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

    4H AGO

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

    4D AGO

    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
  3. 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
  4. How do I grow in my faith with Shelley Giglio

    APR 30

    How do I grow in my faith with Shelley Giglio

    It’s easy to focus so much on caring for our families that we neglect our own personal faith. In this episode, Shelley Giglio, co-founder of Passion Conferences and Passion City Church, shares wisdom on what it looks like for women to cultivate a strong, personal relationship with God. The conversation explores how our faith shapes our homes, why it matters for our kids to see it lived out, and how to keep Jesus at the center in everyday life. We talk about practical ways to grow spiritually, the influence of a parent’s faith on the next generation, and the lasting impact of consistently showing up with intention. This episode is a meaningful reminder that investing in your own faith is one of the most powerful ways to impact your family. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Early Impressions 02:59 Seasons of Life and Ministry 05:56 The Importance of Letting Go 09:00 Faith and Parenting Dynamics 11:58 Encouragement for Moms 14:55 Everyday Discipleship and Spiritual Growth 16:00 Building Consistency in Scripture Reading 20:09 Navigating Faith Amidst Illness and Disappointment 24:01 The Impact of Family on Faith Development 30:00 Embracing Unique Paths in Motherhood Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Connect with Shelley Passion City Church Passion Conferences Six Steps Records The Grove 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

    35 min
  5. Week 34: Contentment - Paul

    APR 27

    Week 34: Contentment - Paul

    I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11–13) In his efforts to spread the gospel all over the world, the apostle Paul endured trials that would break most people. He was beaten, imprisoned, hungry, and persecuted. He experienced dangerous travels, a shipwreck, and even a snake bite! But through all of that, Paul continued to praise Jesus. He even sang hymns while in prison! Of all people, Paul understood that our situations and our lives are temporary. He knew what it was like to have more than enough and also knew what it was like to struggle and fear. Through faith, Paul learned to be content in Christ, not his circumstances. Our lives can change in a second, and our emotions are fleeting. True contentment is learned, and it doesn’t come naturally, especially for kids. It’s so normal for our kids to want the next best thing. Of course they want the latest toys, electronics, shoes, or clothes, or a place on the best sports team. But when they base their happiness on these things, they are chasing a status and a high that will always leave them wanting more. Even though we know this as parents, we fall into that trap too! We will only feel truly content by trusting in God’s provision for us no matter what. Our contentment in Christ grows as we trust God more and more. This life is not about the latest and greatest, it’s about being in a relationship with God. This week, let’s pray that our kids shift their minds to Jesus and learn to be content in him no matter what. Lord, teach _______ to be content in you. Help them trust in your provision, rejoice in every season (good and bad), and find their peace not in circumstances or what they have but in you. May they, like Paul, decide that through Christ, they have all they need. Amen. 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

    14 min
  6. Finding faithful friends with Tammie Floyd

    APR 23

    Finding faithful friends with Tammie Floyd

    Parenting was never meant to be done alone, but building meaningful community can feel challenging in the middle of full and busy lives. In this episode, Tammie Floyd shares wisdom from years of parenting and ministry, with a focus on friendship and the importance of community for moms. The conversation explores what it looks like to cultivate life-giving relationships, why support matters in every season, and how God often provides the right people at the right time. We also talk about the role of the local church in a child’s faith journey and why consistent involvement can have a lasting impact. This episode is a gentle reminder that we need each other—and that intentional community can make all the difference. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Family Background 04:59 Challenges of Parenting in a New City 10:03 Navigating Adult Friendships 14:59 Building Community Through Church 19:58 Raising Kids in Faith 20:51 Engaging Kids with Faith-Based Content 23:09 Navigating the Transition to Young Adulthood 27:02 The Importance of Community in Parenting 29:06 Prioritizing Church in Family Life 31:18 Three Key Themes in Parenting 35:59 Finding Joy and Humor in Parenting 39:39 Closing Thoughts and Prayer Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Connect with Tammie Gateway Church Parenting on Purpose curriculum Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Sign up for Morning Minute Open a LearningRX center Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! 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

    39 min
  7. Week 33: A passionate faith - Peter

    APR 20

    Week 33: A passionate faith - Peter

    Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:29–31) Peter is known for being a leader among the disciples, for his job as a fisherman, for denying Jesus three times, and for his passionate and eager faith. Peter was ready to follow Jesus anywhere. In fact, when Jesus called Peter to follow him as his disciple, Peter immediately dropped what he was doing and followed him. And when the disciples saw Jesus walking on water, Peter asked Jesus to call him out onto the water too. Peter stepped out of the boat, trusting that if Jesus called him, he could do the impossible. For a minute, he walked on water. But then he took his eyes off Jesus, just for a second, and started to sink. When Jesus rescued him, he asked, “Why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31). Here is the thing: However imperfectly, Peter got out of the boat. This story reminds us that faith isn’t about never failing; it’s about always coming back to Jesus. Peter’s willingness to step out in faith grew his relationship with the Lord; it allowed him to experience miracles and do great things for God’s people and church. We can do those things too, but only if we are brave enough to get out of the boat. It doesn’t have to be perfect. A life of faith has ups and downs, and we will all have moments of doubt. But a passion for Jesus means that when we fail, we always know who to reach for, knowing that he will reach back and help us. This week, let’s pray that our kids take a risk for their faith. Let’s pray that they boldly and passionately follow where Jesus asks them to, knowing that with him they can do the impossible. Jesus, give __________ a bold and passionate faith in you. Help them to hear your call for their life and give them the courage to follow you in that calling. When they face dear or doubt, remind them to call on you and trust in your goodness. Amen. 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

    12 min
  8. How to stop procrastinating and get unstuck with Jon Acuff

    APR 16

    How to stop procrastinating and get unstuck with Jon Acuff

    Procrastination is something every family faces. It shows up in our own lives and in our kids, often leaving us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure where to start. In this episode, Jon Acuff returns to share practical insight from his latest book, Procrastination Proof. The conversation explores why we procrastinate, the common traps that keep us stuck, and how to take small, meaningful steps toward progress. We also talk about how these patterns show up in our kids and what it looks like to guide them with understanding and encouragement instead of frustration. This episode is a helpful reminder that getting unstuck doesn’t require perfection—just a willingness to take the next step. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Procrastination and Its Universality 02:57 Jon Acuff's Journey to Writing 11 Books 05:56 Understanding Procrastination as a Solution 09:02 The Satisfaction of Completing Tasks 11:53 Four Permissions to Overcome Procrastination 15:05 Navigating New Seasons of Life 18:10 Encouragement for Moms Facing Identity Changes 19:14 Emotional Transitions of Parenting 20:04 Understanding Different Parenting Styles 25:45 Identifying Parenting Traps 30:30 Encouragement for Personal Growth Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Resources from today’s show: Connect with Jon Acuff Procrastination Proof - Jon’s new book Four Traps Quiz Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Sign up for Morning Minute Open a LearningRX center Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! 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

    34 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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