Christian Parent, Crazy World

How Do We Prepare Our Kids’ Faith for Secular College? Start Here. Few things strike fear in the heart of Christian parents like sending a child to a secular university and wondering, “Will their faith survive?” Recent research shows nearly two-thirds of young adults raised in the church disengage from faith or Christian community after leaving home—a heartbreaking statistic for families who have labored in love and prayer for nearly two decades. In this episode, Catherine sits down with Dr. Steven Hall, a respected professor at Lee University with decades of experience in pastoral ministry, counseling, and spiritual formation. Dr. Hall brings not only academic insight but a father’s hard-won wisdom—his own daughter lost her faith at a secular arts high school, plunging his family into a prodigal journey that every Christian parent fears. Key Insights and Takeaways: It Can Happen to Any Family: Dr. Hall shares with powerful honesty how, despite prayerful and intentional parenting—including homeschooling and Christian education—his daughter’s faith was overturned in just two weeks at a new school. “We put her in the school, and two weeks later, they stole her,” he recalls, highlighting how the environment and sense of belonging can reshape beliefs almost overnight. The Power of Allies: Both Dr. Hall and Catherine underscore the vital importance of allies: teachers, mentors, counselors, and Christian communities who support and reinforce the faith and values parents instill. “You need an ally in your parenting. Pray for those allies…steward those relationships well,” Dr. Hall urges. Formation Over Information: As children grow, the need to belong and to form identity intensifies—especially in the teen and college years. Dr. Hall explains, “If you have an environment where your child believes they can belong and retain their faith, you are preparing good ‘soul soil’ for lasting fruit.” Consistent Adequacy—Not Perfection: Parents often carry guilt over prodigal seasons, but Dr. Hall and Catherine offer hope: even God, the perfect parent, had children who chose rebellion. “You don’t have to be exceptional—just consistently adequate,” Dr. Hall reassures, stressing faithfulness over perfection. Practical Soul-Forming Rhythms: Sabbath, prayer, fasting, and engaging in faith routines as a family are crucial. “We’re not just training for faith, we’re shaping a way of life,” says Dr. Hall. There Is Good News: Encouraging research from Barna now shows a rise in personal commitment to Jesus and Bible reading among Gen Z and Millennials. The hunger for authentic, lived faith is growing—and parents can help nurture that by living and modeling genuine discipleship. Anecdotes & Notable Quotes: “If you want to protect your child from the negative influences of the world, when they're about seven, put them in a barrel and feed them through the knothole. At fourteen, plug the knothole. There's no foolproof method!”—Dr. Hall (quoting Mark Twain) “God is not looking for extraordinary, perfect parents. He’s looking for consistency. Trust the creature to the Creator.” About the Guest:Dr. Steven Hall is Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry at Lee University, with a doctorate in Spiritual Formation and decades serving as a Church of God minister, clinical pastoral counselor, and founder of Ministry Oasis—a resource dedicated to the soul health of ministry families. Are you praying for allies to join you in shepherding your child’s soul? Who are the people and communities partnering with you for the spiritual health of your family? Share your journey, struggles, and wins—and remember: you don’t have to do this alone. Tune in and find the encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope that God is still writing your child’s story. Episode Links & Resources Ministry OasisDr. Steven Hall’s website offers free resources for soul health, spiritual disciplines, Sabbath practices, and more—especially helpful for pastors and their families, but practical for all parents.Visit Ministry Oasis Barna Research – Youth Exodus & Spiritual Renewal New Research: Belief in Jesus Is on the Rise, and It’s Fueled by Younger Adults (Apr 2024) Millennials and Gen Z Drive a Bible Reading Comeback (Nov 2023) Gen Z, Millennials, and the Changing State of Faith in America Soul Health Planning, Sabbath & Family Rhythms Soul Health Plan PDF, Sabbath Practice Guides, Video Library Dr. Hall’s sermon series and practical tips for sabbathing with young children Scripture Prayers & Prodigal BundleCatherine’s free resources for parents—Scripture lists, prayer guides, and her ebook for raising children in a faith-challenging culture.Subscribe to Catherine Segars’ Webs

