The Disciple-Making Parent AudioBlog

Parents often feel like their children are testing the limits. Could it be we have not established family rules. Learn how asking questions might reduce the conflict in your family.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/asking-questions-rather-than-giving-commands/

It seems to be acceptable to accept rudeness from children. Or could it be that we have not understood our call to train our children to be polite. Learn why this is an aspect of love.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/love-is-not-rude-is-my-family/

The first and hardest place to live out the gospel is in the home. But often we do not think about how the Scripture applies to the home.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/home-is-front-lines-of-christian-living/

If you live long enough it is going to happen. Your child's sin will embarrass you. How you respond is vital.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/how-should-a-parent-respond-to-public-humiliation/

The teenage years can be a time that our teens withdraw from us. But we want to move toward them and keep communication open. Learn how in this podcast.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/connecting-with-your-introverted-teen/

The prosperity gospel is an anathema to the readers of this blog. But we might be unwittingly teaching it to our children. Listen in for insights.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/3-ways-you-might-be-teaching-your-kids-the-prosperity-gospel/

This true story helps us reflect more deeply on the meaning of Christ's incarnation.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/can-you-feel-the-incarnation/

Christmas is a time that we think about the coming of the Messiah. But it also a chance to strengthen the faith of our teen by reminding them about prophesies that predicted Jesus coming that he could not have controlled.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/prophesies-prove-jesus-is-the-messiah/

How do we handle raising our children when our own parents don't agree? Some practical wisdom.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/handling-grandparents-who-disagree/

If we don't control the screens in our homes, they will control us. What principles should we apply when thinking about the issues of phones and screens? This audioblog will start giving you some answers.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/12-principles-for-media-use-in-the-family/

The month of December can be a wonderful time to celebrate the season and focus on Christ. Listen to twelve different ways you might bring Christ into your family's celebration.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/the-12-ways-of-christmas-family-discipleship/

Are you wondering how you will handle the Santa Claus issue? Although this is not a gospel issue, this audioblog will tell you what our family did and why we did it so that you can make your own decisions.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/how-we-handled-santa-claus-the-easter-bunny-and-the-tooth-fairy/

Scripture tells us not to exasparate our children. What does that mean, and how do we avoid it?

To read the full blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/how-can-parents-exasperate-their-children/

We want our parenting to be gospel-centered and full of grace. But have we misunderstood grace? This post helps intentional parents think more deeply about gospel-parenting.

To read the full blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/is-something-missing-in-our-gospel-parenting/

Ending instruction with "OK?" is a trap that loving parents fall into. Learn why this is not a wise way to do this and a better alternative.

To read the full blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/why-ok-is-not-ok/

Often fear is behind our lack of submission. Learn how to love others by speaking peace to those fears.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/speaking-peace-to-our-fears/

It is possilbe to both overthink and underthink parenting at the same time. This episode explains the problem with both.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/overthinking-or-underthinking-parenting/

This popular verse for parents has fallen out of favor with parents. What is it actually teaching and not teaching? This episode takes a look.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/proverbs-226-a-second-look-at-a-discredited-verse/

Do you constantly feel like you have to be doing something? Is your to-do list exhausting you? In this episode we talk about a perspective you might be missing.

To read the full blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/greater-than-do/

Holidays present a unique opportunity fo connect the generations. In this post we give you some question to ask to deepen the conversation.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/asking-life-questions-around-the-holidays/

The children of pastors face some special challenges. But it is not just the congregation that bears responsibility in this area. Pastors also need to think and act intentionally. Our actions or inactions are powerful influences.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/how-pastors-can-care-for-their-children/

Churches need to especially pray and care for the children of their pastors so that they flourish. This episode contains some thoughts.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/how-churches-can-care-for-their-pastors-children/

James 4:1-2 is well-known but often not thought of when it comes to the marriage relationship. This verse can provide some special help in understanding your last conflict and moving towards a more positive discussion next time.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/what-causes-fights-and-quarrels-in-my-marriage/

I believe you will find this list of different inhibitors convicting. When we act this way we can confess our sin. We also want to train our children in good communication.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/28-communication-inhibitors/

Comparison with others is a basic fact of life.
What exactly would God say to us? What perspective does it take to be wise?

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/three-truths-to-defeat-the-comparison-virus/

I was asked this question by a mom. I answered, "No" and "Yes." Listen to why.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/mom-question-are-we-more-needy-than-previous-generations/

Parenting is like a marathon. Before the race you are fresh and rested. You start with excitement. But this is not a sprint. Listen to learn some encouragment.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/8-ways-to-persevere-in-the-parenting-marathon/

Conflict in marriage is a common issue, but the goal is not to have a conflict-free marriage. The goal is to have healthy conflict.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/preventing-destructive-marital-conflict/

When it comes to parenting, there is much wisdom around us. But why dont we ask others for their input? This audioblog explores that question.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/why-dont-we-invite-input/

There is great power when a husband and wife are praying together regularly. It doesn't have to be long and complicated. Be encouraged to start in this episode.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/are-you-praying-together-regularly/

