It Starts With Me

Patterns of Godly Parenting

Today we begin the parenting portion of our Habits of the Household series as we explore what it means to build a home shaped by the principles of God. Looking at Proverbs 3, we discover three patterns that can transform the way we lead our families: trusting God, fearing God, and honoring God. Whether you're raising young children, parenting teenagers, influencing grandchildren, or simply seeking to create a Christ-centered home, this message offers practical wisdom and encouragement for every stage of life.

Interview on Marriage

This week in Habits of the Household, Pastor Mike sits down with Darin and Shannon White for an honest and hope-filled conversation about marriage after 32 years together. From early expectations and painful seasons to rebuilding trust, communication, parenting, and keeping Christ at the center, this interview offers practical wisdom and real encouragement for every stage of marriage. Whether your marriage feels strong, strained, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a reminder that with God’s help, healthy marriages are built one intentional choice at a time.

A Martha Marriage

In this message from Habits of the Household, we explore how the health of a marriage is deeply connected to the presence of God. Looking at the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10, we discover how easy it is for our relationships to become consumed by schedules, responsibilities, distractions, and the endless demands of life—while quietly neglecting what matters most. If marriage was designed by God to be spiritual, what happens when we drain the spirituality from it? This message challenges couples to identify the signs of a “Martha marriage,” reclaim godly priorities, and choose the presence of Jesus over the pressure of busyness—because good marriages can survive, but great marriages are built in the presence of God.

Four Things That Matter in Marriage

In week two of the marriage portion of Habits of the Household, Mike and Emily Woodard dive into one of the most unavoidable realities of every relationship: conflict. Looking at Ephesians 4, they unpack four biblical principles that can transform the way we navigate marriage—teamwork, conflict, communication, and forgiveness. With practical wisdom, honest reflection, and a memorable illustration about “the rats in the cellar,” this message explores how conflict doesn’t create character—it reveals it. Whether you’re married, dating, hoping to be married someday, or simply wanting healthier relationships, this conversation offers gospel-centered tools for handling tension in a way that honors God and strengthens your household.

The Foundation of a Godly Marriage

This week in Habits of the Household, we begin the marriage portion of the series by exploring God’s design for a healthy, Christ-centered marriage. Looking at Paul’s words in Ephesians 5, we unpack three foundational truths: a godly marriage is sacrificial, selfless, and spiritual. Whether you’re married, dating, engaged, single, or preparing for the future, this message offers practical and biblical wisdom on serving one another, navigating conflict, choosing love daily, and building relationships that reflect Christ and the church. Through personal stories, honest encouragement, and powerful Scripture, this sermon challenges us to “shave off the edges” of pride and selfishness so that our relationships can become stronger, healthier, and more like Jesus.