Let's Parent on Purpose: Christian Marriage, Parenting, and Discipleship

In this powerful episode of Let’s Parent on Purpose, host Jay Holland sits down with Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes and author of The Five Habits of a Tech-Ready Family, for an honest and hope-filled conversation about parenting kids in the digital age. Chris shares how smartphones, social media, pornography exposure, gaming, and AI have created an “experiment” that today’s parents never signed up for. Together, Jay and Chris unpack the emotional and spiritual challenges Christian families face as children navigate addictive technology, online temptation, and constant digital influence. This episode offers biblical wisdom, practical parenting strategies, and encouragement for moms and dads who want to raise disciples of Jesus in a screen-saturated world without leading from fear or shame.Throughout the conversation, Chris explains why Christian parents must move from panic to intentionality by building trust, pursuing authentic connection, and responding with grace first when children fail online. He introduces the five habits of a tech-ready family, including modeling healthy technology use, delaying addictive apps and social media, encouraging real-world play and responsibility, and creating layers of digital protection in the home. Parents will be challenged to think differently about smartphones, social media algorithms, and the emotional realities their children face every day. If you are looking for practical Christian parenting advice on technology, digital safety, online purity, discipleship, and protecting your children’s hearts in the age of AI and social media, this episode is an essential listen.Key TakeawaysKids today are carrying emotional and spiritual burdens online that previous generations never experiencedTechnology companies are intentionally competing for your child’s attention, affection, and habitsGrace-first parenting creates safety for children to confess struggles and mistakesParents should practice calm responses before digital crises happenDelaying addictive technology is not anti-tech parenting, but wisdom-based parentingReal-world play, chores, movement, and face-to-face connection help build resilient kidsHealthy digital boundaries require ongoing conversations, not just parental controlsParents do not need to panic, but they do need a planBuilding digital trust happens “step by step and chat by chat”Protecting children online starts with intentional discipleship at homeBio:Chris McKenna is the Founder of Protect Young Eyes and President of The Better Tech Project. leading voice on digital safety, he testified before the U.S. Senate in 2019, sparking more than 20 hearings on online child protection. Under his leadership, Protect Young Eyes earned the Dignity Defense Award and the Phase Alliance Child Safety Award. He co-authored the Child Device Protection Bill, now law in Utah and Alabama, requiring devices to activate content filters for minors. Chris serves as a technical advisor and represents the Human Change Movement, speaking globally—including at the World Economic Forum—while collaborating with advocates, tech leaders, and legislators. Featured in the film Childhood 2.0, Protect Young Eyes equips families with practical safety tools. His debut book, Five Habits of the Tech-Ready Family, releases on June 16, and according to Publishers’ Weekly, it is “comprehensive,” “illuminating,” and “an informative resource for parents eager to establish digital safety nets for their children.”His greatest treasures remain family life, road trips, running, and adventures with his wife, Andrea, four children, and two dogs. Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgResources & Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/protectyoungeyes/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mckenna-75962211/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/protectyoungeyes Website: https://protectyoungeyes.com/ Visit Christian Parenting’s Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide: https://www.christianparenting.org/gifts/

This episode of Let’s Parent on Purpose features a powerful and practical conversation with author Jon Acuff about overcoming procrastination and building a more intentional, purpose-driven life. Drawing from his new book Procrastination Proof, Acuff reframes procrastination not as laziness, but as a mismatch between our intentions and actions, often driven by fear, overwhelm, or misplaced priorities. He introduces a simple but transformative framework—Dream, Plan, Do, Review—that helps parents and leaders move from good intentions to consistent follow-through. For Christian moms and dads seeking to disciple their children well, this episode emphasizes that growth starts with modeling: aligning your own habits, stewarding your time wisely, and making decisions today that serve your future self and family.The conversation also dives into practical strategies for busy families, including how to “make tomorrow easy today,” prioritize what matters most, and avoid the trap of trying to do everything at once. Acuff’s insights are especially helpful for parents navigating full schedules, offering realistic tools like starting with just 15 minutes a day and focusing on three