62 episodes

Life is beautiful but it can get messy too. Still, God turns messes into messages and tests into testimonies, and that is the heart of The Art of a Messy House. It is where you will find stories of humility, kindness, Truth and love as we walk in faith through the everyday, relatable moments. My name is Jen. I am a wife, mom, teacher, and author learning to embrace this messy, but beautiful life while encouraging others to do the same. No matter what stage of faith you are at, you will learn of God’s love and be empowered to walk in your own beautifully distinct purpose right here right now.

The Art of a Messy House Jennifer Kosuda

    • Education
    • 5.0 • 16 Ratings

Life is beautiful but it can get messy too. Still, God turns messes into messages and tests into testimonies, and that is the heart of The Art of a Messy House. It is where you will find stories of humility, kindness, Truth and love as we walk in faith through the everyday, relatable moments. My name is Jen. I am a wife, mom, teacher, and author learning to embrace this messy, but beautiful life while encouraging others to do the same. No matter what stage of faith you are at, you will learn of God’s love and be empowered to walk in your own beautifully distinct purpose right here right now.

    #61: Being the Gatekeepers of Our Homes: Boundaries & Kids with guest Melissa Quintanilla

    #61: Being the Gatekeepers of Our Homes: Boundaries & Kids with guest Melissa Quintanilla

    **Trigger warning as this episode talks about sensitive topics**

    Are you navigating the delicate art of setting boundaries for your children in a world that often challenges them? Today’s conversation with Melissa Quintanilla dives deep into the essential aspect of parenting—establishing and respecting boundaries. As a parent educator, Christian speaker, and devoted mother, Melissa brings valuable insights into empowering children to assert their limits and the importance of guiding them spiritually and emotionally. We’ll explore how healthy boundary-setting can serve as both protection and a teaching tool for personal values and spirituality.

    This episode is a must-listen if you find yourself struggling with allowing your children the space to confidently say no, if you’re seeking ways to protect their innocence, and if you're curious about integrating faith into guiding your parenting choices. Join Melissa and me as we unpack the strategies for nurturing a spiritually and emotionally secure environment for our children, sharing personal stories, professional expertise, and our journeys as mothers.



    Just some reasons to listen to the entire episode:


    Hear Melissa's philosophy on empowering children to set physical boundaries with adults.
    Discuss honestly on uncomfortable topics to safeguard children from potential abuse.
    Reflect on the role of parenting in helping children assert their boundaries amidst pushback.
    Overcome external criticism when enforcing your child’s boundaries.
    Be reminded that spiritual and emotional boundary-setting are crucial elements in child development.
    Gain tools from Melissa’s insights on incorporating God’s word to combat false truths and negativity in children's lives.
    Discuss practical tips for observing behavioral patterns in children that signal discomfort.

    And so much more!



    Melissa Quintanilla, from California, combines her extensive background in clinical psychology with her faith-driven approach to parenting education. She lives with her family, consisting of her husband and son, continually exploring the blessings and challenges in her parenting journey. As a Christian speaker, Melissa focuses on how faith can guide parents in not only setting boundaries but also in building a foundation of honest, open communication within the family.

    As we conclude this important episode, we hope that you not only gain insights on guiding your children in setting physical, spiritual, and emotional boundaries but also feel equipped to lead by example, reinforcing these lessons in everyday interactions. Ready to empower your children and enrich your parenting practice with a touch of spiritual wisdom? Come share your thoughts with me on social media. 



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    • 27 min
    #60: Jesus Set Boundaries (Boundaries - part 1)

    #60: Jesus Set Boundaries (Boundaries - part 1)

    Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the demands and expectations of others, struggling to find time for yourself or for what truly matters? Maybe you've noticed how easily life can spiral out of control when you neglect to set clear boundaries. In this episode, I'm sharing my journey towards understanding and implementing healthy boundaries, inspired by biblical principles and my own challenging experiences.

    This episode is for you if you grapple with life's upheavals, seek to establish healthier personal confines, or are curious about how biblical teachings can illuminate our modern struggles. Expect to uncover the spiritual and practical aspects of boundary setting, learning to trust God’s plans, and the peace from embracing divine guidance during difficult times.

    Just some reasons to listen to the entire episode:


    Hear my reflections on past boundary issues and their impact on my life
    Learn from Jesus on setting boundaries and taking time for quiet reflection
    Discuss the importance of facing challenges with faith and the role of tests in personal growth
    Reflect how a vacation’s challenges prompted deeper reliance on God
    Draw parallels between my experiences and biblical stories, such as David’s trials
    Gain strategies and divine insights for setting boundaries, preparing for new seasons, and handling crises
    Be inspired by the necessity of relying on God for wisdom, peace, and discernment in the face of adversity

    And so much more!



    Throughout the episode, I explore the biblical references and personal experiences shaping my understanding of these themes. I hope my journey and the scriptural insights I share will resonate with you, providing comfort and actionable guidance.



    Are you ready to navigate your personal storms with a renewed sense of faith and boundary-setting? Let’s explore how to find strength and serenity in God’s guidance together. Come share with me anything that came up for you during this episode on social media.



    Mentioned Resources

    Mark 6:45-46

    1 Samuel 17:39-40

    1 Samuel 17: 45-49

    1 Samuel 18

    John 16:33

    Mark 6

    Matthew 4:1-4

    *Correction in episode: mentioned quote was by Ken Keyes Jr., not Dr. Brown.



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    • 27 min
    #59: Seeing the Complete Picture with Pastor Bobby Nemeth 

    #59: Seeing the Complete Picture with Pastor Bobby Nemeth 

    Do you ever feel like your understanding of Jesus is incomplete or based on pieces of a larger picture you can't quite piece together? Maybe you struggle with the notion of surrendering to God's will, worried about losing control or fearing the unknown. In this week’s episode, Pastor Bobby Nemeth joins me in a conversation about seeing a complete picture of Jesus and how this impacts our individual walks with faith.

    This episode is for you if you're yearning for a deeper, more authentic connection with your faith, regardless of where you might be on your spiritual journey. Join us as we explore how to overcome incomplete perspectives, find clarity, and embrace the transformative power of Jesus's story. This is an episode you will not want to miss.



    Just some reasons to listen to the entire episode:


    Discuss the danger of working with incomplete pictures of Jesus, and the personal stories that shape our perceptions
    Hear Pastor Bobby’s transformative Palm Sunday message and the question that challenged us to consider our views of Christ
    Dive into an exploration of surrendering control and understanding true spiritual freedom
    Be empowered by the significance of the cross, and how to communicate its importance to those skeptical of its power
    Be motivated by Pastor Bobby’s advice on where to begin or re-begin your journey through the Bible to gain a more complete picture of Jesus
    Explore the fascinating history of how the early church preserved the fourfold Gospel accounts, and what that means for our understanding of Jesus today

    And so much more!



    Pastor Bobby teaches and is a pastor at Evangel Church in New Jersey. He earned his bachelor's in biblical studies from Somerset Christian College, now Pillar College, and did graduate work at NIACC Theological Seminary. He has been in pastoral ministry for the last 15 years serving in various sizes of churches, and his passion is to catch people up in the story of scripture and invite them to see how that story can shape and transform your life. Bobby has been married to his wife, Christina, for 12 years, and they have one child. When he is not doing his pastoral ministry or reading works in the fields of biblical and theological studies, he practices Brazilian jujitsu and serves as the primary cook for his family.

    Are you looking for a richer, more robust understanding of Jesus and His work in your life? Are you struggling with an incomplete picture of Christ that hinders your faith experience? This episode invites you to challenge those notions and enter into a fresh encounter with the One who seeks to draw you to Himself. Come share with me on social media your thoughts about this episode!



    Mentioned Links & Resources

    Matthew 1

    Matthew 1:18

    John

    Luke

    Mark

    Acts

    James



    ♡ Connect with Pastor Bobby Nemeth

    Evangel Church



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    • 32 min
    #58: When Baggage Blocks the Blessing (Relationships part 2)

    #58: When Baggage Blocks the Blessing (Relationships part 2)

    Do you ever feel weighed down by the invisible baggage of your past? Maybe you find yourself wrestling with self-doubt, unforgiveness, or the constant pressure of unresolved conflicts in your relationships. In this episode, we look at emotional turmoil to uncover the hidden blocks that keep us from experiencing the blessings meant for us.

    If you're ready to face your struggles head-on, replace the lies you've been told with the truth, and understand the profound impact that letting go of baggage can have on your faith and relationships, this episode is for you.

    Just some reasons to listen to the entire episode:


    Overcome unforgiveness and embrace the freedom found in turning to God
    Reflect on how gratitude and scripture helps with battling chaotic thoughts and negativity
    Discuss the crucial role of positive mindsets and taking ownership of our personal growth
    Gain ways to handle conflict without blame, highlighting the importance of biblical guidance
    Compare baggage as 'dirty dishes' and hear about the urgency to clean up our acts
    Be motivated to use accountability as a support, not as a weapon in relationships

    And so much more!



    Are you ready to unshackle yourself from the chains of your past and step into the freedom that awaits? Let's embark on this journey, diving into biblical wisdom and practical steps to turn our baggage into blessings. By the end of our time together, my hope is, that you’ll not only be equipped to face your hidden hurts but will also receive the encouragement to seek God's strength in all areas of life.



    Are you prepared to start a new chapter, free from the burdens that have held you back? Press play now, and together let's transform our mess into a message of hope.

    Mentioned Links & Resources

    Ephesians 4:24-27

    1 Samuel 13:5-13

    Genesis 3:1

    Psalm 91

    Ephesians 4:26-27

    Ephesians 6



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    • 35 min
    #57: Biblical Marriage and Submission with Melissa Smith

    #57: Biblical Marriage and Submission with Melissa Smith

    **Trigger warning as abusive relationships are mentioned.**

    Are you grappling with the expectations of marriage and motherhood, and maintaining your faith through life's tumultuous turns? Today’s heartfelt conversation with Melissa Smith, a dedicated mom and steadfast follower of Christ, authentically dives into the trials and triumphs of a blended family dynamic, resilience through personal hardship, and embracing biblical principles in daily life.

    In this episode, Melissa courageously opens up about her experiences navigating through two divorces, seeking the true meaning of submission in marriage, and juggling the joys and struggles of raising five children across different life stages. Her resolve and vulnerability offer a beacon of hope and a repository of wisdom for those weathering the storms of relational and spiritual challenges.

    Just some reasons to listen to the entire episode:


    Listen to Melissa's candid discussion about her challenging journey as a mother, bonus mother, and Christian facing the realities of marriage, divorce, and personal growth.
    Understand the complexities of biblical submission within marriage and hear a personal account of how Melissa navigated controlling behavior and a toxic relationship.
    Discover how to approach difficult situations such as divorce and remarriage through the lens of Melissa's experiences, with a focus on harnessing biblical principles and finding peace.
    Dive deep into the subjects of authority, submission, and value in the context of marriage and Christianity.

    And so much more!



    Melissa Smith is a mom to 2 biological kids, ages 16 and 3, and a bonus mom to 3 more kids ages 19, 17, and 15. As a Christian who deeply values marriage, she wrestles with the fact that her first two marriages ended in divorce. After living the life of a controlling wife and then leaning too far into being a controlled wife, she has spent years studying God's word on what true biblical submission looks like in today's world. God uses all things for good and has proven this over and over again as he uses her experiences to help equip other wives desiring to build their homes in wellness and godliness.

    Melissa discussed the approach to leadership and submission in a household that honors the Lord. How can couples today navigate these roles in a way that respects both partners' autonomy and value? Come share your thoughts with us on social media!