How can Christian parents safeguard their children in a world where sexual exploitation is hidden in plain sight—even within their own homes? In this crucial episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes Dr. Rondy Smith, founder and CEO of Rest Stop Ministries—the first long-term residential restoration program in Tennessee for female survivors of sex trafficking. Dr. Smith brings decades of frontline experience walking with women through profound trauma toward hope and restoration. The conversation delves into one of the most urgent questions facing parents today: “How can we protect our kids from being sexually exploited?” Drawing on powerful personal stories—including a heart-wrenching letter from a survivor whose abuse spanned eight years without her parents’ knowledge—Dr. Smith exposes the shocking reality: predators are often familiar faces, and exploitation is happening everywhere, not just distant or impoverished places. Key insights and takeaways: Myth-Busting: Over 60% of victims know their traffickers; they could be family friends, relatives, or acquaintances. Familiarity is not safety. Cybersex Trafficking: Dr. Smith recounts how online predators exploit children’s innocence and manipulate them through social media and gaming platforms, turning everyday devices into “porn boxes” with unfettered access to vulnerable youth. Warning Signs: Parents must trust their intuition and watch for behavioral changes such as panic over losing access to devices or withdrawal from routine activities. Open Communication: Survivors say they wish someone had intervened sooner—parents must foster safe spaces where children feel supported, not judged, regardless of what has happened. Hope and Restoration: No matter how deep the trauma, God is able to bring healing. Stories shared in the episode highlight recovery, reconciliation, and new beginnings for survivors and their families. Notable moments include Rondy's passionate call for parents to “think like a predator”—not out of fear, but out of wisdom and love for their children. The episode closes with a moving time of prayer and encouragement, affirming that Christian parents are called to be active peacemakers: to engage, educate, and advocate for their kids and their communities. Quote from the episode:"Wherever your kids are, the predators are there. We have to begin thinking like a predator and know that they’re out there." – Dr. Rondy Smith Anecdote:The episode features a survivor’s letter detailing eight years of secret exploitation, her eventual disclosure, and her journey to healing—a story that could “be happening in your home right now and you don’t know it,” as Catherine observes. Call to Action:Have you built an open channel of communication with your children? Are you prepared to spot the signs and have the hard conversations, even when it’s uncomfortable? Take today's conversation beyond the episode—pray, seek wisdom, and consider supporting ministries like Rest Stop. Share this episode and equip your family for the world we live in. Because awareness, prevention, and restoration are not just vital—they are part of our calling as Christian parents. EPISODE LINKS: Learn more about Rest Stop Ministries: reststopministries.org Rest Stop: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter The Exodus Road: What Are Human Trafficking Warning Signs? NCOSI: National Center on Sexual Exploitation  Subscribe for free parenting bundles at catherinesegars.com Tune in to learn the truth, equip yourself, and make your home a place where darkness cannot hide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sex Trafficking: A Crisis Closer Than You Think Sex trafficking is one of the greatest human rights crises of our time—a dark, shocking reality that is not just happening “somewhere else,” but in neighborhoods and communities across America. In this crucial episode, Catherine is joined by Dr. Rondy Smith, founder and CEO of Rest Stop Ministries, to confront the overwhelming issue of sex trafficking head-on and, more importantly, to explore what Christians can do about it. A Call to Step Into the Darkness Rondy didn’t become an activist because of a personal story—she stepped into this fight after witnessing the devastating effects of sexual exploitation on women she ministered to. In her journey from church leadership to founding the first long-term residential restoration program for female survivors in Tennessee, Rondy reveals the magnitude of the crisis: 27 million people currently enslaved worldwide 80% are female and over 50% are children trafficked for sexual exploitation Children as young as five are among the victims The conversation brings these tragic numbers to life, grounding the issue in both global statistics and heartbreaking personal experiences. Understanding the Hidden Reality Listeners will get a vital overview of how sex trafficking operates—not just through stereotypes like “street prostitution,” but in more insidious forms such as: The “boyfriend syndrome,” where traffickers pose as romantic partners