In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore the sensitive question many Christians wrestle with: If I had sex before marriage, am I forgiven? They discuss God’s design for sex, how He responds to sexual sin, and the emotional, spiritual, and relational healing that is possible. Along the way, they address shame, guilt, conviction, and the difference between God’s forgiveness and the enemy’s accusations, while offering practical steps toward freedom and restoration. Whether you’re navigating your own past, supporting a spouse, or walking with a friend through this struggle, this episode provides compassionate and hope-filled guidance for strengthening relationships.

Resources Mentioned:

• FamilyLife Weekend to Remember Marriage Getaway – Monterey, CA – A weekend away to invest in your marriage with biblical teaching, practical tools, and quality time together. Learn more and register here
• Talbot School of Theology – Equipping leaders in biblical truth and partnering with the CMR to expand resources for marriages and relationships. www.biola.edu/talbot
  
  

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore the often-overlooked struggle of making friends in college. They discuss why college can feel more isolating than expected, the psychological and social hurdles that block new friendships, and the surprising reasons even extroverts feel lonely in new environments. Providing practical insights and encouragement, they share stories, scientific research, and biblical wisdom to help students take initiative, overcome social anxiety, and build meaningful connections.

Whether you're dealing with roommates, classmates, old high school friends, or you're navigating life as a commuter, this episode offers valuable advice to improve your relationships and feel less alone.

Resources Mentioned:

• How to Ask Better Questions (PDF) – A guide to asking questions that build deeper connection and spark better conversations.
• It’s Just Coffee (PDF) – A simple tool to help start low-pressure conversations and grow new friendships.
• Free Relationship Advice – Schedule a free session with a trained relationship advisor (in-person or virtual).

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace unpack what it really means to have a Christ-centered marriage. Beyond simply sharing a faith background, they explore the defining traits of a marriage where Jesus is truly at the center. Drawing from Scripture, research, and their own marriage journey, they discuss key differences between valuing Christ and truly centering your relationship on Him, as well as practical habits that help couples reflect the love of Christ daily.

From healthy communication and conflict resolution, to servant leadership, prayer, and practicing gratitude, Chris and Alisa provide practical insights to strengthen your marriage and encourage spiritual growth together. Whether you’re married, engaged, or dating with faith at the core, this episode offers a powerful vision of how your relationship can point others to Christ.

Resources Mentioned:

• Fierce Marriage 40-Day Prayer Guides – Devotionals designed to help you pray intentionally for your spouse. shop.fiercemarriage.com/products/40-day-prayer-journey-couples-bundle-2-books?srsltid=AfmBOopx3UCuDhkuufGJP2QnGFa3gmkg4PtwKIJjVTke7EtsgSRIyNK7
• Ron Blue Trust – Biblically centered financial planning for couples seeking unity in stewardship. ronblue.com

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.