to five key priorities. The episode closes with a meaningful challenge for Christian parents: to intentionally shape not only their habits but also their children’s mindset about success, time, and stewardship. By addressing concepts like the “acceptable success line,” parents can disciple their kids to pursue God-honoring excellence without guilt, fear, or comparison, equipping them to live faithfully and fruitfully.Resources Mentioned:Purchase Procrastination Proof: Never Get Stuck Again by Jon Acuff on Amazon https://amzn.to/4dPSlRFVisit Jon Acuff’s website at jonacuff.com and follow his podcast: All It Takes Is A GoalGet Jay's new devotional, Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavl Use it solo, with your small group, or as a family for daily Scripture-based prompts to foster gratitude and closeness to Christ.Text "THINGS" to 66866 for free high-quality resources from Jay, including fun family conversations, a 52-week Scripture memory system, dating questions for kids, marriage tools, and more.Guest Bio: Jon AcuffJon Acuff is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and leadership expert known for his practical and engaging approach to personal growth and productivity. He has written multiple books, including Procrastination Proof, helping people overcome overthinking, take action, and live with greater purpose. Jon works with individuals, teams, and organizations to build habits that lead to lasting success, all while blending humor, honesty, and real-life application. He lives in Tennessee with his family and is passionate about helping others reach their full, God-given potential.Key Takeaways from the EpisodeProcrastination is a gap between intention and action, not just poor time managementThe “Dream, Plan, Do, Review” framework provides a simple, repeatable path to progressStart small: 15 minutes a day can build momentum and lasting habitsFocus on 3–5 priorities instead of trying to do everything at once“Make tomorrow easy today” is a powerful discipline for both parents and kidsModel habits first. Discipleship is more caught than taughtTeach kids to think long-term and make decisions that benefit their future selvesBe mindful of the “acceptable success line” and how your beliefs about success shape your childrenCelebrate progress and reinforce positive habits in your homeGod-honoring productivity isn’t about perfection. It’s about faithful stewardship over timeLet’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgMore Resources & Links:Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal by Jay Holland https://amzn.to/3MLWavlCheck out www.youthministry.coachDaily Devotional Podcast Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.netJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! https://tinyurl.com/292kv68ySupport Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this inspiring conversation, Jay sits down with Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, renowned author of the bestseller Love & Respect and his latest release, Lightbulb Moments in Marriage. Released in early 2026, the book explores 12 "aha" biblical perspectives to transform marriages from frustration to fulfillment.Dr. Eggerichs shares profound insights drawn from over three decades of counseling, scientific research, and Scripture, focusing on how lightbulb moments can break the "Crazy Cycle" of unmet needs in marriage. Whether you're a busy parent juggling kids and chaos or seeking deeper intimacy in your Christian marriage, this episode offers practical marriage advice to help you move forward without hitting the eject button. Topics include love and respect principles, communication breakthroughs, and eternal perspectives on relationships.Listen as Jay and Dr. Eggerichs discuss five to six key lightbulb moments that could revolutionize your marriage. Perfect for couples looking for Christian marriage counseling tips, biblical marriage guidance, or ways to strengthen family bonds.Resources Mentioned:Purchase Lightbulb Moments in Marriage by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs on Amazon or visit loveandrespect.com for more marriage resources, conferences, and tools.Get Jay's new devotional, Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal Use it solo, with your small group, or as a family for daily Scripture-based prompts to foster gratitude and closeness to Christ.Text "THINGS" to 66866 for free high-quality resources from Jay, including fun family conversations, a 52-week Scripture memory system, dating questions for kids, marriage tools, and more.Guest Bio: Dr. Emerson EggerichsDr. Emerson Eggerichs is an internationally known public speaker on the topics of marriage, parenting, communication, and male-female relationships. Based on over three decades of counseling, as well as scientific and biblical research, Dr. Eggerichs and his wife, Sarah, developed the Love and Respect Marriage Conference, which they present to live audiences across the country. He is the founder and president of Love and Respect Ministries, with Sarah serving as vice president.A former senior pastor of East Lansing Trinity Church from 1980 to 1999, Dr. Eggerichs holds a PhD and has authored numerous books, including the New York Times bestseller Love & Respect, a Platinum and Book of the Year award winner that has sold over 2.3 million copies. His work emphasizes Ephesians 5:33, highlighting how wives need love and husbands need respect to thrive. Emerson and Sarah reside in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and have three grown children. For more, visit loveandrespect.com.Key Takeaways from the EpisodeDrawing from Lightbulb Moments in Marriage, Dr. Eggerichs and Jay explore transformative "aha" insights for successful and satisfied Christian couples. Here are the highlights:God-Given Value, Not Spouse-Driven: Your worth is rooted in Christ, not your spouse's approval. This frees couples from emotional rollercoasters, especially under parenting stress. Shift your identity to Jesus for lasting peace in marriage.Seeing Jesus Beyond Your Spouse: Treat your spouse as unto Christ to energize love and respect. Visualizing Jesus "beyond the shoulder" of your partner fosters forgiveness and intimacy, even in resentment-filled seasons.Clarity in Communication: True understanding beats just talking more. Break the Crazy Cycle by decoding "pink" (love-focused) and "blue" (respect-focused) languages. Use tools like word pictures to turn conflicts into connections, ideal for parents arguing over discipline or roles.Don't Let 20% Define the 80%: Focus on the 80% goodwill in your marriage rather than the 20% frustrations. Pray to magnify strengths and extend grace, helping busy families offset weaknesses like differing parenting styles.My Response Is My Responsibility: Embrace personal accountability for freedom and strength in Christ. Overcome fears like rejection to model resilience for your kids, transforming victim mentalities into victorious marriages.Eternal Perspective: View marriage through God's lens for motivation. Live for His "Well done!" knowing every act of faithfulness has eternal significance, preparing your children for healthy relationships.These biblical marriage tips can wake up stuck relationships and provide the tools needed for forward momentum in Christian parenting and marriage.Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgMore Resources & Links:Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal by Jay HollandCheck out www.youthministry.coachDaily Devotional Podcast Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.netJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journalhttps://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Let’s Parent On Purpose, Jay Holland sits down with award-winning journalist and bestselling author Lee Strobel to explore the historical, theological, and personal significance of the Christmas story. Together they unpack the evidence for the birth of Jesus, the reliability of the Gospel accounts, misconceptions about the Nativity, and why the Incarnation still changes lives today.Whether you're a long-time believer, a seeker exploring Christianity, or a parent looking to equip your teens with confidence in their faith, this conversation offers clear, compelling reasons to trust the Christmas story as true history—not just a seasonal tradition.Key Topics Covered• The Investigative Journalist Who Tried to Disprove ChristianityLee shares how his journey from atheism to faith began as an attempt to rescue his wife from what he believed was a “cult.” His two-year investigation into the evidence for Jesus’ resurrection led him to the unexpected conclusion that Christianity is true.Why the Nativity Story Is Historically ReliableLee walks through:Why Luke’s and Matthew’s accounts are independent and trustworthyWhy different Gospel perspectives strengthen—not weaken—the historical caseHow early Christian writings outside the Gospels affirm the virgin birthHow ancient biography differs from modern biography but remains reliableWhat “No Room in the Inn” Actually MeansLee reveals:The Greek word kataluma likely means guest room, not hotelThe Holy Family almost certainly stayed with relativesJesus was probably born in the family living space of a first-century home, not a wooden stableWhy nativity sets with wooden barns and angry innkeepers are historically inaccurateWhy the Virgin Birth Matters theologicallyLee explains why the virgin birth is essential for:Jesus being fully God and fully manJesus being born without inherited sinFulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Isaiah 7:14)Preserving core Christian doctrinesPagan Myth Claims DebunkedLee dismantles the popular internet claim that Christianity “borrowed” the virgin birth or resurrection from pagan myths such as Mithras, Dionysus, or Zoroaster. Each is exposed as historically inaccurate or chronologically impossible.How Investigating Christmas Strengthens WorshipLee shares how studying the incarnation moved him deeply, reminding him that Christianity is not a legend—it's a true story about God entering our world to save us.God Is Moving TodayLee and Jay reflect on the remarkable openness to the gospel they’re seeing nationwide—from churches to college campuses to everyday encounters.Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgAbout Lee StrobelLee Strobel is a former award-winning legal editor for the Chicago Tribune and a New York Times bestselling author of more than forty books, including The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, The Case for a Creator, The Case for Miracles, and his newest seasonal release, The Case for Christmas.Originally an atheist, Lee spent two years investigating the evidence for Christianity as a journalist. His search led him to faith in Christ and ultimately into ministry, where he continues to write, speak, teach apologetics, and help people explore the evidence for God.Lee currently serves as founding director of the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University. His books have sold millions of copies and inspired films, documentaries, and student editions that help the next generation explore faith with confidence.Resources & Links:The Case for Christmas by Lee Strobel https://amzn.to/49S5BDcThe Case for Miracles Movie (2024) https://thecaseformiraclesmovie.com/Check out www.youthministry.coachDaily Devotional Podcast Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.netJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this conversation, attorney and author Justin Whitmel Earley unpacks how embodied habits shape our spiritual life—what he calls habits as liturgies. Drawing on neuroscience and Scripture (Genesis 2:7; Romans 5; Ephesians 2; Psalm 23), Justin explains why the body often leads the heart, how practices like box breathing + breath prayers, sleep and Sabbath, and fasting and feasting can realign our loves, and how parents can build grace-based rhythms that form their homes. Jay shares his own story of grief and healing to show how God uses humble, repeated practices—friendship, worship, exercise, daily prayer—to restore joy. If you’ve wrestled with anxiety, distraction, or unhealthy relationships with food/tech, this episode gives practical, theologically grounded steps to start small and stay faithful.Justin Whitmel Earley is a writer, speaker, and lawyer. He is the author of The Common Rule, Habits of the Household, and Made for People, though he spends most days running his business law practice. Through his writing and speaking, Justin empowers God’s people to thrive through life-giving habits that form them in the love of God and neighbor. He continually explores both how physical habits are more spiritual than we think and how spiritual habits are more physical than we think. He lives with his wife and four boys in Richmond, Virginia, spends a lot of time around fires and porches with friends, and is a part-owner of a local gym. You can follow him online at justinwhitmelearley.com.Key TakeawaysHabits are liturgies. What we do repeatedly (often unconsciously) forms our loves; your identity tends to follow your practices, not just your ideas.Embodiment matters. God made, saved, and will resurrect us in bodies. Spiritual formation happens through the body, not around it.Top-down meets bottom-up. Pair truth in the mind with training in the body—e.g., Scripture + breath, theology + sleep rhythms, confession + tech limits.Breathing as prayer. Use box breathing to calm the nervous system and pair it with breath prayers (e.g., inhale: “The Lord is my shepherd”; exhale: “I shall not want”).Sleep & Sabbath are starting points. Begin the week (and each day) from rest, not for rest—work from God’s finished work.Food as formation. Redeem eating with the twin practices of fasting (dependence) and feasting (delight); both counter indulgence and shame.Fight habit with habit. You usually can’t think your way out of what you practiced your way into; stack small, embodied practices.Parenting is daily formation. The household is a “monastery” where we practice loving God and neighbor—bedtime blessings, screen rules, mealtime conversations, and pause-prayers change the parent, not just the child.Conversation HighlightsWhy “habits as liturgies” reframes everyday routines as worship.Jay’s testimony of grief, trauma, and how embodied rhythms restored joy.Breathing as the intersection of theology, psychology, and physiology.The Jewish day begins at sundown: a paradigm for starting with rest.How ultra-processed foods hijack dopamine and how fasting/feasting heal.“You can’t think your way out of what you didn’t think your way into.”Reflection / Small-Group Questions1. Where do your current habits reveal what you actually love?2. Which embodied practice (breath prayer, sleep/Sabbath, fasting/feasting, exercise) do you sense God inviting you to try first? Why?3. How could you redesign one household moment (bedtime, mealtime, screens, discipline) to make it a mini-liturgy?4. In a season of anxiety or grief, which small, repeatable habit most reliably pulls you back to God?Resources & Links:The Body Teaches the Soul — Justin Whitmel Earley Habits of the Household — Justin Whitmel EarleyBreath as Prayer: Calm Your Anxiety, Focus Your Mind and Renew Your SoulJustin’s Website - https://www.justinwhitmelearley.comCheck out www.youthministry.coachDaily Devotional Podcast Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.netJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

In this conversation, Dr. Sy Garte shares his remarkable journey from atheism to Christianity, exploring the intersection of faith and science. He discusses his personal experiences, the complexities of evolution, and the importance of understanding inheritance in biological processes. Dr. Garte emphasizes that science and faith are not mutually exclusive, advocating for a perspective that sees scientific discovery as a way to appreciate God's creation. He also provides insights for parents on how to discuss science with their children in a way that celebrates discovery while affirming their faith.TakeawaysDr. Garte's journey from atheism to Christianity was influenced by both intellectual and spiritual experiences.He emphasizes the importance of spirituality in human existence.The concept of inheritance is foundational to understanding evolution.Evolution does not contradict the biblical account of creation.Why Dr. Garte prefers the word divine design over intelligent design.Recent scientific discoveries suggest that even single-celled organisms exhibit agency and purpose.Science and faith can coexist and complement each other.Parents can equip their children to understand science as a celebration of God's creation.The history of science is deeply intertwined with Christian thought.Truth is unchanging, and God created everything for His pleasure.About Sy GarteSy Garte, PhD in biochemistry, is the author of Beyond Evolution: How New Discoveries in the Science of Life Point to God (Tyndale, August 2025) as well as the award-winning book The Works of His Hands: A Scientist’s Journey from Atheism to Faith (Kregel, 2019); and Science and Faith in Harmony: Contemplations on a Distilled Doxology (Kregel, 2024); and He has been a professor at New York University, the University of Pittsburgh and is currently Visiting Professor at Rutgers University. He has held leadership positions at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Uniformed Services University. Sy has published over two hundred peer-reviewed scientific papers and five books, as well as articles on science and faith. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the American Scientific Affiliation’s (ASA) quarterly magazine God and Nature. He is a fellow of the ASA, and Vice President of the Washington DC Metro chapter. He served as lay leader at his United Methodist Church. Sy was raised in an atheist, Marxist family, and was baptized 13 years ago. Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgResources & Links:Check out www.youthministry.coachDaily Devotional Podcast Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.netFind Dr. Garte at https://sygarte.com/Get Beyond Evolution: How New Discoveries in the Science of Life Point to God: https://amzn.to/4mzDyemGet The Works of His Hands: A Scientists Journey from Atheism to Faith: https://amzn.to/3Vthrv9Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

Hey friends, today we’ve got something special for you: a bonus episode straight from the Pardon the Mess podcast!Every Monday, host Courtney DeFeo shares a short prayer to help you lift up your kids. This year’s series follows Christian Parenting’s brand new prayer journal, A Great Cloud of Witnesses. Each week highlights a biblical hero of the faith, paired with Scripture-based prayers for your kids. Here is a sneak peek into week one:This first week is all about Noah—a man of incredible faith and obedience. While the world around him turned away from God, Noah walked in righteousness. Building the ark probably looked foolish to everyone else, but Noah trusted God’s word even when it didn’t make sense. That’s the kind of faith we want for our kids: to listen to God’s voice over any others and walk confidently with Him even when it means standing apart.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 todayFollow Pardon the Mess on Apple or Spotify

In this powerful and uplifting conversation, Jay Holland sits down with beloved pastor and best-selling author Max Lucado to explore the themes of his newest book, Tame Your Thoughts. With decades of pastoral experience and 40+ books to his name, Max shares deep biblical wisdom and practical tools to help both adults and children manage their thought lives through faith and truth.Together, Jay and Max discuss:Why our internal narratives shape our lives—and how to rewrite themHow brain science is finally catching up to biblical truthThree powerful tools for mental and emotional health:Practice Picky ThinkingIdentify UFOs (Untruths → False Narratives → Overreactions)Uproot and Replant with ScriptureHow lies about identity and failure can derail both teens and parentsWhy recognizing and correcting our own thought patterns as parents can transform our relationshipsThe surprising story behind Max Lucado’s first tattoo at age 70 (hint: it’s a Greek word from the cross)This episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and tools to help you and your family live freer, more Christ-centered lives.Key Takeaways:“You get to control the story in your head, but the story in your head will control you.” – Jay HollandBelief leads to behavior. Shaping your belief begins by shaping your thoughts.Studies show people with a belief in a loving God recover from disease at exponentially higher rates.Scripture and neuroscience both affirm that your brain can be renewed.Parental overreactions often stem from unexamined false narratives—recognize and replace them with truth.Teaching your kids to identify untruths and replant with Scripture equips them for lifelong emotional resilience.Scripture Highlighted in This Episode:Proverbs 4:23 – "Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts."Romans 12:2 – "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind..."Philippians 4:8 – “Whatever is true... think about such things.”Romans 8:1 – “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”Max’s 3-Step Toolkit for Mental Health:Step 1: Practice Picky Thinking – Don’t believe every thought you think. Guard your mind’s door.Step 2: Identify UFOs – Trace overreactions back to false narratives and root lies.Step 3: Uproot and Replant – Replace toxic thoughts with Scripture and truth.Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgBioMax Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and best-selling author of more than 40 books for adults and children. Known for his warmth, biblical insight, and storytelling, Max’s work has encouraged millions to embrace the grace of God. He serves as Teaching Pastor at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, and continues to write, speak, and share God’s love globally.Resources mentioned:Tame Your Thoughts by Max Lucado – Available wherever books are soldMaxLucado.com – Devotions, YouTube channel Fresh Hope, and moreJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this episode, Jay discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy marriage through a structured tool he developed called the 'Marriage Tune-Up.' He outlines different levels of marriage, from crisis to flourishing, and emphasizes the need for regular maintenance and intentionality in relationships. The conversation highlights biblical principles and practical steps couples can take to improve their marriages and become a blessing to others. TakeawaysMarriage requires periodic maintenance just like a vehicle.There are different levels of marriage, each with unique characteristics.Emergency level indicates a marriage in crisis needing immediate attention.Stable but stuck marriages function but lack connection and intimacy.Growing marriages are healthy and intentional with regular rhythms of connection.Flourishing marriages thrive in unity and shared purpose.Catalytic marriages serve as a kingdom force, mentoring others.Encouragement is vital for softening hearts in a marriage.Forgiveness is essential but does not equal trust or lack of boundaries.Regular rhythms of repentance and prayer can lead to a healthier marriage.Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgResources mentioned:Join my Things for Thursday Email List to get a copy of the Marriage Tune-Up tool!Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

This episode serves as a parental companion to Jay’s Guided By Faith Daily Devotional Podcast series on Living the Mission. In this episode, Jay discusses the importance of living a mission-driven life within the context of family and community. He emphasizes that the Great Commission is not just for missionaries abroad but applies to everyday life. Jay provides practical tips for parents to instill a mission mindset in their families, encouraging them to engage with their neighborhoods, practice hospitality, and serve others. He highlights the long-term impact of these actions and invites listeners to join his series on living the mission.TakeawaysThe Great Commission applies to our daily lives.Living missionally can transform family dynamics.Prayer walking helps engage with the community.Hospitality is a key aspect of living on mission.Serving together as a family fosters unity.Sharing faith authentically normalizes conversations about Jesus.Being rooted in community strengthens faith.Long-term relationships have a greater impact than short-term mission trips.Small, faithful steps lead to significant changes over time.Engaging with neighbors opens doors for ministry opportunities.Listen to the episode and let it inspire you to see your summer with fresh eyes—ready to live on mission as a family!Resources mentioned:Guided by Faith: www.guidedbyfaith.netSpotify: https://spoti.fi/4cLI2d7Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/4cOVBbKYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this conversation, Jay and Virgil explore the concept of missional households, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning, community, and intentional practices in family life. They discuss how to create a nurturing environment for spiritual growth, the significance of regular rhythms in the household, and adapting to life changes while maintaining a missional mindset. Through personal stories and practical advice, they highlight the transformative power of faith in everyday life.TakeawaysThere's a difference between knowing about something and truly knowing it.Learning requires experience, community, and a compelling story.Discipleship is best understood as a relational network rather than individual mentorship.Deep learning occurs in community settings, not just through sermons.Intentional rhythms in the household can foster spiritual growth.Experiential learning can be integrated into family gatherings.Simplicity in practices makes them easier to maintain.Children learn through repetition and experience in their environment.Creating a missional household involves being consistent with values and practices.The narrative of a household can guide the family's mission and identity.Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgBioAs the Senior Director of OneTree, Virgil is responsible for leading the team to help mission, marketplace, and ministry leaders thrive holistically, do beautifully integrated work, and become everything God dreamed them to be, believing this to be a primary means for stewarding the reviving life of God through His people into the world.Virgil holds a B.S. in Biology, an M.A. in Religion and Cross Cultural Studies, and an MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction. He is presently working on an EdD in Christian Leadership.Resources mentioned:https://www.onetreeministries.org/Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this conversation, Jay and David discuss the evolving challenges faced by children and adolescents in today's world, particularly in the context of counseling. They explore the importance of emotional regulation, the balance between naming feelings and navigating them, and the need for parents to find a healthy middle ground in their approach to parenting. The discussion also highlights the significance of building resilience in children through healthy risks and practical strategies, such as the 'exposures and ladders' approach to overcoming anxiety. Additionally, they introduce the Daystar Dog Series, which aims to teach resilience through stories featuring therapy dogs.TakeawaysThe same child development principles apply today as in the past.Technology has significantly impacted the challenges children face.Parents may overcorrect in their approach to emotional support.Naming emotions is important, but navigating them is crucial.Resilience in children is diminishing due to overprotection.Healthy risks are essential for children's growth and development.Parents should reflect on what they do for their children that they could do themselves.Anxiety often stems from avoiding discomfort and challenges.Exposures and ladders can help children face their fears.Storytelling through the Daystar Dog Series can teach resilience. Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgBioDavid Thomas, LMSW, is co-executive director of Daystar Counseling in Nashville, Tennessee, and the author of 10 books including his most recent book, Raising Emotionally Strong Boys (Bethany, June 2022). A frequent media guest and speaker, David has spoken to hundreds of thousands in person and millions via his Top 10 kids & family podcast, Raising Boys and Girls, now with more than 10 million downloads since its launch in 2018. Learn more at RaisingBoysAndGirls.com.Resources mentioned:Raising Boys and Girls websiteJoin my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel

Jay Holland and Aaron Smith explore the transformative power of the gospel and prayer in relationships, particularly in marriage. They discuss the importance of recognizing one's identity in Christ, the challenges of receiving correction, and the significance of prayer as a means to align hearts with God's will. The discussion also highlights the 31-Day Marriage Prayer Challenge, designed to encourage couples to pray for each other and deepen their spiritual connection. Through personal anecdotes and biblical insights, they emphasize that prayer not only changes circumstances but also transforms individuals, fostering a deeper understanding of love and grace in relationships.TakeawaysSeeing your marriage as a ministry is crucial.It's important to not sacrifice family for ministry.Authenticity in leadership is essential for true connection.Accountability helps prevent disqualification in ministry.Being transparent about struggles fosters genuine relationships.Elders and deacons play a vital role in church health.Critique should be received with humility and openness.The gospel provides a foundation for handling criticism.True fellowship involves knowing and being known by others.Leadership requires both leading and being approachable. The gospel reveals our true selves and lifts us up.Receiving correction is essential for growth.Prayer is a powerful tool for transformation in marriage.The 31-Day Prayer Challenge encourages couples to pray for each other.Prayer prompts help couples focus on specific needs.Aligning our hearts with God's will is crucial in prayer.Prayer changes our perspective on our spouse.The Holy Spirit guides us in our prayers.Gratitude in prayer opens our hearts to God's blessings. We can approach God directly in prayer, which is empowering.Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.orgBioAaron Smith is a Christian author, speaker, and co-founder of Marriage After God, a ministry dedicated to helping couples center their marriages on Christ. Alongside his wife, Jennifer, Aaron has written several books, including Marriage After God and 31 Prayers for My Spouse, equipping husbands and wives with biblical wisdom for a thriving, God-honoring relationship. Through blogging, social media, and the Marriage After God Podcast, Aaron encourages men to embrace their role as spiritual leaders in their homes. He is passionate about discipleship, marriage, and helping couples grow in faith together.Resources mentioned:https://marriageaftergod.comThe Marriage After God Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mag-marriage-advice-relationship-encouragement-we-discuss/id1349500084Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! Support Let’s Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/