The Vision-Driven Marriage

Avoid the Trap of Weaponizing Intimacy

In today’s episode of The Vision-Driven Marriage, Doug and Leslie Davis dive deep into an often-overlooked issue in marriage: weaponizing intimacy. When intimacy is used as a tool for control or punishment, it can cause deep wounds that weaken the foundation of trust and connection in a relationship. Leslie shares biblical insights and practical steps to help couples avoid this destructive pattern and build a marriage rooted in love, service, and reconciliation. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * The meaning of weaponizing intimacy and its harmful effects on marriage. * Three ways to avoid weaponizing intimacy and build stronger, more unified bonds. * How open communication, service, and reconciliation are key to a healthy relationship. * The biblical wisdom of Philippians 2:3–4 and Romans 10:12 as foundations for marriage. Resources Mentioned: * Philippians 2:3–4 – A call to humility and serving one another in love. * Romans 10:12 – A reminder of God’s impartial love for all. * Annette Chesney – Supporting women coming out of narcissistic relationships. Check out her work at AnnetteChesney.com [https://annettechesney.com/]. * The Vision-Driven Marriage Quiz – Is your relationship affair-proof? Take the quiz at www.thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/quiz [https://www.thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/quiz] to assess how protected your marriage is from external threats. * Episode 83: "Love, Laughter, and Legacy: Building a Strong Marriage with Latasha Kennedy" – Don’t miss our conversation with Latasha Kennedy on creating a marriage filled with love and intention. Listen to it here [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/podcast/love-laughter-and-legacy-building-a-strong-marriage-with-latasha-kennedy/]. Take Action: * Reflect on how you’re communicating and serving your spouse in intimacy. If you’ve fallen into the trap of weaponizing intimacy, start today by committing to open dialogue, mutual service, and reconciliation. * Explore Annette Chesney’s work if you or someone you know is healing from the effects of narcissistic abuse. * Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement in their marriage! Connect with Us: * Website: The Vision-Driven Marriage [link] * Follow Us on Instagram: @TheVisionDrivenMarriage [https://www.instagram.com/thevisiondrivenmarriage] * Podcast Quiz: Is your marriage affair-proof? Take the quiz at www.thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/quiz [https://www.thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/quiz]. Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Your feedback helps us reach more couples striving to build marriages centered on Christ. INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS Theme music: Dead Winter ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662 Artists: White Bones Composers: White Bones Audio source: Epidemic Sound Find out more about Doug and Leslie: * Free Resources * Social Media Links * Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage Click Here [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com]

Love, Laughter, and Legacy: Building a Strong Marriage with Latasha Kennedy

Episode Overview: In this uplifting episode, Doug and Leslie Davis sit down with Latasha Kennedy, founder of Girlfriends Thriving, to discuss how couples can build a lasting, joy-filled marriage. Latasha shares valuable insights on the power of prayer, the importance of honesty, and how couples can avoid weaponizing intimacy. She also emphasizes the beauty of out-serving one another and maintaining a posture of reconciliation in the relationship. Tune in to discover how love, laughter, and legacy can transform your marriage. Latasha talked about how the following keeps her marriage strong. Key Takeaways: * Praying Together: Strengthens the spiritual bond and opens the door to God's guidance in your relationship. * Intimacy Without Manipulation: Build trust by not using intimacy as a tool for control or punishment. * Honesty and Transparency: Create a safe space for vulnerability by being open and truthful. * Out-Serve One Another: Foster a spirit of love by prioritizing your spouse’s needs above your own. * Posture of Reconciliation: Always be willing to seek peace and unity, even in the midst of challenges. Latasha recommended two books that help keep her marriage and family strong: * 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families [https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Effective-Families-Revised-Updated/dp/1250857775/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3FHVDQLUMX1Y1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Dq3dXW03vxUIuK8jpV77Lc-Emnu3Tt7wru_tAlKjcl4VtQQVM1hb9o7YPXXap2giWl6hPF5XPPTP4Gq8vWC4OzUvUpXWU_Dr250NgznE6Sk9aAg1naDF-b7uQloQL6oP2Rrrb1-Ox3gWJHVTNb7BfP9iWNg3jxuyL5rShofgif5mj7SzlDBzSgQJUZnJJS6iZB5r_JCJj5x_YvBy4OoJhytUpZPSIYYKMrfT42AZm_w.aa1ORVTyhRdoBqBGlr_mGk6gQGBFJNfPBDAQNLc1V8U&dib_tag=se&keywords=7+habits+of+highly+effective+families&qid=1729103226&sprefix=7+habits%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-1] * The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People [https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/1982137274/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3OEP42IMCYDTQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.IGH7OW2oMuVIJwBgX-Kg79XFov-JqXQuYVOgrwZp1qx0Bn1xNNhfFFaXmEZ8vMpoJYMKW6Po9MRdLsXCq5QqIC5SSRvPdzP0ypY_0MjQzvMLgZJvp8KOOZXl9njah3FtIYYlwQ_cD4ynbVprp9u8h2rFArcOEXvVJZrWnOi3IwFm71xiTIDCrSmdItTjULU35POf3OfjTGu4k_DNM0IrAeW0wzPBPy4-5L1KknNc8z0.Ll6dWgMVr-avs0AOJDNNA2aq743sByevRsAHoqrxyGs&dib_tag=se&keywords=7+habits+of+highly+effective&qid=1729103331&sprefix=7+hab%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-1] Connect with Latasha: * Follow Latasha on Instagram @latashakennedy [https://www.instagram.com/latashakennedy/] * Latasha’s website: From Frazzled To Thriving: Create New Income Streams - Girlfriends Thriving [https://girlfriendsthriving.com/] Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Blessed Family Recovery Summit [https://www.blessedfamilyrecoverysummit.com/?sa=sa02009281531c8b758e8852fcfa0d46cb65f70128], offering support and encouragement to families dealing with addiction. Visit [insert link] to learn more and register for this empowering event.   Connect with Us: * Follow us on Instagram @‌TheVisionDrivenMarriage [https://www.instagram.com/thevisiondrivenmarriage/] * Follow us on Facebook @‌Doug&LeslieDavis [https://www.facebook.com/HeartCallMinistries/] * Join our email list for exclusive content and resources at TheVisio [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/] INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS Theme music: Dead Winter ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662 Artists: White Bones Composers: White Bones Audio source: Epidemic Sound Find out more about Doug and Leslie: * Free Resources * Social Media Links * Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage Click Here [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com]

The Armor of God: Standing Strong in Marriage When Your Husband Denies God

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of The Vision-Driven Marriage podcast, we sit down with Monica Hansen, host of The Graceful Warrior Podcast. Monica opens up about her personal journey of standing strong in her marriage while her husband denies God's existence. With raw honesty and deep faith, she shares how she relies on the armor of God daily to protect her marriage and uphold her walk with Christ. Whether you’re in a similar situation or simply looking for ways to strengthen your spiritual defenses, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement for wives facing spiritual challenges at home. Key Takeaways: * The Armor of God: How to apply each piece—belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, and more—specifically in the context of marriage. * Standing Firm in Faith: Monica’s practical tips for keeping your faith strong, even when your spouse doesn’t believe. * Spiritual Warfare in Marriage: Recognizing spiritual attacks on your relationship and how to respond with God’s Word. * Waiting on God’s Timing: How Monica stays hopeful and prayerful as she waits for her husband to come to know the Lord. Scripture References: * Ephesians 6:10-18 (The Armor of God) * Numbers 22:22-35 Balek and the Donkey * John 6 Guest Information: Monica Hansen is the host of The Graceful Warrior Podcast where she encourages women to walk boldly in faith through life’s challenges. You can connect with her on Instagram @‌GracefulWarriorPodcast and listen to her show wherever you get your podcasts. Resources Mentioned: * Movie Recommendation: The Forge by The Kendrick Brothers * Doug and Leslie on the Graceful Warrior Podcast [https://warriorsofgod70.podbean.com/e/why-cant-shehe-hear-me-lessons-in-communication-pastor-doug-leslie-davis/?token=51c46b7a041319407a2e3a3a475086ab ] Episode Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by the Blessed Family Recovery Summit. Learn how God is helping families overcome addiction at The Blessed Family Recovery Summit [https://www.blessedfamilyrecoverysummit.com/?sa=sa02009281531c8b758e8852fcfa0d46cb65f70128]. Connect with Us: * Follow us on Instagram @‌VisionDrivenMarriage [https://www.instagram.com/thevisiondrivenmarriage/] * Visit TheVisionDrivenMarriage.com [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com] for exclusive content and resources! Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement in their marriage! MIDROLL MUSIC CREDIT ASLC-34AAA1B7-E76E1FA82D HOPEFUL-NOSTALGIC-EMOTION-(FLYING-HOME) INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS Theme music: Dead Winter ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662 Artists: White Bones Composers: White Bones Audio source: Epidemic Sound Find out more about Doug and Leslie: * Free Resources * Social Media Links * Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage Click Here [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com]

Core Values in Relationships: What They Can Do For You.

