Trim the Wick - podcast cover

Trim the Wick

Dan and Becky Jamesmatthew257.com

Join Dan and Becky James on Trim the Wick, the podcast that's igniting hearts and strengthening relationships. With over 25 years of ministry experience and a passion for helping believers thrive, Dan and Becky share biblically sound advice on marriage, family, relationships, and life. Tune in for practical insights, inspiring stories, and tips to keep your flame burning bright. Don't miss out - subscribe now and trim away the distractions to focus on what truly matters!



Episodes

Finding Real Peace in a Crazy World

In this special edition of the Trim the Wick podcast, we revisit an enlightening episode from our previous podcast, "Seeing God in the Everyday," where we explore the concept of real peace. Join us as we discuss how to maintain peace amidst life's chaos, what true peace looks like, and how to rejoice in God regardless of circumstances. Tune in for practical tips and spiritual insights that will help you find and keep peace in your daily life. __________ Like what you heard? Listen...

Aug 13, 202425 minSeason 4Ep. 24

Cheptais Kenya: African Drums, Tribal Wars and Praising the Lord

In this week’s episode of Trim the Wick, Dan and Becky share an incredibly moving story from their time in Kenya. Despite facing unimaginable hardships, the faith and resilience of a Kenyan village left a profound impact on them. They recount their journey up Mount Elgon, where they encountered a community that, despite losing many of its men to tribal conflict, displayed unwavering faith and joy. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and hope that can be found in the most d...

Aug 06, 202424 minSeason 4Ep. 23

The World is on Fire! Are You Ok?

In this week's episode of the Trim the Wick podcast, Dan and Becky dive deep into the theme of enduring faith amidst life's trials. They discuss the constant challenges we face, from personal setbacks to global crises, and how to hold on to faith and confidence through it all. With heartfelt encouragement and scriptural insights from Hebrews and Romans, they remind us of the importance of perseverance, community, and genuine love. Tune in for a powerful message of hope and resilience. ...

Jul 30, 202436 minSeason 4Ep. 22

Am I Doing It Right? Reading the Bible

In this episode of Trim the Wick, Dan and Becky delve into the transformative power of the Bible. They discuss the importance of engaging with the word of God beyond mere academic study, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating and applying scripture to our lives. Dan and Becky explore four distinct methods of Bible study—devotional reading, structured reading programs, topical studies, and unstructured personal study—highlighting the benefits and challenges of each. Whether you&a...

Jul 23, 202437 minSeason 4Ep. 21

Rediscovering Community: How Can Today's Church Build Genuine Fellowship?

Does it seem like these days the only way to have fellowship and build community you have to do a big event or go to an expensive outing. I wonder if we are missing the point trying to make events and memorable occasions we have lost the ability to just "be" and hang out. This week Becky and Dan discuss this and how to get back to building genuine fellowship. __________ Like what you heard? Listen to more episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trim-the-wick/id1496074089 F...

Jul 16, 202431 minSeason 4Ep. 20

Work is Worship

In this episode of the Trim the Wick podcast, Dan and Becky tackle a topic that affects everyone: work. They delve into how our daily labor, whether paid or unpaid, can be an act of worship and service to God. Drawing from biblical teachings and personal experiences, they explore the idea that all work, no matter how mundane or difficult, has intrinsic value and can glorify God. Tune in to discover how to find joy and purpose in your everyday tasks and to hear inspiring stories of how God uses o...

Jul 09, 202431 minSeason 4Ep. 19

Kenya: Feed the Body, Feed the Soul

In this heartfelt episode of Trim the Wick, Dan and Becky share their passion project, connecting their church community with the transformative work being done in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. They recount their experiences with Pastor Steve and Pastor Mary, who are dedicated to bringing hope and change to some of the most impoverished areas. From feeding programs to job training and education initiatives, discover how this incredible ministry is making a difference and how you can be a part of ...

Jul 02, 202437 minSeason 4Ep. 18

Simply Parenting: Ep 3 - Love People

In this episode of the Trim the Wick podcast, Dan and Becky wrap up their "Simply Parenting" series by discussing the importance of loving others as ourselves, based on Matthew 22:39. They share personal stories and biblical insights, emphasizing the need to parent with love and grace. Key points include understanding child behavior, balancing love and discipline, and teaching genuine acts of love. Key Takeaways: Parenting requires modeling godly love and grace. Understanding behavior ...

Jun 25, 202425 minSeason 4Ep. 17

Simply Parenting: Ep. 2: Love God

In this week's episode of the Trim the Wick podcast, Dan and Becky continue their series on "Simply Parenting." Dive into a conversation about the importance of loving God and how it forms the foundation for effective and heartfelt parenting. Discover practical tips on modeling a genuine relationship with God for your children and learn how to instill values that will guide them through life's challenges. _______________ Episode Transcripts: Simply Parenting: Love God Like wh...

Jun 18, 202458 minSeason 4Ep. 16

Simply Parenting: Am I Doing it Right?

In this episode, hosts Dan and Becky kick off a new series called "Simply Parenting," aimed at breaking down the overwhelming expectations placed on parents today. They discuss the pressures from social media, societal norms, and even government regulations that make parenting feel like an insurmountable task. Drawing from their own experiences of raising four children to adulthood, Dan and Becky share how they navigated through external judgments and internal pressures. They emphasize...

Jun 11, 202423 minSeason 4Ep. 15

Kenya: No Money? No Contacts? No Problem.

In this week's episode of the Trim the Wick, Dan and Becky take us on an incredible journey of faith, family, and international ministry. They share their experiences of saying "yes" to God's calling, which led them to preach in Kenya, connect with pastors, and witness the transformative power of faith in the slums of Nairobi and the villages of western Kenya. Tune in to hear how their family came together to support their mission, the challenges they faced, and the miraculou...

Jun 04, 202432 minSeason 4Ep. 14

We've Got a Problem: Reconciling Conflict in Relationships. Ep. 3 - I Can Still Love You

In this week's episode of Trim the Wick podcast, Dan and Becky delve into the intricate subject of conflict resolution and reconciliation. They explore the complexities of resolving disagreements, emphasizing that separation is not always a failure but sometimes a necessary step to maintain peace. Using biblical references like the story of Paul and Barnabas, Dan and Becky illustrate how even strong relationships can face conflicts that lead to separation while still maintaining love and re...

May 28, 202437 minSeason 4Ep. 13

We've Got a Problem: Reconciling Conflict in Relationships. EP. 2- I'm Ready Let's Talk

In this week’s episode of Trim the Wick, Dan and Becky explore the power of reconciliation in conflict resolution. Learn how to align your responses with Christ's character, prepare for confrontations, communicate truthfully, and listen to understand. Discover biblical principles for restoring relationships and the ongoing process of reconciliation. Whether facing personal disputes or seeking peace in your community, gain insights to mend and strengthen bonds. _______________ Episode Transc...

May 21, 202429 minSeason 4Ep. 12

We've Got a Problem: Reconciling Conflict in Relationships EP. 1 - Me First

Every human relationship faces times of disagreement, hurts, and wrongs against one another. How we handle those times can restore the relationship or rip it to pieces. Join us this week as we discuss how the first moments of any conflict need to start with managing our own emotional and physical responses before we can hope to address the other person involved. _______________ Episode Transcripts: Episode 1: Me First Like what you heard? Listen to the rest of the series here: https://podcasts.a...

May 14, 202426 minSeason 4Ep. 11

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Self Control

Ok to all our Trim the Wick fans we made it to final episode in our series 9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage. This week we finish strong discussing Self Control. Understanding self control more fully as having mastery over you self, emotions, thoughts and actions leads to a more fruitful marriage. Lear more matthew257.com Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

May 07, 202434 minSeason 4Ep. 10

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Gentleness

Episode 8 of our 9 part series on a fruitful marriage. This week Dan and Becky talk about the Fruit of Gentleness. Being gentle is more than just being soft or even weak around each other. Gentleness requires strength and a standing with your spouse when they are going through troubles. Learn More @ matthew257.com Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 30, 202432 minSeason 4Ep. 9

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Faithfulness

Being Faithfull is so much more than your physical actions. Faithfulness is about your character and does it match God's character. Faithfulness is where you wedding vows become a part of your marriage. Learn more www.matthew257.com Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 23, 202432 minSeason 4Ep. 8

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Goodness

I do something for her, she does something for me... I thought marriage was all about give and take... No not really. This we talk about Goodness and how powerful it is to just be Good to one another. Learn more www.matthew257.com Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 23, 202432 minSeason 4Ep. 7

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Kindness

So if you don't say anything you are being Kind right? Well not really, this week Becky and Dan talk about the Trait of Kindness in your marriage. Kindness is draws a husband and wife closer together because space is given to grow. You are going to be blessed during this episode. Learn More www.matthew257.com Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 16, 202435 minSeason 4Ep. 6

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Patience

Over the years of being married I think that this one trait keeps the fighting to a minimum. But patience is not about a "grinning and bearing it" mentality. Patience takes work and discipline, and the power of Holy Spirit so that your marriage can endure. Learn More @ www.matthew257.com Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 09, 202434 minSeason 4Ep. 5

9 Traits to cultivate a fruitful marriage: Peace

This week we continue to build on the 9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage. We are talking about Peace, but in the words of that brilliant philosopher Fezzik in the Princess Bride. "You keep using that word I don't think it means what you think it means." Peace in a marriage does not mean quiet and enough is enough... Join Dan and Becky as we look into the word Peace, and the beautiful music it makes. Please leave commits or questions in the chat. Lear More @ www.matthew257.c...

Apr 02, 202429 minSeason 4Ep. 4

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Joy

Is there more than just striving after happiness? Is my marriage supposed to hit that dopamine button over and over again? What do I do when times are bad and I'm in a place of desperation? This is where Joy steps in and gives us strength to overcome even in the worst of situations. This week Becky and I talk about having Joy in your marriage and why it is essential. Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!...

Mar 26, 202426 minSeason 4Ep. 3

9 Traits to Cultivate a Fruitful Marriage: Love

Welcome back the the Trim the Wick podcast. This week we start a series about marriage. Becky and I have been married for over 33 years and have a lot of experience of doing marriage right and wrong. We have four children who are all adults and a list of life's ups and downs, from military, college moving across country to being homeless we have experienced a lot. In this series we what to share with you the things that we have learned and to help you to have a fruitful marriage. This week ...

Mar 19, 202438 minSeason 4Ep. 2

What's in a Name?

Welcome to the new Trim the Wick podcast. This is our first podcast where we will be discussing out name Trim the Wick. We will be diving into Matthew 25 as Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins. We will be sharing about our community and what is to come. Please leave commits and ask questions you would like us to address. Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Mar 12, 202440 minSeason 4Ep. 1

How to have real Peace

Join us around the kitchen table for a discussion about having real Peace. Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Sep 04, 202328 minSeason 4Ep. 1

Determination

Becky and I see the gift of determination at work in a friend's baby; even grown-ups can learn from baby steps! Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

May 06, 202130 minSeason 3Ep. 8

30 Year Anniversary Part 2

Years 15 to 30 as We look back at the hard times and amazing times. God is faithful and good. This weeks podcast was recorded during a thunderstorm at the Walt Disney Resort. Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 30, 202155 minSeason 3Ep. 7

30 Year Anniversary Part 1

Becky and I are celebrating 30 years of marriage this year. We go back in time to talk about the ups and downs of young married life and how to build a marriage that can last the trials of life. The Chosen update in two weeks, watch it and get caught up. Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 16, 202153 minSeason 3Ep. 6

Appliances Break But Your Relationships Don't Have To

A new family favorite show, and how washers and dryers and refrigerators teach some great lessons about what's worth investing yourself in! Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 09, 202138 minSeason 3Ep. 5

Jesus in the Passover

This week we tie it all together with the 3rd and final episode in our series. Join us as we see how God gives a picture of His promise in the salvation of the Israelites from Egypt...and how Jesus shows Himself as the fulfillment of that promise during His last Passover meal with the disciples. Have a question? Need to talk? Send us a message!

Apr 01, 202133 minSeason 3Ep. 4