Pardon the Mess with Courtney DeFeo - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids

Christian Parenting
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As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Each day brings wins, losses and valuable lessons. Pardon the Mess is a place where we discuss parenting and faith in a biblical, approachable and relatable way. We may cry and laugh while we learn and grow together in our beautiful mess. Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

  1. Meet your new host, Scarlet Hiltibidal!

    17h ago

    Meet your new host, Scarlet Hiltibidal!

    Well, it’s a bittersweet day for me. I am delighted to introduce you to your NEW HOST of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal. This is my last episode as your host, and I am feeling all the emotions. I am grateful and sad and feeling so much peace. Thank you for letting me into your lives for a few years. I pray God encouraged you in your role as a Christian parent. A special thanks to Jill Jefferson, Steph Thurling, Jeannette Tapley and the entire team at Christian Parenting. I couldn’t have done it without you all. Today, you will get to know Scarlet and her family. She has a beautiful heart for the Lord and the imperfect journey of parenting. She is passionate about the gospel and has a new twist on the Thursday episodes. And great news - the Monday prayer episodes will be returning after the summer! Much love and gratitude, Courtney DeFeo  00:00 Introduction and Family Dynamics 03:03 Scarlet's Unique Childhood and Background 06:00 Transition to Writing and Parenting 08:57 The Journey to Becoming a Writer 11:55 Joining Christian Parenting and Future Plans 16:15 Navigating Parenting Challenges with Grace 21:13 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting 25:00 Finding Hope Amidst Struggles 30:32 Preparing for the Future of Parenting Podcast Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Connect with Scarlet Hiltibidal Connect with Courtney DeFeo Open a LearningRX center Summer Reading Picks Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Sign up for Morning Minute Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    40 min
  2. Week 38: Be sanctified - Jesus

    3d ago

    Week 38: Be sanctified - Jesus

    Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2) All the people we have talked about this year are heroes of faith. Whether they were named or unnamed, their stories hold significance in God’s word, which is always worthy of our attention! As much as we want our kids to take on the characteristics of the people in this great cloud of witnesses, our primary desire is that our kids become like Jesus, our rabbi, friend, perfect king, and our Savior. We become more and more like Jesus as we spend more time with him. It’s the process of sanctification, or being made holy. We cannot be fully sanctified on this side of heaven, but the Holy Spirit does work within us as we surrender, obey, and return to him when we get it wrong. We are shaped to look more and more like Jesus. Our kids will make mistakes, struggle with sin, and face challenges. We all do; it’s part of living in a broken world. But as they become more like him, their responses to those things will change because becoming more like Jesus means choosing truth over lies, kindness over gossip, love over selfishness, and obedience over comfort. As we end this year of praying for our kids, let’s pray that our kids become like Jesus, that they live such a full life of faith that others will say, “They loved like Jesus loved.” Jesus, sanctify __________ through your Spirit. Shape their heart to reflect you in how they love, serve, follow, and obey. May they go to you every day and learn to talk with you and listen to your voice all day long. May they allow you to help them be more like you every day so that your light shines through them. Amen. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    11 min
  3. When decisions are tough with Megan Jones

    May 21

    When decisions are tough with Megan Jones

    Big decisions in motherhood often come with uncertainty—especially when it comes to balancing family, work, calling, and the many demands on our time. In this episode, the tables are turned as Megan Jones interviews Courtney about her decision to step away as host of Pardon the Mess. The conversation explores the tension many moms feel when navigating career decisions, learning when to say yes or no, and discerning God’s direction in changing seasons. Together, they talk honestly about the twists and turns that can come with work and motherhood, the challenge of trusting God with the unknown, and the importance of following his leading even when the path forward isn’t fully clear. This episode is a thoughtful encouragement for anyone walking through a season of transition or making difficult decisions for themselves or their family. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:59 The Importance of Mentorship 05:56 Navigating Change and Transitions 12:08 Finding Purpose in Parenting 17:59 Reflections on Priorities and Regrets 18:48 Psst — we may have hidden a little surprise in this episode 🎉 In case you can't wait until May 28th to meet your new host! 23:56 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Encouragement Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Connect with Megan Open a LearningRX center Summer Reading Picks Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Sign up for Morning Minute Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    29 min
  4. Week 37: Spread God’s word - Epaphroditus

    May 18

    Week 37: Spread God’s word - Epaphroditus

    How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:14–15) Epaphroditus is not a name that many people know from the Bible, but his story is incredible. He was sent by the Philippians to bring a gift to Paul while he was in prison, but he did more than deliver a package—he ministered, encouraged, and served so faithfully that he became sick and nearly died. Once he recovered, he carried back the Letter to the Philippians, making sure that Paul’s message reached the church. Paul describes Epaphroditus as a minister, brother, coworker, and soldier. He was totally committed to both Paul and Jesus, and his story is a reminder that God uses all people to spread his word. Just like Epaphroditus was entrusted with a message, so are we. As soon as our kids accept Jesus, their mission begins. Sharing the gospel doesn’t require a microphone or a mission trip to a different city or country. Our mission to spread God’s truth happens in everyday conversations, acts of kindness, and bold faith. Whether at school, on the playground, or at home, our children carry the light of Jesus wherever they go. We are God’s first plan to spread the gospel, and not one of us is called to be quiet about it. So this week, let’s pray that our kids grow to know, love, and follow Jesus, and that they are so excited about their faith that they can’t help but share the hope of it all. Jesus, I pray that _______ will respond to your call to make disciples and share the gospel wherever they go. May they live in a way that reflects you working in their hearts. Give them the courage they need to share with others, and when they do, may they do so lovingly and gracefully. Amen. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    8 min
  5. Looking back over the years of parenting with Jeannie Cunnion

    May 14

    Looking back over the years of parenting with Jeannie Cunnion

    Parenting often feels like a journey of wondering whether we’re getting it right—and it can be easy to tie our worth to the outcome of our children’s lives and choices. In this episode, Jeannie Cunnion joins the conversation to reflect on the highs, challenges, and lessons learned through years of motherhood. Together, we talk about what really matters in parenting, how to release the pressure of trying to control outcomes, and why joy grows when we place our trust in God instead of our performance. The conversation also explores the role of the Holy Spirit in parenting and the reminder that we were never meant to do this alone. God is at work in our homes in ways we cannot manufacture on our own. This episode is a meaningful encouragement for moms who want to parent with more grace, freedom, and dependence on God. 00:00 The Exhaustion of Motherhood 04:10 Navigating Food and Family Life 06:04 Reflections on Parenting Through the Years 12:57 Faithfulness in Motherhood 15:48 The Importance of Instilling Faith 17:03 Cultivating Joy in Parenting 18:56 Relying on the Holy Spirit 24:29 The Power of Scripture in Family Life 30:03 Transformative Parenting Practices 33:32 Trusting God with Our Children Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Connect with Jeannie Closer to God  Don’t Miss Out  Mom Set Free Raising Boys and Girls ABC Scripture Cards I Can Learn The Bible - scripture memory source Open a LearningRX center Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Sign up for Morning Minute Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    38 min
  6. Week 36: A legacy of faith - Eunice and Lois

    May 11

    Week 36: A legacy of faith - Eunice and Lois

    I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. (2 Timothy 1:5) Eunice and Lois are very briefly mentioned as the mother and grandmother of Timothy, but they are known for passing on a legacy of sincere faith. Have you ever thought about your kids being grandparents or parents one day? It’s incredible to think that what you pour into your kids now will influence what they pour into their own kids and impact generations to come. Sometimes, raising kids can feel mundane and like an unseen role, when the truth is that this important work can actually raise up generations of faith-filled men and women. This feels like a lot of pressure, but faith is so often caught, not taught. If we model a sincere faith to our kids, they are likely to follow the same path. We don’t know what the future holds for our kids. Whether they become parents and grandparents or not, they will have an influence on the next generation of believers. As they know, love, and follow Jesus, they aren’t just impacting the world directly in front of them. They are also impacting people they don’t even know yet. This week, let’s pray that our kids see the bigger calling on their lives and that their sincere faith will ripple out to many generations. Jesus, I pray that __________ is a godly influence on everyone around them, that they live out a sincere faith in a way that influences their family, their friends, and their future family as well. Lord, I pray that you would begin to create a legacy of faith in my children to love God and love others. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    14 min
  7. Why discomfort is critical for our kids with Sissy Goff and David Thomas

    May 7

    Why discomfort is critical for our kids with Sissy Goff and David Thomas

    ATTENTION: I have a pretty big announcement in the introduction of this episode. Don’t miss what’s coming next on Pardon the Mess! Raising confident, resilient kids starts with helping them believe they are capable. In this episode, Sissy Goff and David Thomas—therapists and authors of Capable—share insight on how to help children build the confidence and resilience they need to face challenges. Drawing from decades of counseling experience, the conversation explores what it means for kids to develop a deep belief in their ability to do hard things and navigate adversity. We talk about the importance of allowing kids to experience discomfort, why stepping back can actually help them grow, and how everyday moments can build confidence and emotional strength. This episode is a helpful reminder that our kids are often more capable than we realize—and that giving them space to struggle can be one of the greatest gifts we offer. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Stories of Capability 03:02 Understanding Anxiety in Children 05:56 The Role of Parents in Building Capability 08:53 Balancing Support and Challenge in Parenting 11:46 Real-Life Examples of Capability in Children 15:00 Encouraging Capability in Teenagers 17:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Raising Boys and Girls Connect on Instagram with Raising Boys and Girls Connect on Instagram with Sissy Goff New book - Capable Open a LearningRX center Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Sign up for Morning Minute Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    29 min
  8. Week 35: Proclaim faith publicly-the jailer’s house

    May 4

    Week 35: Proclaim faith publicly-the jailer’s house

    Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38) There once was a jailer who was ordered to guard Paul and Silas securely. Around midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God when an earthquake shook the prison, flinging open the doors and loosening everyone’s chains. The jailer woke up and saw the doors open. Thinking the prisoners had escaped, he was about to kill himself, but Paul shouted and saved him. He fell to the ground and asked Paul and Silas what he had to do to be saved. In that moment, the word of the Lord spoke to the jailer and his entire household. The jailer was transformed: He took Paul and Silas and cleaned all their wounds, he and his entire house were baptized immediately, and then he brought Paul and Silas back to his house and served them a meal and was filled with joy. He went from imprisoning Jesus’s messengers to joyfully sharing a meal after a baptism! Faith is meant to transform us, and baptism is meant to tell the whole world of that transformation! Baptism does not save us; it is an outward display of an inward decision. When we are baptized, we are publicly telling people that we are no longer who we were before we followed Jesus. We should desire that type of faith for our kids—a faith that means being not ashamed but proud of how Jesus changed their lives. This week, let’s pray that our kids tell people when Jesus changes their lives. When baptism is right for them, let’s pray they make that choice confidently and joyfully and let’s celebrate them big! Jesus, I pray that you change __________’s life. May they have the type of faith that immediately takes action because they know life with you is too good. May they publicly declare their faith, so everyone knows they follow you. Amen. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    10 min
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As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Each day brings wins, losses and valuable lessons. Pardon the Mess is a place where we discuss parenting and faith in a biblical, approachable and relatable way. We may cry and laugh while we learn and grow together in our beautiful mess. Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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