If you have a large family, you will benefit from a coffee date. After we had our fourth child, this habit helped us tremendously. Learn why and how.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/the-power-of-the-coffee-date/

In this short episode, we talk about these two foundational marriage phrases. A Christian needs to understand how both relate to a godly marriage.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/shes-not-perfect-but-shes-perfect-for-me/

The ultimate goal of my Christian life is to have my children follow the Lord. Would you agree with this statement? Listen in as I examine this myth, and counter it with an important truth.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/are-you-believing-this-myth/

Learn about the importance of this underappreciated ministry to the church: welcoming our guests.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/welcoming-church-guests-as-a-family-ministry/

Listen in as I discuss 12 questions you can use to help draw out others in our evangelistic conversations.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/twelve-questions-to-deepen-your-evangelistic-conversations/

Is it a sin to be overbearing as a parent? Listen in as I examine the meaning of the term.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/are-you-overbearing-or-self-willed/

Would your children describe you as joyful? Learn about the power of joy in a family.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/the-power-of-a-joyful-parent/

When Paul gives us qualities to look for in pastors, he also tells us a portion of what godly parenting looks like.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/hints-on-parenting-from-1-timothy-34-5/

Christians often confuse protection of their spouse and with secrecy. Learn the difference and how to handle the trials that come into any marriage.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/protection-not-secrecy/

Marriage can be difficult. But having these two images in your mind can be helpful.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/two-simple-images-for-your-marriage/

If your family is going through a crisis, you may overlooked an obvious resource - your church elders.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/church-elders-family-crisis/

You can navigate storms in your parenting, if your eye is on the North Star. For Christians, the Great Commission is the North Star of our parenting.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/parents-follow-this-north-star/

How are we to respond to our prodigal child? Listen in as I discuss three main things to focus on in our parenting dynamic.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/one-aspect-of-working-with-a-prodigal/

The purposes of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out. (Proverbs 20:5)

Here are some questions we can use to draw out our neighbors as we engage them in deeper conversations.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/twelve-questions-to-deepen-your-evangelistic-conversations/

Twelve truths to consider about repentance and why it needs to be recovered by today’s millennial who grew up in a Christian home and today’s parent who is raising children. Part 2.

Twelve truths to consider about repentance and why it needs to be recovered by today’s millennial who grew up in a Christian home and today’s parent who is raising children. Part 1.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/repentance-twelve-reasons-to-recover-this-biblical-idea/

Forgiveness is gospel glue that help ensure our children maintain good relationships as adults. Here are some ways we can instill it in them now.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/teaching-our-family-to-forgive/

Its easy to overlook our own blindspots from a position of authority. Here are some ways we can seek help.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/overcome-blind-spots-in-our-parenting-and-leadership/

A number of solid principles to guide couples in unity as they make important decisions.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/guidance-for-couples-in-making-decisions/

Proverbs has a lot to say about our speech. Here is a selection of verses that can help us use it wisely.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/12-proverbs-on-communication/

Proverbs has a lot to say about our speech. Here is a selection of verses that can help us use it wisely.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/12-proverbs-on-communication/

For pastors, our own families can guide us in how we lead our churches. Listen to learn how.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/family-pastor-your-home-is-your-focus-group/

Memorized scripture can be of real benefit to the believer! Listen in to hear about 7 ways this is true.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/7-benefits-of-memorizing-scripture/

In this audioblog, I discuss some practical ideas to make family devotions function more smoothly.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/4-practical-suggestions-on-family-devotions/

There are many ways to engage our family in the Word together. Here are ten ideas that our family has used.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/10-suggestions-on-what-to-do-for-family-devotions/

Listen in as I discuss seven principles that guided our family in our devotions together.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/7-principles-to-guide-family-devotions/

Join me for a brief overview of the importance of the oft-neglected practice of family devotions.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/introduction-to-family-devotions/

Listen in for some principles to help guide Christians in considering college options.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/thoughts-on-choosing-a-college/

The example of Joseph in the Old Testament can teach us how to view temptation, and how to fight it.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/handling-temptation-like-joseph/

I asked our adult daughter about the ways our family strove for unity. Her answer? “You forced us to be kind to one another.” Listen in as I unpack this.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/forced-to-be-kind/

Did you know that you were made to rule and to reign? Some insights on our biblical authority.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/made-to-rule-and-reign/

At the heart of good parenting is a balance between authority and affection. In this we imitate our heavenly Father's relationship with us. Is your parenting reflecting these two aspects?

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/children-need-affection-authority/

How do we know when to "pull the fire alarm" and enlist help for a conflict in our marriage? Listen to find out.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/pulling-the-fire-alarm/

Wisdom from Proverbs on establishing our households.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/by-wisdom-a-house-is-built/

True hypocrisy is not falling short of the high commands of Christ. So what is it, and why does it matter in our parenting? Listen in to learn more.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/am-i-a-hypocritical-parent/

As Christians, we will be slandered for our faith. Here are some ways we can equip our children for the assault.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/training-our-children-to-expect-slander/

In this audioblog, I examine this common criticism from our questioning youth.

