Podcast
Pardon the Mess with Courtney DeFeo - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids
Hosted by Courtney DeFeo and Christian Parenting · EN
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.org
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Week 38: Be sanctified - Jesus
4d ago00:10:53Tap to summarizeFixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)All the people we have talked about this year are heroes of faith. Whether they were named or unnamed, their stories hold significance in God’s word, which is always worthy of our attention! As much as we want our kids to take on the characteristics of the people in this great cloud of witnesses, our primary desire is that our kids become like Jesus, our rabbi, friend, perfect king, and our Savior.We become more and more like Jesus as we spend more time with him. It’s the process of sanctification, or being made holy. We cannot be fully sanctified on this side of heaven, but the Holy Spirit does work within us as we surrender, obey, and return to him when we get it wrong. We are shaped to look more and more like Jesus.Our kids will make mistakes, struggle with sin, and face challenges. We all do; it’s part of living in a broken world. But as they become more like him, their responses to those things will change because becoming more like Jesus means choosing truth over lies, kindness over gossip, love over selfishness, and obedience over comfort.As we end this year of praying for our kids, let’s pray that our kids become like Jesus, that they live such a full life of faith that others will say, “They loved like Jesus loved.”Jesus, sanctify __________ through your Spirit. Shape their heart to reflect you in how they love, serve, follow, and obey. May they go to you every day and learn to talk with you and listen to your voice all day long. May they allow you to help them be more like you every day so that your light shines through them. Amen.Our Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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When decisions are tough with Megan Jones
1w ago00:29:25Tap to summarizeBig decisions in motherhood often come with uncertainty—especially when it comes to balancing family, work, calling, and the many demands on our time.In this episode, the tables are turned as Megan Jones interviews Courtney about her decision to step away as host of Pardon the Mess. The conversation explores the tension many moms feel when navigating career decisions, learning when to say yes or no, and discerning God’s direction in changing seasons.Together, they talk honestly about the twists and turns that can come with work and motherhood, the challenge of trusting God with the unknown, and the importance of following his leading even when the path forward isn’t fully clear.This episode is a thoughtful encouragement for anyone walking through a season of transition or making difficult decisions for themselves or their family.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:59 The Importance of Mentorship05:56 Navigating Change and Transitions12:08 Finding Purpose in Parenting17:59 Reflections on Priorities and Regrets18:48 Psst — we may have hidden a little surprise in this episode 🎉 In case you can't wait until May 28th to meet your new host!23:56 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and EncouragementConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with MeganOpen a LearningRX centerSummer Reading PicksPrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon 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
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Week 37: Spread God’s word - Epaphroditus
2w ago00:08:10Tap to summarizeHow, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:14–15)Epaphroditus is not a name that many people know from the Bible, but his story is incredible. He was sent by the Philippians to bring a gift to Paul while he was in prison, but he did more than deliver a package—he ministered, encouraged, and served so faithfully that he became sick and nearly died. Once he recovered, he carried back the Letter to the Philippians, making sure that Paul’s message reached the church.Paul describes Epaphroditus as a minister, brother, coworker, and soldier. He was totally committed to both Paul and Jesus, and his story is a reminder that God uses all people to spread his word.Just like Epaphroditus was entrusted with a message, so are we. As soon as our kids accept Jesus, their mission begins. Sharing the gospel doesn’t require a microphone or a mission trip to a different city or country. Our mission to spread God’s truth happens in everyday conversations, acts of kindness, and bold faith. Whether at school, on the playground, or at home, our children carry the light of Jesus wherever they go. We are God’s first plan to spread the gospel, and not one of us is called to be quiet about it.So this week, let’s pray that our kids grow to know, love, and follow Jesus, and that they are so excited about their faith that they can’t help but share the hope of it all.Jesus, I pray that _______ will respond to your call to make disciples and share the gospel wherever they go. May they live in a way that reflects you working in their hearts. Give them the courage they need to share with others, and when they do, may they do so lovingly and gracefully. Amen.Our Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Looking back over the years of parenting with Jeannie Cunnion
