Filtrar por gênero
Pardon the Mess with Scarlet Hiltibidal - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids
As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Pardon the Mess is a podcast for Christian moms who love Jesus, love their kids, and still feel behind on most days. Each week, host Scarlet takes one real parenting mess (morning meltdowns, discipline guilt, raising kind kids in a world that doesn't feel kind) and untangles it with honesty and grace, one small, faithful step at a time. No five-step systems. No longer to-do lists. Just clarity about what matters most and permission to let the rest go.
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
- 761 - Parenting happy kids when your heart feels sad
Scarlet Hiltibidal shares her personal journey of dealing with sadness and how her faith helped her find hope and healing. She discusses practical ways for moms to handle their emotions while raising happy kids, even when their hearts feel heavy.
In this episode, you’ll hear about dealing with sadness and emotional struggles as a mom, the importance of bringing feelings to God through prayer, how biblical figures like David model emotional honesty, balancing genuine sadness with joyful parenting, the significance of community and Scripture in healing, and practical steps for moms to process grief and joy.
Scripture Focus:
Psalm 34:17-18Romans 12:9-15Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
WinShape Camps Carpool Conversations Podcast
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 05 Nov 2026 - 760 - Week 8: See God’s Goodness
Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. (James 1:16–18)
This week, let’s pray that our kids:
• See God’s goodness everywhere in their life.
• Respond to God and his goodness with thankfulness and humility.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 02 Nov 2026 - 759 - I feel like I’m constantly correcting my kids
Parenting little kids can feel like an endless cycle of correction. You’re saying “no,” breaking up fights, reminding, redirecting, and wondering if you’re doing any of it right.
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal talks about the exhaustion of feeling like the “bad cop” and the temptation to believe that if we just parent well enough, we can make our kids patient, kind, self-controlled, and spiritually mature. But the fruit of the Spirit isn’t something we can manufacture in our children. It’s the work of God in them over time.
Special thanks to Jacie Laweson, who joined Scarlet in this week’s Messy Mom Moment, talking about the realities of parenting littles and how impactful finding a mentor mom has been!
If you’re in the thick of little kid chaos and wondering,Does this ever end?This episode is for you. You will not always feel this way.
Scripture Focus:
Galatians 2:22-23Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids
WinShape Camps Carpool Conversations Podcast
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal!
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 29 Oct 2026 - 758 - Week 7: Resist Temptation
When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. (James 1:13–15)
This week, let’s pray that:
• Our kids have a faith strong enough to flee from temptation.
• Our kids have a heart that turns to God when they fall.
• We, as parents, would also be quick to forgive and to model for our kids the joy of regular confession.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 26 Oct 2026 - 757 - I don’t know how to teach my kids to repent
What does it actually mean to teach our kids to repent?
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal talks about why repentance is one of the most important things we can teach our children, and why it has to be about so much more than getting them to say “sorry.” We want our kids to stop hiding and defending sin, and rather to confess it honestly, and turn toward Jesus.
Scarlet shares from her own experience as a mom, along with Scripture’s vision for repentance, to help us think about how we can model it in our homes. She talks about the difference between an apology and genuine repentance, why our kids need to see us repent too, and how confession can lead to the joy, peace, freedom, and nearness to Jesus we were made for.
Special thanks to Caroline Saunders, who shared so much wisdom in today’s Messy Mom Moment. Caroline Saunders is a writer, Bible teacher, pastor's wife, and mother of three who believes in taking Jesus seriously and being un-serious about nearly everything else. Learn more about what the Bible says about clothing in Caroline's recent tradebook, But What Do I Wear?: The Biblical Story of Clothing, How It Helps Us Think About Getting Dressed, and Approximately Seventeen Stories I May Regret Telling. Find her writing, resources, and ridiculousness at WriterCaroline.com and on Instagram @writercaroline.
Scripture Focus:
2 Corinthians 7:8-11Isaiah 6Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
Caroline Saunders’ latest book: But What Do I Wear?: The Biblical Story of Clothing, How It Helps Us Think About Getting Dressed, and Approximately Seventeen Stories I May Regret Telling
Podcast episode Scarlet mentioned with “the Elizabeth story!”
Book: You’re the Worst Person in the World
NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids
WinShape Camps Carpool Conversations Podcast
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal!
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 22 Oct 2026 - 756 - Week 6: Stay Focused on Jesus
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12)
This week, let’s pray that our kids:
• Keep their eyes focused on Jesus.
• Rely on him to help them persevere through all of life’s trials.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 19 Oct 2026 - 755 - Siblings, only children, and the family we build
What does it look like to love our kids well when they are all so different from each other? What does it look like to pursue community when you’re raising an only child?
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal talks about siblings, only children, adoption, personality differences, and the ways God uses our families to teach us how to love.
In this episode we talked about how…
Genuine love comes from being loved by Jesus, not from effort alone.Parents should model prayer and dependence on God.Children are always growing and not fully mature, so we can’t expect them to have loving each other well down pat. We are all growing into Christ-likeness.Love and patience in parenting are rooted in understanding God's love for us.Practical parenting involves asking God for guidance and leading by example.A special shoutout to Stori Nix, who joined in for the Messy Mom Moment to share what it’s like to raise an only child and what the Lord has taught her through it.
Scripture Focus
Romans 12:9–18
Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
All Kinds of Weather by Abbey Wedgeworth
NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids
WinShape Camps Carpool Conversations Podcast
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal!
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 15 Oct 2026 - 754 - Week 5: Find Identity in Christ
Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. (James 1:9–11)
This week, let’s pray that our kids:
• Know and embrace their identity in Christ.
• Live humbly because of their faith, not valuing possessions
over people.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 12 Oct 2026 - 753 - How do I know when protection becomes overprotection?
As moms, we want to protect our kids from pain, disappointment, failure, and suffering. But where is the line between helping our kids and keeping them from learning, growing, and trusting God for themselves?
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal talks about the tension between stepping in and letting our kids experience hard things.
Special thanks to our guest on today’s Messy Mom Moment, Christine Hoover (more about her and where you can find her books and Bible studies below!)
Scripture Focus:
Psalm 121John 16:33Learn more about Christine Hoover!
Christine Hoover serves as the women’s ministry associate at The Austin Stone’s Northwes tcongregation. She has written seven books, including Messy Beautiful Friendship, How to Thrive as a Pastor’s Wife, and You Are Not Forgotten, as well as two Bible studies on Matthew and 2 Corinthians. Christine is married to Kyle, a pastor at The Austin Stone, and they have three boys. You can find her at her website.
Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
Scarlet’s Favorite Christine Hoover book: You are Not Forgotten
NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids
Raising Spiritually Strong Kids
WinShape Camps Carpool Conversations Podcast
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation (Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal.)
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 08 Oct 2026 - 752 - Week 4: Believe Without Doubting
But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-
minded and unstable in all they do. (James 1:6–8)
This week, let’s pray that our kids:
• Can keep their minds singularly focused on the Lord and all the good things he does for us.
• Are confident that God will give them what they truly need when they ask in faith.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 05 Oct 2026 - 751 - When you’re carrying motherhood without a partner
What do you do when motherhood feels like it’s all on you?
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal offers Scripture-based encouragement for moms who feel alone in the work of raising their kids. Whether you’re a single mom, a military spouse whose husband is deployed, or simply walking through a season where you feel like you’re carrying more than you can handle, you don’t have to carry it by yourself.
Scarlet talks with Rossi Tidwell about her experience navigating motherhood while her husband is deployed, the unique challenges of parenting without your spouse beside you, and the ways God is meeting her in this season. Together, they talk about the importance of building a community, asking for help, praying honestly, and trusting that God is present and providing even when circumstances feel overwhelming.
Thank you, Rossi, for joining the show today! And listeners, please be praying for her family this year!
Scripture Focus:
The scripture focus for this episode was an encouragement to study God’s Word fully and in context, as well as an encouragement to turn to the psalmsConnect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
All Kinds of Weather by Abbey Wedgeworth
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 01 Oct 2026 - 750 - Week 3: Ask God for Wisdom
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all
without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5)
This week, let’s pray that our kids:
• Learn to seek God’s wisdom in every situation.
• Grow in trust, starting with the little things so that when big decisions come they’re ready to rely on him fully.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 28 Sep 2026 - 749 - When being a mom and having a job feels overwhelming
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal talks honestly about the overwhelm that can come with being both a mom and a working woman. Instead of offering another list of ways to do it all, Scarlet points us to the grace of God, the goodness of our limits, and the freedom that comes from trusting Him with what we cannot control.
Together, we’ll consider how to recognize when we’re carrying more than God has asked us to carry, how to rest in His provision, and how to stop borrowing tomorrow’s worries. Because we don’t have to be everything for everyone, we can receive God’s grace for today and trust Him with the rest.
Special thanks to Christian Parenting’s own Steph Thurling (who hosts The Christian Parenting Podcast) for sharing her experience as a mom who works!
Scripture Focus:
Matthew 6:25-34Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com.
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Resources:
Check out The Christian Parenting Podcastwith Steph Thurling
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 24 Sep 2026 - 748 - Week 2: Endure Trials with Joy
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.(James 1:2–4)
This week, let’s pray that:
• Our kids view trials and struggles as an opportunity to lean on God and grow closer to him.
• We resist the temptation to fix every problem in our kids’ (or our own) lives.
• Instead of giving our kids an easy path, God gives them joy in the middle of their struggles.
This episode continues our series through Christian Parenting's Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation, a 38-week prayer journal to help you pray intentionally for your kids all school year long. Grab your own printed copy here, and join us every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection.
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 21 Sep 2026 - 747 - The Beauty and Brokenness of Foster Care and Adoption
In this episode ofPardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal brings on her friend, Laura Jenz, to talk honestly about both sides of foster care and adoption: the joy, the grief, the attachment, the loss, the unexpected relationships, and the ways God meets us right in the middle of all of it.
Laura has three biological children, fostered several, and then adopted two out of foster care. Thank you, Laura, for sharing your story!
Our dream for this episode is that it would demystify the process and be a resource for moms interested in stepping into foster care and adoption, whether that be in their own families, or supporting families in their lives who are caring for these children.
In this episode, we talk about:
The beautyandbrokenness that come with foster care and adoptionThe grief and loss that are part of every adoption storyLoving a child while recognizing that their story began long before they came into your familyWhy foster and adoptive parents need the support of their communitiesWhat the gospel tells us about being welcomed into God's familyScripture Focus:
Romans 8:22-23Ephesians 1:4-5James 1:27Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement atscarlethiltibidal.com.
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Resources:
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join Scarlet each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal:Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 17 Sep 2026 - 746 - Week 1: Fully committed to God
Today we are kicking off this year's series that follows Christian Parenting's brand new prayer journal. Inspired by the book of James, Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation is a 38-week prayer journal designed to help you pray intentionally for your children all school year long.
Each week includes a short devotional, Scripture passage, guided prayer, and space to write your own prayers as you ask God to help your kids develop a faith that stays strong through every season. Invest in your child's spiritual future one prayer at a time, and join thousands of parents & grandparents who are praying boldly for the next generation to know, love, and follow Jesus!
In week one, we're starting in James 1:1: "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings."
Let's pray that our kids:
Fully understand that God's grace cannot be earned, only received as a free gift through Jesus's work on the cross.Live in such a way that their actions reflect a deep, active faith in him.Commit their whole lives to God's will, walking in obedience wherever he leads.If you'd like to follow along you can get your printed copy here, and be sure to join us here on the podcast every Monday through the end of May for guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal!
Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 14 Sep 2026 - 745 - Cultivating a joyful home
What makes a home joyful?
It’s probably not a spotless house, perfectly behaved children, or a mom who never gets overwhelmed. In this episode of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal talks about what it looks like to cultivate a home marked by joy.
Scarlet shares a personal story about her grandmother, Grandma Marlene, and her mom, and the “irrational exuberance” they brought into everyday life. Their ability to delight in ordinary things taught Scarlet something about the kind of atmosphere she wants to cultivate in her own home.
But biblical joy isn't something we manufacture by trying harder to be happy. The joy of the Lord is our strength. Our joy ultimately comes from knowing who God is and what He has done for us in Christ.
Scarlet talks about the difference between creating a happy home and cultivating a joyful one—and offers practical ways moms can make room for delight, celebration, laughter, repentance, and grace in their families.
Thank you, Shari Wilson, for joining us on this week’s Messy Mom Moment, to share your wisdom about cultivating a joyful home!
Scripture mentioned:
Nehemiah 8:1–12
Nehemiah 8:10
Galatians 5:22–23
Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com.
Resources:
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join me each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 10 Sep 2026 - 744 - I don’t know how to fight the lies I believe
Motherhood can make us believe some pretty convincing lies.
I’m messing up my kids.
Everyone else is doing this better than I am.
If my child is struggling, I must be failing.
I need to be a better mom before I can feel okay about myself.
In this episode of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal brings the listeners in, talking about the specific lies you might easily believe about yourself, your children, and your motherhood—and what happens when we start answering those lies with the truth of God’s Word.
Rather than trying to become moms who never struggle with fear, comparison, guilt, or insecurity, we can learn to recognize the lies we're believing and bring them into the light of Scripture. The gospel reminds us that our identity isn't determined by how well we parent, how our kids behave, or how we compare to the mom next to us. Our hope is in Jesus, who has already done what we could never do for ourselves.
Scarlet also shares practical ways to fight these mental battles with biblical truth, remembering that God's grace meets us right in the middle of our messy motherhood.
Thank you, listeners, for being part of this week’s “Messy Mom Moment” by sharing (via Scarlet’s Instagram question) the lies you battle.
Scripture Focus
Ephesians 2:8-91 Corinthians 3:6-7Romans 8:1Galatians 6Hebrews 12Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find her books, Bible studies, and more encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com.
Resources:
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal and join me each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 03 Sep 2026 - 743 - Can Moms Love Like Jesus and Still Have Boundaries?
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal (and her sister, Aubrey Fuhrman) talk about the tension many moms feel between loving sacrificially and setting healthy boundaries. Through an honest conversation about motherhood, family, and faith, they explore how boundaries are not about keeping people out, they are about creating space to love others well.
Scarlet and Aubrey discuss the importance of inviting Jesus into our decisions, especially when navigating seasons of change like new motherhood. Aubrey shares her experience of setting boundaries around visits after having a baby and how those boundaries actually helped her love others more intentionally.
This conversation offers encouragement for moms who struggle with guilt when saying no, reminding us that biblical love is not measured by constant availability, but by faithfulness to what God has called us to in each season.
In This Episode
Boundaries are not about loving people less; they are about loving people wisely.Healthy boundaries create room to be present, joyful, and intentional with the people God has entrusted to us.Following Jesus means bringing Him into our decisions instead of simply reacting to guilt, expectations, or pressure.Sacrificial love does not mean saying yes to everything or neglecting the responsibilities God has given us.Prayer and Scripture help us discern when to open our hands and when to create wise limits.Scripture Focus
Mark 1:35–38 Matthew 22:37–39Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus. You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find more resources, Bible studies, and encouragement atscarlethiltibidal.com.
Resources:
Get your copy of our latest prayer journaland join me each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal:Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 27 Aug 2026 - 742 - I Don’t Want to Do Motherhood Alone
Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also feel isolating. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares why moms need gospel-centered community and how God often works through the people He places around us. Through personal stories of seasons when she pulled away from others in pain and waited until she felt “bright and shiny” again before showing up, Scarlet explores the freedom that comes from being known, loved, and supported in the middle of the mess.
Drawing from Psalm 107 and the call to “tell of the Lord’s goodness,” Scarlet encourages moms to share their stories of God’s faithfulness, not because our stories are perfect, but because they point to a perfect Savior. She offers practical encouragement for finding community through the local church, small groups, and intentional relationships that remind us we were never meant to do motherhood alone.
Special thanks to Lacey Garner, who came and shared a so-encouraging story of God being actively involved in her life at a family vacation in an Air B&B!
In This Episode:
Why gospel community is essential in motherhoodHow isolation keeps moms from experiencing God’s provision through othersSharing our stories of God’s faithfulness, even when life is messyPractical steps for finding and nurturing gospel-centered friendshipsThe role of the local church and small groups in supporting momsLiving out the gospel in everyday conversationsKey Scripture
Psalm 107:1-9Proverbs 3:5-6Connect with Scarlet
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus?
You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find more resources, Bible studies, and encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com.
Resources:
Get your copy of our latest prayer journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation and join me each Monday (beginning September 14th) to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 20 Aug 2026 - 741 - I Worry That My Anxiety is Affecting My Kids
What if my anxiety is affecting my kids?
It’s a question many moms quietly ask themselves. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares a personal story from her own motherhood journey and the fear that she might pass her anxiety on to her children.
Scarlet talks about a moment when she realized that her biggest struggle wasn’t just anxiety itself, it was what she believed about God. When we don’t trust that God is good, our fears can take over. But when we understand the character of our loving Father, we can begin to release the impossible burden of trying to control every outcome for our kids.
Through Scripture, honest reflection, and personal experience, Scarlet encourages moms that the goal isn’t to become a fearless mom, it’s to become a mom who knows where to take her fears, because our children don’t need perfect, anxiety-free moms. They need moms who point them to the perfect love and faithfulness of Jesus, even when they feel weak.
In This Episode:
The story behind Scarlet’s fear that getting closer to God might lead to something terrible happening to her childrenHow anxiety can distort our view of God’s characterWhy the root of anxiety is often a struggle to trust God’s goodnessThe guilt moms feel when they worry their anxiety is affecting their kidsHow honesty about our struggles can actually help our children see faith lived outWhy we don’t have to become fearless moms, we can become moms who trust God with our fearsKey Scriptures:
Matthew 6:25–26 — Jesus reminds us that our heavenly Father cares for His children.
Matthew 7:11 — If earthly parents know how to give good gifts, how much more can we trust our good Father?
Resources:
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 13 Aug 2026 - 740 - I Don’t Know How to Help My Kids Love Church
If you've ever wrestled a toddler through the church doors, bribed your kids with donuts to make it through the service, or wondered if anything they're hearing is actually sticking—you are not alone.
In this episode, Scarlet sits down with her pastor-husband, Brandon Hiltibidal, for an honest conversation about one of the biggest questions Christian parents ask: How can we help our kids love the church?
The answer isn't found in creating the perfect kids' ministry or making church endlessly entertaining. More often, it begins with the way we, as parents, view and love Christ's bride.
Listen in to hear practical, gospel-centered ways to cultivate a love for the local church in your family while helping your kids understand that church is much more than a weekly event.
In This Episode:
Why your attitude toward church shapes your children's view more than you realize.The difference between raising church attenders and raising kids who love God's people.Why church should feel like family, not just another Sunday activity.How to help your children build meaningful relationships within the church.How to talk with your kids when they notice hypocrisy, conflict, or failures in church leaders.Why the gospel gives us hope even when people in the church disappoint us.Personal stories of how the church cared for the Hiltibidal family during seasons of adoption, hardship, and celebration.Scripture Focus
Acts 2Hebrews 10:24–25If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus?
You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find more resources, Bible studies, and encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com.
Resources:
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 06 Aug 2026 - 739 - I Feel Like I’m Losing Myself in Motherhood
Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered, Who even am I anymore?
Motherhood is beautiful, sacred, and deeply meaningful, but it can also feel all-consuming. Somewhere between diaper changes, school pickups, endless laundry, and caring for everyone else, it's easy to lose sight of who you are.
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares honestly about what it feels like to lose yourself in motherhood and why the answer isn't finding your "old self" again, but anchoring your identity in Jesus. Through personal stories, biblical encouragement, and practical rhythms, you'll be reminded that your worth isn't found in your productivity, your parenting, or your season of life. It's found in Jesus..
If you've been feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or like you've disappeared beneath the title of "Mom," this conversation is for you.
Special thanks to Katie Hinson, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today.
In this episode:
Why so many moms feel like they've lost themselvesThe difference between your role as a mom and your identity in ChristThe importance of friendship and Christian communityKey Scripture
Colossians 3:1-4Ephesians 2:10Resources:
You are Not Forgottenby Christine Hoover
Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Join the Pardon the Mess community by subscribing and leaving a review!
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 30 Jul 2026 - 738 - Homeschool, Public, or Private...How Do I Choose?
How do you know you're making the right decision for your kids?
Whether you're homeschooling, choosing private school, considering public school, or simply wondering if you're getting this whole parenting thing right, the pressure can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal reminds us that while parenting comes with countless decisions, our greatest calling isn't to engineer the perfect childhood—it's to faithfully point our children to Jesus.
Through biblical encouragement and practical wisdom, Scarlet shares how Scripture shapes our approach to discipleship at home, why prayer and wise counsel matter, and how resting in God's sovereignty frees us from the burden of believing everything depends on us.
In this episode, you'll hear:
What the Bible says about discipling our children in everyday life.Why God's Word should be woven into the rhythms of your home.How to seek wisdom through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel when making educational decisions.The freedom that comes from remembering you are called to point your children to Jesus—not save them.How trusting God's sovereignty brings peace in every parenting season.Key Scriptures
Proverbs 3:5–6Deuteronomy 6Key Takeaways
God's Word is meant to shape the everyday rhythms of family life.Parenting is about faithful discipleship, not perfect outcomes.Every family and every season is unique—seek God's wisdom rather than someone else's formula.Prayer and biblical wisdom should guide every major parenting decision.God is already at work in your child's life, and you can trust Him with what you cannot control.Special thanks to Ever, Scarlet’s 15-year-old, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today.
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Resources:
Cozy Earth (use code PARDONTHEMESS for up to 20% off! And if you get a Post-Purchase Survey, make sure to let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here!)
Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 23 Jul 2026 - 737 - Summer is Long…What Do I Do With My Kids?
Summer always seems to come with big expectations. We imagine memory-making adventures, endless family fun, and kids who magically never complain. But somewhere between snack requests, screen-time negotiations, and trying to keep everyone occupied, many of us end up wondering if we're doing enough.
In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares why the best summer isn't necessarily the busiest one. Instead, she explores how the gospel frees us from the pressure to create a "perfect" summer and invites us to faithfully enjoy the ordinary moments God has already given us.
You'll also hear from special guest Anna Van Dyke, who shares simple, practical rhythms that have helped her family cultivate faith, connection, and joy throughout the summer.
Whether you're staying home, traveling, or just trying to survive another hot afternoon with your kids, this episode will encourage you to embrace intentionality over perfection and remember that God is already at work in the everyday moments.
In This Episode
Why summer can leave moms feeling overwhelmedHow the gospel frees us from the pressure to create a "perfect" childhoodSimple spiritual rhythms your family can build into everyday lifePractical ideas for creating meaningful summer memories without overschedulingFinding joy in the ordinary instead of chasing extraordinary momentsScripture Focus
Colossians 3:17Luke 10:38-42Special thanks to Anna Van Dyke who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today.
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Resources:
Cozy Earth (use code PARDONTHEMESS for up to 20% off! And if you get a Post-Purchase Survey, make sure to let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here!)
Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 16 Jul 2026 - 736 - I Don't Know How to Help My Child Through Friendship Drama
Few things are harder than watching your child come home hurt by a friend. Whether they're feeling left out, navigating conflict, experiencing rejection, or struggling through friendship drama, many moms find themselves wondering: Should I step in? Should I stay out of it? How do I help without making it worse?
In this episode of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares personal stories, practical encouragement, and biblical wisdom for helping children navigate relational conflict in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus. Through the lens of Matthew 18, she'll explore how we can teach our kids to pursue reconciliation, extend forgiveness, and find their identity in Christ rather than in the approval of others.
If you've ever felt helpless watching your child struggle socially, this conversation will encourage you to trust God with their relationships while helping them develop the skills and character they'll need for a lifetime of healthy friendships.
In This Episode:
Why friendship drama affects moms so deeplyThe difference between protecting your child and preparing themWhat Jesus teaches about conflict and reconciliation in Matthew 18How to help your child navigate hurt, rejection, and misunderstandingsTeaching kids to pursue peace instead of gossipHelping children separate their identity from their friendshipsPractical ways to walk alongside your child without taking overHow the gospel transforms the way we handle relational conflictScripture Referenced:
Matthew 18:15Ephesians 4:31–32Special thanks to Vanessa Dolberry who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today.
P.S. Scarlet also joined Steph on The Christian Parenting Podcast earlier this week for a great conversation on embracing the Gospel for real-life parenting messes! Listen here or watch here
Resources:
Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 09 Jul 2026 - 735 - I Don’t Know How to Trust God’s Goodness After a Miscarriage
In this deeply personal episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares her own experiences with miscarriage and the difficult questions that often accompany loss. Through stories of grief, fear, and surrender, she reflects on the difference between questioning God's goodness and learning to trust His goodness even when circumstances don't make sense.
Whether you're walking through pregnancy loss yourself or supporting a mom friend who is, this conversation offers biblical encouragement, honest hope, and practical ways to care for those who are grieving. Together, we'll explore what it looks like to cling to God in heartbreak and find comfort in His unchanging character when life feels uncertain.
In this episode:
Scarlet's personal experiences with miscarriageWrestling with faith in seasons of lossTrusting God's goodness when life doesn't feel goodBiblical encouragement for grieving momsPractical ways to support someone experiencing pregnancy lossFinding hope and healing in Christ amid unanswered questionsIf you've ever wondered how to hold both grief and faith at the same time, this episode is for you!
Today's Scripture Focus:
Psalm 34:18, Romans 8:32, Lamentations 3:22-23, John 11:35
Special thanks to Scarlet’s little tiny infant baby sister (who is 32!) Aubrey Fuhrman, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today.
Resources:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 02 Jul 2026 - 734 - A Bad Diagnosis & Letting Kids See Hard Things
How do you talk to your kids about cancer, suffering, terminal illness, or the possibility of losing someone they love?
Whether it's a grandparent's diagnosis, a chronic illness, a devastating loss, or another painful reality, there comes a moment when we realize we cannot protect our children from every hard thing this side of heaven.
In this episode of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares from a deeply personal place as she reflects on her mother's battle with stage-four cancer and the challenges of helping her own children navigate grief, uncertainty, and difficult questions. How much do we tell our kids? Should they see us cry? How do we help them process suffering when we're still processing it ourselves?
Together, we'll explore what Scripture teaches about suffering, why Christian hope is different from wishful thinking, and how parents can model faith in the middle of fear. Rather than shielding our children from every hardship, we have the opportunity to show them what it looks like to trust Jesus when life hurts.
This conversation is ultimately about more than cancer. It's about helping our children discover that God's presence is real, His promises are trustworthy, and His love remains steadfast even when life feels fragile.
Today's Scripture Focus:
2 Corinthians 4:16–18
"Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day..."
Special thanks to Jennifer Sieber, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today.
Resources:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 25 Jun 2026 - 733 - I Don't Know How to Help My Kids Feel at Home When Home Keeps Changing
How do we help our children navigate change when their hearts are breaking over what they're leaving behind?
In this week's episode ofPardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares from a lifetime of moving, from her childhood years spent relocating across the country to the many ministry moves she's made as a wife and mom. She explores the unique challenges of helping children process transitions, say goodbye to people and places they love, and learn to trust God in unfamiliar seasons.
Drawing from personal stories of moving with young children, leaving beloved churches and communities, and helping her family build new lives in new places, Scarlet discusses the tension many parents feel: wanting their children to embrace what's ahead without minimizing the grief of what's being left behind.
But this episode isn't ultimately about moving.
It's about belonging.
It's about helping our children understand that while homes, schools, churches, friendships, and circumstances may change, God never does.
Through biblical examples like Abraham, Moses, Ruth, and the Israelites, Scarlet highlights a powerful theme woven throughout Scripture: God's people have always been travelers, strangers, and sojourners learning to trust Him in unfamiliar places. The Christian life has never been about finding perfect security in this world. It's about learning to anchor our hearts in the One who never changes.
In this episode, Scarlet discusses:
• How to help children grieve the people, places, and routines they love
• Why grief is not evidence that a move or transition was a mistake
• The tension of feeling both excitement and sadness during major life changes
• Biblical examples of faithful people who followed God into the unknown
• Why earthly homes, relationships, and comforts make poor ultimate foundations
• How transitions reveal where we are placing our security and identity
• Practical ways to help children build trust in God's faithfulness during uncertain seasons
• How to cultivate gratitude for God's gifts without clinging too tightly to them
Today's Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:13–16
A special thank you to Caroline Downen who shared her own moving to Japan and back experience during the Messy Mom Moment!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who may need this reminder today.
00:00 Embracing Transitions: A Personal Journey
12:02 Navigating Grief and Change with Kids
17:50 Finding Home in a Changing World
Resources:
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 18 Jun 2026 - 732 - Loving Each of My Kids Well (When They All Need Something Different)
How do you love your children well when every one of them seems to need something completely different from you?
In this week's episode of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal explores one of the most common tensions in motherhood: the desire to make sure each child feels deeply loved, seen, and secure, even when their personalities, needs, struggles, and seasons of life look nothing alike.
Drawing from her own experience parenting four very different children, including sharing the adoption story of her daughter Joy, Scarlet reflects on the unique challenges and unexpected gifts that come with loving children individually rather than identically. From navigating a wide age gap between siblings to understanding different temperaments, emotional needs, and life experiences, she discusses the pressure many moms feel to keep everything equal, and why equal isn't always the same as loving well.
At the heart of this conversation is a beautiful gospel truth: God Himself does not interact with every one of His children in exactly the same way. Throughout Scripture, we see a God who knows people personally, pursues them individually, and meets them in the unique circumstances of their lives. He is not a generic Father offering generic love. He is a deeply personal God who sees, knows, and cares for each of His children completely.
This episode is also a reminder that our children's deepest security will never come from having perfectly balanced parents or perfectly equal circumstances. Their security comes from knowing they are fully known and fully loved by God. While we will inevitably fall short, the good news of the gospel is that our children do not need perfect parents. They need parents who consistently point them to the only perfect Father.
Today's Scripture Focus:
Psalm 139
A special thank you to Scarlet's 13-year-old daughter, Joy, for joining this week's Messy Mom Moment. If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who may need this reminder today.
00:00
Introduction and Episode Overview
19:17
The Beauty of Individual Love in Family Dynamics
21:15
Understanding God's Personal Love for Us
23:32
Biblical Examples of Tailored Love
25:42
Practical Steps for Unique Parenting
27:30
Closing Thoughts and Encouragement
Resources:
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 11 Jun 2026 - 731 - I Keep Feeling Like I’m Failing My Kids
It’s officially Scarlet Hiltibidal’s first episode as the new host of Pardon the Mess, and she’s kicking things off with a conversation every mom needs to hear.
If you’ve ever laid in bed replaying your parenting failures, wondered if your bad moments are shaping your kids forever, or felt crushed under the pressure to “get motherhood right,” this episode is for you.
Scarlet shares honest stories from her own home, the parenting advice that radically changed her perspective as a young mom, and the freeing truth that the gospel was never about pretending we’re perfect parents. It’s about pointing our children to a perfect Savior.
She explores how our failures can actually become places where grace shines bright, why joy and peace in motherhood cannot be built on performance, and how repentance, humility, and dependence on Jesus create a healthier home than image management ever could.
In this episode, Scarlet talks about:
• Why motherhood often feels spiritually heavy and emotionally exhausting
• The difference between parenting for performance versus parenting from grace
• How our identity in Christ changes the way we respond to our failures
• The beauty of apologizing to our kids and modeling repentance
• Why children do not need flawless parents — they need parents who know Jesus
• How the Holy Spirit empowers us to live with joy, peace, and dependence instead of striving
• Practical ways to reset the tone of your home when everything feels chaotic
This episode is a reminder that your worst moments are not the truest thing about you. Jesus is still present in the mess, still forming your children, and still offering grace for today.
Whether you’re parenting toddlers, teenagers, or somewhere in between, this conversation will help you exhale, laugh a little, and remember what matters most.
Today's Scripture Focus: Romans 8:1-4
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mom friend who needs some hope today.
Special thanks to Michelle Glass who shared a beautiful testimony for this week's Messy Mom Moment!
Resources:
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Scarlet’s Facebook
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 04 Jun 2026 - 730 - Trailer
As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Pardon the Mess is a podcast for Christian moms who love Jesus, love their kids, and still feel behind on most days. Each week, host Scarlet takes one real parenting mess (morning meltdowns, discipline guilt, raising kind kids in a world that doesn't feel kind) and untangles it with honesty and grace, one small, faithful step at a time. No five-step systems. No longer to-do lists. Just clarity about what matters most and permission to let the rest go.
Pardon the Mess is part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 01 Jun 2026 - 729 - 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:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Scarlet Hiltibidal
Connect with Courtney DeFeo
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 28 May 2026 - 728 - 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 25 May 2026 - 727 - 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:
Resources from today’s show:
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 21 May 2026 - 726 - 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 18 May 2026 - 725 - 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:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Jeannie
I Can Learn The Bible - scripture memory source
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 14 May 2026 - 724 - 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, theywill 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 11 May 2026 - 723 - 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 onPardon 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 ofCapable—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:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect on Instagram withRaising Boys and Girls
Connect on Instagram withSissy Goff
New book -Capable
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 07 May 2026 - 722 - 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 anearthquake 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 04 May 2026 - 721 - 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:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Shelley
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 30 Apr 2026 - 720 - 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 27 Apr 2026 - 719 - 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:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withTammie
Parenting on Purposecurriculum
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
Prefer video? This episode is onYouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 23 Apr 2026 - 718 - 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 20 Apr 2026 - 717 - 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:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Jon Acuff
Procrastination Proof - Jon’s new book
Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 16 Apr 2026 - 716 - Week 32: Repentant heart - Zacchaeus
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
Zacchaeus was a very rich and corrupt tax collector who was disliked by the Jewish people. One day, Jesus was passing through town and Zacchaeus decided he wanted to see him! But as you may know, Zacchaeus was a “wee little man,” so he had to climb a tree to get a good view. Much to everyone’s surprise and dismay, Jesus pointed him out, spoke to him, and invited himself over.
At that moment, Zacchaeus’s heart changed. He felt guilty, but he also acted on his guilt and repented. He vowed to give half his possessions to the poor and to pay back four times the amount to anyone he had cheated. This wasn’t just a small apology—it was a complete turnaround; salvation came to his house and his faith was real because it moved him to action.
We all have a barrier to genuinely meeting and following Jesus. For Zacchaeus, it was his corrupt values and his size.But Jesus broke through those barriers, and when he did, Zacchaeus repented. For our kids, those barriers might be life situations, friends, or even distractions.But no barrier is too big for Christ to reach us. Jesus sees each of us and knows us personally.He invited himself into Zacchaeus’s life, though Zacchaeus was a known sinner, and he invites himself into our kids’ hearts too.
But responding to Jesus isn’t just about hearing his call; it’s about repentance.Zacchaeus didn’t just listen, he changed. As parents, we want our kids to truly follow Jesus, and that means turning away from sin and choosing a new way of life with him.
This week, let’s pray that our kids recognize the sin in their lives and repent of that sin, feeling confident that Jesus forgives them.
Jesus, thank you for forgiving our sins. Help __________ to see the sin in their life and to feel convicted. Take away all their guilt and shame in a way that only you can as they experience your perfect forgiveness. And may they live their life in a way that reflects your grace. 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 13 Apr 2026 - 715 - The love language that matters most by Dr. Gary Chapman
Loving your family well isn’t always as simple as it sounds. There are seasons when connection feels easy, and others when you feel unseen, unheard, or like your efforts just aren’t landing.
In this episode, Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages, shares insights from decades of helping couples and families better understand how to give and receive love. With the release of his latest book, the conversation goes deeper into how love languages can shape stronger, more meaningful relationships at home.
We talk about what to do when you don’t feel loved, how to better understand your spouse and children, and why taking the first step in showing love can shift the entire dynamic of a relationship. There’s also practical wisdom on how to approach hard conversations with care and intentionality.
This episode is a powerful reminder that small, consistent choices in how we love can make a lasting impact on our families.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gary Chapman
01:43 The Importance of Feeling Loved
03:43 Gary Chapman's Life and Work
04:58 Understanding Love Languages
08:42 The New Book: The Love Language That Matters Most
12:39 Communicating Love Effectively
16:46 Identifying Love Languages in Children
17:49 Understanding Love Languages in Early Childhood
20:55 Practical Parenting Tips Using Love Languages
24:38 Engaging with Teenagers: Navigating Independence
29:32 Adapting Love Languages for Teenagers
32:23 Legacy of Love: Reflections on Parenting and Faith
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Dr. Gary Chapman
5 Love Languages free test
5 Love Languages Premium Assessment
The Love Language That Matters Most - new book
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 09 Apr 2026 - 714 - Week 31: Focus on Jesus - Mary
Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. (John 12:3)
In the story of Mary and Martha, Mary was the sister who understood the big picture and spent a lot of time at the feet of Jesus. First, she sat at his feet as a disciple would do and listened to Jesus as he taught. Later, she anointed Jesus’s feet with expensive perfume and washed them with her hair.
It would have been easy for Mary to be distracted and overwhelmed like her sister became. There was a lot going on and there were a lot of people in her house! Jesus was staying with them and the end of his ministry was nearing. He had also just resurrected their brother! Mary could have multitasked her way through that dinner, but she focused her whole self on Jesus instead.
We live in a culture that tells us we can have it all and do it all, and we can multitask and be more efficient. But we can’t multitask Jesus. Jesus was not suggesting that Mary (or Martha) completely disregard their responsibilities, but he was calling them to focus fully on the most important thing, which was him in that moment.
What would it look like for our families to focus on Jesus without distractions? As parents, we can model abiding in Christ and encourage our kids to do the same—to experience the gift of learning from him about eternal things instead of rushing around focusing on the present.
This week, let’s pray that our kids say no to distractions and grow in their ability to solely focus on Jesus and truly abide in his presence.
Jesus, thank you for being our teacher and our Savior. I pray that __________ chooses to sit at your feet and focus on you. As they do the work you have called them to, help them to remember that you are the most important thing. When they are distracted, as they inevitably will be, draw nearer to them. 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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 06 Apr 2026 - 713 - My Virtual Mentor: Leaving a legacy with Jeff Henderson
Legacy is something every family is building, whether intentionally or not. But in the middle of busy schedules and full lives, it can be easy to lose sight of what we’re actually passing down.
In this month’s My Virtual Mentor episode, Jeff Henderson, author, pastor, and leader, shares wisdom on what it means to live and lead with legacy in mind. The conversation explores what truly matters at the end of our lives, the values we want to instill in our children, and how to be more intentional with the time we’ve been given.
We talk about the tension between work and family, why choosing your family matters more than you think, and how everyday decisions shape the kind of legacy you leave behind.
This episode is designed to not only encourage personal growth, but also spark meaningful conversations, with a mentor, spouse, or trusted friend, about the kind of life and family you want to build.
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the previous episodes:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor:Personalities and TemperamentsMy Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & Generosity My Virtual Mentor: Time Management & Creating MarginMy Virtual Mentor: Identity in Christ (Part 1 and Part 2)My Virtual Mentor: Prioritizing Your MarriageChapters:
00:00 Reconnecting at Chick-fil-A Headquarters
05:01 Lessons on Leadership and Legacy from Truett Cathy
12:50 End-of-Life Perspectives: What Truly Matters
17:04 Navigating Parenting with Encouragement and Wisdom
18:20 The Weight of Words
22:14 Preparing for Impact
23:35 Defining Legacy and Values
28:01 Carrying on Family Traditions
34:20 Leadership and Influence in Parenting
37:43 A Prayer for Parents
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (MARRIAGE)
Scripture to memorize:
Deuteronomy 6:5-7
Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Psalm 78:4, Matthew 6:20-21, Psalm 103:17, Proverbs 29:18
Books for further study:
Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People by Truett CathyChoosing to Cheat by Andy StanleyThe Legacy Life by David GreenDivine Disruption by Tony Evans and childrenDiscussion questions:
What do you want to pass down from your parents?
What do you want your kids to say about you when your life is over?
What values matter most to you?
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:
Connect with Jeff HendersonWhat To Do Next by Jeff HendersonFOR by Jeff HendersonResources from Titus 2 MentoringOpen a LearningRX centerPrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 02 Apr 2026 - 712 - Week 30: Salvation - the thief on the cross
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:42–43)
As Jesus was led to his crucifixion, he was surrounded by two men on crosses next to him, all three of them facing death. One man was mocking and doubting Jesus, but the other man turned to Jesus in his final moments and was promised eternity with Jesus.
Although not much was shared in this interaction, the thief did proclaim Jesus was Lord. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to repent and accept Jesus. There is always hope; in fact, the Bible says that everyone who calls on his name will be saved (Romans 10:13). This story also reminds us that doing good works or earning our way to heaven is not what Jesus offered us; it is a free gift.
As believing parents, our hope is that there is more distance between our kids’ salvation and their death than there was for the thief on the cross. We know that true peace, joy, and hope is found in following Jesus, and we want our kids to have that for a lifetime; we want them to experience a full life of faith. We want them to spend many years drawing others to faith. However, we must never count out a child that is full of sin and far from God. God is still reaching for them up until their last breath.
This week, let’s pray that our kids accept the free gift of salvation and spend their lives following Jesus.
Jesus, thank you for the gift of salvation. Lord, please draw __________ to you. Help them to understand what following you means, that there is nothing they can do to make you love them less or more, and that you give them the gift of peace on earth now and eternal life with you later. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 30 Mar 2026 - 711 - Marriage reconciliation and restoration with Cheryl Scruggs
Marriage can be both deeply challenging and incredibly beautiful, and many couples experience seasons of disconnection along the way.
In this episode, Cheryl Scruggs shares her powerful story of reconciliation after walking through divorce and finding her way back to her husband years later. Together, the conversation explores the realities of marriage, the slow drift that can happen over time, and the hope that restoration is possible, even after deep hurt.
We talk about the importance of communication, the danger of letting resentment grow in silence, and the role of community in helping marriages stay healthy. There is also practical encouragement for women who want to be more intentional in their relationships and create space for honesty and healing.
This episode is a reminder that while marriage takes work, it is also a place where God can bring growth, redemption, and renewed connection.
Here are the verses she shared!
Matthew 19:26
With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
Deuteronomy 8:2(read full chapter too)
Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.
Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
Chapters:
00:00 Navigating Life's Challenges
03:02 The Journey of Marriage Ministry
06:02 Crisis in Marriage: Recognizing the Signs
09:09 Building a Stronger Connection
11:59 The Importance of Vulnerability in Relationships
19:20 Navigating the Transition to Empty Nesting
22:02 The Importance of Nurturing Intimacy
24:34 Overcoming Disconnection in Marriage
27:32 The Role of Counseling in Strengthening Relationships
29:59 Practical Steps to Show Love and Respect
31:54 Finding Hope and Redemption in Marriage
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withCheryl and Jeff
Thriving Beyond Belief- Cheryl’s podcast
Thriving Beyond Belief- Cheryl’s newest book
I Do Again- Jeff and Cheryl’s book
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 26 Mar 2026 - 710 - Week 29: Let go of perfection - Martha
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41–42)
Martha kind of gets a bad rap. In her story, Jesus and the disciples were staying at her home. Martha spent her time making food and busying herself to make her home hospitable, while her sister Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to him. We all want to be Mary, choosing time with the Lord over the busyness of life (more on that in two weeks), but it’s important to remember that as disciples of Jesus we are called to sit and serve.
In Martha’s case, it was all about priorities. Creating a hospitable home and serving others is important. In fact, Martha served Jesus and his disciples again at a dinner given in Jesus’s honor before Passover.
But when it comes to serving others are we focused on Pinterest perfection or on making people feel comfortable and pointing to Jesus with our actions? It’s more about our attitude than our actions. Taking care of Jesus and his disciples was a good thing—but it seems as though Martha was seeking perfection. The truth is, seeking perfection is setting ourselves up for failure because it means we are depending more on ourselves than on Jesus. We can’t be perfect, only God is perfect.
Today’s world looks like perfection and our kids are growing up right in the middle of it. But we can encourage them to keep their eyes on Jesus and serve him and others because it’s what’s in their hearts, not what makes them look best.
This week, let’s pray that our kids can let go of any pressure for perfection and learn to rest in Jesus andhis perfection. Let’s pray that when they are overwhelmed by the things of life they redirect their hearts toward the most important thing.
Jesus, when __________ feels overwhelmed by the busyness of the world, help them to focus their heart back to you. Give them the peace to let go of perfection and expectation, and to rely on you instead. May they serve others out of a response to your love, not out of obligation, pride, or image. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 23 Mar 2026 - 709 - Navigating Foster Care with Meredith Brock
Foster care is a journey that holds both deep brokenness and incredible beauty. For many families, it can also feel overwhelming to know how to step in and support children from hard places.
In this episode, Meredith Brock, CEO of Proverbs 31 Ministries and a foster and adoptive mom, shares insights from her family’s experience with foster care and how the journey has shaped her faith and motherhood. The conversation explores the realities of caring for vulnerable children, the tension of holding both joy and heartbreak, and the ways God often meets families in their most difficult moments.
Together they talk about what it looks like to support children with hard stories, how foster care can refine and stretch a family’s faith, and why the church has such an important role in caring for these kids.
It’s also a reminder that supporting the foster care system isn’t limited to becoming a foster parent. Whether through respite care, advocacy, or supporting families already in the system, there are meaningful ways we can all step in and help.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
05:53 The Call to Foster Care
11:57 The Importance of Community Support
17:58 Respite Care and Community Involvement
24:07 Personal Growth Through Foster Care
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Meredith
Connect with Proverbs 31 on Instagram
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 19 Mar 2026 - 708 - Week 28: Believe in miracles - Jairus
But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26 ESV)
Jairus was a synagogue leader and a man of status and faith. When his young daughter became deathly ill, he desperately fell at Jesus’s feetand pleaded for him to come and heal her. Jesus agreed, but on the way news reached them that Jairus’s daughter had died. The fellow leaders looked at Jairus and said, “Why bother the teacher anymore?” because she was already dead (Mark 5:35). But Jairus refused to believe death had the final word, and he put his hope in Jesus. When they arrived at the house, Jesus commanded the little girl to get up, and she did!
“Why bother?” is a question filled with doubt, finality, and despair. Our world is hard and that makes people question the goodness of God. Why bother? How could God let bad things happen to good people? Where is God when things are this bad?
Our kids will face those questions their entire lives. But Jesus does, indeed, have the final word. He told Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mark 5:36), and he repeatedly tells us the same. We can show our kids how to put their whole faith in Jesus and how to trust him even when others say it’s too late, or too silly, or too difficult. God’s ability to perform miracles in our life has not changed, because he is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). We should find great hope in that!
This week, let’s pray that our kids believe that God can do the impossible and have a faith that they hold onto even when the world says to them, “Why bother?”
Jesus, I pray that __________ puts their hope in you. Give them a faith that believes in your possibilities. When things are hard, and the rest of the world says to give up or that faith is pointless, may they remember your promises and call on you for help. Help them to recall the miracles you have performed before and give them hope to see those miracles again. Amen.
From blindness to healing with Kylie White
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 16 Mar 2026 - 707 - ADHD 101 - Tips to better support neurodivergent children with Dr. Kelly Cagle
Many families today are navigating life with neurodivergent children, from ADHD to dyslexia to autism, and it can feel overwhelming to know how to best support them.
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Cagle, host of Parenting IQ, who has a passion for helping moms create refreshing rhythms at home. She shares personal stories, research-backed insight, and practical ways parents can better support kids with ADHD.
One of my favorite parts of this conversation was her encouragement for parents to truly understand their kids, to see the unique and beautiful way their brains process the world. It can be tempting to try to force neurodivergent kids into more typical patterns of behavior, but when we learn how their brains work, we can lead with empathy and help set them up to thrive.
I learned so much from this conversation, and I think it will really encourage parents walking this road.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts
01:12 Personal and Professional Background of Dr. Kelly Cagle
03:05 Understanding ADHD: Definitions and Personal Experiences
05:30 Challenges in Traditional Education for ADHD Children
10:59 The Impact of Society and Genetics on ADHD
15:52 Navigating Parenting with ADHD: Systems and Support
19:06 Understanding Neurodiversity in Parenting
21:42 Homeschooling vs. Traditional Education
25:04 Navigating Diagnoses and Labels
30:43 Practical Strategies for Parents
32:00 The Journey of Writing a Book
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Kelly
7 Personal Systems to Lower Stress
ADHD is awesome by Penn Holderness
Lives of Faith and Grace series
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 12 Mar 2026 - 706 - Week 27: Generous - the boy with the fish
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20–31)
One of the most talked about miracles of Jesus is his feeding five thousand people from five loaves of bread and two fish. Imagine being there, listening to Jesus powerfully preach with thousands of other people. It was lunchtime and everyone was hungry and cranky (hangry, if you will); the people needed to eat! But all there was to eat was a small basket of five loaves of bread and two fish from a little boy. That boy willingly offered up his small lunch to Jesus. He didn’t have enough, but what he had he gave to Jesus, trusting that he would use it for good.
We don’t know what resources our kids will have when they grow up. No matter what they have, God calls them to be generous with it. God is in the business of multiplying.
Whatever we have to offer God, he will multiply it. Whether that’s our financial resources, serving others, encouraging others, or spreading the gospel, he will take what we have capacity to give, and he will make it even more. This work requires trust and sacrifice from us; we have to give it away for God to use it. But it is not dependent on our efforts. It’s not our efforts or resources that will change lives and bring people to Jesus; it isGod working throughour efforts and resources.
Let’s pray that our kids are generous with their resources and giftings so that God can work through them to expand his kingdom.
Jesus, thank you for taking care of us. I pray that __________ will view their resources and gifts as a blessing from you and hold them loosely, knowing that if they offer them up to you, you will multiply them and bring more people to you. May they always remember that there are no small parts in God’s kingdom. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 09 Mar 2026 - 705 - My Virtual Mentor: Prioritizing Your Marriage with Ashley Willis
Did you know we release a My Virtual Mentor episode once a month? Each one is designed to help you grow and then process what you’re learning with a mentor or trusted friend who’s a season ahead of you.
This month’s conversation is one every family needs, but many couples struggle to live out. I’m joined by Ashley Willis, speaker, author, and co-host of The Naked Marriage Podcast, to talk about prioritizing your marriage while raising kids.
We all say our marriage comes first, but actually living that way takes intentionality. Ashley shares honest encouragement and practical wisdom for couples who feel stretched thin—and especially for those who may be losing hope. Don’t miss her practical advice at the end.
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the previous episodes:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor:Personalities and TemperamentsMy Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & Generosity My Virtual Mentor: Time Management & Creating MarginMy Virtual Mentor: Identity in Christ (Part 1 and Part 2)00:00 Introduction
05:56 Practical Tips for Prioritizing Marriage
08:52 The Role of Counseling in Marriage
11:57 Building a Supportive Community
15:41 Navigating Hard Seasons in Marriage
20:52 The Role of Intimacy in Marriage
24:45 Encouragement for Struggling Moms
27:27 Witnessing God's Miracles in Marriage
31:21 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (MARRIAGE)
Scripture to memorize:
Colossians 3:13-14
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Romans 12:3, I Peter 3:8-9, Philippians 2:1-5, Proverbs 5:15-19
Books for further study:
Do Marriage Better with – Ashley WillisUs In Mind – Ted LoweMarriage – Paul David TrippYou and Me Forever – Francis and Lisa ChanDiscussion questions:
What is the most rewarding part of being married?
What is the most challenging part of being married?
What are your prayers for your marriage?
What is God nudging you to focus on - how you can improve your role in marriage?
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoPrefer video? This episode is onYouTube!ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with AshleyXO MarriageNaked Marriage Podcast Married Into the Family - book by Ashley WillisDo Marriage Better- Ashley and Dave’s latest bookResources from Titus 2 MentoringSign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingOpen a LearningRX centerThe Hunt for the KrakenPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 05 Mar 2026 - 704 - Week 26: Loved by God - John
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. (1 John 3:1)
In Mark 3:17 we learn that Jesus gave his disciple John and his brother James the nickname “sons of thunder.” There was probably a good reason for that nickname, likely their enthusiastic and passionate faith. But interestingly, John later refers to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23). So why the change? It seems a little odd and not quite the humility that Christ calls us to.
John had a close relationship with Jesus. Through all his experiences with Jesus, all the miracles he witnessed and lessons he was taught, John truly knew he was loved by Jesus. John spent so much time with Jesus that he was changed from a thunderous man of faith to one who was immersed in perfect love.
God’s love leaves a permanent mark. Even when life is hard, we can be confident that God’s love is real, constant, and personal. His love isn’t just something we read about in the Bible or hear about at church; it’s something that we can experience every single day. We want our kids to walk so closely with God that they are changed from the inside out—soft yet emboldened, gentle yet confident. And we want our kids to stand firm in their faith, knowing that God truly, perfectly loves them.
Let’s pray that our kids know how much God loves them and are transformed because of that love.
Jesus, thank you for loving us perfectly. Help __________ know that you love them and are there for them. Give them a heart to follow you and remind them that they can rely on your love. As they grow in faith, may they spend so much time with you that they change and become like you. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 02 Mar 2026 - 703 - Learning to dream and create again with Ashlee Gadd
It’s easy to lose yourself in motherhood. In this episode, Ashlee Gadd shares how moms can rediscover their creativity and passions—even in the chaos of raising kids.
We talk about embracing the truth that we’re all creative, making space for joy in every season, and why hospitality doesn’t have to be perfect to matter.
Ashlee’s new book,You’re in Good Company, explores friendship, motherhood, and showing up for one another. I hope this conversation encourages you to carve out a little margin for what brings you life.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
04:00 The Nature of Creativity in Motherhood
08:12 The Importance of Modeling Creativity
11:34 Finding Connection with Growing Children
18:11 The Impact of Intentional Gifts
21:01 Navigating Creative Identity as a Mother
27:21 Embracing New Seasons of Motherhood
29:19 The Importance of Self-Care in Creativity
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
You’re In Good Company(pre-order her new book)
Create Anyway(recent book on motherhood and creativity)
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 26 Feb 2026 - 702 - Week 25: Ask questions - Nicodemus
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)
Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council. He knew the Scriptures better than anyone. And still, people were talking about Jesus’s teachings and miracles and Nicodemus wanted to know more, so he went to Jesus in the night and asked him questions.
Nicodemus asking questions led to Jesus explaining one of the most important parts of the Christian faith—why Jesus came and what it takes to truly follow him and enter his kingdom. Jesus explained that to be saved, a person has to be born again.
Nicodemus had all the answers on paper, but he must have known something was missing in his heart, and he sought out Jesus to find out what. We should be curious about our faith too. Questions about faith do not have to be scary—they can be viewed as an opportunity to learn more about the heart of God.
We want our kids to make their faith their own because a personal, deeply rooted faith is more likely to transform them. An inherited faith is more likely to fall apart when things fall apart. Asking questions is part of the process of maturing spiritually and making faith their own, so we should encourage it!
This week, let’s pray that our kids seek after Jesus and ask the right questions to make their faith their own.
Jesus, thank you for answering our prayers and our questions. When __________ has questions, may they always come to you, knowing you will answer them and that you care for them. Help them to grow strong and confident in their own faith. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 23 Feb 2026 - 701 - Difficult conversations, mental health and self regulation with Kim Anderson
This episode is for all moms raising kids of all seasons. My guest, Kim Anderson, is a Nashville therapist who began her career as an elementary teacher before transitioning to counseling. She is driven by a desire to support whole families through life's challenges. She is the founder of Elevate Moms, a faith community where mothers can heal, grow, and connect.
This super practical episode is beyond encouraging. Kim helps us think through many difficult challenges of parenting in today’s world. She focuses on the importance of emotional regulation, attunement, and setting boundaries. Our discussion covers how to navigate difficult conversations with children, the significance of understanding mental health, and the balance between advocating for children and allowing them to develop resilience.
My favorite part is when Kim encourages us to take care of our own emotional well-being to better support our children. She reminds us that being “perfect” at parenting isn’t possible. And it’s more than okay to be imperfect. I pray you will breathe a little lighter today after hearing Kim’s encouragement.
Enjoy!
Courtney
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Kim Anderson
Family Room Membership
Technology Guide (with contract)
30% is “good enough” parenting
Understanding attachment styles with David Thomas and Sissy Goff
Disciplines of Devotion Series
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 19 Feb 2026 - 700 - Week 24: Celebrate others: Mary and Elizabeth
And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:41–45 ESV)
There’s a beautiful scene between two relatives in Luke 1, as we read about the coming of Jesus. Elizabeth was pregnant with John the Baptist, and her cousin Mary had just been told by an angel that she would give birth to a son and he would be named Jesus, the Son of the Most High. Imagine having this kind of news and needing to process this with a friend. And it’s especially tricky when you are a virgin and learn you are expecting a child.
In Luke 1, Mary visited her relative Elizabeth to tell her the unexpected and life-changing news. At the moment she entered, the baby leaped in Elizabeth’s womb and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
The interesting part about this moment is Elizabeth’s joy in her response to Mary’s news. She could’ve been a little confused that her cousin had just “one-upped” her by sharing that she was pregnant with the Savior of the world. Instead, she recognized that the Lord was fulfilling his promises through Mary. It was a moment of pure support, praise, and celebration. She immediately proclaimed, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb” (Luke 1:42 KJV).
Throughout the Bible, and even in today’s culture, we see moments of jealousy and comparison. Even in Christian communities, we see jealousy and discontentment when God is blessing others. Let’s pray that our children respond to their friends just like Elizabeth did to Mary. Let’s pray that they trust the Lord with their paths and step in as the first one to celebrate with joy for their friends and family.
Jesus, when __________ has a friend or a family member who has great news, let them be the first to celebrate. Let them cast aside the feelings of jealousy and stand firmly in their own journey with God. Let them be known as friends who praise what God is doing in the lives around them.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 16 Feb 2026 - 699 - What really matters most with Cynthia Yanof
She’s baaacccckkkk!!! The creator and original host of Pardon The Mess podcast, Cynthia Yanof, is back with us today. She is one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. Aside from great humor, she brings real life encouragement with biblical truth.
In today’s episode, Cynthia and I chat about what matters most in life. As we look ahead to 2026 - where can we spend our time in a way that matters? I remember many moments in life I was all worked up and stressed over things in parenting that really didn't matter. I pray you feel seen and so much needed permission to let things go after this conversation.
Cynthia shares beautiful stories about parenting, faith and friendship in a way that leaves me feeling encouraged. She has such a heart for prayer and is the reason we pray every Monday as a community. I’m super thankful for the legacy she left over here at Pardon the Mess!
Enjoy
Courtney
Chapters:
(00:00) Welcome Back and Podcast Journey
(02:30) Navigating Parenting and New Projects
(05:01) Life with Kids: Balancing Ages and Stages
(08:05) What Really Matters in Parenting
(12:19) The Importance of Rest and Margin
(13:04) Urgency vs. Importance in Parenting
(16:11) Lessons Beyond the Game
(16:27) Navigating Parenting Pressures
(18:48) The Importance of Friendship
(24:55) Faith and Love in Action
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withCynthia
MessmerizedPodcast
SidetrackedPodcast
Feeding the Mouth That Bites YouPodcast
How’d I Miss That?(new book) by Cynthia Yanof
Life Is Messy, God is Goodby Cythia Yanof
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 12 Feb 2026 - 698 - Week 23: Plant seeds - John the Baptist
Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” (Acts 19:4)
Do you love the Olympics and watching teams compete? It can be so inspiring to watch a team of swimmers work together in a relay or a track and field star pass his baton to the next runner. Each team member is important. It’s a powerful reminder to do our part with excellence.
In the life of John the Baptist, we see a devoted follower of Jesus do his part with great faithfulness. He didn’t even know what his effort and work would mean in the end, but he obeyed and trusted. John spread the good news of the coming Messiah so that people were ready for him; his entire ministry was planting seeds in the hearts of the people. Some even asked if he was the Messiah, but he always pointed people back to Christ (John 1:19–28).
It’s fun to imagine that somehow our own stories of faith are a part of one giant race with batons passing through generations. When we teach our kids about Jesus, we are planting seeds in their hearts. We don’t know what those seeds will grow into, but we can trust that they will take the baton we pass to them and continue to pass it to others.
Let’s pray that our kids trust their calling over their lives and realize their greater impact in God’s big story.
Jesus, thank you that we get to be part of your greater story. Lead __________ to hear your call on their life. Help them to worry less about earthly things and more about trusting you. Give them opportunities to plant seeds in the hearts of people around them and be obedient in joyfully sharing your good news! Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 09 Feb 2026 - 697 - My Virtual Mentor: Identity Part 2 with Preston Morrison
Did you know that once a month we are doing a mentor episode? We will cover a different topic each month in hopes to provide helpful content for you and your local mentor.
1) listen to the episode
2) talk about it with a mentor or friend that is a season ahead of you
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the previous episodes:
My Virtual Mentor: Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor: Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor: Personalities and TemperamentsMy Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & Generosity My Virtual Mentor: Time Management & Creating MarginToday’s episode comes to you in two parts. The first episode is with author, speaker and amazing mom Sara Hagerty. She has such a genuine heart to keep her life rooted in Jesus. We talk all about how identity is a challenging topic for us as moms. We care so much about how we do as moms - and we can get really rattled if it doesn’t go well. Our identity can quickly become rattled if we have it tethered to the wrong source.
I also wanted to release a second episode today that I believe will practically help you think through “identity.” The week that I recorded Sara on this topic, my own heart was wrestling with what God says about our identity. I stumbled across this message by pastor Preston Morrison and it rocked my world. I got his permission to re-air it for you. Do not miss the truth and clarity that Preston provides around our “identity in Christ.”
My favorite part is the humility that Sara brings to the table. She is so honest with how hard motherhood can be and she invites us to bring God into every single disappointment and hard circumstance. She urges us to lean into the very things that drive us crazy.
Enjoy!
Courtney
(02:59) Navigating Motherhood and Identity
(05:57) The Struggles of Motherhood
(08:59) Finding God in the Chaos
(12:05) The Unseen Work of Motherhood
(15:00) Embracing the Struggles
(17:56) The Impact of God’s Attributes
(18:20) Understanding God Through Adoration
(21:43) The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity
(24:52) The Importance of Limitations in Parenting
(28:29) Navigating Identity Beyond Achievements
(32:52) Finding Beauty in Boundaries
(36:39) Embracing Loss and Suffering in Motherhood
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (IDENTITY)
Scripture to memorize:
Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Books for further study:
In His Image – Jen WilkinMade for More: An Invitation to Live in God’s Image – Hannah AndersonDiscussion questions:
Have you struggled with your identity?
In what seasons have you questioned your identity?
Who does God say that we are?
Is there a time you attached what you “do” to your identity?
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Sara
Unseen by Sara Hagerty
Adore by Sara Hagerty
The Gift of Limitations by Sara Hagerty
Preston Morrison podcast, The Leader’s Cut
Part 1 episode with Sara Hagerty
Resources from Titus 2 Mentoring
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 05 Feb 2026 - 696 - My Virtual Mentor: Identity Part 1 with Sara Hagerty
Did you know that once a month we are doing a mentor episode? We will cover a different topic each month in hopes to provide helpful content for you and your local mentor.
1) listen to the episode
2) talk about it with a mentor or friend that is a season ahead of you
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the previous episodes:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor:Personalities and TemperamentsMy Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & Generosity My Virtual Mentor: Time Management & Creating MarginToday’s episode comes to you in two parts. The first episode is with author, speaker and amazing mom Sara Hagerty. She has such a genuine heart to keep her life rooted in Jesus. We talk all about how identity is a challenging topic for us as moms. We care so much about how we do as moms - and we can get really rattled if it doesn’t go well. Our identity can quickly become rattled if we have it tethered to the wrong source.
I also wanted to release a second episode today that I believe will practically help you think through “identity.” The week that I recorded Sara on this topic, my own heart was wrestling with what God says about our identity. I stumbled across this message by pastor Preston Morrison and it rocked my world. I got his permission to re-air it for you. Do not miss the truth and clarity that Preston provides around our “identity in Christ.”
My favorite part is the humility that Sara brings to the table. She is so honest with how hard motherhood can be and she invites us to bring God into every single disappointment and hard circumstance. She urges us to lean into the very things that drive us crazy.
Enjoy!
Courtney
(02:59) Navigating Motherhood and Identity
(05:57) The Struggles of Motherhood
(08:59) Finding God in the Chaos
(12:05) The Unseen Work of Motherhood
(15:00) Embracing the Struggles
(17:56) The Impact of God’s Attributes
(18:20) Understanding God Through Adoration
(21:43) The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity
(24:52) The Importance of Limitations in Parenting
(28:29) Navigating Identity Beyond Achievements
(32:52) Finding Beauty in Boundaries
(36:39) Embracing Loss and Suffering in Motherhood
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (IDENTITY)
Scripture to memorize:
Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Books for further study:
In His Image– Jen WilkinMade for More: An Invitation to Live in God’s Image – Hannah AndersonDiscussion questions:
Have you struggled with your identity?
In what seasons have you questioned your identity?
Who does God say that we are?
Is there a time you attached what you “do” to your identity?
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Sara
Unseen by Sara Hagerty
Adore by Sara Hagerty
The Gift of Limitations by Sara Hagerty
Preston Morrison podcast, The Leader’s Cut
Part 2 episode with Preston Morrison
Resources from Titus 2 Mentoring
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 05 Feb 2026 - 695 - Week 22: Live with purpose - Esther
If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this? (Esther 4:14NLT)
Esther is one of only two books of the Bible named after a woman, which is pretty incredible! Esther was an orphaned Jew living in a foreign land. She was unlikely to make an impact on history, but God had other plans! She was so beautiful that she was brought to the king and became his queen.
When a plot to destroy the Jewish people was uncovered, Esther had a choice: Should she keep quiet, or tell her husband and risk her life? It was then that her cousin, who raised her, asked the famous question: Perhaps you were born for such a time as this?
It’s not always easy to step into our purpose. Like Esther, we may find ourselves in situations where doing the right thing feels risky. But when that purpose comes from God, it’s nearly impossible to say no to because it feels so right and everything falls into place.
What was your child born to do? We don’t fully know, and the answer will unfold and change with time. But we do know that God chose you to be the parent of your child and to live in this time for a reason. There will be a moment (or many moments) in your child’s life where they realize they were made for something. Maybe it’s landing the right job, maybe it’s starting a family, or maybe it’s being in the right place at the right time.It could be a call to ministry or stepping out in faith to use their time, talents, and treasures to glorify God and serve others.We can be encouraging parents that point them back to Scripture and the promise that God created them for a good purpose and has good plans for their future.
This week, let’s pray that our kids grow in their faith, knowing that God made them for a reason, that they will discover their purpose and step into it with confidence, knowing God is with them every step of the way.
Jesus, thank you for making all of us for a purpose. Help __________ rely on you and seek your word to help them find your purpose and plan for their life. Give them the faith to step forward in obedience, knowing that if you call them to something, you will equip them. And may they always remember that they were created for such a time as this. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 02 Feb 2026 - 694 - Anxiety, postpartum depression and God’s faithfulness with Kerri Taylor
Imagine you can hear me screaming with excitement. You get to meet MY SISTER, Kerri Taylor, on the podcast this week. I am so proud of her for doing this. It isn’t easy to walk back through the hardest season of your life. However, she has a passion to turn her pain into purpose.
Kerri is a wife, a mom, a leader of moms and one incredible athlete. She is the best big sister I could ask for and the reason I rededicated my life to Christ. In this episode, she shares about her intense journey with postpartum. If you have experienced anxiety or depression as a mom, I believe this episode will really encourage you.
I love that Kerri gets practical and shares things that helped her get through her season of depression and anxiety. She encourages us to see a doctor, get counseling, avoid hiding in your home and lean into God. She trusted God through the dark times and is now sharing about his faithfulness on the other side. I am praying that this will reach any mom suffering with anxiety and depression to be reminded that you are never alone.
Enjoy!
Courtney
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
Resources from today’s show:
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 29 Jan 2026 - 693 - Week 21: An enthusiastic yes! - Isaiah
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8)
Isaiah had a vivid dream of God seated on his throne surrounded by angels. One of the angels took burning coal, touched Isaiah’s lips, and cleansed him from sin as God asked the question “Who will go for us?” And Isaiah answered with a resounding “Send me!” He went on to become an adviser for many kings and called on people to repent and be obedient. But the most important message he shared was the message that a Savior, the Messiah, the Prince of Peace was coming! His prophecy was fulfilled with Jesus.
Isaiah was ready for the privilege of serving God even before he knew what he was meant to do. He offered himself to the Lord immediately. Most of us are slower to commit. Questions and fears flood our minds: If I say yes, will he send me to be a missionary far away? Where am I going? What do I have to say and do? Will I have to give up things that I love? What is the cost for me?
Isaiah knew that if God was calling him, it must be important and worth saying yes to. Growing closer to the Lord also means knowing his calling won’t lead us astray. When God invites us to do something, we don’t have to be afraid—we can be excited! We want our kids to know that truth as well. They don’t need to know every detail, they just need willing hearts that are excited and ready to follow!
This week, let’s pray that our kids say yes to God with enthusiasm, not hesitation or fear!
Lord, help __________ say “yes” to you with joy and excitement. Give them a heart that is eager to follow your plans, knowing that you have great things in store. When you call them, help them to trust you completely, knowing that you will lead them every step of the way. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 26 Jan 2026 - 692 - Ways to simplify your routine when you’re overwhelmed with KyAnn Molina
If you are a parent, you know what it feels like to be overwhelmed and exhausted. Maybe you are heading into 2026 already feeling so discouraged with the way your home and life is running. It feels like the to do's and requests literally never end and your sanity is fading. Maybe you’re already struggling with balancing your job and motherhood.
My guest today is author, podcaster, mom KyAnn Molina. She is a mom of young kids that is passionate about helping other moms find home systems, time management and rhythms in a season of burnout. If you are feeling overwhelmed 100% of the time - there is hope. There are some simple ways to improve your daily sanity.
I absolutely loved KyAnn’s passion to help moms find sanity again. It can be so infuriating to feel like your life is out of control. I hope you realize you aren’t alone. Being a mom is hard work. The amount of chores and to dos is legit. The mental and emotional overload is real. You are not doing it wrong - it’s a part of the reality of balancing life and motherhood. I pray this episode meets you with practical help during a season of overwhelm. It can get better!
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to KyAnn's Journey
(01:10) Experiencing Burnout in Parenting
(03:03) Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges
(07:06) Finding Rhythms in Daily Life
(11:25) Understanding Postpartum Depression
(13:11) Creating Peaceful Home Environments
(15:37) Meal Planning and Family Connection
(18:13) Finding Balance in Parenting and Work
(20:12) Preventing Burnout: Proactive Strategies
(22:03) Establishing Family Rhythms and Traditions
(23:41) The Impact of Comparison in Motherhood
(27:57) Trusting God in Seasons of Change
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Kyann
Simple Rhythms for Busy Moms - KyAnn’s podcast
Rhythms That Scale - KyAnn’s guide
Simple Rhythms Community - join KyAnn’s community
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 22 Jan 2026 - 691 - Week 20: Forgiveness - Hosea
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. (Ephesians 1:7)
Hosea was a minor prophet with a major message about God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. The Israelites had turned against God over and over again, and he called Hosea to not just preach about turning back to God but to actively live out forgiveness. Hosea married a woman named Gomer who was continually unfaithful to him. But Hosea pursued her, forgave her, and brought her back to him every time—just like God did and does for his people.
God’s love is not based on our actions. It’s good and right to live a faithful life and continually deepen our relationship with God. But even when we turn away, God wants to restore us to him. His love is not based on our faithfulness or our efforts; it is based on his character.
Our human character says to “forgive and forget,” but oftentimes we don’t let things go. In contrast, God’s perfect character means he never holds our sin against us. He forgives sinners completely, willingly, and perfectly because of what Jesus did on the cross for us.
Our kids will make mistakes and hurt us, but we can extend the gift of forgiveness to them and model the kind of love that pursues, forgives, and brings back. That way, when someone hurts them they know how to extend forgiveness as well.
This week, let’s pray that our kids know they are forgiven for all their sins because of God’s gift of grace. Let’s pray that they will be quick to forgive others because they have been forgiven by Christ.
Jesus, thank you for your perfect love and perfect forgiveness. Help __________ to be a person of grace, knowing that they can forgive others because you have forgiven them. May they learn to truly grasp the miracle of grace and the depth of your love for them. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 19 Jan 2026 - 690 - How do I fit in God’s story? with Jonathan Murphy
Welcome back!
Have you ever wondered if you fit in the story of God? Maybe you’re reading your Bible and just wonder how it all works together. As Christian parents, it’s important to wrestle with these types of questions. These questions will certainly come up as your kids take their faith journey.
My guest today is Dr. Jonathan Murphy and he helps us tackle questions of faith. He is the senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church, a seminary professor and author. Most importantly, he is a wife to my friend Sarah-Jane and they have four beautiful children.
My favorite part is when Jonathan reminds us that we all have the same purpose - to love God and to love others. There is great joy found in that purpose. This was a powerful reminder to me to stay obedient where He has me planted - in this season of parenting, in this current city and current time in history.
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Authentic Influencer by Dr. Jonathan Murphy
The Story of God and Us by Dr. Jonathan Murphy
Tik Tok inspiration - man caring for veteran
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 15 Jan 2026 - 689 - Week 19: Hunger for God - Elisha
When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”
“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied. (2 Kings 2:9)
Elisha was Elijah’s protégé. Most scholars agree that he probably spent six years with Elijah, learning from him and serving him. He had big shoes to fill, and he knew it! When Elijah was readying to leave and be with the Lord, Elisha asked for a double portion of Elijah’s power. This was a big ask, not because it was too big for God but because it meant a lot of responsibility. Elisha was ready because he hungered for God.
Elisha was not looking to be better than Elijah. He did not want to outdo his miracles and accomplishments. Elisha saw what God did through Elijah, and he wanted that too! Elisha wanted to carry on the work that his mentor started, and he understood that he needed more of God in order to do that.
Our kids are the future, and they will do amazing things for God’s kingdom. As their parents, we get to encourage them to seek after God and boldly ask for his presence and miracles in their lives. We get a front row seat to witness their journey of obedience. They don’t need more power, more popularity, more money, or more influence to make an impact on the world. What they truly need is a deep connection with God. The wonderful news is that as we draw closer to him, we inevitably develop a greater desire for him, recognizing that he is the source of our strength, joy, and peace.
This week, let’s pray that our kids hunger for God and that as they grow in faith they say, “more of you, God, less of me.”
Lord, give _________ a hunger for you. May they always look to you as the source of their abilities, knowing that their weaknesses are made strong in your presence. Help them to always recognize their need for you in their life and give them the confidence that they can do amazing things through you. More of you, less of them. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 12 Jan 2026 - 688 - How to help unite the church with Dr. Eric Mason
I get so many books and pitches that come across my desk. There are so many talented4w authors, pastors and leaders out there and I wish I could have every one of them on. I always pray for discernment on which guests to put in front of you.
When the new book,Rebranding the Churchby Dr. Eric Mason, came across my desk, I was definitely intrigued. Dr. Mason planted a church in a tough neighborhood in Philly over 19 years ago. He’s a passionate pastor, husband and father that is leaning into important conversations for unity in the church.
This conversation challenged my thinking and I pray it does that for you too. In today’s episode, Dr Mason and I talk about the state of the church and the constant division we are seeing. Are we being a light to our cities? Are we unified with other believers or treating them like enemies? What is the image the world sees with church leadership?
I hope this stirs your thinking (like it did for me) and challenges you to lead my family well in the area of church unity. My favorite part is towards the end when he talks about his approach to Christian parenting. He has his kids listen to podcasts and it invites them to ask questions around faith. He encourages us to invite dialogue into our home. I love that he is an intentional and present dad in the midst of pastoring thousands of people.
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and Family Dynamics
(05:03) Navigating the Church's Image and Unity
(10:00) Leadership Challenges in Modern Church
(22:42) Parenting in a Complex Spiritual Landscape
(27:39) The Importance of Presence in Parenting
(29:15) Breaking the Soil of the Heart
(30:12) Unity in the Midst of Division
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withDr. Eric Mason
ThrivingMinistry
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 08 Jan 2026 - 687 - Week 18: Hear God’s voice - Elijah
Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! (Psalm 46:10 ESV)
Elijah did truly incredible things in the name of God. We could list miracle upon miracle and talk about Elijah’s great faith, his refusal to bow to others, and God’s power. But in 1 Kings 19, Elijah slows down, and the story is so powerful.
Elijah was exhausted from all his work defeating the prophets of Baal and he was afraid for his life. So he ran into the wilderness, where he told God he wanted to die. While he slept under a tree, God, in his goodness, sent an angel that provided food and water. With more energy, Elijah continued his journey, waiting to hear from God.
A powerful wind, an earthquake, and a fire came, but God was not in those as you would expect. God was in a still small voice. Elijah was able to hear from God when he was rested, taken care of, and still. He slowed down in the middle of great and important things. He took a nap, ate, drank, and listened.
Our world values productivity and speed. Those are good things, but it’s important to rest too. In fact, God calls us to Sabbath! Sometimes, our kids just need to rest (we do too!). God knows our limits. He will provide what we need—physically and spiritually. And he often speaks in the quiet moments, when our hearts are still enough to listen. So let’s take time to encourage that in our kids.
This week, let’s pray that our kids learn to slow down and listen for the voice of God.
Lord, when __________ feels tired or discouraged, remind them that it’s okay to rest. Help them to take care of themselves, trusting that you will meet their needs. Help them learn to still their bodies and souls and listen for your voice. Thank you for speaking to us and hearing us. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 05 Jan 2026 - 686 - My Virtual Mentor: Stewardship, Time, and Creating Margin with Elaine Franklin
Did you know that once a month we are doing a mentor episode? We will cover a different topic each month in hopes to provide helpful content for you and your local mentor.
1) listen to the episode
2) talk about it with a mentor or friend that is a season ahead of you
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the first few episodes:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor:Personalities and TemperamentsMy Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & GenerosityI am so delighted to give you life coach Elaine Franklin on the podcast today. She is 77 years young and has been mentoring women and couples for decades. Her passion for stewardship and time management is so evident. She is practical and wise and gives me hope that we can spend our days wisely in 2026.
My favorite part is when she talks about how to create margin in our lives. I do believe time management is one of the most critical things we can address in our families. How we spend our time matters. It can impact the sanity of our homes. It can help us focus on what matters most.
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and Background
(03:36) The Importance of Time Management
(08:50) Understanding Responsibilities and Priorities
(10:53) Finding Purpose and Clarity
(12:47) Practical Tools for Time Management
(19:16) The Need for Margin in Life
(22:46) Reflections on Life and Stewardship of Time
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (TIME MANAGEMENT)
Scripture to memorize:
Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Ephesians 5:15-16
Matthew 6:33
Proverbs 29:18
Books for further study:
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerFreedom from the Tyranny of the Urgent by Charles Hummel It’s Time - a practical guide to order your days by Shawna SullivanDiscussion questions:
What is your purpose? What is your mission?
What are your top priorities?
What are the most important things for you in this season?
Who is in your circle of care vs circle of responsibility?
What is God asking you to stop doing?
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Elaine at ebfranklin@bellsouth.net
Connect with Shawna
3 ways to stop wasting your time and money - episode with Shawna Sullivan
7 Do’s and Don’ts for your time and money by Shawna Sullivan
It’s Time - a practical guide to order your days by Shawna Sullivan
My Utmost for His Highest - devotional
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 01 Jan 2026 - 685 - Week 17: Biblical wisdom - Solomon
Give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. (1 Kings 3:9)
Solomon is the biblical king who is most known for his wisdom. One night, God came to Solomon in a dream and asked him what he wanted from God. Solomon asked for wisdom. He could have asked for anything: health, wealth, or defeating his enemies, but he asked for wisdom, and this made God really happy.
God is ready and willing to share his wisdom with us; all we have to do is ask for it. But in a world where incredible knowledge is literally at our fingertips, it’s easy to overlook biblical wisdom. Earthly wisdom is knowing a lot of math, being well read, and having strong financial literacy; it’s knowing all the answers on Jeopardy. Biblical wisdom is living within the will of God through the Holy Spirit. It’s relying on God to know how to treat people, what activities to participate in, what is right versus wrong, and so on.
God delights in us asking him for wisdom! The Bible says he was pleased with Solomon when he did this (1 Kings 3:10), and he is pleased with us when we do it as well. When it comes to our kids, we desire for them to seek God’s wisdom to make decisions. We model this to them first and encourage them to make wise choices when it comes to friends, where to go to school, acting with integrity, and whether to go to that party. God cares about all of those things, and he will share his wisdom about them with our kids when they ask for it.
This week, let’s pray that our kids ask for God’s wisdom and know that true wisdom isn’t just knowing what to do—it’s acting upon that wisdom as well.
Lord, give __________ a heart like Solomon’s, one that values your wisdom above all else. Keep their heart open, ready to listen to your Holy Spirit. We want them to grow wise in every aspect, but to help them make choices that honor you, always acting upon the wisdom you give them. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 29 Dec 2025 - 684 - Q&A with Larson DeFeo
Merry Christmas to you all! I hope this is such a special week for your family to celebrate the birth of Jesus. What a thrill to interview my youngest daughter and give you a chance to get to know her better. I’m a little biased, but this girl is one special human. I love learning from her!
She gives her advice on friendships, ways to parent teens, importance of mentoring and much more. She also shares some practical tips from lash serum to our Nuuly obsession.
My favorite part is when she reminds us to offer grace to our kids. I needed this reminder that they need a break from the pressure and expectations. They need to know we will offer grace when they mess up.
Merry Christmas!!
Courtney
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and Background
(02:59) Beauty Tips and Favorites
(06:00) Fashion and Shopping Preferences
(08:55) Family Values and Relationships
(11:52) Advice for Middle Schoolers
(12:23) The Challenges of Junior Year
(13:03) Understanding Dyslexia and Learning Differences
(14:42) Sibling Relationships and Transitions
(16:57) College Aspirations and Pressures
(17:52) Faith Development Through Camp Experiences
(20:29) Maintaining Faith in Everyday Life
(23:19) The Importance of Mentorship and Role Models
(26:20) The Importance of Mentorship in Parenting
(27:50) Navigating High School: Advice for Parents
(32:06) Spiritual Growth and Personal Reflection
(34:00) Words of Wisdom for Moms and Teens
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Black Rock - Sugar Free Sunrise
Nuuly link for $30 off
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 25 Dec 2025 - 683 - Week 16: Share the good news - the shepherds
The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.(Luke 2:20)
In the Christmas story, the angel of the Lord announced Jesus’s birth to some lowly shepherds who were minding their own business, watching over their sheep. It seems like an unlikely group, but their response is a perfect example of a life of faith.
The shepherds were rightfully afraid of the angel, but they immediately said, “Let’s go . . . see” (Luke 2:15). The Bible says they hurried off and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby. Then they spread the word because they could not contain this big news! And when they had told as many people as they could, they came back to Mary and Joseph and praised God for everything they had seen and heard.
Let’s remember that response this Christmas: Let’s go learn more, let’s tell everyone about it, and let’s praise God for all he has done! It sounds easy enough, but we all know there are barriers to spreading the good news of Jesus: peer pressure, distraction, embarrassment, and self-doubt, just to name a few. But if we just move past those things, we can share the hope of Jesus with our hurting world, just as we were meant to do!
Let’s pray that our kids will always be proud and ready to share about Jesus, knowing that the news of our Savior is too good to keep to themselves!
Father God, thank you for sending your son as a baby to rescue our broken world. Help __________ to internalize the good news of Jesus and be so excited that they have to tell others! Keep our family’s hearts and minds on you this Christmas season. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 22 Dec 2025 - 682 - Q&A with Ella DeFeo and Landry Smith
What a thrill to interview my oldest daughter and one of her very best friends. Ella and Landry have been friends since 3rd grade and it’s so special to hear from two young women that are keeping their faith a priority in college. I ask them about their “favorites” from tennis shoes to rom-coms and then we get into some more serious topics.
My favorite moment is when I ask each of them, “What is God teaching you right now?” I was blown away by their answers and also felt so thankful that they are both engaged in their college church communities. Ask your kiddos that question this Christmas break and let them share about their faith. I am always astounded when I learn how much depth and wisdom is in these teens. They are wiser than you know.
You also don’t want to miss my opening story about an “elf on the shelf” adventure gone wrong. I am still feeling a little rattled from it.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
07:05 High School Experiences and Advice
10:02 Navigating Junior Year Challenges
14:54 Senior Year Reflections and Relationships
18:26 Maintaining Faith in High School
23:35 Parental Guidance and Support
25:37 Navigating High School Dynamics
26:56 Understanding Teen Communication
28:04 The High School Experience: Challenges and Growth
30:51 Transitioning to College Life
33:35 Building Friendships in College
37:48 Spiritual Growth and Lessons Learned
43:18 Legacy of Love: Lessons from Grandmothers
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Ella’s new sneakers - Back 70
Yahtzee Game
Nertz Game
Quiplash (on Apple TV)
New Morning Mercies devotional
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 18 Dec 2025 - 681 - Week 15: A man after God’s heart - David
But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command.(1 Samuel 13:14)
You may remember David for being a king or for beating Goliath in an epic battle. David’s story is one of those Bible stories that inspires us to face with courage whatever God lays before us. However, one of the noteworthy moments in David’s story was when God said that he was “a man after God’s own heart.” David was far from perfect. He was a shepherd turned king. He committed adultery with Bathsheba and then arranged her husband’s death. He messed up again and again, howeverwe can see in the Psalms that David had a deep love for God and a willingness to repent, and that he met with God often.When he sinned, he didn’t hide; he repented and turned back to God because his relationship with God mattered most and he wanted to be aligned with him.
It’s encouraging to note that God chose David to lead because of his pure desires for God, not because he was the best behaved, most talented, or most skilled in the world’s terms.
What does that mean for us? We are all called to follow Jesus, and that means we are to live in harmony with what God’s heart desires for his people. As our kids grow up, it can be easy for them to follow their own hearts or what others want. But we can encourage them to make decisions and lead others based on God’s desires, not earthly desires, and that is hard!
Let’s pray that our kids are known as people after God’s own heart and that each of our children reflects the heart of God in their schools, communities and friend circles.
Father, please help __________ to desire what you desire. Lead them to live in a way that’s pleasing to you. I pray they know your heart more and more each year.Give them a heart like David’s, one that seeks you above all else and makes time to meet with you day after day. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 15 Dec 2025 - 680 - Parenting in Uganda vs parenting in America with Josh Poro
I have a new bucket list item: I want to go to Uganda and meet Josh’s mom! What a woman. Josh Poro is a pastor and father from Uganda that has been living here in my town of Colleyville for the last 7 years. I was curious to chat with him about what “parenting” looks like in Uganda vs America.
Sometimes, I need to shake things up in my life and get out of the bubble I am living in. I like to listen to unique podcasts or watch compelling documentaries to expand my mind. This is the purpose of this episode. I wanted Josh to shake up our Western view of Christianity and parenting in a way that challenges us.
My favorite part is when he talks about the power of prayer. He challenges us in America to pray longer and bolder. And to keep praying for our children again and again. If you’d like to see more of Josh’s sermons - visit his YouTube channel (Kingdom INSights Ministries - Apostle Joshua Poro).
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to Josh Poro's Journey
(02:57) Life in Uganda: Culture and Challenges
(05:59) Journey to the US: Asylum and New Beginnings
(08:57) The Importance of Prayer in Family Life
(12:01) Cultural Differences in Prayer Practices
(14:57) Teaching Children About Faith and Prayer
(18:01) The Role of Mothers in Spiritual Upbringing
(30:01) Cultural Perspectives on Parenting
(32:55) Empowering Children for Independence
(36:04) The Power of Prayer in Parenting
(44:23) Parenting as a Ministry
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Josh
Josh’s youtube page - Kingdom INSights Ministries - Apostle Joshua Poro
Sign up to volunteer at Josh’s new church
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 11 Dec 2025 - 679 - Week 14: Godly friendship - Jonathan
Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God. (1 Samuel 23:16 NLT)
Jonathan and David were opposites and unlikely friends, but their friendship was so strong that it continues to be cited as a prime example of a God-honoring friendship to this day. Jonathan had every reason to feel envious of David: Jonathan was heir to the throne, yet God chose David to be king. Jonathan even risked his life to protect David from his father and strengthen David in the Lord when he needed it.
Jonathan was a selfless and loyal friend who continually pointed David back to God. No doubt, God placed Jonathan in David’s life for a reason. He knew that David would need a friend to strengthen him in his role, his confidence, and his faith.
Friendships come and go, and the friends our kids have right now may or may not be their friends in the future. There is a time and place for temporary friendships—friendships that are fun and fulfilling and safe, but don’t stand the test of time for one reason or another. It’s the lifelong friendships that are sacred. The friendships where you know the other person is with you no matter what and will challenge you to be a better person and a more faithful Christ follower. Our desire as parents should be that our kids have at least one of those friends.
This week, let’s pray that our kids are not fair-weather friends. Let’s pray that they are committed, loyal, selfless friends who strengthen their friends’ faith in God. And let’s pray they find those same friends in return.
Father God, please help __________ to be a God-honoring and good friend to others. Help them to say no to jealousy, gossip, and comparison and yes to compassion, encouragement, and joy in their friendships. Help them to find friends who sharpen and strengthen their faith in you and may you be the center of all their relationships. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 08 Dec 2025 - 678 - My Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & Generosity with Boyd Bailey
Did you know that once a month we are doing a mentor episode? We will cover a different topic each month in hopes to provide helpful content for you and your local mentor.
1) listen to the episode
2) talk about it with a mentor or friend that is a season ahead of you
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the first few episodes:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor:Personalities and TemperamentsIf you have been around this podcast for any length of time, you know that I am passionate about generosity. I was raised in a home that lived out their faith with generosity. The biblical concept of generosity and stewardship is one that gives meaning and purpose to my daily life. It’s been so fun to pass down this legacy of generosity to my kids and watch them step into this way of life.
Today, I have the absolute honor of interviewing Boyd Bailey. Boyd is the President of the National Christian Foundation (NCF) in Georgia. He is also the author of several books, including his latest, The Power of Generosity: Experiencing God’s Amazing Abundance - How to Change the World Through Acts of Kindness.
My favorite part is when he shares a GREAT idea. He gives his grandkids money at Thanksgiving and they come back together at Christmas to talk about what they did with the money and time. What a fantastic tradition! I am 100% doing this.
Enjoy!
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and Personal Connection
(02:00) Boyd's Current Endeavors and Family Involvement
(04:06) Understanding Stewardship and Generosity
(10:03) Practical Generosity in Family Life
(18:03) Hearing from God and Spiritual Growth
(22:01) Benefits of Generosity in Relationships
(24:58) The Impact of Generosity on Family Dynamics
(29:07) The Power of Generosity Book Overview
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (INTIMACY WITH GOD)
Scripture to memorize:
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Matthew 6:19-21
Matthew 5:14-15
I Timothy 6:7
Matthew 25:23
Books for further study:
The Power of Generosityby Boyd Bailey
A Life Well Spentby Russ Crosson
Love Your Life Not Theirs–Rachel Cruze
The Truth About Money Lies–Russ Crosson
Discussion questions:
Did your parents teach you about the concept of stewardship?
Are you aligned on finances with your spouse?
Where have you seen generosity impact your own life?
What are some practical ways you can practice generosity in this season?
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withBoyd
The Power of Generosity- Boyd’s latest book
Light ‘Em Up Acts- Courtney’s act of kindness program
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
Super Simple Science with Dr. Fizzlebop
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 04 Dec 2025 - 677 - Week 13: Prayerful - Hannah
I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord. (1 Samuel 1:27–28)
Hannah wanted a child more than anything else. During Old Testament times, the most important thing a woman could give to a husband was a child, specifically a son. Not having any children was considered a curse and a disgrace, maybe even a result of sin. Hannah was distraught that she could not produce a son for her husband.
How did Hannah deal with her emotions? She cried and she prayed. She never gave up or doubted God; she trusted him for a miracle and promised the Lord that if he gave her a son, she would give him back to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:11). God heard her prayers, and he blessed her with a son, Samuel. Here is where my mind is blown: True to her word, Hannah returned Samuel to the temple when he was done weaning, meaning she likely raised her beloved child for two to four years and then gave him over to the temple for training. Can you imagine that level of sacrifice and trust in God?
Hannah prayed without ceasing, and then when God blessed her greatly, she handed over her blessing knowing that God had a better plan. Samuel eventually became a great prophet, anointing the first king of Israel!Hannah’s faithfulness to prayer changed the course of Israel’s history.
We may not know what impact our prayers have on our children, their future, or the world. But like Hannah, we can trust that God knows the outcome and it will be good.
This week, let’s pray for our kids’ futures, and let’s also pray that our kids have a big prayer life that makes an impact on generations to come.
Lord, help me to have a faith like Hannah’s, holding __________ with open hands, knowing you have the best plan for their life. I pray that __________ will bring all their struggles, their hopes, their dreams, and their plans to you in prayer. Give them patience to trust in your timing, knowing that your plans are always better. And may their prayers impact generations of believers. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 01 Dec 2025 - 676 - The Case for Christmas with Lee Strobel
In this week’s podcast, Lee Strobel is BACK to talk about the Nativity story. He shares about challenging common perceptions and interpretations. I absolutely loved hearing the detail and history around the “manger” which was more like a guest room. And he gives us some more clarity around the date of Christmas and how it was chosen.
It was so interesting for me to hear from Lee which nativity details have been misunderstood or overemphasized or even simplified. This would be a great episode to listen to with your kids! As a former atheist and investigative journalist, Lee’s heart is to give us a “Case for Christmas” and ultimately point everyone to his savior Jesus Christ.
My favorite part is at the end - do not miss it! His story brought me to tears about how he experienced Jesus when he was an atheist. It was the generosity of Christians that drew him to God. What a powerful reminder that God is using everything for his glory and you never know who is watching.
I am so thankful for our community and hope you had a restful week with your family. Take just a few moments to let your kids share what they are grateful for this year.
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Courtney DeFeo
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withLee Strobel
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 27 Nov 2025 - 675 - Week 12: A thankful heart - the healed leper
I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.
I will be filled with joy because of you.
I will sing praises to your name, O Most High. (Psalm 9:1–2 NLT)
There is a story in the book of Luke where Jesus heals ten men with leprosy. The lepers saw Jesus coming, stood at a distance, and called out for him to heal them. When he did, just one of the lepers came back to thank him. The leper didn’t just thank him, he praised him in a loud voice and threw himself at Jesus’s feet. He was filled with gratitude.
This man’s life was changed; he knew it and he was not going to be silent about it. The crazy thing is that this man was a Samaritan, meaning he had never known the one true God until Jesus came and changed his life forever.That type of gratitude, that realization that Jesus has completely saved us, moves us to love Jesus more.
We live in a much easier world. There is no leprosy for us to fear, medical care is accessible, and grocery stores are fully stocked. We can even have something delivered to us the same day, using just our face to pay. Our life is pretty good! It’s amazing! The downside is that it’s a lot harder to feel grateful for the everyday things God has blessed us with. Our hearts are easily hardened and discontent.
But we can be truly grateful for the gift of salvation every single day. Life may not be perfect every day, but Jesus loves us every day. Having a thankful heart toward him will draw us closer to him and increase our joy! It’s hard to be grumpy when you are being thankful!
Let’s pray that our kids recognize Jesus’s gifts to them every day and that they move closer to him and praise him in response!
Lord, I pray that you would remind __________ daily of your love for them, that they would practice praising you for who you are and thanking you for your many blessings on a regular basis, that you would cultivate in them a grateful heart, and that you would help me model this in our home too!
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 24 Nov 2025 - 674 - How to set limits in the holidays (and actually enjoy it) with Niro Feliciano
Does anyone else feel like the holidays keep getting crazier and crazier? Busier and busier? On the podcast this week is Niro Feliciano. You may recognize from her regular appearances on The Today Show. She is a certified cognitive therapist, the co-founder of Integrative Counseling and Wellness Group in Wilton, CT and the author ofAll is CALMish. I love her professional insight and perspective on the pressure of Christmas. She reminds that the mental health of our families will benefit as we prioritize our presence over the perfection of Christmas.
Niro reflects on the significance of holiday celebrations and the importance of meaningful connections of superficial interactions. She shares her journey of reevaluating how she celebrates the holidays, empathizing with the need for deeper connections with loved ones and a more intentional approach to social gatherings.
My favorite part is when Niro encourages us moms to find “micro moments of joy” during the holidays. As a mom, we can spin our wheels to make everything magical for all and we forget to encounter Jesus and take care of ourselves. What are some little things you can do to dial in the peace and joy and dial out the pressure and stress?
Before we dive right into the same Christmas chaos, let’s pray for God to order our days. How can we spend more time in the presence of Jesus? How can we focus on being over doing? What traditions and parties and commitments can we delete or pause to add more capacity?
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters:
00:00 Navigating Holiday Stress
03:00 The Pressure of Perfection
06:07 Creating Meaningful Traditions
08:59 Connection Over Perfection
12:00 Finding Joy in Giving
14:55 Holiday Experiences in the City
15:32 Embracing the Holiday Spirit
18:20 Navigating Family Dynamics
25:31 Setting Boundaries for Joy
27:50 Modeling Joy for Future Generations
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withNiro
All is CALMish- Niro’s new book
Light ‘Em Up Acts- ideas for giving
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 20 Nov 2025 - 673 - Week 11: Redemption - Samson
Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.” (Judges 16:28)
Samson is known for his great strength and his great weaknesses. He was physically strong enough to kill a lion with his bare hands, and in the twenty years he led Israel, he killed hundreds and thousands of Philistines on his own. His weaknesses were his hair (it had to be long in order for him to be strong) and women. These weaknesses got him into trouble and eventually he was captured and the Lord left him. But in his final moments, he prayed for God to remember him and give him strength one more time, and the Lord answered.
Samson reminds us that we all have strengths and weaknesses. And even our strengths have to be used wisely in order to honor God. But at the end of the day, God is full of mercy, and he can redeem even our greatest weaknesses when we turn to him and ask him.
There may be times in our children’s lives when they turn away from God. They may go as far as rejecting Christ, or they may not honor him with their choices. But no mistake is too big for God. There is nothing our kids can do that God cannot redeem; he is always ready to restore us when we turn back to him.
This week, let’s pray that our kids always follow God and honor him. But if they make mistakes or walk away, let’s pray that they turn back to God, ask for mercy, and experience God’s amazing redemption.
Jesus, thank you for your amazing grace that restores us back to God. I pray that __________ will follow you all their life. But if they fall away, may they experience your redemption in a powerful way.Redeem the pain that they experience in their life, and even the mistakes they will make. Remind them that you are bigger than everything!I pray they are always confident in your goodness and in your desire to be in right relationship with them. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 17 Nov 2025 - 672 - Surviving an unwanted divorce with Lysa TerKeurst
Are you going through an unwanted divorce? Or have a friend or family member going through an unwanted divorce? This powerful episode with Lysa TerKeurst is for you. I’m so thankful that Lysa is using her own divorce experience, healing journey and biblical understanding to encourage other women.
Lysa shares about the significant challenges of an unwanted divorce. She shares about the unhelpful comments and verses thrown at people that choose divorce. She walks us through the powerful combination of theology and therapy and how those two things were key in her healing journey.
This episode isn’t really for the person trying to determine IF they should divorce, it’s really for those that are already walking through the divorce from a destructive marriage and how to move forward.
My favorite part is at the very end when she talksdirectlyto the woman walking through an unwanted divorce. Her words are so tender and so encouraging. I am praying you will feel so seen.
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapter
(02:46) The Need for a New Book
(05:23) Understanding Divorce and Its Impact
(08:19) Theological Insights on Divorce
(11:05) Resources for Support
(13:47) Identity and Self-Worth
(15:19) Coping Strategies During Divorce
(15:39) Finding Wholeness After Divorce
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withLysa
Surviving an Unwanted Divorce- new book
Surviving an Unwanted Divorce- podcast series
Emily LexWatercolor
What to Say and How to Say it to Your Teen
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
The Biggest Story Holy Bible for Kids
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 13 Nov 2025 - 671 - Week 10: Loyalty - Ruth
But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.” (Ruth 1:16 NLT)
We often hear Ruth 1:16 recited at weddings, and rightfully so; it is a beautiful verse about family and loyalty. When Ruth’s husband died, she decided to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, even though it meant leaving behind life as she knew it. Eventually she married again. Ruth’s new husband was a good and kind man named Boaz, and she remained faithful in caring for her mother-in-law.
It would have been easy for Ruth to leave Naomi and start over. In fact, that is what Naomi tried to convince her to do. But Ruth was loyal to Naomi and to God, and she loved them both. Because of her kindness, God gave her a new family and a special place in his story—she became great-grandmother to King David, making her part of the lineage of Jesus. God can do anything with anyone when they are faithful.
As parents, we have the opportunity to model the value of family, show our kids what it means to honor God by honoring each other, and raise our kids up to be loyal and kind. We would do anything for our kids, but even so, there will be times in parenting when it feels like your kids would choose to follow anyone else but you. In those moments, lean in and lavish them with love. We get to show them the love of Jesus in the way we parent them! Eventually that love will prepare them for their own family, and hopefully they will be as loyal to them and to God as Ruth was.
This week, let’s pray that our kids love and serve their current and future families with loyal hearts.
Father God, you are the perfect father. Help __________ to love and serve their family. May they be loyal, kind, and faithful. May they trust in my guidance as a parent. And most importantly, may they trust in you as their perfect parent and stay faithfully devoted to you all the days of their life. May they never know a day without being in your presence. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 10 Nov 2025 - 670 - My Virtual Mentor: Personalities & Temperaments with Karen Stubbs
Did you know that once a month we are doing a mentor episode? What does that mean? I have come across a lot of moms that desperately want a mentor, but don’t have time to read a book. So! Each month, there will be a podcast topic and your only job is to:
1) listen to the episode
2) talk about it with a mentor or friend that is a season ahead of you
If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the first couple episodes:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with God
When I was mentored as a young mom, the topic of "personalities" was one of the most impactful lessons. I learned to study myself, my spouse and my kids and the benefits have been huge in my life. I am still learning all of us!
On today’s episode, we get to hear from author, speaker and podcaster Karen Stubbs. Karen is the founder ofBirds On A Wire Momsand has ministers to thousands of moms all over the world. She is passionate about challenging moms to experience motherhood in the way God designed it.
Karen gets practical about how to learn temperaments and personalities for ourselves, our spouses and each of our kids. She also reminds us that we can partner with the Holy Spirit to refine us and grow us - so that we look more and more like Him.
If you’d like to dive deeper into this topic, you will find discussion questions, book referrals, personality tests, scripture verses and more below.
Enjoy!
Courtney
MY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (INTIMACY WITH GOD)
Scripture to memorize:
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Psalm 139:14-15
Scriptures for prayer and study:
Galatians 5:16, 22-23
Isaiah 64:8
Ephesians 2:10
Books for further study:
Wired That Way- Marita Littauer
A Grown-Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiringby Kathleen Edelman
Personality Plus for Couplesby Florence Littauer
Personality Plus for Parentsby Florence Littauer
Love Languagesby Gary Chapman
The Road Back to You–Ian Cron, Suzanne Stabile
Discussion questions:
What are some of your strengths and weaknesses? And your husband’s?
How can you balance each other out as a couple?
How did God wire each of your kids? Strengths and weaknesses?
What temperaments do you need to be aware of in each kid - as you parent them?
(02:48) Understanding Personalities and Temperaments
(05:38) The Importance of Knowing Yourself
(08:26) Navigating Love Languages in Relationships
(11:09) The Role of Awareness in Personal Growth
(14:05) Integrating Faith with Personality Insights
(15:07) Understanding Personality Types in Parenting
(17:59) Navigating Different Personalities in Children
(24:18) The Importance of Personality Awareness in Parenting
(29:48) Embracing the Journey of Motherhood and Grandmotherhood
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
My Virtual Mentor:Why Mentorship Matters
My Virtual Mentor:Intimacy with God
Connect withKaren
FREE personality quizfrom Karen
Raising Boys & Girls Personality Series - startHERE
Wired That Way- Marita Littauer
A Grown-Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiringby Kathleen Edelman
Personality Plus for Couplesby Florence Littauer
Personality Plus for Parentsby Florence Littauer
Love Languagesby Gary Chapman
The Road Back to You–Ian Cron, Suzanne Stabile
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
The Biggest Story Holy Bible for Kids
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 06 Nov 2025 - 669 - Week 9: Bold faith in action - Rahab
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? (James 2:14)
Rahab is an unlikely hero. She started as a Canaanite prostitute, meaning she was a fallen woman living in a fallen city, and she eventually was listed in the genealogy of Jesus. Rahab’s life shows us that while faith is not about our works, a bold faith is actively lived out.
When two Israelite spies came to Rahab’s home in Jericho, she protected them because she had heard about the things God had done. She turned away from her religion and her culture and put her trust in God. Because of this, Rahab and her family were spared when Jericho fell. In order to be saved, she had to place a scarlet cord on her window. Rahab obeyed this command knowing that she had to obey God in order to be saved. Her faith led her to action.
Faith in Jesus transforms every part of us, including our actions. Our kids will have many chances to live their faith out loud. Sometimes that will mean taking a risk or standing out from the crowd. It might look like standing up for someone who is being picked on, leaving a party, putting an end to a rumor, or speaking God’s truth to someone they care about. We can encourage our kids to let God’s truth shape their actions, because when we do that, God does incredible things.
This week, let’s pray that our kids move beyond simply believing in God in their hearts, and move toward acting boldly on that belief.
Father God, help __________ to believe in you so deeply that their actions are changed. May their life reflect your love, grace, and goodness. When it’s easier to blend in, give them the faith to stand up for you and your ways. May they live a life that glorifies and expands your kingdom. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 03 Nov 2025 - 668 - How to build a family legacy with Korie Robertson
I love the topic of family legacy! The Robertsons surely have made a name for their family that is all about faith. Joining me today on the podcast is author, speaker and TV star Korie Robertson. She is so genuine and the love that she has for her family is so evident. You have likely seen the Robertson family through their showDuck Dynastybut I love that we hear about Korie’s side of the family too. What a tremendous legacy of faith!
We chat about her experiences and insights on grandparenting, family legacy, and parenting adult children. She has always put an emphasis on “kindness” and “strength” in her home. What are some virtues or values that you hope to pass down through the generations? I love that her family called them the “Howard Principles for Life.”
My favorite part is when she talks about the importance of community and church as you are raising a family. I love that reminder because it is easy to isolate ourselves these days and we need each other.
And it’s almost November, which means my Christmas decorations are going up!!!
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters
(00:00) Embracing the Grandma Life
(02:49) Family Legacy and Heritage of Faith
(05:43) Intentional Parenting Values
(08:27) The Importance of Kindness and Strength
(11:19) Navigating Parenting Challenges
(14:04) Mentorship and Community Support
(16:56) Parenting Adult Children
(19:50) Encouragement for Young Moms
(22:45) Faith, Hope, and Love in Uncertain Times
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withKorie
Duck Dynasty: The Revivalon Hulu
Strong and Kindby Korie Robertson
The Blind- movie based on Phil and Kay’s story
LO Sister- Sadie’s ministry
Quoteby Dr Amen on guilt
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 30 Oct 2025 - 667 - Week 8: Courage from God - Joshua
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
Joshua was one of only two people who left Egypt and entered the promised land. He was a military leader and a spy, and eventually took over as leader of the Israelites after Moses died. He continually led the Israelites into battle and trusted in God’s promise that they would reach and enter the promised land.
Through all the battles and all the whining of the Israelites, it would have been easy for Joshua to feel overwhelmed, defeated, and afraid. And he probably did! But God continually reminded him to be strong and courageous. God did not want Joshua to rely on himself; he wanted Joshua to rely on him.
We live in a world that tells us to “believe in yourself.” In reality, that’s a lot of pressure to put on ourselves, and it’s a lot of pressure for kids to feel. As Christian parents, we know a better way. When our kids doubt themselves, when they are nervous, they don’t feel good enough, and fear of failure quietly creeps into their minds, our job is to remind them that God is with them. He will never leave them or forsake them, so they don’t have to be brave on their own. True courage does not come from relying on ourselves; it comes from relying on the one who never fails.
This week, let’s pray that our kids feel strong and courageous because of God’s never-ending presence in their life.
Jesus, help __________ to feel strong and courageous—not because they know it all and can do it all but because they have access to you who does know it all and can do it all. Help them to remember that they don’t have to muster up their own energy and strength; they can talk to you, and you will lead them just like you have led your people before. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 27 Oct 2025 - 666 - How do I talk about porn with my kids? With Greta Eskridge
This episode is one we don’t want to think about - but we must. The average age of first exposure to pornography is between age 8 and 11. Porn is everywhere. As a parent, it can feel super intimidating and scary to think about these discussions. How do we talk to our kids? What language do I use? When is the right time? How can I protect them? How can I help through this struggle?
Greta Eskridge is the author ofHow to Talk to Your Kids About Pornand she has a personal story of how porn almost ruined her family. You will love her honesty about her own story, her passion to help other families and the practical ways you can begin to protect your kids.
My favorite part is when she shares about our reaction as parents. We want our kids to come to us whenever they are in trouble. We want to be a safe place so a calm and steady response is required. It is natural to react in anger and fear - but don’t forget it’s not too late. She encourages parents to circle back and remind your child that they are loved and you are there to help. She also encourages us as Christians parents on how to give them a “why” that ties this issue to their faith and God’s best plan for their life.
Don’t miss this one!
Courtney
(01:03) The Journey to Addressing Pornography
(02:36) Starting the Conversation with Kids
(05:34) Creating a Safe Space for Discussion
(08:22) Navigating Technology and Safety
(13:05) Understanding the Impact of Pornography on Teens
(19:45) The Role of Parents in Teen Conversations
(24:28) Resources and Hope for Healing
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect withGreta
Greta EskridgePodcast
It’s Time To Talk to Your Kids About Pornby Greta Eskridge
Good pictures, bad pictures- book for young kids
God Made All of Me- a book to help children protect their bodies
Song on “private parts”
Protect Young Eyes- router info and more
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
Beyond the Sex Talk podcast series - Gracebased podcast
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 23 Oct 2025 - 665 - Week 7: A supportive presence - Aaron
Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you.” (Exodus 4:14)
Aaron was chosen by God to support Moses in leading the Israelites out of Egypt. When Moses doubted his ability to speak, Aaron stepped in and delivered God’s messages to Pharaoh. He was Moses’s helper! He wasn’t the main leader, but his role was still important—he stood beside Moses, helped perform miracles, and guided the Israelites.
Later, God appointed Aaron as the first high priest; he had a time to support, and he had a time to lead. We know Aaron wasn’t perfect; he made a lot of mistakes, but God allows us to keep serving him despite our mistakes because he is full of grace.
It’s natural for our kids to want to be the star of the show: the leader of the friend group, the starting player on the team, first in band, line leader. But Aaron’s life reminds us that God values leadersandthe people who support them. Your child will lead at times, of course, but there will also be times when they need to humbly and graciously stand by the side of another leader. Sometimes being a friend, encourager, and helper is just as important as being in charge.
This week, let’s pray that our kids seek the Lord, not the spotlight. Let’s pray that our kids honor God by serving where he places them, knowing it’s where they are meant to be to make the biggest difference.
Lord, help __________ have a heart like Aaron’s—a heart that serves, supports, and honors you. Help them to remember that they don’t need accolades from people, because those are just temporary. Instead, help them to use their gifts to glorify you in every role that you call them to. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 20 Oct 2025 - 664 - 3 giants that teens are facing today with Caroline Shankle
You will recognize the last name “Shankle” because Melanie Shankle is a frequent guest on Pardon The Mess. Melanie is one of my favorite authors out there and it’s so fun to have her daughter, Caroline Shankle, on the podcast today.
She is so delightful and gives such a great perspective of what it’s like to be a young girl learning hard lessons with God by your side. She reflects on “3 giants teens are facing today.” From “fitting in” to “comparison” to “believing God is who He said He is.” It is so helpful for me to hear these things from a young girl that is part of my daughter’s generation.
My favorite part is when she shares about her journey with her faith. How God made it real to her during her college years. She thought she wasn’t good enough to have a strong faith. What an encouraging reminder to our teens that God wants them “just as you are.”
Make sure you hug your teens today and remind them that their struggles are normal, validate their journey through difficult seasons, pray for them and remind them that God has them. And then send them this episode and let Caroline remind them that these giants don’t have the final say.
Enjoy!
Courtney
Chapters
(02:51) Life as a Grad Student and Author
(05:46) The Journey to Writing a Book
(08:40) Facing Giants: Fitting In and Comparison
(11:40) Believing in God: A Personal Journey
(14:30) Lessons from Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
(17:23) Appreciating Family and Personal Growth
(20:170 Fun Questions and Closing Thoughts
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Connect with Caroline
Caroline’s new book - The Lion and the Bear
Melanie’s episode on Storytellers Live (watching Caroline struggle)
Impact - A&M freshmen retreat
Melanie Shankle on Pardon The Mess
Here Be Dragons by Melanie Shankle
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 16 Oct 2025 - 663 - Week 6: A humble leader - Moses
The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew 23:11–12 NLT)
Moses’s life was full of ups and downs. But he is forever known as a great and humble leader. When Moses was born, Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, but God had a different plan for Moses’s life: He was saved by God’s plan and raised in Pharaoh’s palace. And in another turn of events, God called Moses to lead his people out of Egypt and out of slavery. Moses was a leader among the Israelites, and it cost him everything—his family, his lifestyle, his comfort, and his reputation.
Moses was not always a confident leader; he initially doubted himself and asked God to send someone else. Someone more eloquent. Someone more prepared. Someone more capable. But the mission to free the Israelites wasn’t about Moses—it was about God.
Humble leadership starts with putting God first and knowing that his power works through us. When we follow God, he directs our every step.God doesn’t call perfect leaders; he calls willing ones.
Our kids may not lead a people group to freedom, but they will most likely have opportunities to stand up for what is right, help others, and lead others in the way of the Lord. They may feel unequipped at times, just like Moses did, but as parents, we can remind them that when God says go, we don’t say no—because he equips those he calls.
This week, let’s pray that our kids grow to be leaders who rely on God’s strength before their own.
God, I pray that __________ would be a faithful and humble leader who answers your call, follows you, and confidently relies on your strength to accomplish the tasks you set before them. When they feel unequipped or unprepared, remind them that you will give them all they need. Help them to take their focus off themselves and onto you and your power. Amen.
If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes.
Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses today
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 and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyMon, 13 Oct 2025 - 662 - How spiritual growth is intertwined with physical health with Justin Whitmel Earley
How are the habits of your family? How is your physical health? Mental health? Spiritual health? This is an episode that is so needed for couples. I would LOVE for you to listen with your spouse and then find time to discuss it.
Justin Earley shares about this mental health breakdown as a young dad and how God brought him to this current place of healing. As you know, I have struggled with my health for many years and I needed every word of this episode.
We talk about the necessary merging of our physical health and our spiritual health. He shares some common misconceptions, practical tips to feel better and patterns that could help turn your entire family towards health.
My favorite part is when he talks about God’s grace and the reminder that it’s not too late. We can change the direction our family is headed. We can change the direction we are headed. It may be slow but it can happen. I am so thankful for Justin’s story and this unique way of sharing God’s truth with real life lessons.
Enjoy!
Courtney
(02:57) Parenting Challenges and Prioritizing Family
(05:40) The Impact of Work on Family Life
(08:32) Mental Health and Parenting
(11:27) Developing Healthy Habits
(14:16) Spiritual and Physical Health Connection
(17:08) The Role of Discipline in Parenting
(19:58) The Importance of Self-Care
(22:41) Miracles and Transformation
(25:28) Conclusion and Encouragement
Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!
Connect with Pardon The Mess:
ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW
Resources from today’s show:
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
Connect withJustin
The Body Teaches the Soul - newest book
Podcast episode about Family Rhythms with the Lyons
Choosing to Cheat by Andy Stanley
Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visitwww.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress and use my code AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESS for a great deal: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyThu, 09 Oct 2025
Podcasts semelhantes a Pardon the Mess with Scarlet Hiltibidal - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids
El Partidazo de COPE COPE- Herrera en COPE COPE
- La Linterna COPE
- Es la Mañana de Federico esRadio
- La noche de Cuesta esRadio
- La Trinchera de Llamas esRadio
- Hondelatte Raconte Europe 1
- Affaires sensibles France Inter
- LEGEND Guillaume Pley
- El colegio invisible OndaCero
- La Rosa de los Vientos OndaCero
- Les grands dossiers de l'Histoire par Franck Ferrand Radio Classique
- Espacio en blanco Radio Nacional
- Entrez dans l'Histoire RTL
- Le grand récit RTL
- Les Grosses Têtes RTL
- L'Heure Du Crime RTL
- Parlons-nous RTL
- El Larguero SER Podcast
- Nadie Sabe Nada SER Podcast
- SER Historia SER Podcast
- Todo Concostrina SER Podcast
- Un Libro Una Hora SER Podcast
- HISTORIAS DE LA HISTORIA VIVA RADIO