To read the original blog post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/why-are-christians-so-judgmental/

How can I expect my children to honor me, when I'm a sinner too? I discuss this question from a concerned mother.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/how-can-i-expect-my-children-to-honor-me-since-i-am-a-sinner-too/

Ministering to the grieving and shut-in can be a way to train our children to serve. Listen in for a few thoughts.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/funerals-grieving-and-discipleship/

In this episode, I discuss one helpful phrase to help gracefully manage the fallout from your child's behavior in public- "We're working on that."

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/were-working-on-that/

How did Jesus model active learning for us? Listen in to learn more.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/the-godly-quality-of-active-learning/

We want our children connected with others, right? Here are two more suggestions for encouraging that.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/two-tips-for-connecting-your-children-with-spiritual-mentors/

This is a quick overview of the longer podcast with Dr. Rick Horne on his excellent book, Get Outta My Face.

Learn from Mordecai's watchful care of Esther how we too can pray for our children.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/a-sentry-keeping-watch-in-prayer/

Are you feeling distant from God? Learn how to draw near again.
To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/feeling-distant-from-god/

Young people can believe that suffering disproves the existence of God. This podcast gives a brief answer to that objection.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/a-short-answer-to-the-objection-of-suffering-in-the-world/

Do you know the difference between vacation and a family trip? The distinction is crucial to having a good time, glorifying God, and discipling your children.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/vacations-family-trips-and-family-discipleship/

In this two part series, we explore the subject of emotional blackmail. If you are the parent of a prodigal or involved in some other difficult relationship, this will be of interest.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/emotional-blackmail-and-self-absorption/

In this two part series, we explore the subject of emotional blackmail. If you are the parent of a prodigal or involved in some other difficult relationship, this will be of interest.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/emotional-blackmail-and-self-absorption/

As followers of Jesus, we want to think like him and feel like him. How did he view the Scriptures? That's how we want to view them also.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/how-did-jesus-view-scripture/

Join me at we take a look at this important verse. With a clearer translation of one word, I think you will find this verse of even more importance.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/a-second-look-at-2-timothy-316-17/

Those who call themselves Christians often don't act like it. This can be confusing to our teens. But rather than negating Jesus' teaching, it actually confirms it.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/an-apologetic-for-the-christian-mess-12-things-i-wish-i-had-known-as-a-teen/

In this episode, I discuss how our intentional parenting can help us grow in these two areas.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/loving-and-leading-your-children-can-teach-you-patience-and-persistence/

Sometimes there can be some confusion on the interplay with mom or dad correcting the children. This is a quick take to help resolve what can be a thorny issue.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/who-should-discipline-mom-or-dad/

We live for God's glory. But what does that mean? And how can it fuel our Christian life?

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/glory-understanding-a-confusing-religious-word/

Summer is fast approaching. Since we make disciples as we go about life, family discipleship continues. Learn how one cookout impacted my son.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/cookouts-family-and-discipleship/

Don't make the same mistake I made for many years. Even as we take the Bible seriously, we also want to be wise. Listen in.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/should-you-let-the-sun-go-down-on-your-anger/

Learn a litle bit about history and at the same time learn a spiritual metaphor that will stick with you.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/from-slave-to-free-soldier-a-metaphor-of-the-christian-life-from-rhode-island/

In this written interview, I was able to tell some of the reasoning behind The Disciple-Making Parent. I think you will enjoy it.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/faithful-parenting-successful-parenting/

We discipline our children because God disciplines us. Discipline is an act of love as you will see when we walk through Hebrews 12.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/principles-of-discipline-from-hebrews-12/

This small episode is perfect for parents of young children. We want to have fun with our kids. Let's just make sure they know it is just playing.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/clearly-playing-balancing-playtime-and-proper-behavior/

Is a strong-willed child a problem or a blessing? Listen in to a few thoughts that might change your perspective in the midst of the battle.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/thoughts-for-the-strong-willed-child/

Our God is a community of persons who haved loved and honored each other from all eternity. Our families have a chance to display this mystery to the world.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/family-love-makes-the-triune-god-visible/

One way to grow in patience is to slow life down and reflect on the upsets. An anger journal does just that. Learn more in this podcast.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/using-an-anger-journal-to-grow-in-godliness/

This episode will give you an overview of how to handle anger with your children. It is a quick summary of the Parenting with Patience material.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/help-angry-parent/

Children's directors and children's Sunday School teachers often have heart for helping parents but don't know how. In this episode, I make a number of suggestions.

To read the original post, visit: https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/how-childrens-directors-and-teachers-can-help-parents/

As dads, our words are powerful. Listen for how we can use them to minister well to our children.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/seven-things-good-dads-say/

Unity in a family shows off the glory of God to the world. And it is incredible difficult to obtain. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't aim for it.

To read the original post, visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/aiming-for-family-unity/

Standing stones were meant to build faith in Israel. They recount God's actions when things are more quiet. They can help build faith is us as well. Learn how.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/where-are-your-standing-stones/

The Bible is powerful. We can read it proactively, like with a reading plan. But is especially powerful when we read it in reaction to a circumstance that God puts in our lives. Learn more.

To read the original post, visit https://www.theapollosproject.com/proactive-and-reactive-bible-intake/