2w ago00:38:27Tap to summarizeParenting often feels like a journey of wondering whether we’re getting it right—and it can be easy to tie our worth to the outcome of our children’s lives and choices.In this episode, Jeannie Cunnion joins the conversation to reflect on the highs, challenges, and lessons learned through years of motherhood. Together, we talk about what really matters in parenting, how to release the pressure of trying to control outcomes, and why joy grows when we place our trust in God instead of our performance.The conversation also explores the role of the Holy Spirit in parenting and the reminder that we were never meant to do this alone. God is at work in our homes in ways we cannot manufacture on our own.This episode is a meaningful encouragement for moms who want to parent with more grace, freedom, and dependence on God.00:00 The Exhaustion of Motherhood04:10 Navigating Food and Family Life06:04 Reflections on Parenting Through the Years12:57 Faithfulness in Motherhood15:48 The Importance of Instilling Faith17:03 Cultivating Joy in Parenting18:56 Relying on the Holy Spirit24:29 The Power of Scripture in Family Life30:03 Transformative Parenting Practices33:32 Trusting God with Our ChildrenConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with JeannieCloser to God Don’t Miss Out Mom Set FreeRaising Boys and GirlsABC Scripture CardsI Can Learn The Bible - scripture memory sourceOpen a LearningRX center Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuidePrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon 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
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Week 36: A legacy of faith - Eunice and Lois
3w ago00:13:50Tap to summarizeI am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. (2 Timothy 1:5)Eunice and Lois are very briefly mentioned as the mother and grandmother of Timothy, but they are known for passing on a legacy of sincere faith. Have you ever thought about your kids being grandparents or parents one day? It’s incredible to think that what you pour into your kids now will influence what they pour into their own kids and impact generations to come.Sometimes, raising kids can feel mundane and like an unseen role, when the truth is that this important work can actually raise up generations of faith-filled men and women. This feels like a lot of pressure, but faith is so often caught, not taught. If we model a sincere faith to our kids, they are likely to follow the same path.We don’t know what the future holds for our kids. Whether they become parents and grandparents or not, they will have an influence on the next generation of believers. As they know, love, and follow Jesus, they aren’t just impacting the world directly in front of them. They are also impacting people they don’t even know yet.This week, let’s pray that our kids see the bigger calling on their lives and that their sincere faith will ripple out to many generations.Jesus, I pray that __________ is a godly influence on everyone around them, that they live out a sincere faith in a way that influences their family, their friends, and their future family as well. Lord, I pray that you would begin to create a legacy of faith in my children to love God and love others.Our Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Why discomfort is critical for our kids with Sissy Goff and David Thomas
3w ago00:29:01Tap to summarizeATTENTION: I have a pretty big announcement in the introduction of this episode. Don’t miss what’s coming next on Pardon the Mess!Raising confident, resilient kids starts with helping them believe they are capable.In this episode, Sissy Goff and David Thomas—therapists and authors of Capable—share insight on how to help children build the confidence and resilience they need to face challenges. Drawing from decades of counseling experience, the conversation explores what it means for kids to develop a deep belief in their ability to do hard things and navigate adversity.We talk about the importance of allowing kids to experience discomfort, why stepping back can actually help them grow, and how everyday moments can build confidence and emotional strength.This episode is a helpful reminder that our kids are often more capable than we realize—and that giving them space to struggle can be one of the greatest gifts we offer.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Personal Stories of Capability03:02 Understanding Anxiety in Children05:56 The Role of Parents in Building Capability08:53 Balancing Support and Challenge in Parenting11:46 Real-Life Examples of Capability in Children15:00 Encouraging Capability in Teenagers17:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Raising Boys and GirlsConnect on Instagram with Raising Boys and GirlsConnect on Instagram with Sissy GoffNew book - CapableOpen a LearningRX center Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuidePrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon 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
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Week 35: Proclaim faith publicly-the jailer’s house
4w ago00:10:02Tap to summarizePeter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38)There once was a jailer who was ordered to guard Paul and Silas securely. Around midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God when an earthquake shook the prison, flinging open the doors and loosening everyone’s chains. The jailer woke up and saw the doors open. Thinking the prisoners had escaped, he was about to kill himself, but Paul shouted and saved him. He fell to the ground and asked Paul and Silas what he had to do to be saved. In that moment, the word of the Lord spoke to the jailer and his entire household.The jailer was transformed: He took Paul and Silas and cleaned all their wounds, he and his entire house were baptized immediately, and then he brought Paul and Silas back to his house and served them a meal and was filled with joy. He went from imprisoning Jesus’s messengers to joyfully sharing a meal after a baptism!Faith is meant to transform us, and baptism is meant to tell the whole world of that transformation! Baptism does not save us; it is an outward display of an inward decision. When we are baptized, we are publicly telling people that we are no longer who we were before we followed Jesus. We should desire that type of faith for our kids—a faith that means being not ashamed but proud of how Jesus changed their lives.This week, let’s pray that our kids tell people when Jesus changes their lives. When baptism is right for them, let’s pray they make that choice confidently and joyfully and let’s celebrate them big!Jesus, I pray that you change __________’s life. May they have the type of faith that immediately takes action because they know life with you is too good. May they publicly declare their faith, so everyone knows they follow you. Amen.Our Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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How do I grow in my faith with Shelley Giglio
