Fun, tech-free vacations are an excellent way for you to detach from the screen and connect with each other. They can also help you reconnect as a family.
Have you ever taken your family on a dream vacation, only to find everyone scrolling through their phones at dinner? I have. And I realized we weren’t actually together, we were just in the same place. You can have a tech-free vacation and have fun, too.
In a world where screens are everywhere and family members are often in the same room but worlds apart, intentionally unplugging can be the key to reconnecting with your kids and building memories that last a lifetime.
I know what you’re thinking: ‘My kids will lose their minds without Wi-Fi.’ I hear you. That’s why I’m sharing how to make this doable, not perfect, but meaningful. ~ Connie Albers
Tell Your Children You’re Taking a Tech-Free Vacation in Advance
Telling your kids in advance sets the tone and reduces resistance. When it comes to screen-free travel, giving your children a heads-up is one of the most important things you can do. Let them know what to expect and why you’re doing it.
Kids thrive with structure and clear expectations. Telling them in advance gives them time to adjust, prepare, and even get excited. You’re not springing a surprise—you’re starting a conversation. This sets the tone for a positive experience instead of resistance.
Once the idea has been planted, the next step is to invite them into the planning process.
Let Your Children Help Plan the Vacation
Involving your children in planning the vacation gives them a sense of ownership and excitement. When they help choose where to go, what to do, or even what snacks to bring, they’re far more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic about going tech-free.
This doesn’t mean you hand over the itinerary—it means you welcome their ideas. Whether it’s picking a trail to hike, choosing a game to play, or planning a silly talent show, collaboration builds buy-in and connection.
And here’s some good news: making memories together doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Don’t Make it About Money
You don’t need a five-star resort or expensive amusement park tickets to have a memorable trip. Some of the best tech-free vacations happen in cabins, backyards, or small-town hideaways.
What your children will remember most isn’t the cost of the trip—it’s how they felt during it. Did they laugh with you? Did they feel seen? Were they invited to play, explore, and just be?
While tech-free vacations don’t have to be expensive, one of a vacation’s most powerful (and overlooked) parts is the gift of attention.
Give Your Kids Attention
When you put the phone down and truly look your child in the eyes, something shifts. That kind of attention says, “You matter to me. I’m here with you.”
During a tech-free vacation, your focused presence becomes a treasure. Whether skipping rocks, telling stories, or sitting quietly by a campfire, your child notices when you’re truly with them.
Not only will your children enjoy the extra attention from you it also opens the door to something even more exciting: the gift of imagination and exploration.
Encourage Creativity and Adventure
Without screens, children are forced to engage their senses and stretch their imaginations—and that’s good. Tech-free vacations give them space to build forts, create games, tell stories, and explore nature with curiosity.
This might take some getting used to, especially in the beginning. But once they rediscover how fun boredom can be, creativity flourishes.
In addition, when you’re all feeling brave and inspired, it’s the perfect time to try something new together.
Try New Things with Your Kids
New experiences create lasting bonds. Whether it’s kayaking for the first time, cooking over a fire, or learning a dance together, trying something new as a family breaks the routine and builds connection.
You don’t have to go far or do something wild. Even little adventures create inside jokes and shared memories that will last for years.
Also, trying something new together helps your family grow stronger, one small adventure at a time.
Closing Thoughts: Connection Over Perfection
Planning a tech-free vacation might take a little more intention; however, the reward is rich. While not every moment will go as planned—and some may even be challenging—that’s perfectly okay. What matters most is that you’re intentionally choosing to show up for your family in a deeper, more present way.
By detaching from devices, you’re making space to attach to each other. And in the long run, that is the parenting your children will carry with them.
So, give it a try, whether it’s one day, one weekend, or a whole week. You might be surprised at what unfolds when the screens go off and the heart turns on.
Sponsors, Related Shows, and Links
Want a Bible curriculum that strengthens your teen’s faith and critical thinking? RVL Discipleship: The Curriculum equips homeschool students to engage deeply with Scripture and live out God’s mission.
In RVL Discipleship: The Study, join renowned teacher and Bible scholar Ray Vander Laan as he examines what it means to follow Christ through the cultural, historical, and otherwise contextual lens of Scripture. The Study is a four-season video Bible study for small groups and individuals that considers the question: What did it mean to be one of Jesus’s original disciples, and what does that mean for us today?
Why Teens Don’t Like Bible Studies is a concern I hear from parents all the time—and maybe you’ve asked the same thing. You try to gather your kids for a devotional, and you’re met with sighs, shrugs, or silence. If that’s been your experience, let me assure you: you’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong.
In this post, I want to walk you through five reasons teens struggle with Bible study and provide practical steps you can take to help your child re-engage with God’s Word without force, fear, or frustration.
“For years, I wondered if my kids were even listening. But I’ve learned that quiet eyes don’t mean quiet hearts. Seeds were being planted, even when it didn’t look like it.” ~ Connie Albers
Perceived Relevance of Bible Studies
Many teens feel like the Bible has nothing to do with the world they live in today.
Parents can bridge this gap by connecting biblical principles to everyday teen challenges, like anxiety about social media, navigating friendships, or finding purpose. Use stories like David’s courage to confront Goliath to talk about facing peer pressure, or Esther’s bravery to discuss speaking up for what’s right.
When teens see that the Bible offers real answers to their everyday questions, they engage with it differently.
But even when Scripture feels relevant, many teens still resist spiritual conversations, especially when they come from us, their parents.
Communication Barriers to Understanding the Bible
It’s tough when every faith conversation feels like a battle—or worse, like you’re being tuned out.
Parents can create a safe, respectful space by replacing lectures with conversations. Ask open-ended questions like “What do you think this verse means today?” or “If you were in that situation, what would you have done?”—and really listen to the answers. Let your teen challenge or wrestle with ideas; growth often starts with tension.
Understanding that heart readiness varies helps reduce parental guilt and reminds you to pray specifically for God to soften the hearts of your children who may be struggling.
Of course, trust alone isn’t enough. We also need tools that speak to how this generation learns best.
Incorporate Mutlimedia
Let’s face it, reading from a printed devotional may not capture your teen’s attention in a digital, fast-paced world. Teens engage best with content that stimulates multiple senses.
Parents can encourage their teens to engage in Bible study by using podcasts, animated videos, interactive Bible apps, and memes to bring scripture to life. Pair a Bible character’s story with a song that captures the same emotional arc, or have teens illustrate a parable through digital art or skits.
Let your teen use Bible journaling, verse mapping, Bible-based art, or even online programs like RVL Discipleship: The Curriculum or apps like YouVersion’s Teen Devotionals. Consider studying stories visually with Bible Project videos or letting them create a worship playlist for the family. When Bible study is dynamic and interactive, it feels more like discovery and less like duty. These creative approaches allow teens to internalize messages through formats that feel natural and exciting to them.
But creativity can’t overcome one of the biggest challenges—finding time.
Busy Schedules and Time Constraints Hinder Bible Studies
Finding Bible study moments between sports, school, part-time jobs, and screen time can be impossible.
Inconsistent routines and busy calendars can derail even the most well-intentioned Bible study plans. Instead of trying to force long, rigid sessions, parents can find short pockets of time that naturally fit into the family rhythm, like 10 minutes after dinner or a quick morning reflection. You can even make it a “scroll and study” where you read one verse together during downtime and discuss it casually.
It should be part of your rhythm, not another task. Keep a Bible verse on the fridge. Read one Proverb during breakfast. Talk about one verse on the drive to practice. It doesn’t have to be long, it just has to be consistent.
Now, with relevance, dialogue, engagement, and consistency in place, families are better equipped to grow spiritually together.
What Can Parents Do to Rekindle Interest in the Bible
Teens may tune out your words, but they constantly watch your life. That is why parents need to model their faith daily.
Let them see you in the Word. Talk about what God’s teaching you, even if it’s something small. Be honest when you mess up and quick to show grace. Deuteronomy 6 reminds us to impress God’s truth on our children as we walk, rise, and rest—not just in scheduled devotions. Use stories like David’s courage to confront Goliath to talk about facing peer pressure, or Esther’s bravery to discuss speaking up for what’s right.
