In today’s episode, Aaron chats with Ron Deal, licensed marriage and family therapist, author, and speaker, who specializes in blended families and stepfamily dynamics. Together they explore the unique challenges and opportunities within blended families. With over 30 years in family ministry, Ron shares wisdom on how humility, emotional regulation, and a shared sense of "usness" can transform marriages. He unpacks how neuroscience supports biblical truths about relationships and encourages the church to better support couples in every season.

Key Takeaways:

• Blended families need intentional care and support.
• The church must invest in stronger marriage ministries.
• Emotional dysregulation often fuels conflict cycles.
• Humility is a pathway to healing and unity.
• “Usness” strengthens a couple’s shared identity.
• Neuroscience affirms biblical principles of connection.
• Awareness can help couples rewrite their conflict patterns.
• Relationship struggles can deepen our dependence on God.

Connect with Ron Deal

• Website: https://rondeal.org/
• Reactive Coping Style Assessment: https://rondeal.org/reactivecopingstyle
• Podcast: FamilyLife Blended Podcast

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Keywords: blended families, marriage ministry, spiritual growth, conflict, humility, usness, neuroscience, discipleship, church support