    Mentioned Links & Resources

    1 Corinthians 7

    Genesis 2:18

    Ephesians 5:22



    ♡ Connect with Melissa Smith

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    ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda

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    ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

    • 27 min
    #56: Taking Matters into Our Own Hands Versus Trusting the Lord and His (Relationships part 1)

    #56: Taking Matters into Our Own Hands Versus Trusting the Lord and His (Relationships part 1)

    Do you ever feel like you're constantly measuring your worth by your own accomplishments or failures, constantly coming up short? Maybe you've found yourself wearing a mask to hide your pain, comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else's highlight reel, or rushing into relationships without pausing to seek divine guidance. In this episode, I'm talking about the transformative realization that Jesus is enough for us, regardless of our circumstances, and we learn to rest in the truth that our value is determined by Him and not by our relentless self-assessments.

    We confront the lies we often tell ourselves and the truth of Jesus’s sufficiency in our lives. If you're caught in the cycle of comparison, fear of opening up in relationships, or just tired of trying to figure it out all alone, this episode will speak directly to your heart. Join me as we navigate the intricacies of God's love, patience, and the perfect timing in finding not just love, but also in overcoming life’s great fears.

    Just some reasons to listen to the entire episode:


    Discuss the pressure of upholding an unworthy self-image and the freedom found in Jesus's love.
    Reflect on the dangers of self-sabotage in relationships and the transformative power of difficult, honest conversations.
    Gain insights into the weight of comparison, settling for less, and the enemy's deceptions.
    Hear my journey from fear and lack of faith to a God-centered love story. (Yes, I am going there this week.)
    Be reminded of the significance of waiting on God's timing and listening for His guidance in relationships and life decisions.
    Be inspired by encouraging experiences of breaking negative cycles by aligning actions with God's truth.
    Dive deeper into reflections on seeking God's presence to heal the impulse of self-medication through harmful behaviors.
    Be motivated with the biblical parallel of King David’s sins, repentance, and restoration with our own quests for fulfillment.
    Gain practical advice on embracing God's word and presence during life's tumultuous seasons.

    And so much more!

    Are you ready to release the grip of fear and self-reliance, and instead, embrace the peace that comes with trusting in God’s plans? Let’s dive into this episode and find solace in the understanding that we are not alone, and in the powerful knowledge that leaning on the Lord can guide us through life’s ebbs and flows. Set aside the time, tune in now, and let's explore together the restorative journey of finding worth in wholeness.

    Mentioned Links & Resources

    1 John 4:18

    1 Samuel 17:41-52

    2 Samuel 11:1-17

    2 Samuel 11:27

    2 Samuel 12:13

    Psalm 51

    2 Samuel 12:14-18

    1 Chronicles 21:1

    1 Chronicles 21:8

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    ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

    Quotes

    • 33 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
16 Ratings

16 Ratings

Taaayyybugg17 ,

Truly a blessing

Jen is so incredibly motivational and easy to relate to. She teaches God’s lessons and God’s Word through reflecting on her own experiences as a wife/mom/teacher/woman of God. She always seems to genuinely want her listeners to “water their garden” and grow closer to God and his purpose for each of us. Her voice is so soft and calming, too. I listen to her every day on my commute and I honestly feel as though she is one of my close friends! Thank you, Jen, for your time and wonderful advice!

mindsetcoachmd ,

This podcast is becoming one of my favorites!!

I started listening to ‘The Art of a Messy House’ and love how Jenn takes lessons occurring in her life to show how God is working through her and spreading his message. I loved the episode about ‘When Life Gives Us Lemons: What do we depend on too much’. The part the resonated with me is how prayer changed Jenn’s heart when there was no lemons in the house as well as her friend saying you won’t bring lemons to heaven. So good!! 💕. I can’t wait to hear more episodes! 😊-Celia V

BrainCancerChristianMomMel ,

So good!

Jennifer is so great at sharing helpful Christian tips through her blog and instagram posts, that I will be listening to her podcasts as well. #ButGod

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