In this episode of The Vision-Driven Marriage, Doug and Leslie Davis dive into a common struggle in marriage—criticism over different methods. Have you ever found yourself frustrated because your spouse approaches things differently than you would? It’s easy to get caught up in how things are done, but true unity comes from focusing on shared values, not matching methods. Join Doug and Leslie as they explore Biblical principles that can help couples appreciate their differences, cut down on criticism, and strengthen their relationship by uniting around core values. You’ll walk away with practical tools to start shifting your perspective from methods to values, creating a deeper sense of unity and appreciation in your marriage. Key Takeaways: * Why focusing on methods can lead to criticism and disunity. * The importance of celebrating your spouse’s unique strengths and gifts. * How shared values create a stronger, more unified marriage. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that will encourage you to embrace the uniqueness God has placed in your marriage! We Mention Amos 3:3 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/amo/3/3/s_882003] Ephesians 4:16 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/eph/4/16/s_1101016] Don Manning's conversation with us in Episode 80 [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/podcast/strengthening-your-marriage-with-shared-values-don-mannings-advice-for-couples/] Ready to kick criticism to the curb and build a stronger, more united marriage? Schedule a free Vision Session to discover your core values as a couple! By focusing on what truly matters, you'll cut down on the criticism and start appreciating each other's unique gifts. Let’s work together to create a vision that will bring you closer, foster unity, and help you thrive as a couple. Book your session today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier marriage! Schedule your call. [https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/96858] The Blessed Family Recovery Summit Find renewed hope and healing at the free Blessed Family Recovery Summit. Join us to discover God's presence in the midst of addiction and experience the fulfillment that brings life and peace. REGISTER HERE [https://www.blessedfamilyrecoverysummit.com/?sa=sa02009281531c8b758e8852fcfa0d46cb65f70128] MIDROLL MUSIC CREDIT ASLC-34AAA1B7-E76E1FA82D HOPEFUL-NOSTALGIC-EMOTION-(FLYING-HOME) INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS Theme music: Dead Winter ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662 Artists: White Bones Composers: White Bones Audio source: Epidemic Sound Find out more about Doug and Leslie: * Free Resources * Social Media Links * Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage Click Here [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com]

Strengthening Your Marriage with Shared Values: Don Manning's Advice for Couples

In this 80th episode of The Vision-Driven Marriage, Doug and Leslie Davis sit down with Don Manning from Crazy Cool Family Ministries for an inspiring conversation on how couples can grow closer by focusing on shared values rather than getting stuck in criticism. Don unpacks the difference between values and methods, offering practical wisdom and personal stories that reveal how God transformed his approach to love and intimacy in marriage. Tune in to discover how aligning on core values can bring deeper connection and joy to your relationship. Where to find Don and Suzanne Manning Website: www.CrazyCoolFamily.com [http://www.CrazyCoolFamily.com] Don's book Crazy Cool Family: Rethink the Way You Do Family [https://www.crazycoolfamily.com/category/all] can be found on his website Things we mention in this episode: ‌The Blessed Family Recovery Summit [https://www.blessedfamilyrecoverysummit.com/?sa=sa02009281531c8b758e8852fcfa0d46cb65f70128] John 17 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/jhn/17/1/s_1014001] Philippians 2 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/phl/2/1/s_1105001] James 1:19 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/jas/1/19/s_1147019] Don & Suzanne's podcast: Crazy Cool Family [https://ccf.mykajabi.com/podcasts/crazy-cool-family] Where you can find more about Doug and Leslie @TheVisionDrivenMarriage Website: TheVisionDrivenMarriage.com [http://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com] Strengthen Your Marriage Through Prayer Are you longing to experience deeper connection and spiritual unity with your spouse? Our FREE guide, Praying with Your Spouse: A Brief Guide, is here to help! Discover how prayer can transform your relationship, break down barriers, and invite God's presence into your marriage. In this guide, you’ll find: * Three common challenges couples face when praying together * Seven foundational steps to build an effective prayer life as a couple * Practical tips to help you and your spouse pray with confidence and unity Don’t miss this opportunity to grow closer as a couple and strengthen your bond with God. Download your FREE guide now and take the first step toward a thriving, prayer-filled marriage! LINK: Thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/prayerguide [http://www.thevisiondrivenmarriage.com/prayerguide] MIDROLL MUSIC CREDITS HOPEFUL-NOSTALGIC-EMOTION-(FLYING-HOME) ASLC-34AAA1B7-E76E1FA82D INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS Theme music: Dead Winter ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662 Artists: White Bones Composers: White Bones Audio source: Epidemic Sound Find out more about Doug and Leslie: * Free Resources * Social Media Links * Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage Click Here [https://thevisiondrivenmarriage.com]