4w ago00:35:24Tap to summarizeIt’s easy to focus so much on caring for our families that we neglect our own personal faith.In this episode, Shelley Giglio, co-founder of Passion Conferences and Passion City Church, shares wisdom on what it looks like for women to cultivate a strong, personal relationship with God. The conversation explores how our faith shapes our homes, why it matters for our kids to see it lived out, and how to keep Jesus at the center in everyday life.We talk about practical ways to grow spiritually, the influence of a parent’s faith on the next generation, and the lasting impact of consistently showing up with intention.This episode is a meaningful reminder that investing in your own faith is one of the most powerful ways to impact your family.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Early Impressions02:59 Seasons of Life and Ministry05:56 The Importance of Letting Go09:00 Faith and Parenting Dynamics11:58 Encouragement for Moms14:55 Everyday Discipleship and Spiritual Growth16:00 Building Consistency in Scripture Reading20:09 Navigating Faith Amidst Illness and Disappointment24:01 The Impact of Family on Faith Development30:00 Embracing Unique Paths in MotherhoodConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with ShelleyPassion City ChurchPassion ConferencesSix Steps RecordsThe GroveOpen a LearningRX center Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuidePrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon 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
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Week 34: Contentment - Paul
Apr 2700:13:38Tap to summarizeI am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11–13)In his efforts to spread the gospel all over the world, the apostle Paul endured trials that would break most people. He was beaten, imprisoned, hungry, and persecuted. He experienced dangerous travels, a shipwreck, and even a snake bite! But through all of that, Paul continued to praise Jesus. He even sang hymns while in prison!Of all people, Paul understood that our situations and our lives are temporary. He knew what it was like to have more than enough and also knew what it was like to struggle and fear. Through faith, Paul learned to be content in Christ, not his circumstances.Our lives can change in a second, and our emotions are fleeting. True contentment is learned, and it doesn’t come naturally, especially for kids. It’s so normal for our kids to want the next best thing. Of course they want the latest toys, electronics, shoes, or clothes, or a place on the best sports team. But when they base their happiness on these things, they are chasing a status and a high that will always leave them wanting more. Even though we know this as parents, we fall into that trap too!We will only feel truly content by trusting in God’s provision for us no matter what. Our contentment in Christ grows as we trust God more and more. This life is not about the latest and greatest, it’s about being in a relationship with God.This week, let’s pray that our kids shift their minds to Jesus and learn to be content in him no matter what.Lord, teach _______ to be content in you. Help them trust in your provision, rejoice in every season (good and bad), and find their peace not in circumstances or what they have but in you. May they, like Paul, decide that through Christ, they have all they need. Amen. Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MESSPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Finding faithful friends with Tammie Floyd
Apr 2300:39:14Tap to summarizeParenting was never meant to be done alone, but building meaningful community can feel challenging in the middle of full and busy lives.In this episode, Tammie Floyd shares wisdom from years of parenting and ministry, with a focus on friendship and the importance of community for moms. The conversation explores what it looks like to cultivate life-giving relationships, why support matters in every season, and how God often provides the right people at the right time.We also talk about the role of the local church in a child’s faith journey and why consistent involvement can have a lasting impact.This episode is a gentle reminder that we need each other—and that intentional community can make all the difference.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Family Background04:59 Challenges of Parenting in a New City10:03 Navigating Adult Friendships14:59 Building Community Through Church19:58 Raising Kids in Faith20:51 Engaging Kids with Faith-Based Content23:09 Navigating the Transition to Young Adulthood27:02 The Importance of Community in Parenting29:06 Prioritizing Church in Family Life31:18 Three Key Themes in Parenting35:59 Finding Joy and Humor in Parenting39:39 Closing Thoughts and PrayerConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with TammieGateway ChurchParenting on Purpose curriculum Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerPrefer 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
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