrors His design for marriage. Just as trees grow stronger when rooted deep in rich soil and nourished by sunlight and water, couples are called to grow together—not apart—with Christ as their foundation.

Through Scripture, real-life reflection, and practical encouragement, Eric and Sharris explore how unity, humility, and daily care can transform your relationship into a thriving spiritual garden. You’ll discover how to cultivate the right “conditions” for growth—through prayer, forgiveness, and faith—and learn how God’s Word, like sunlight, brings warmth and guidance to your marriage.

Join the conversation and be reminded that marriage is not about competing, but completing one another in love. Whether you’re newly married or have weathered many seasons together, this episode will refresh your heart and help you see your relationship through the lens of God’s creation.

🌿 Scripture Highlight:

“Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him.” — Colossians 2:7 (NLT)

💭 Tune in and grow with us—as we learn how nature itself teaches us the beauty of staying anchored in grace, rooted in Christ, and growing stronger side by side.

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📘 Homework / Growth Challenge
1. Read Together: Psalm 92:12–15 and John 15:1–8 (NLT). 
 *Talk about what “bearing fruit” looks like in your marriage.
2. Date Night Challenge: Go outside together this week — take a walk, sit under a tree, or watch the sunrise. Talk about how nature reminds you of God’s design for your marriage.
3. Pray Together: Ask God to reveal one “weedy” habit to prune and one “seed” to plant in your relationship this week.
4. Memory Verse: “Let your roots grow down into Him…” (Colossians 2:7 NLT) — write it somewhere visible and meditate on it together.

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🌿 Podcast Description: “Growing Spiritually Together in Marriage” | Anchored in Grace with Eric & Sharris
In this heartfelt episode of Anchored in Grace, Eric and Sharris open up about what it truly means to grow spiritually together in marriage. Whether you and your spouse are just starting your faith journey or have walked with God for years, this conversation will encourage, challenge, and inspire you to deepen your connection—with God and with each other.

Discover how small habits like reading Scripture together, praying intentionally, and asking “How’s your heart?” can transform your marriage from surface-level to spiritually rooted. With practical steps, powerful Scripture from the NLT, and real-life reflections, this episode reminds every couple that spiritual growth is a journey—not a destination.

💍 Tune in to learn how to:

Build a rhythm of prayer and devotion together
Rely on God as your ultimate source, not your spouse
Pursue unity in every season of life
Create a shared vision for your marriage grounded in faith
Grab your Bible, your spouse, and your favorite coffee mug—and join Eric and Sharris for an honest, grace-filled conversation on how to stay Anchored in Grace as you grow together in Christ.

Homework:
1. Building a Rhythm of Scripture and Prayer
Practical Tip:
•Pick a time and place to read together.
•Ask, “What stood out to you?”
•Ask, “How does this apply to our marriage?”
•Keep a shared journal for reflections.
2. Recognizing God as Your Source, Not Your Spouse
Homework:
•Ask God this week: “Lord, am I expecting my spouse to fill a need only You can fill?”
3. Growing Together as a Team—No Matter Who Leads 
Homework:
•This week, take turns leading prayer.
•Don’t wait on your spouse—start the spiritual moment yourself.
4. Ask “How’s Your Heart?”—Not Just “How Was Your Day?”
Homework:
•Ask your spouse once this week, “How’s your heart?”
5. Practicing Shared Disciplines—Fasting, Vision, and Service •Listen, don’t fix. Just   pray together afterward. 
Homework:
•Pick one day this month to fast together—maybe skip a meal and pray.
•Create a “Marriage Vision Board” of what you’re praying for and where you see God
6. Spiritual Growth Is a Journey, Not a Destination leading you.
Homework:
•Talk with your spouse about one area where you see growth—and one area you want to grow more.
•Pray for each other’s spiritual journey this week.
7. Start Small and Be Flexible
Homework:
•Choose one small spiritual habit to start this week.
•Keep it simple and consistent. Small seeds grow strong roots.

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Podcast Episode: The Comparison Trap –  Compare No More 

Ever find yourself asking, “Why can’t our relationship be more like theirs?”
Whether it’s someone’s picture-perfect vacation, the way a friend’s spouse seems so thoughtful, or another couple’s “flawless” communication — comparison can quietly creep into our hearts and wreak havoc on our relationships.

In this episode, we're getting real about the comparison trap — how it shows up in marriage, why it’s so dangerous, and how to break free by grounding our identity in Christ, not in curated snapshots of other people’s lives.


“We are not called to keep up with the Joneses — we are called to be like Jesus.”
Tune in and let’s break the comparison cycle, build deeper trust, and become the couple God created us to be.  


Couples Activity: Building Honest Connection

Want to fight comparison? Get close to real couples. Here’s how:
1. Spend time with couples you respect and talk about real issues.
2. You’ll find they face similar challenges — and that honesty leads to mutual growth.
3. Unhealthy comparisons come from distance, but openness fosters truth.
4. Know your identity — individually and as a couple.
5. Have a mentor couple you trust. Ask questions, share struggles, grow together.

Segment 6: A Marriage Audit

Here’s a great exercise to grow together: Do a marriage audit.
Ask each other:
• How are we doing with fun and leisure?
• Finances?
• Intimacy?
• Parenting?
• Spiritual growth?
• Health?

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If you’re listening today as a husband, a wife, or someone preparing for marriage, I want you to know you’re in the right place. We believe that the more we know God, the more we learn how to love each other. And one of the most beautiful ways God makes Himself known is through His names—each one a window into His heart, His character, His personality.

Lightning Round: Other Names and Simple Practices 

- Jehovah Nissi — The Lord is My Banner (Exodus 17:15)
  - Scripture: “Moses… called it The Lord is my Banner.” (NIV)
  - Practice: Create a one-line “family banner” mission. Example: “Our home is a refuge that points people to Jesus.”

- Jehovah Magen and Chereb — Shield and Glorious Sword (Deuteronomy 33:29)
  - Scripture: “He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword.” (NIV)
  - Practice: Protect your spouse’s reputation. No sarcasm or airing grievances in public.

- Jehovah Machsi — My Refuge (Psalm 91:2)
  - Scripture: “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (NIV)
  - Practice: Make your home emotionally safe. No interrupting, no contempt. Pray Psalm 91 over your household.

- Names in Psalm 18 — Strength, Rock, Fortress, Stronghold (Psalm 18:1–2)
  - Scripture: “I love you, Lord, my strength… my rock… my fortress… my stronghold.” (NIV)
  - Practice: Build weekly “rock rhythms”: a shared Sabbath hour, a tech-free dinner, and a prayer walk.

- Jehovah Ori — My Light (Psalm 27:1)
  - Scripture: “The Lord is my light and my salvation…” (NIV)
  - Practice: Walk in the light. Share temptations and triggers with your spouse and pray together.

- Jehovah Sabaoth — Lord of Hosts (1 Samuel 1:3; NIV “LORD Almighty”)
  - Practice: When problems feel bigger than you, declare: “The battle is the Lord’s.” See Psalm 24:8.

- Jehovah Shammah — The Lord Is There (Ezekiel 48:35)
  - Scripture: “The name of the city… The Lord Is There.” (NIV)
  - Practice: Presence over productivity. Schedule device-free presence every day for 15 minutes.

- Other affirmations from the Psalms:
  - “My glory” (Psalm 3:3)
  - “King for ever and ever” (Psalm 10:16); “the Lord, the King” (Psalm 98:6)
  - “Creator” (Isaiah 40:28); “Redeemer” (Isaiah 49:26)
  - “My Fortress” (Jeremiah 16:19)
  - “My Shepherd” (Psalm 23:1)
  - “Mighty in battle” (Psalm 24:8)

 Homework Review: 

A. Name-a-Day Couple Devotion (7 days)
  - Day 1: Jehovah Jireh (Genesis 22:14) — Share one need. Pray for wisdom and contentment.
  - Day 2: Jehovah Rapha (Exodus 15:26) — Each confess one hurtful habit. Ask for healing.
  - Day 3: Jehovah Shalom (Judges 6:24) — Practice a peace pause in your next disagreement.
  - Day 4: Jehovah Rohi (Psalm 23:1–3) — Ask God to shepherd one decision you’re facing.
  - Day 5: Jehovah Machsi (Psalm 91:2) — Make a “refuge rule” for your home (e.g., no yelling, no sarcasm).
  - Day 6: Jehovah Magen/Chereb (Deuteronomy 33:29) — Speak one protective, honoring affirmation about your spouse to someone else.
  - Day 7: Jehovah Shammah (Ezekiel 48:35) — Plan a 30-minute device-free presence date at home.

B. Memory Verses (choose one or two to pray over each other daily):
  - Psalm 23:1 (NIV): “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”
  - Psalm 27:1 (NIV): “The Lord is my light and my salvation…”
  - Psalm 91:2 (NIV): “He is my refuge and my fortress…”
  - Jeremiah 23:6 (NIV): “The Lord Our Righteous Savior.”

C.  Banner Statement:
  - Write a one-sentence “family banner” connected to a name of God. Example: “Under Jehovah Shalom, our home will choose peace, prayer, and gentle words.”

 D. Reconciliation Rhythm:
  - Before bed, ask each other: “Do we need to forgive anything tonight?” Pray Ephesians 4:32 together.
[32] Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

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✨ Love Languages in Marriage and in Christ ✨

This week on Anchored in Grace, Eric and Sharris dive into the power of the Five Love Languages and how they can transform your marriage. Discover how these simple yet profound tools can improve communication, resolve conflict, and deepen your understanding of your spouse.

But it doesn’t stop there—when we learn to love well in marriage, we also learn to love well in Christ. Join us as we explore how these love languages can guide us in serving others and reflecting the love of Jesus in every relationship.

💡 Whether you’re newly married, a seasoned couple, or simply seeking to love others more like Christ, this episode will encourage and equip you with practical steps to grow in grace and connection.

👉 Tune in this week and let’s learn how to love deeper—in marriage and in Christ.

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Parenting adult children isn’t easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. Listen to our podcast for practical, grace-filled guidance rooted in Christian wisdom. Each episode unpacks key factors like patient communication, healthy boundaries, honoring independence, and creating a peaceful home for young adults (including those still living with you). With Scripture-centered insights, real-life stories, and gentle encouragement, we’ll help you lead with love, truth, and patience as your children step into adulthood. Tune in, learn, and walk this season with hope.

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Join Eric and Sharris this week for an insightful episode of "Anchored in Grace," where we tackle the often unspoken hurdles of marriage—offensiveness. Are you struggling with unmet expectations, unresolved conflicts, or perhaps past grievances? You’re not alone! In this episode, we'll unlock the keys to overcoming these challenges and help you foster healing and restoration in your relationship.

We’ll explore five critical areas that can create offense in your marriage: unmet expectations, the pain of ungrieved loss, the weight of unconfessed sins, the chains of unforgiven offenses, and the turmoil of unresolved conflicts. Each of these themes will be supported by Scripture, offering you practical tools to nurture a Christ-centered marriage. You’ll hear insights from Matthew, Psalms, and Proverbs that encourage honesty, humility, and healing.

But that's not all! We’ll also dive into the transformative practice of overlooking offenses, revealing how embracing forgiveness can lead to joy and deeper connection with your partner. With practical takeaways and heartfelt discussions, this episode promises to equip you with the wisdom to navigate the rough waters of marital conflict.

We'll wrap up with an engaging conversation around homework practices that you can implement throughout the week, ensuring that the lessons learned resonate beyond the episode. The show will conclude with a powerful prayer, inviting God’s guidance into your marriage journey.

Don't miss this opportunity to strengthen your relationship and experience the grace and love that anchors us all. Tune in and discover how to not only survive but thrive in your marriage!

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Join hosts Eric and Sharris in this thought-provoking episode as they tackle a pressing question: Is marriage a covenant or a contract? Dive deep into the heart of what it means to unite in marriage, as they explore God's divine design for a lifelong commitment rather than a mere transactional arrangement.

Discover the profound significance behind the terms "covenant" and "contract" as Eric and Sharris illuminate key biblical covenants established between God and humanity. With personal anecdotes and insightful examples, they illustrate how God has never broken His covenant with us, urging us to reflect on our own promises to our spouses.

Are you ready to challenge your beliefs about marriage? Tune in and be inspired to embrace the sacred and lasting nature of your vows. This is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to deepen your understanding of love and commitment. Let’s embark on this enlightening journey together! 💍✨

Link to:
Marriage Covenant Contract 
http://aftv.news/7806592

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Communicating with Grace
In this enlightening episode of the Anchored in Grace podcast, hosts Eric and Sharris delve into the powerful principles of communication through a biblical lens. Drawing inspiration from James 1:19, which reminds us to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry," they explore the essential components of effective dialogue: listening, hearing, and cultivating patience.

Join Eric and Sharris as they share personal experiences that illustrate the challenges and triumphs of communication in our daily lives. They discuss how actively listening and being aware of our responses can lead to healthier relationships and deeper connections with others. 

Throughout this episode, God's Word serves as a guiding light, offering wisdom and practical application for fostering understanding in our conversations. Whether you're looking to improve your communication skills or seeking to enrich your relationships, you’ll find valuable insights that will help you navigate the complexities of expression with grace and love.

Tune in and discover how to anchor your communication in the grace of God!

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Welcome to Anchored in Grace, where we explore faith, marriage, family, and the everyday choices that shape our lives.

In today’s episode, **“Everything Is a Choice,”** we are talking about the power God has placed in our decisions. Every day, we choose what we will believe, how we will respond, what we will release, and who we will become.

Even during seasons of pain, uncertainty, or disappointment, we can choose faith over fear, healing over bitterness, and surrender over control. One surrendered choice can change the direction of your life and lead you from brokenness into God’s purpose.

Join us for an honest, encouraging, and faith-filled conversation that will challenge you to examine your choices and intentionally choose the path God has prepared for you.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Let’s get started!

📖 THIS WEEK’S HOMEWORK: EVERYTHING IS A CHOICE

This week, intentionally spend time with God and allow Him to reveal where He is calling you to trust, surrender, and make choices that align with His Word.

DAY 1: RELEASE CONTROL
Read **Psalm 139:23–24**.
Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas where you are still trying to maintain control.

Reflection:
What are you having difficulty placing fully into God’s hands?

DAY 2: CHOOSE TRUST
Read Proverbs 3:5–6
Journal about one area of your life where God is asking you to trust Him more deeply.

Prayer:
“Lord, help me trust You even when I do not understand what You are doing.”

DAY 3: TRUST GOD’S PLAN
Read **Isaiah 55:8–9**.
Write down a time when God’s plan was different from what you expected but ultimately worked for your good.

Reflection:
What did that experience teach you about God’s wisdom and timing?

DAY 4: UNDERSTAND SURRENDER
Read **Matthew 26:39
Reflect on what surrender cost Jesus and what surrender may require from you.

Reflection:
What is God asking you to release, obey, or place before Him?

DAY 5: WALK IN HUMILITY AND OBEDIENCE
Read Philippians 2:5–11.
Study the connection between humility, obedience, surrender, and God’s promotion.

Reflection:
How can you demonstrate the attitude of Christ in your daily choices?

DAY 6: RELEASE THE BURDEN
Identify one burden, wound, offense, disappointment, or fear that you have been carrying.

Spend time in prayer and intentionally surrender it to Jesus.

Prayer:
“Jesus, I release this into Your hands. Heal my heart, renew my mind, and help me walk forward in freedom.”

DAY 7: MAKE YOUR DECLARATION
Write a personal declaration beginning with:

“Today I choose…”

Fill the page with choices that align with God’s Word.
Examples:
“Today I choose faith over fear.”
“Today I choose forgiveness over bitterness.”
“Today I choose peace over confusion.”
“Today I choose obedience over comfort.”
“Today I choose surrender over control.”
“Today I choose God’s will over my own.”

Remember: Every choice may not be easy, but every surrendered choice can move you closer to healing, freedom, purpose, and the life God has prepared for you.

⚓The One who anchors you in grace is holding you in His love and peace.

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