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

Do you have a tween? This episode is for YOU! Jonathan is one of my very favorite dads on the planet. He’s a pastor, husband, dad of one young adult, 3 teens and a one year old! You’ve heard him on Pardon The Mess before with his beautiful wife Peta Pitts as they have navigated loss together. Alena Pitts is Jonathan’s oldest daughter and someone I admire and respect so much. This father-daughter conversation is incredibly rich and entertaining. Today’s episode is a very practical one. Alena and Jonathan offer 3 ways we can help our tweens thrive. Alena offers a unique perspective as the oldest child in the family. She looks back at what she appreciated most. Jonathan brings perspective of raising his four daughters while also managing a ministry specifically for tween girls.My favorite part is towards the end when Jonathan encourages us to lay down all the pressures and stuff that is fleeting. How we can continue to prioritize the relationship with our kids over all the things that are fleeting. In this episode we chat about:Practical ways to help your teens thriveParenting introverted kids vs extrovertedWays to own your role as a parent in their spiritual developmentEnjoy!Courtney(00:00) Navigating Newlywed Life(03:01) The Joys of Parenting(06:19) The Importance of Family Devotions(09:48) Supporting Tweens in Community(14:43) Building Connections Through Shared Stories(18:16) The Role of Parents in Child Development(20:10) Instilling Truth and Sound Doctrine(25:48) The Importance of Fun and Lightheartedness(32:19) Encouragement for Stressed ParentsConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithResources from today’s show:Connect with AlenaConnect with JonathanFor Girls Like You - magazine and resources for tween girlsJonathan and Peta Pitts episode Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideEnjoy 20% off the For girls Like You Magazine subscription by using code: pardonthemess.Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?’” (John 11:25–26)I cannot imagine a more disheartening period than the time between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The Jewish people waited so long for a Messiah and Jesus’ disciples found him and followed him! They dropped their entire lives to learn from him and spread his message. And then, in their lack of understanding, they watched him die on the cross and buried him. Can you imagine the defeat?But as Bob Goff says, “Darkness fell, His friends scattered, hope seemed lost - But heaven just started counting to three.”The good news of Easter is that there is life and hope after death! Just when the disciples surely thought maybe they were wrong or maybe they misunderstood, Jesus rose. Friday and Saturday were hard, but Sunday redeemed it all. We talk about it so often nowadays that sometimes the miracle of it all is lost on us. But let’s not forget: God loved the world so much that even though it was broken, he made a plan to save it by sending his son for us. All we have to do is believe in that and we are saved. It’s the simplest, yet most beautiful message of hope for everyone. If your child has not accepted Jesus as savior, let’s pray for that this week. If they have, let’s pray they deepen their relationship with him and share his good news!So as we prepare for Easter, let’s pray that our kids are people who know and share the good news that when all else seems hopeless, hope lives.Father God, thank you for sending your son to die on the cross for our sin. I pray that ____________ will accept Jesus as their savior and cling to the hope that he provides. May _______________ be a messenger of the good news of the gospel to everyone that they meet. Amen.Why is the gospel good newsWhy share the good newsGet 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 Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Have you ever felt like you are too far gone? That some things in your life are too broken for God to fix? In this week’s episode with Meshali - we start out talking ranch and pimento cheese and then dive into the freedom that she has experienced with her painful story and God’s glory. Meshali is a photographer, speaker, author, amazing aunt and friend to many. Dive in and enjoy a really honest chat about restoration. When you meet Meshali, you might assume she’s always been so lighthearted and delightful and full of smiles and joy. What many don’t know is that this famous photographer has a really hard story. In today’s episode, she gets real and honest about her past - from abuse to a child of divorce to many seasons of depression and insecurity.If we are honest, there are places deep in our heart that we have tucked away assuming they are just too broken. I wanted you to hear from a girl that decided it was time for change. She decided to partner with God on a mission for more. God restored her heart as she restored her 1800s home and together they went room by room to find freedom, healing and joy.My favorite part is when she gives some practical tips for those parents in the midst of divorce. Meshali is incredibly wise and one of the most authentic and hopeful believers I have ever met. I know you will enjoy her as much as I do. I am praying you feel a deep sense of hope and courage as she shares her story.In this episode, we discuss:Unraveling lies and finding freedomHer insight as a child of divorcePractical steps to find restoration and healingPartnering with God in the most painful parts of your storyEnjoy!Courtney (02:59) Food Favorites and Personal Connections(05:59) The Journey of Healing and Restoration(08:57) Childhood and Family Background(12:01) Struggles with Identity and Healing(14:49) The Process of Home Restoration(17:55) Community and Support in Healing(20:26) Unraveling Lies and Finding Freedom(21:31) The Journey of Healing and Restoration(25:30) Experiencing True Joy and Freedom(28:12) The Power of Restoration for Everyone(30:05) Navigating Divorce and Supporting Children(32:23) Practical Steps to Begin Healing(38:44) A Prayer for Restoration and HealingConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithResources from today’s show:Connect with MeshaliRestored, Partnering with God in Transforming Our Broken Places - Meshali’s new book (out April 15)Episode with Heather on Healing PrayersAdventure BibleUntriggeredMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuidePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:11)Jesus gave his life so that we could live ours fully and God wants us to give and give generously and joyfully as a response to that. Generosity is more than giving money, especially for our kids! We can and should give generously with our talents and time as well. It may feel small to help greet people at church, mow a neighbor’s lawn, open up your home to others, or pack shoeboxes at Christmastime, but all those small acts of generous service transform hearts and honor God.As you pray generosity over your kids this week, I encourage you to make a list of the things you and your family can do together to give generously and share the love of Jesus. Maybe it’s a financial goal for a donation, one service project a month, or stepping up to serve at church. Whatever it is that you decide, do so joyfully together. Remember, the gospel is more about giving than receiving, so let’s pray that our kids’ lives reflect that and that they will learn to love sharing.Lord, we are blessed to be a blessing. I pray that _________ would be known for generosity their entire lives. Whether it is giving financially, giving with time, or giving with talents and resources, I pray that they give cheerfully because of the gift that you give us: the gift of life. As a family, may we be on the lookout for ways we can be generous together. 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 Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Happy April Pardon The Mess Family!Do you have a fellow mom that always calls you higher? I have been friends with Kirsten for over 20 years and she is that kind of mom friend. When we catch up, we get to our priorities fast. And that’s what you hear about today - her priorities and how to make some progress in those.Kirsten is a wife to retired NFL player Benjamin Watson, mom of 7 beautiful children, advocate, speaker, author and dear friend. Benjamin and Kirsten have been on before - you can listen to that episode here. As you’ll hear today, we talk about what’s most important. Kirsten shares what God is teaching her, how she keeps her marriage a priority and the calling she has as a mom to raise kids that know Jesus. I absolutely love the end when she shares a few minutes of encouragement and a challenge. Kirsten challenges us to get after tough topics around the table and continue to make our homes a safe place for conversations.Enjoy!Courtney(02:56) Navigating the Challenges of Parenting Teens(06:01) The Emotional Journey of Growing Up(09:03) Trusting God in Parenting Decisions(11:59) The Importance of Confessional Community(17:12) The Power of Shared Burdens(18:00) Embracing Differences in Community(19:33) Prioritizing Marriage Amidst Family Life(24:01) Navigating Kids' Activities and Sports(27:40) Intentional Conversations with Kids(32:00) Practical Tips for Family MealsConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithResources from today’s show:Connect with KirstenSis Take a Breath - Kirsten’s book  The Watson Seven - Kirsten and Benjamin’s foundation Adventure BibleUntriggeredPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16)Salt and light are often spoken about together and it seems like an odd pairing, but Jesus shared these two things for a reason! Salt and light give life. When we pray that our kids are the salt of the earth, we pray that our kids have a faith that is enticing to others and long-lasting. The world will tell our kids that it is better to live a life apart from God, but let’s pray that our kids show those around them that Jesus makes life better! Jesus wants his followers to make a visible impact on the world around them. We aren’t supposed to hide our faith and joy in the dark, we are supposed to show it off. In a world full of darkness, we should be lights shining Jesus’ love to all around us in words and actions, showing others that he gives life. This week, let’s pray that our kids have a faith that shines for others, looks desirable to others, and is constant throughout their lives.Dear God, please help _______ be a light each day to those that you have placed in their life. Help them bring light and joy to dark places. Help them to reflect you in all they do and be a shining example of you. Please give them opportunities to be your salt and light so that more can come to know 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 Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From the reality TV show “Married to Jonas” to becoming a mom to postpartum to a viral blog and recently a cancer journey - Dina’s story reminds us all that God will never leave us. I’m so thankful I had the chance to get to know Dina and her incredible story. She feels like a mom I would meet at the park and then I’d want to sit for hours and laugh and cry. Dina is the REAL deal! Although, I booked her on this podcast to chat about cooking and the power of family dinner - God took us on a turn. Dina is so open in our chat about her postpartum days, her cancer journey and career ups and downs. I believe many of you will relate to her journey and be inspired by her authentic quest to glorify God no matter the season of life.I loved hearing about the days of cooking on TV (Hallmark, The Today Show, GMA, Rachel Ray and more). I’ve always wondered how they pull off a meal in 3 minutes. In this episode, we chat about:Dina’s postpartum and honesty about motherhood What she learned about God through her cancer journeyFrom cooking in a dorm to cooking on national televisionEnjoy!Courtney (03:02) Dina's Journey: From Cooking to Counseling(05:58) Navigating Life's Seasons and Faith(08:56) Health Challenges and Personal Growth(12:02) The Impact of Motherhood on Identity(15:04) Overcoming Postpartum Depression(18:08) Finding Support and Community(19:35) Navigating Mental Health and Support(22:40) Sharing Personal Journeys and Faith(30:01) Practical Cooking Tips for Busy Moms(35:44) The Importance of Family Meals and ConnectionConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithResources from today’s show:At the Kitchen Sink - Dina’s new book A Million Tiny Momentshttp://adventurebible.comPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“Jesus called out to them, ‘Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!’” (Matthew 4:19 NLT)When Jesus tells his future disciples that he will make them fishers of men, I don’t think he was envisioning them sitting in a boat waiting for bites. To be a successful fisherman, you have to go where the fish are hungry and cast your net (or your line). Jesus planned to use his disciples to draw people to him. He needed them to go to where the people were hungry for hope and share his message! We can do this today and so can our kids. As believers, we need to meet people where they are. There are times when we will witness to others and see great success immediately. Other times we will witness for a very long time and see very little fruit. There may be people that we pray for for a long time before we see God move in their lives (maybe that’s even our kids)! But God’s calling is to continue to cast our nets and share his good news, even if we don’t catch anything.So this week, let’s pray that our kids will take an active part in sharing the hope of Jesus, casting their nets far and wide to draw people closer to their Savior.Jesus, you call us to be fishers of men. I pray that _______________ would see the people around them and meet them where they are to share your good news. May they never be ashamed of the gospel, but be ready to share it far and wide. 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 Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It’s not everyday you get to interview someone that disconnected in an extreme way. Carlos Whittaker wanted to really test his attachment to his phone and learn from the power disconnecting. So he went to live in an Amish community, in a monastery, and then did life at home without a device. His lessons are so powerful about how to reconnect with the ones we love most.When we recorded this episode, Carlos had just recently lost his father and was about to speak at his funeral. Many people have grown to love him on Carlos’ instagram account, and I have been so moved by the way Carlos cared for him through his final days. You won’t want to miss the parenting lesson he shares about his amazing father.I’d love to challenge us today. Let’s practically think through our daily lives and how we can disconnect regularly so that we connect more intentionally with each child. Carlos offers several practical ideas on how to do that - even if your job requires you to be online.In this episode, we discuss:How connection matters with our kidsHow to disconnect from devices and whyHow to connect with teens and their interestsEnjoy!Courtney  Chapters(00:00) Navigating Parenting Challenges(02:54) Caring for Aging Parents(05:58) A Life-Changing Call(08:58) The Journey to Reconnection(11:55) Transformative Family Time(15:00) Balancing Work and Life(17:46) Detoxing from Digital Dependency(20:09) Balancing Online Sharing and Family Life(22:37) Curiosity as a Path to Empathy(26:45) Connecting with Teens through Shared InterestsConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoGet your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of FaithResources from today’s show:Connect with CarlosCarlos’ Podcast - Human SchoolCarlos’ latest book - ReconnectedA Million Tiny Moments Dead Sea SquirrelsChristian Parenting Easter bundlePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7)The Greek word for anxiety means “cut up into pieces.” So when we feel anxious we feel cut up or divided, and if you’ve ever struggled with anxiety, it can really feel like that! But Jesus wants us to bring him our cut-up pieces because his peace can make us whole. In fact, the Greek word for peace means “wholeness.” So this verse literally says God wants us to bring our divided hearts to him so he can make them whole. So many of our kids struggle with anxiety and so many of us do as well. None of us want to see our kids hurt as they fight this battle. Anxiety and worry are challenging roads, but we can encourage our kids that we follow the God who made the whole universe. He cares for them, hears them, and wants to ease their burdens.This week, let’s pray that they cast their fears and anxiety onto the Lord so that they can feel his rest because his yoke is easy and his burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30). Lord, I pray that ________________ brings their divided heart to you. I pray against the anxiety that is so prevalent today. Whatever it is that ___________ feels cut up about, may they present their requests to you, and may your wholeness guard their heart and mind. Please give them the peace that passes all understanding. 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 Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy