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

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 4:14 NLT)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 todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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!CourtneyConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoSign up for Morning MinuteResources from today’s show:Connect with KerriPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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!CourtneyChapters:(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 ChangeConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOWResources from today’s show:Connect with KyannSimple Rhythms for Busy Moms - KyAnn’s podcastRhythms That Scale - KyAnn’s guide Simple Rhythms Community - join KyAnn’s community Sign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingGracebasedPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOWResources from today’s show:Authentic Influencer by Dr. Jonathan MurphyThe Story of God and Us by Dr. Jonathan MurphyTik Tok inspiration - man caring for veteranSign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Church by 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!CourtneyChapters:(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 DivisionConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOWResources from today’s show:Connect with Dr. Eric MasonEpiphany FellowshipThriving MinistryRebranding The Church bookDwell Bible in a Year Sign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingPrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 episode2) talk about it with a mentor or friend that is a season ahead of youIf 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 & Generosity I 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!CourtneyChapters:(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 TimeMY 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 5:15-16Matthew 6:33Proverbs 29:18Books 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 Sullivan Discussion 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:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOWResources from today’s show:Connect with Elaine at ebfranklin@bellsouth.netConnect with Shawna3 ways to stop wasting your time and money - episode with Shawna Sullivan7 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 Dwell Bible in a Year 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https:// AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy