RockSolid Families Podcast Episode

Introduction

The episode kicks off with Merrill and Linda Hutchinson expressing their gratitude to Maxwell Construction for their sponsorship of the podcast, emphasizing the importance of reliable construction for homes and businesses. They highlight their commitment to building stronger families and invite listeners to consider Maxwell for their next projects.

Emotional Celebration

Merrill reveals a recent emotional experience, sharing that he and Linda hosted a celebration for RockSolid Families, which unexpectedly turned into a surprise retirement party for him. The night was filled with joy, tears, and reflections on his 40 years of service in education and counseling. They discuss the impact of his long career on their community and express appreciation for the support they received from family and friends.

New Team Member Introduction

The couple introduces Kimm Hackworth, their latest hire at RockSolid Families, who shares her background as a school psychologist and her journey to join the team. Kimm recounts her transition from education to nonprofit work, highlighting her calling to help others navigate their struggles, especially in the context of blended families.

Personal Journey and Reflections

Kimm shares her personal story of challenges, including divorce and raising children in a blended family. She emphasizes how her past has equipped her to help others facing similar situations. The conversation revolves around the themes of humility, trust, and surrender in one’s spiritual journey, as Kimm explains how her experiences have molded her desire to serve in the ministry.

Overcoming Obstacles

The discussion shifts to the obstacles and fears Kim faced when transitioning into her new role at RockSolid. She reflects on the unexpected challenges, such as her husband losing his job and Merrill’s cancer diagnosis, but maintains that these experiences have only strengthened her resolve. Kimm reiterates the importance of stepping into the chaos to effect change in the lives of those in need.

Encouragement and Ministry Vision

Merrill and Linda encourage listeners to recognize their own journeys and how God can use their experiences to bring hope and healing to others. The podcast emphasizes the importance of sharing testimonies and being vulnerable, as it not only aids personal healing but also encourages others who may feel disqualified due to their past.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with Kimm sharing a powerful quote about ministry, asserting that true service arises when divine resources meet human needs through love. The Hutchinsons invite listeners to support RockSolid Families, participate in their upcoming parenting class, and connect with their community. They remind everyone that strong and healthy families are worth fighting for and express their hope for continued growth and blessing through their ministry.

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Summary of the RockSolid Families Podcast Episode
The episode opens with a heartfelt introduction sponsored by Casey’s Outdoor Solutions and Gift Shop, a local business that beautifies homes inside and out. Linda Hutchinson and her husband, Merrill then take center stage, noting how long it has been since their last recording—two months, following a significant health crisis Merrill experienced.

Health Update
Merrill shares a deeply personal update about his battle with glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. He recounts feeling unwell during the week leading to July 23rd, the day he was diagnosed. Before this diagnosis, he had enjoyed a summer filled with fitness and vitality, making the abrupt change all the more shocking. He describes his symptoms, including lapses in judgment and physical coordination, which led him to seek medical help.
Despite the grim diagnosis that follows—being informed of the aggressive nature of his cancer—Merrill highlights the importance of processing this news with Linda’s support. They discuss the urgency that has developed in their lives, emphasizing the need to cherish relationships and the time they have together.

Faith and Community
They reflect on how their faith has provided them with peace amid turmoil. They share insights from scripture, with Linda quoting from 1 Peter, which speaks of a “living hope” that transcends earthly challenges. The couple’s faith journey has brought them closer, and they express gratitude for the overwhelming support from family, friends, and community members during this time.
They acknowledge the powerful impact their health situation has had on their relationships, giving them a renewed perspective on the importance of expressing love and appreciation to those around them. Special mentions are made of the support they received from medical staff and the community, reinforcing the notion that one should never take relationships for granted.

Rock Solid Families’ Future
As they discuss the future of RockSolid Families, they announce Merrill’s retirement from his active role due to his health. He expresses hope for the organization’s continued mission—helping families build strong foundations rooted in faith. They introduce new staff members who will carry on their work, emphasizing the transition is not an end but a new beginning for the ministry.
With a focus on legacy, they encourage listeners to act and not delay in nurturing their relationships, underscoring the message that life is fleeting. The couple draws inspiration from Charlie Kirk’s recent passing, emphasizing the call to live meaningfully and to impart wisdom to future generations.

Closing Thoughts
In closing, the couple reflects on their experiences and the joy and peace they have felt, even amidst grief. They encourage listeners to trust in God, pointing out that even when facing life’s uncertainties, true peace comes from faith. Merrill shares his favorite verses, emphasizing the importance of submitting to God’s plan and the significance of community support.
The episode wraps with a heartfelt thank you to their sponsors and supporters, reiterating the importance of building a strong community, one family at a time. They invite listeners to stay connected and to reach out for support, ending with the reminder to cherish every moment and live fully in the present.