When scripture feels like a mirror rather than a museum, teens are more likely to engage with curiosity and openness. Faith isn’t something you push—it’s something you live, and that’s what sticks.
And when your faith becomes visible, it sets the stage for honest conversation.
Make Teens Bible Studies Relational
Bible study should feel like a conversation, not a correction.
Use simple prompts: “What do you think this verse means?” “What confuses you about this story?” Let your teen have a voice in the process. Explore unfamiliar books of the Bible together so it feels fresh for both of you.
The more relational it feels, the more open your child will be to exploring Scripture at a deeper level.
That openness can lead to a turning point, especially when we shift from controlling outcomes to cultivating connection.
Allow Flexible Study Times
Seeing your children take different spiritual paths can be both confusing and painful. However, understanding that each child has free will, unique personality traits, and various external influences can bring some clarity. Remember that God is at work even when it seems like nothing is happening. Your role is to model faith, pray fervently, and trust God with the outcome.
Continue to love your children where they are, keep the door open, and never give up hope. God’s grace can reach even the most distant hearts, and He specializes in bringing prodigals home.
If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs to hear these words today. And remember, you are doing a great job, even when the results aren’t what you hoped for. God sees your faithfulness, and He cares deeply for your children.
Closing Thoughts
Helping your teen fall in love with Scripture might not happen overnight, but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen. Be patient and present. Keep showing them what a relationship with God looks like in real life.
Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Why teens don’t like Bible studies is a question rooted in concern and an opportunity. With prayer, consistency, and creativity, you can help your child discover that the Bible isn’t just information—it’s transformation.
Sponsors, Related Shows, and Links
Want a Bible curriculum that strengthens your teen’s faith and critical thinking? RVL Discipleship: The Curriculum equips homeschool students to engage deeply with Scripture and live out God’s mission. This course, taught by Ray Vander Laan, brings biblical history to life, helping teens see their place in God’s kingdom. Try two free lessons today!
In RVL Discipleship: The Study, join renowned teacher and Bible scholar Ray Vander Laan as he examines what it means to follow Christ through the cultural, historical, and otherwise contextual lens of Scripture. The Study is a four-season video Bible study for small groups and individuals to consider the question: What did it mean to be one of the original disciples of Jesus, and what does that mean for us today?
Downloadable leader guides
Downloadable participant guides
Access all 4 seasons – 39 episodes that are 10-12 minutes long
Feeling Weary? You’re Not Alone. As a mom, recognizing Mom Burnout and Navigating it Through Faith is our lifeline to living a joyful life.
If you’ve ever woken up feeling like you have nothing left to give, even though you love your family deeply, you’re not alone. Many moms, especially those striving to raise their families in faith, experience seasons of burnout. It’s more than just feeling tired; it’s a deep emotional, physical, and spiritual exhaustion. But there is hope! Burnout isn’t a failure. It’s an invitation to return to the One who refreshes our souls.
Today, I’ll share the five signs of burnout, why Christian moms are especially vulnerable, and how to navigate each challenge through the truth of God’s Word.
“The world says hustle harder. Jesus says, ‘Come to Me and I will give you rest.’” Matthew 11:28
Recognizing Mom Burnout and How Faith Helps You Heal
Burnout is more than just being tired after a long day. It’s a deeper, more persistent feeling of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion. It’s when your heart feels heavy, your mind feels foggy, and even simple tasks feel overwhelming. We can fall into the trap of giving and giving without taking time to be refilled by God. Before we know it, we’re operating on an empty tank, feeling disconnected from the very One who gives us the strength to do all things.
Burnout isn’t a sign that you’re a bad mom or a bad Christian. It’s simply a warning light — a signal that something needs attention. So what should we watch for? What signs tell us we might be moving toward burnout? Let’s talk about the key indicators you shouldn’t ignore — and how recognizing them early can help you find your way back to peace and joy.
The Signs of Mom Burnout
Sometimes burnout doesn’t announce itself with flashing lights. It often slips in quietly, little by little. Recognizing the signs early can help you course-correct before complete exhaustion sets in. Shifting from a mindset of “What’s in it for me?” to “How can I serve my spouse?” radically transforms the dynamics of your relationship.
Here are the most common signs of mom burnout:
Emotional Exhaustion
You feel emotionally drained most days. Even minor frustrations can feel overwhelming, and you may find yourself either crying easily or feeling emotionally numb, like you have nothing left to give.
Irritability and Impatience
You notice you’re snapping over little things — a spilled cup, a child asking the same question again, or a noisy house that feels louder than usual.
Physical Symptoms
Your body often signals what your heart is feeling. Frequent headaches, muscle tension, persistent tiredness even after sleep, and trouble falling asleep can all point to burnout.
Spiritual Dryness
You might open your Bible and feel like the words aren’t reaching your heart. Prayer might feel difficult or mechanical. Worship feels distant.
Loss of Joy
Activities and moments that once brought you deep joy — reading to your kids, family dinners, even quiet moments with the Lord — start feeling like just another obligation.
Now that we’ve identified the warning signs, how do we navigate each one with wisdom, grace, and faith? Let’s walk through some simple, faith-filled steps you can take when you notice burnout creeping in.
Steps to Navigate Each Sign of Mom Burnout
Recognizing burnout is only half the battle. Knowing how to navigate it through faith is what brings true healing and renewal.
Here’s how you can address each sign of burnout with faith-based, practical steps:
When You Feel Emotionally Exhausted → Run to Jesus First
When You Feel Irritable and Impatient → Pause and Pray
When You’re Physically Drained → Honor Your Need for Rest
When You’re Experiencing Spiritual Dryness → Stay Connected to the Vine
When You’ve Lost Your Joy → Ask God to Restore It
Next, let’s look at a few practical strategies you can build into your daily life to not just recover from burnout, but to prevent it from taking root again.
Practical Strategies for Daily Renewal
Recovery from burnout isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing the right things that restore your body, mind, and spirit in Christ.
Here are some simple, powerful strategies you can weave into your everyday life:
Start Your Day with Even a 5-Minute Prayer Time
Build Mini-Rest Moments into Your Day
Set Realistic Expectations for Yourself
Find or Build Community
Give Yourself Permission to Step Back
When you focus on daily renewal, the Lord will strengthen you and renew your energy and desire to keep going.
Burnout Isn’t Failure, It’s a Signal
When you find yourself burnt out, overwhelmed, and weary, it’s easy to believe the lie that you’re failing — but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
It’s your heart and body’s way of saying: “You are running low. You need to return to the Source of life.”
Remember, growing weary doesn’t disqualify you — it shows you’re human, and even the strongest among us need rest and renewal. It’s not a lack of love for your family, your homeschool journey, or your calling. It’s simply that you are a vessel that needs to be filled again.
Scripture to Meditate On
“Even in your weary moments, God’s strength is made perfect.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13-14
“Joy isn’t manufactured — it’s a fruit of abiding in Christ.” John 15:4-5
“The world says hustle harder. Jesus says, ‘Come to Me and I will give you rest.’” Matthew 11:28
“Two are better than one… for if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.”Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Now that we know how to renew ourselves practically, let’s focus on this truth: Burnout isn’t the end — it’s simply a signal that God is inviting you to rest in Him and be renewed by His love.
Wrapping Up
As we close, let’s review some simple, life-giving truths to hold onto when burnout tries to creep back in.
Friend, if you’re feeling burnt out today, remember — burnout is not a badge of failure. It’s simply a loving nudge from the Lord, calling you to slow down, reconnect, and rest in Him.
You don’t have to keep carrying it all on your own. Take a deep breath, whisper a prayer, and trust that God is ready to renew your strength, moment by moment, day by day.
If today’s episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might need a little hope, too?
Sponsors and Links
Want a Bible curriculum that strengthens your teen’s faith and critical thinking? RVL Discipleship: The Curriculum equips homeschool students to engage deeply with Scripture and live out God’s mission. This course, taught by Ray Vander Laan, brings biblical history to life, helping teens see their place in God’s kingdom. Try two free lessons today!
In RVL Discipleship: The Study, join renowned teacher and Bible scholar Ray Vander Laan as he examines what it means to follow Christ through the cultural, historical, and otherwise contextual lens of Scripture. The Study is a four-season video Bible study designed for small groups and individuals to explore the question: What did it mean to be one of the original disciples of Jesus, and what does that significance hold for us today?
Downloadable leader guides
Downloadable participant guides
Student Study Text
Access all 4 seasons – 39 episodes that are 10-12 minutes long
Today, marriage can feel complicated. People often ask, “Why get married when relationships are already hard enough?” Maybe you’ve wondered this yourself. After all, the media frequently highlights the struggles, the breakups, and the heartache, which can make marriage seem daunting or even outdated. Yet, research consistently reveals that married people report higher levels of happiness, health, and life satisfaction compared to singles. So, if marriage holds such promise, why aren’t more people rushing to say “I do”?
In her insightful book Making Marriage Easier, Arlene Pellicane addresses precisely this issue, offering practical, faith-based strategies that transform marriage from daunting to delightful. Let’s unpack a few key insights on why marriage is still worth pursuing—and how to make it genuinely easier and joyful.
In this episode, Arlene joins me to discuss four ways you can love (and like) being married.
“Marriage isn’t just about duty—it’s about delight!” ~Arlene Pellicane
Love Is a Daily Decision, Not Just a Feeling
Many couples assume that love should always come naturally, but Pellicane points out that love is more about making daily decisions than experiencing fleeting emotions.
In our culture, we often mistake love for the butterflies we feel at the beginning of a relationship. When those butterflies fade—and inevitably they do—we assume something’s wrong. But Making Marriage Easier emphasizes love as a daily choice, grounded in intentional acts of kindness, patience, and grace. Choosing to love actively, rather than passively waiting for feelings to surface, is foundational to lasting happiness in marriage.
So, how does this daily choice practically play out in everyday life?
Serving Your Spouse Brings Joy
Shifting from a mindset of “What’s in it for me?” to “How can I serve my spouse?” radically transforms the dynamics of your relationship.
We live in a culture that’s constantly telling us to prioritize our own happiness. But ironically, one of the greatest predictors of marital happiness, as Pellicane beautifully explains, is the ability to serve your spouse selflessly. This isn’t about losing yourself; rather, it’s about discovering joy through giving. When both partners embrace this mutual service mindset, joy naturally follows. Serving your spouse wholeheartedly becomes a powerful source of personal fulfillment.
Awareness of these influences enables you to have honest and open conversations with your children about what they are experiencing and how it may impact their faith. By maintaining a safe, non-judgmental environment for dialogue, you help them process their thoughts with biblical guidance.
Taking Fun Seriously Strengthens Your Bond
Pellicane encourages couples to actively prioritize joy and laughter actively, as having fun together is a key to maintaining emotional intimacy.
Marriage can quickly feel weighed down by responsibilities: work demands, bills, raising children, and caring for aging parents. In the process, fun can slip off the priority list entirely. Pellicane argues that taking fun seriously isn’t just nice, it’s necessary. Shared experiences of laughter and adventure revive your bond, reduce stress, and boost your happiness. Having fun reminds you of why you fell in love in the first place and keeps your friendship strong.
But what happens when the kids grow up and life drastically changes?
Marriage Can and Should Last Beyond Parenthood
Making Marriage Easier highlights the importance of nurturing your marriage beyond the demanding years of parenting.
It’s easy to become so invested in your role as parents that your identity as a couple fades away. But marriage isn’t just about raising children together; it’s about creating a partnership that continues to flourish long after your kids leave home. Pellicane emphasizes intentionally connecting as spouses through regular date nights, meaningful conversations, and shared goals, ensuring your relationship endures well into the empty nest years and beyond.
Ultimately, a marriage built intentionally with daily choices of love, selfless service, shared joy, and lasting companionship sets you on the path to deep, sustained happiness.
Closing: Making Your Marriage Easier is Possible
Choosing marriage might seem countercultural today, but the research remains clear: married people are consistently happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. While marriage requires effort, it’s also immensely rewarding, especially when you incorporate these practical insights from Making Marriage Easier. So if you’re wondering whether marriage is still worthwhile, remember—it truly can be easier and more joyful than you imagine.
Marriage may not always be simple, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With intentional decisions each day, you really can make marriage easier and discover the lasting happiness you’ve always desired.
Guest Bio, Sponsors, and Links
ARLENE PELLICANE is a speaker, host of the Happy Home podcast, and author of several books, including Parents Rising, Making Marriage Easier, and Screen Kids (coauthored with Dr. Gary Chapman). She is the spokesperson for National Marriage Week and has been happily married to her husband, James, for more than 25 years.
Want a Bible curriculum that strengthens your teen’s faith and critical thinking? RVL Discipleship: The Curriculum equips homeschool students to engage deeply with Scripture and live out God’s mission. This course, taught by Ray Vander Laan, brings biblical history to life, helping teens see their place in God’s kingdom. Try two free lessons today!
In RVL Discipleship: The Study, join renowned teacher and Bible scholar Ray Vander Laan as he examines what it means to follow Christ through the cultural, historical, and otherwise contextual lens of Scripture. The Study is a four-season video Bible study designed for small groups and individuals to explore the question: What did it mean to be one of the original disciples of Jesus, and what does that significance hold for us today?
Downloadable leader guides
Downloadable participant guides
Access all 4 seasons – 39 episodes that are 10-12 minutes long
Raising Godly Kids is a desire for many Christian parents. But what should you do if your children’s faith path drifts? You may have done your best to teach biblical values, live out your faith authentically, and create a home centered on Christ. Yet, despite your best efforts, you may find that some of your children embrace their faith while others seem to walk away. This can be confusing and heartbreaking. Understanding why this happens can offer encouragement, perspective, and hope. Let’s look at some biblical reasons why children from the same home may follow different spiritual paths and how you can respond in faith.
Today, I share how to face this challenging question: How to Raise Godly Kids When Faith Paths Drift. Why do some children from the same home follow God while others do not? You are not alone in this struggle, and I will unpack what Scripture says, what practical insights we can glean, and most importantly, how you can keep hope alive.
“Raising godly children isn’t about perfect outcomes—it’s about faithfully planting seeds of truth and trusting God to grow them, even when your child’s faith path drifts in a direction you didn’t expect.” Connie Albers
Individual Free Will: A Matter of Personal Choice
One of the most significant reasons children from the same home may choose different paths is their free will. The Bible clearly teaches that each person must make their own choice regarding faith. In Joshua 24:15, Joshua declares, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.”
Even in the most faith-filled homes, each child has a personal responsibility to choose whether to follow God or not. This concept is powerfully illustrated through the story of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4). Although they grew up under the same parenting, Cain chose a path of jealousy and violence while Abel chose to honor God.
It’s important to remember that no parent can control their child’s heart or decisions. While you can model faith, pray, and guide, each child will ultimately make their own choices. Accepting this truth allows you to continue loving your children unconditionally, regardless of their spiritual journey.
The Condition of the Heart: Different Responses to the Same Truth
Another crucial factor to consider is the condition of your child’s heart. In the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23), Jesus describes how the same seed (the Word of God) falls on different types of soil (hearts), producing different outcomes. Some seeds grow and flourish, while others are choked out or wither away.
Similarly, siblings raised in the same Christian environment may have hearts that respond differently to biblical teachings. One child may eagerly accept God’s truth, while another may resist or struggle to believe. This difference does not necessarily reflect poor parenting; rather, it reveals each child’s unique spiritual condition.
Understanding that heart readiness varies helps reduce parental guilt and reminds you to pray specifically for God to soften the hearts of your children who may be struggling.
Personality and Temperament: Uniquely Wired for Faith
As you consider why children from the same home follow different spiritual paths, it’s to acknowledge their unique personalities. Psalm 139:14 reminds us that each person is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” While one child might naturally lean towards spirituality, another may be more analytical or even skeptical.
Take, for example, the biblical twins Esau and Jacob (Genesis 25:27). Though raised in the same environment, Esau was impulsive and focused on the present, while Jacob was more thoughtful. Their distinct temperaments influenced their choices, including their relationship with God.
Recognizing personality differences helps you understand why one child might be drawn to worship and prayer while another questions and challenges. Rather than feeling discouraged, view these differences as opportunities to approach faith discussions in ways that resonate with each child’s unique wiring.
External Influences: The Power of Peers and Culture
In addition to personality differences, external influences also shape your children’s faith. The Bible warns in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” As much as you may protect your children from negative influences, friends, mentors, media, and life experiences still impact their beliefs.
For instance, a child who grows up in a godly home may still be influenced by secular ideologies at school or through friendships. This can lead to spiritual struggles, doubts, or even rebellion. We are all influenced by our surroundings, so parents must pay attention to who their children spend time with.
Awareness of these influences allows you to have honest, open conversations with your children about what they are experiencing and how it may impact their faith. By maintaining a safe, non-judgmental environment for dialogue, you help them process their thoughts with biblical guidance.
Fighting for Your Child’s Faith
Sometimes, despite a parent’s best efforts, spiritual warfare plays a role. The Bible reminds us that we battle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:12). This unseen struggle can profoundly affect your child’s faith journey.
One sibling may feel spiritually attacked in ways that others do not, leading to doubts or a desire to pull away from God. A child’s unique vulnerabilities may make them more susceptible to these spiritual battles. Trust me, this is extremely difficult for a parent because we want our children to be strong and able to withstand attacks and temptations.
As a parent, prayer is your greatest tool to fight spiritual warfare, asking God to protect your children’s minds and hearts. Equip them with spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-18) and teach them to stand firm against spiritual attacks.
Trusting God’s Plan Your Child Drifts
While parental guidance is significant, each child’s faith journey is ultimately part of God’s sovereign plan. Romans 9:15 says, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” This means some children may take a different path despite your best efforts.
Think of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). Although the same loving father raised both sons, one chose to leave and live recklessly. Yet, the father’s unwavering love remained constant, and when the son returned, he was embraced with open arms.
Trusting God’s sovereignty helps you release the burden of controlling outcomes and instead focus on loving your children through their journey, regardless of where they are spiritually.
What Can You Do as a Parent?
Pray Without Ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17): Never underestimate the power of persistent prayer. Ask God to work in your child’s heart, especially when they are resistant.
Model Faith Authentically (Deuteronomy 6:6-7): Live out your faith daily, showing your children the practical and relational aspects of following Christ.
Love Unconditionally (Luke 15:20): Whether they are walking with the Lord or not, show them that your love remains steadfast.
Trust God’s Timing (Isaiah 55:8-9): God’s ways are higher than ours. Be patient and hopeful as you wait for His work in your child’s life.
Even though we can’t control our children’s choices, we’re not powerless—there are still meaningful, faith-filled ways we can parent with purpose and hope.
Closing: Hold On to Hope
Seeing your children take different spiritual paths can be both confusing and painful. However, understanding that each child has free will, unique personality traits, and various external influences can bring some clarity. Remember that God is at work even when it seems like nothing is happening. Your role is to model faith, pray fervently, and trust God with the outcome.
Continue to love your children where they are, keep the door open, and never give up hope. God’s grace can reach even the most distant hearts, and He specializes in bringing prodigals home.
If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs to hear these words today. And remember, you are doing a great job, even when the results aren’t what you hoped for. God sees your faithfulness, and He cares deeply for your children.
Sponsors, Related Shows, and Links
Want a Bible curriculum that strengthens your teen’s faith and critical thinking? RVL Discipleship: The Curriculum equips homeschool students to engage deeply with Scripture and live out God’s mission. This course, taught by Ray Vander Laan, brings biblical history to life, helping teens see their place in God’s kingdom. Try two free lessons today!
In RVL Discipleship: The Study, join renowned teacher and Bible scholar Ray Vander Laan as he examines what it means to follow Christ through the cultural, historical, and otherwise contextual lens of Scripture. The Study is a four-season video Bible study for small groups and individuals to consider the question: What did it mean to be one of the original disciples of Jesus, and what does that mean for us today?
Downloadable leader guides
Downloadable participant guides
Access all 4 seasons – 39 episodes that are 10-12 minutes long
