“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:3–4)We have probably all been hurt by trusting someone or something too much. As believing parents, we know that there is something better for our kids when they put their trust in Jesus. Trusting Jesus means surrendering every part of our stories to him and knowing that his plans are good. Even if he feels far away at times, he cares for us and will provide for our needs because the world may under-deliver, but Jesus never breaks a promise.This means when our kids trust Jesus:They don’t need to be afraid when they are put in an unknown situation or life feels uncertain because Jesus always wins. They can feel confident that Jesus will protect them when they are facing something difficult because God answers his children when they call on him.They are God’s child, no matter how others treat them.They can have hope even in hopeless situations because Jesus has already overcome the world!Their lives will be blessed.This week, let’s pray that our kids fully love God by trusting in Jesus and begin to experience his great promises.God, I pray that ___________ learns to trust in you and your promises. When they are tempted to believe the promises of the world, may their heart be reminded that you will never forsake them. May they consistently see the sweet fruit that comes from trusting in you with their lives and with their stories. Amen.Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer JournalPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Happy New Year!!!I cannot believe it’s 2025. I've been thinking about this year for a long time because it’s the year my first child graduates from high school. Well, that went fast!Today’s episode is a special one for me, but also insanely practical for all of us. We have my brother, Drew McClure, on the show today to talk about “parent burnout.” Is it just the life of a mother to feel utterly exhausted all the days of our lives? Is there a way to have more energy? Better energy? Focused energy? Meaningful energy? He talks us through how to make some traction this year so we don’t burnout early in the year. His thoughts are wise and sustainable and tested. As the Founder of People Profit, his job is to coach companies to eliminate burnout and increase capacity. He has a deep passion for humans and how we work. So, let’s get his take on the performance of a parent!  Drew encourages us to start with one thing. Just one thing. You may want a journal or pad of paper as you listen to this one. It’s FULL of helpful tips to write down.My favorite moment is in the beginning when he tells his story from going to a wild middle schooler to walking with great friends that love Jesus. It’s a powerful example of how God can step in and speak to the heart of our kids. And that even the BEST parents (mine) cannot control outside influences and your children’s decision. But God. He can work it all for good.Enjoy!CourtneyConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33)As we inch towards a new year, many of us are considering our goals and priorities. Some of us are coming up with our word of the year. That seemed to be the trend that started a few years back—pick one word to focus on for the entire year. I’ve heard people choose words like love, intentional, joy, courage, prayerful.But what if our word was simply, God?What would our year look like if we chose to focus on God before everything else?This week, let’s pray that our kids will love God with their whole hearts and make seeking him their first priority every day this coming year and every year. Father God, I pray that ______________ would choose you this year. Give _________ an undivided heart and teach them your ways. I pray they would wake up every day and decide that honoring you and deepening their relationship with you would be their first priority. When it is tempting to choose something else over you, remind them that you are the same yesterday, today, and forever and that you want their whole heart. Amen.Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer JournalPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Merry Christmas friends!!!!I wanted to end the year with some heartfelt encouragement to each of you. Try to get away from all the noise and distractions when you listen to this one. Sit with your eyes closed or go on a walk - and pray God would encourage your anxious and weary heart.It’s so easy to get to the end of a year and only think about the few things you didn’t do right or mistakes that were made. I want to remind you of the MANY things you are doing well for your children. God sees them. I share a few letters from YOU - words you wrote to your younger self. And then I read my own letter and it was so powerful for me to do that. Try to get some time to write your own letter to the younger version of you. What did you need to hear as a young mom? And then let’s receive that same tenderness and grace and love for the mom that we are right now. I am so thankful for our community. Let’s keep showing up for these kids and loving God in the new year ahead. You are so very loved and you are such a great mom.Merry Christmas,CourtneyChapters00:00Reflecting on Motherhood: A Year-End Pause06:04Wisdom from Friends: Insights on Parenting11:46Embracing Imperfection in Parenting18:10Looking Forward: A Message of HopeConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithChristian Parenting Christmas Gift GuidePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 ESV)It’s easy to get caught up in the to-dos and materialism of Christmas. There are so many activities and so many gifts to purchase. And while giving and receiving gifts is exciting, the greatest gift we can ever receive came as a tiny newborn baby in a lowly manger all those years ago. It’s up to us to receive this gift! So we can always be praying that our kids will accept God’s gift, believe in him, and love him all the days of their lives.The book of Luke tells us that when Jesus was born, shepherds worshiped and spread the word, angels sang, and Mary treasured all those moments up in her heart and pondered them (Luke 2:19). As we approach Christmas day, let’s focus our attention on those same acts. As a family let’s worship the Lord, spread his good news, sing songs of adoration and celebration, and let’s store up the memories and meaning in our hearts so that we can remember God’s great gift to us all year long.This week, let’s pray that our kids grow to know and love the true meaning of Christmas and that they would focus less on consumerism and sparkle, and more on the good news of Jesus.Father God, thank you for sending us the greatest gift when you sent your Son to be born. May we all focus on you this season, not on the stress, pressure, or things. May _____________ remember that Christmas should be fun, but the most important part about it is you. Amen.Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer JournalPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Happy December!!! I am so very delighted to introduce you to one of my favorite moms on the planet - Dana Sheheane! This episode is a simple, rambling and lighthearted chat with one of my real life mom friends. You will LOVE her! She’s one of us folks.I feel like we can raise amazing Christian kids - if we are wearing the right bra and our coffee stays warm. Amen? So let’s dive into some practical ideas and a girlfriend chat. The majority of the episode is just fun ideas and simple tips for your everyday life. However, don’t miss the end. We talk about a few intangible and critical things you need to survive in 2025 - from margin to community. Enjoy her wisdom and her adorable laugh!.In this episode, we chat about:Perimenopause Chico’sHeating matsStitch gunsEmbarrassing kids Best bra per DanaSolution for cold coffeeAnd much more!Love,Courtney(05:55) Parenting Insights and Challenges(11:58) Holiday Traditions and Family Dynamics(18:52) Navigating Hormonal Changes(29:56) Embracing Embarrassment as Parents(39:04) Must-Have Gadgets for Everyday Life(45:14) Finding Joy in Everyday Challenges(51:16) Building Community and ConnectionConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithChristian Parenting Christmas Gift GuideResources from today’s show:Wild Interest podcastDana’s Story - StoryTellersLive Part 1Dana’s Story - StoryTellersLive Part 2Lighthouse Family RetreatEOS Lotion- not cherry. No scent. We liedFYY Food Warming Mat Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish SprayCoffee Mug WarmerStitch GunPodcast episode i LOVED latelyDiva DetergentBest Bra per DanaTreasures in the Dark by Katherine WolfOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Each day brings wins, losses and valuable lessons. Pardon the Mess is a place where we discuss parenting and faith in a biblical, approachable and relatable way. We may cry and laugh while we learn and grow together in our beautiful mess. Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44)It’s one thing to love your neighbor as yourself, it’s a whole other thing to love your enemies. As believers, we aren’t called to ignore our enemies or to tolerate our enemies, we are called to love them and to pray for them. This is a radical teaching that goes against the norm in society because it is much easier to judge or gossip about our enemies (guilty!). But even more, we are supposed to love our enemies without expecting anything in return.Scripture makes it clear that the most powerful way we can actually love our enemies is to pray for them. We begin to see a change in ourselves as we pray for others. First, we start to see our enemies the way God sees them, and God sees them as his beloved and dearly loved children, just like we are. Second, we can be freed from bitterness, resentment, and anger by praying for our enemies as our hearts are softened by the Holy Spirit. So, this week let’s pray that our kids will love their enemies in a radical way and that they will begin to see themselves as God sees them.Father God, loving our enemies starts with us. I pray that ___________ would learn to love their prayed and pray for them while establishing healthy boundaries. I pray that their hearts are softened towards the people who treat them poorly so that they see them the way you do. I pray for reconciliation and peace if ________ is being bullied or bullying others. Give me wisdom in those conflicts. Amen.Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer JournalPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I crave mentors and wisdom! I feel like I can spot wise women in any room. Lisa Clark is one of those mentors and I’m delighted to share her with you today. You will absolutely love hearing her “best and worst parenting advice” as she thinks back over her 35 years of parenting. As a grandmother now, she is at a place in life where she can look back and assess what was true and what wasn’t. Some advice is helpful and some is not. Some advice is biblical and some is not. Lisa shares so many incredible pieces of encouragement with us today - from how to discipline, the role of dads, when and how to have sex talks and much more. Lisa prioritizes her faith in a beautiful way but also has a very solid grasp on the realities we are facing as moms. I always feel lighter and more encouraged after time with her. My favorite part is at the end when she shares why we should be deliberate in teaching the gospel. She gives very specific ways we can do this and reminds us why it matters. I am praying that you feel so deeply seen in this episode and that the work you are doing as a mom matters. In this episode we discuss:Some best and worst parenting adviceWhy adult children are amazingHow to trust our gut as mothersHow to help our kids learn boundariesHow to be our child’s advocate firstEnjoy!Courtney (00:00) Navigating Grandparenting Dynamics(02:12) The Myth of 18 Years(04:31) Evolving Relationships with Adult Children(06:50) The Balance of Discipline and Gentle Parenting(10:51) Challenging Conventional Parenting Advice(14:58) Trusting Your Instincts as a Parent(18:24) Navigating Kindness and Boundaries(20:29) The Importance of Sleep Schedules(22:25) Open Conversations About Sex(25:52) The Balance of Parenting Styles(30:33) Empowering Dads in Parenting(33:38) Intentional Gospel TeachingConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithChristian Parenting Christmas Gift GuideResources from today’s show:Wild Interest podcastConnect with Lisa ClarkRaising Sinners book by Lisa ClarkRaising Sinners podcast by Lisa ClarkAge of Opportunity by Paul David TrippCrossover at OUDr. David and Amanda Erickson episode - Discipline, ConsequencesBirds & Bees (Mary Flo Ridley)Dangers of Growing Up in a Christian HomeOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34–35)We are commanded to love others the way we love ourselves—which is kind of hard when we sometimes aren’t so nice to ourselves (we can pray against that for our kids). But we are also called to love others the way Jesus loves us: sacrificially and actively.For our kids, love as an action means more than being kind to everyone, it means our kids notice when someone is left out and they include them. It means forgiving others, standing up for others, noticing the lonely, and looking for ways to serve others. It’s not always easy, but it’s always good.When we love people in this way, the people around us notice that there is something different about us. The love of Christ shines bright so the whole world can see that we are his disciples. That is what it is all about because, at the end of the day, the most loving thing we can do for the people around them is to tell them about Jesus and his great love for us.So this week let’s pray that our kids love others with their words and their actions. Let’s pray that when people see the way our kids treat others, they will see Jesus in them.Jesus, thank you for loving us. Help ____________ to notice the lonely, the sad, and the hurting and love them well. May they always seek to be more than kind to everyone, but be moved to action so that they can show the world around them your love. Amen.Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer JournalPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy