I am back in the working world as the social media manager for my Tribe. Both of my kids are teens now. My husband is very busy with Pentecost 2025, church revitalization and evangelism. Life is a bit crazy this season. Can you relate? It’s in these busy times that we must be intentional with our family time and time with God.
At this time in our life journey, I am stepping away as a regular Gleaner perspective writer. I have so enjoyed sharing with you all. It’s been fun to run into you in real life and have discussions about what I have written and how you’re experiencing family life. I will miss you, of course.
I have written 46 articles for the Gleaner over the last five years. Here are some excerpts from five of my favorites:
"2 Cor. 12:9 — 'But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me'" (10 Bible Verses for Tired Parents).
“In an unpredictable world, what can we do, as adults, to help our kids build their faith in times of struggle? We must equip our children to find hope, strength and peace through reliance on God” (Building Faith in Kids in Times of Struggle).
“Communicate well with your kids. Discuss and reflect on their social interactions and help them do better in love. Pray for your kids and their peers — God created us and we are all valuable to Him” (Teaching Compassion Toward Neurodivergent Peers).
“Instead of responding with harsh criticism or undue punishment, let us remember God's grace is abundant and covers all our imperfections. By offering understanding, patience and forgiveness, we create an environment where our children feel safe and loved, mirroring our God's unconditional love and forgiveness” (Extending Grace: 3 Simple Ways to Show Your Kids God’s Love).
“With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can be cycle breakers. Positive parenting takes work, and I frequently make mistakes. But I also want to own those mistakes, apologize and start over again. Maybe you’d like to commit to being a more positive parent?” (30-Day Positive Parenting Challenge).
The Final Word
Parenting is hard. I have said that again and again because it’s true. We must be intentional. We must pray a lot. We must apologize when we mess up. We must extend grace. We must listen to them. We must love them well.
We are told in Rom. 8:26, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
Won’t you pray for me on this journey, as I pray for you?