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My World Just Flipped  - Glioblastoma - Ep 329

In this heartfelt YouTube video, Merrill Hutchinson, the host of RockSolid Families and Strong Dads, shares a personal update about his health journey. The video serves as both an introduction to his current situation and a reflection on life’s deeper meanings amidst adversity.

Key Points and Flow:

1. Introduction and Context:

• Merrill welcomes viewers and explains why he is combining two shows into one episode. He mentions feeling unwell for the past month and hints at a significant life change.

2. Health Concerns:

• He recounts how in mid-July, he began experiencing unusual symptoms like confusion and impaired balance. Despite initially dismissing these signs, he eventually consulted his doctor.

3. Diagnosis:

• On July 23rd, Merrill received a troubling diagnosis: glioblastoma, a severe and terminal brain cancer. He shares the stark reality of his prognosis, facing multiple brain surgeries and the emotional turmoil that has ensued.

4. Emotional Response:

• Merrill discusses the emotional rollercoaster he experienced following the diagnosis, feeling overwhelmed yet determined to use his situation for a greater purpose. He emphasizes the importance of sharing his story, not for sympathy but to inspire and encourage others.

5. Surgery and Treatment:

• He details his surgeries, noting their success while acknowledging the aggressive nature of the cancer. Merrill prepares to begin chemotherapy and radiation, hoping for stabilization of his condition.

6. Spiritual Reflection:

• Merrill reflects on his faith, quoting John 14:6, which has influenced his understanding of control and surrender to God. He expresses the importance of humility in facing life’s challenges and encourages viewers to seek a godly perspective over a self-centered one.

7. Family and Celebrations:

• He shares personal anecdotes about his family, highlighting both the struggles and joys, like an upcoming wedding in the family, which he views as a blessing and a reason to celebrate life.

8. Encouragement for Viewers:

• Merrill concludes with a message to viewers about the significance of community support and the need to prioritize relationships and kindness in difficult times. He expresses gratitude for the support he and his family have received.

9. Closing Thoughts:

• He wraps up by thanking his sponsors and the community for their support, reiterating his intent to share updates and insights as he navigates this challenging journey.

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Finding Your People In A Lonely World - Ep 328

Overview

In this episode of the Rocksolid Families podcast, hosts Linda Hutchinson and Merrill discuss the pressing issue of loneliness in today’s society, despite the increased connectivity through technology and social media. They emphasize the importance of building genuine relationships and finding one’s “people” to combat feelings of isolation.

Key Points

1.The Importance of Connection:
•Loneliness is prevalent even with the ascendance of digital communication.
•Many people work from home and rely on online services, leading to disconnection from their communities.
2.Health Implications:
•Loneliness can lead to mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and even physical health problems like weakened immune systems.
3.Barriers to Building Community:
•Busyness: Over-scheduled lives lead to a lack of time for genuine interactions.
•Social Anxiety and Fear of Rejection: Many avoid seeking connections due to fears of being rejected.
•Past Wounds: Previous negative experiences in relationships can deter individuals from reaching out again.
4.Defining Healthy Community:
•A healthy community provides a shared purpose, vulnerability, transparency, and accountability.
•It’s crucial to be part of a group that encourages and supports one another.
5.Practical Steps to Build Community:
•Initiate Connections: Take the first step to reach out and create relationships.
•Be Vulnerable: Share personal experiences and ask meaningful questions to deepen relationships.
•Be Intentional: Make time for connections and build regular rhythms to interact with others.
6.Encouragement for Action:
•Merrill and Linda encourage listeners to take proactive steps towards creating meaningful connections before experiencing a crisis, emphasizing that community is essential for mental and emotional well-being.

Conclusion

The episode underscores the critical need for authentic connections in combating loneliness, advocating for intentional efforts to initiate relationships. Listeners are prompted to recognize the value of community in strengthening families and enhancing overall well-being. 

If you are struggling with feeling lonely and isolated please reach out to others. If you feel like you need professional help please contact Rock Solid Families. 
812-576-7625
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Are We Being Punished By The Storms? 

• As we have tuned into the news over the past week, we have seen incredible tragedy from the storms and flooding across Texas, New Mexico, and up the eastern part of the country. In the meantime, we hear about the growing wildfires sweeping across California and the Northwest.  These days, it seems like no one is safe or spared from the storms. 
• I’ve heard all kinds of reasons and thoughts behind these events. “God is punishing us”, “Climate change is real”, “We get what we deserve”, the list of explanations goes on as we try to use ideas of faith, science, and whatever else we can insert into the picture to help us reason through the storms we face.  
• During today’s show, we are not going to attempt to explain why these storms occur.  We are not going to point fingers at who is doing things right and who is possibly doing things wrong. What we are going to do is discuss what God wants from us and what we can do to work through the storms of life. 

1. Storms are Inevitable, Not Always a Consequence of Sin: If your neighborhood was hit by a tornado you might take that personally and think it was something about your sin that caused the tornado.

It’s a common misconception that storms or hardships are  always a direct result of personal sin. 

Jesus Himself stated, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). Troubles are a given, even for believers. How about Job? He endured immense suffering despite being described as "blameless and upright" (Job 1:1).

2. Storms Can Be a Means of Growth and Refinement: Just as a refiner's fire purifies gold, storms can purify our faith and character. Difficulties often expose areas where we need to grow, deepen our dependence on God, and develop perseverance. James 1:2-4 encourages us with this perspective: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." The storms, therefore, are not meant to break us, but to build us up.

3. Storms Can Be a Testimony to God's Power: When we navigate storms with faith and integrity, our lives can become a powerful testimony to God's faithfulness and strength. Others observe how we respond to adversity and can be drawn to the God who sustains us. 

How Christians Can Expect and Make It Through Storms While Honoring God
1. Stop Focusing on the Storm, Start Focusing on What You Are Doing in the Storm. 

2. Anchor Yourself in God's Word: 

3. Lifestyle of Prayer and Dependence: 

4. Trust in God's Sovereignty and Goodness: 

5. Seek Community and Support: 

6. Practice Gratitude and Maintain a Worshipful Heart:

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Get to Know Andy Dalton - New Men's Coach to Rock Solid Families - Ep 326

Overview

This episode of the Rocksolid Families podcast features the introduction of new coach Andy Dalton, who joins hosts Linda Hutchinson and Merrill. The discussion centers around the mission of Rocksolid Families to support and strengthen families within the community, emphasizing relational capital and the importance of men’s roles in family dynamics.

Key Points

1.Introduction of Andy Dalton:
•Andy brings a strong background in coaching and education, having worked with high school and college football teams.
•He expresses excitement about joining Rocksolid Families and contributing to their mission.
2.Mission of Rocksolid Families:
•The goal is to build stronger families one at a time through faith and community support.
•Emphasizes the importance of relationships and mentorship, particularly for young men.
3.Focus on Men’s Roles in Families:
•Discussion on how men often struggle with vulnerability and asking for help due to societal pressures and pride.
•Andy aims to create a supportive environment where men can learn to fulfill their roles as leaders in their families without the stigma of weakness.
4.Coaching Philosophy:
•Andy shares his belief in the necessity of relational capital—building trust and support systems, especially for adolescent boys.
•The hosts discuss the importance of a holistic approach to family support, beyond what schools can provide.
5.Future Aspirations:
•Andy envisions expanding Rocksolid Families’ reach by developing more coaching models, deepening community ties, and increasing the number of coaches to help more families.
6.Community Engagement:
•The episode encourages listeners to reach out, get involved, and participate in future events, including parenting classes and mentoring programs.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with Rocksolid Families, emphasizing the positive impact they can have on their community. The energy and enthusiasm of the new coach signal a robust future for the organization as it seeks to broaden its influence and effectiveness in nurturing strong familial bonds.

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Difference Between Prayer and Meditation

Prayer is generally understood as communicating with God. It's a two-way conversation, where you speak to God (through requests, thanks, confessions, adoration) and also listen for His response. Prayer is often outwardly focused, expressing thoughts, feelings, and desires to a divine being. It can be spontaneous, structured, vocal, or silent.

Meditation, in a broader sense, is about focused attention and internal observation. While its specific practices vary widely across cultures and spiritual traditions, the common thread is to quiet the mind, increase awareness, and gain clarity. Some forms of meditation aim to empty the mind, while others focus on a particular thought, image, or sensation.

Advice - 
Does the Christian Faith Support Meditation or Should We Stick with Prayer Only?
The Christian faith absolutely supports a form of meditation, but it's distinct from many secular or Eastern meditative practices. Christians are encouraged to engage in "Christian meditation" which is fundamentally different from practices that aim to empty the mind or detach from the self.

Here's how Christian meditation differs and why it's supported:
Filling the Mind, Not Emptying It: Unlike some Eastern meditation forms that aim to empty the mind, Christian meditation is about filling the mind with thoughts of God, His Word (the Bible), and His character. It involves deep reflection, contemplation, and rumination on biblical passages, God's attributes, and His works.

The saying "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything" means that if you lack core principles or values, you're more susceptible to believing or accepting anything that comes your way. 
The question might be, “What are you going to fill your mind with?”  This is when we must be intentional with our meditation.  Simply emptying ourselves only creates a void to be filled with something else.  The world will have no problem giving you things to put in that void. You must choose to put the good and God in that emptiness. 

Focus on God, Not Self: The purpose of Christian meditation is to deepen one's relationship with God, to understand His will, and to be transformed into Christ's likeness. It's not primarily for self-improvement or personal serenity in isolation from God, though these can be beneficial byproducts.

Biblical Basis: The Bible itself encourages meditation. Numerous Psalms speak of meditating on God's law day and night (e.g., Psalm 1:2, Psalm 119:15, 77:12). Philippians 4:8 exhorts believers to "meditate on these things" – referring to whatever is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, or praiseworthy.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Integration with Prayer: Christian meditation often complements prayer. Through meditation on Scripture, one gains understanding and insight that can inform and enrich their prayers. It can be seen as a way of listening to God speak through His Word, preparing the heart for more intentional communication (prayer).


PRAY- Acronym
Praise
Repent
Ask
Yield

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Key Takeaways from the Rocksolid Families Podcast on Homosexuality

Introduction

•Hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss the sensitive topic of homosexuality in a grace-filled manner.
•They draw insights from the book “People to Be Loved” by Preston Sprinkle, emphasizing the importance of approaching the topic with love, humility, and biblical truth.

Main Themes Discussed

1.Respecting Individuals:
•Both hosts stress the importance of recognizing the person behind the label. Regardless of one’s sexual orientation, everyone deserves love and respect.
2.Diversity vs. Similarity:
•The podcast highlights the need to celebrate human similarities while respecting diversity. It emphasizes that behind every issue, there is a person who needs compassion and understanding.
3.Grace and Truth:
•A central theme is the balance between grace and truth in discussing issues related to homosexuality. Jesus is presented as the model for this balance, embodying both love and truth without condemnation.
4.Sin and Acceptance:
•They clarify that while same-sex attraction is not a sin, acting on that attraction can be. The hosts encourage Christians to accept individuals as God’s creations without necessarily affirming their behaviors.
5.The Role of the Church:
•Merrill and Linda encourage the church to create welcoming spaces for individuals identifying as LGBTQ, encouraging love and acceptance without compromising biblical truths.
•They call for a shift away from “fire and brimstone” approaches to a more loving, compassionate outreach.
6.Avoiding Self-Righteousness:
•They caution against cherry-picking sins and highlight that all people are sinners in need of grace. The ground is level at the foot of the cross, and all sins should be viewed equally without judgment.
7.Identifying Truth:
•Listeners are encouraged to identify and ground their beliefs in a solid foundation of truth—specifically, the Bible. This helps prevent wavering beliefs influenced by societal changes.
8.Empathy and Listening:
•The need for empathy and genuine listening is emphasized, suggesting that people often need to be heard before they can open up to the truth of Christ.
9.Caring without Compromising:
•They highlight that one can care for and support someone in the LGBTQ community without compromising one’s beliefs. It’s important to engage in conversations with grace, respect, and a willingness to understand.
10.Call to Action:
• A call for Christians to approach the topic of homosexuality with a spirit of humility, aiming to build connections rather than barriers.

Final Thoughts

The podcast serves as a reminder that conversations about sexuality should be rooted in love, compassion, and a commitment to truth, reflecting the heart of Jesus in every interaction. It encourages a community that welcomes dialogue and fosters understanding while remaining faithful to biblical teachings.

We invite listeners to continue engaging with these difficult topics while being conscious of the real people affected by them.

Recommend Preston Sprinkle’s resources (book, podcast, The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender)

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Now that the graduation ceremony is over and the party is cleaned up, what’s next for you as the parent? 
In past shows, we have discussed the Seasons of Parenting -  Season 1 - Service, Season 2 - Leadership, Season 3- Mentor, Season 4- Friend/Counsel. This time of graduation may very well be marking the movement into a new season, so what does it look like? 
Ecc. 3:1 says there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. 

This transition isn't about letting go completely, but rather about shifting your grip. You are moving from the role of a hands-on manager to that of a trusted consultant and encourager. It's a season of empowering them to build their own lives on the foundation you've so carefully helped them lay. Here are some key principles to guide you in this new and rewarding phase of parenting:

Advice - 
Continue to Build and Maintain the Relationship.  
What kind of adult relationship do you want with your adult child?  Be clear about how you are going to interact and what you want the relationship to look like.  This is a conversation that you want to have with your adult child.  What do they want in the relationship?  Assumptions often burn people.  Try to define and clear up any possible areas of confusion. 

Establish Clear Expectations and Healthy Boundaries.
If your graduate is living at home, open and honest communication is paramount. This is no longer a child-parent dynamic but a relationship between two adults sharing a living space. Sit down together and respectfully discuss expectations regarding finances (rent, bills), household responsibilities, and general house rules. 

Expect and Foster True Independence. 
True independence isn't just about financial self-sufficiency; it's about taking ownership of one's life – spiritually, emotionally, and practically. This may mean resisting the urge to rescue them from every challenge. Allow them the dignity of navigating difficult situations, whether it's a tough job search, a challenging roommate, or a budgeting shortfall.

Champion Their Spiritual Growth from the Sidelines. 
If they haven’t already, it is time for you to encourage them to develop their own faith and not live yours. 

Equip Them for the Practical Duties of Life. 
Adulthood comes with a host of practical responsibilities. Take the opportunity to come alongside them as a coach in areas like financial literacy (budgeting, saving, giving), career development (resume building, interview skills), and basic life skills (home and car maintenance, cooking). 

Cover Them in Prayer. 
Perhaps the most vital role you will now play is that of a dedicated prayer warrior for your child. Pray for their wisdom, for their protection, for their relationships, and most importantly, for their continued walk with the Lord. Your prayers are a powerful spiritual covering as they step into the world and face new challenges and temptations. Entrusting them to God's sovereign care will also bring you peace and strength during this transition. As Psalm 127:1 reminds us, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." Surrender your anxieties to God and trust in His perfect plan for your child's life.

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Should We Have Kids in a Dark World?
Big Questions:
 Is it wise or faithful to bring children into a world filled with suffering, evil, and uncertainty?

Am I making life decisions from faith or fear?

“Many Christians today are wrestling with fear, disillusionment, and sorrow over the state of the world.”

Common concerns: evil, school shootings, cultural decline, financial uncertainty, environmental decay

Affirm that this is a valid and deeply emotional question.

2. Why Are People Afraid to Have Children Today? 
List cultural and global concerns

Reflect on emotional and spiritual reasons:

Fear of suffering

Responsibility for shaping a soul

Hopelessness about the future

Scripture Reflection:
Ecclesiastes 1:2, 14 – “Meaningless! Everything is meaningless... I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”

 Even in Scripture, people wrestled with despair over a broken world.

3. God’s View of Children in a Broken World 
A. Children Are a Blessing
Psalm 127:3–5 – “Children are a heritage from the Lord... Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.”

God calls children a gift, not a burden.

B. God Brings Life in Darkness
Genesis 1:28 – “Be fruitful and multiply...” (original calling)

God didn’t rescind this even after the Fall.

Jeremiah 29:4–7 – While in exile in Babylon, God tells Israel to build homes, plant gardens, marry, and “increase in number.”

 Even in dark times, God calls His people to live fruitfully.

C. Children as Light-Bearers
Philippians 2:15 – “...that you may become blameless and pure, children of God... in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”

Our children can be raised to reflect light, not just survive the darkness.

4. God Has Not Given Us a Spirit of Fear 
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”

Fear is not a trustworthy counselor—faith is.

God doesn’t promise ease, but He promises presence.

5. What About Wisdom & Discernment? 
It’s not a sin to delay or decide against having children, if done in prayer and obedience, not fear or despair.

Romans 14:23 – “...everything that does not come from faith is sin.”

Decisions should be rooted in peace and trust in God's will for your life.

6. Legacy & Mission in Dark Times 
Children are disciples in our homes.

Parenting is missionary work.

Malachi 2:15 – “Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring.”

 God desires the next generation to know Him.

7. Closing Encouragement
Question for you to reflect on as we close…..How might God want to use future generations to redeem the brokenness in our world today?
We don’t bring children into the world because the world is good—
 We bring them into the world because God is good.

Whether you raise spiritual children, foster, adopt, or give birth—your legacy in Christ is secure when you walk in faith.

Scripture:
Isaiah 60:1–2 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come... darkness covers the earth... but the Lord rises upon you.”

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