Familial trafficking, where children are sold by family members due to poverty or addiction These abuses touch every ZIP code in the United States, often hidden in plain sight. Hope and Action: What Christians Can Do But this episode goes beyond exposing darkness; it’s filled with practical insights and urgent encouragement for action. Catherine and Dr. Rondy Smith discuss: The importance of seeing victims as ourselves—rejecting the temptation to look away out of overwhelm or helplessness Biblical imperatives for confronting oppression and injustice, with powerful reference to scriptures like Proverbs 24:11 How Rest Stop Ministries walks alongside survivors for years of restorative healing and reintegration Ways every Christian and every church can get involved, from supporting local ministries to prevention education A profound recognition of the spiritual battle involved—and a stirring call to pray for those on the front lines A Personal Update: The Cost of the Battle The episode closes with a deeply personal update from Catherine about ministry friends who stepped forward in faith to found a refuge for survivors, only to face their own heart-breaking trials. This underlines the costly battle against this evil and the desperate need for community support and prayer. Guest Bio Dr. Rondy Smith is an ordained minister, educator, mentor, and CEO of Rest Stop Ministries, a pioneering restoration program for female survivors of sex trafficking in Nashville, Tennessee. With decades of experience across ministry, academia, and leadership, she is deeply committed to the spiritual and practical healing of those marked by exploitation. Important Resources Learn more or get involved at reststopministries.org Follow Rest Stop Ministries on Facebook, Instagram, and X  Pray for Rusty and Krista's ministry, Hope Filled Refuge, and for all on the front lines Rusty's Go Fund Me Page Next Episode: Prevention and Protection Don’t miss the next episode, where Dr. Rondy Smith returns to share how predators operate and essential steps Christian parents must take to safeguard their children. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When your child comes home asking if science and faith can coexist, how will you answer? In this eye-opening episode, Catherine takes on one of the most pressing battlegrounds for today’s Christian families: the supposed war between science and belief. Are young people right to think science has rendered God unnecessary? What do you do when biology class asks your kids to choose between facts and faith? To help tackle these big questions, Catherine welcomes Allan Pereira, creative force and co-creator behind the new documentary series, The Science Dilemma. With a background in student ministry, creative arts, and Christian non-profits, Allan brings a thoughtful, accessible approach to making complex scientific discoveries understandable for everyone—especially parents and teens who don’t have a science degree. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: Why Science Pushes Young Faith to the EdgeUnpack the cultural narrative that claims belief in God is “unscientific.” Catherine and Allan reveal why so many teens walk away from faith and how Darwinian evolution is presented not as theory, but as fact—even when the evidence leaves gaping holes. The Power of Questioning “Settled Science”Can science ever be truly settled? Discover why the spirit of honest inquiry is central to science—and how both believers and skeptics sometimes make the mistake of shutting down hard questions. “The truth is—it's moving. You can put me in prison, but it's still moving.”—Catherine, reflecting on Galileo’s courage to question the establishment Unveiling the Case for Intelligent DesignExplore the three giant dilemmas rocking evolutionary theory: The machines inside the cell: Discover how molecular “machines” operate with mind-boggling complexity, resembling factories more than blobs of protoplasm. The code in our DNA: Learn why the existence of sophisticated genetic language points powerfully to an intelligent programmer. “There is no known existence of coded language without a programmer—and that's what we have in our cells,” says Catherine. What the fossils really say: Examine why the missing transitional fossils and the instant appearance of new body plans (the “Cambrian Explosion”) just don’t add up with classic Darwinian expectations. The Science Dilemma’s Special TouchFrom world-class experts like Dr. Stephen Meyer and Dr. Michael Behe to street interviews and a show-stopping arrowhead sorting experiment with a three-year-old, this series (and conversation) brings cutting-edge scientific discovery and child-like insight together to pose the question every one of us must answer: “Who made these?” Equipping Ordinary Parents for Extraordinary ConversationsFeeling unqualified? Don’t be! Catherine and Allan remind you: “You don’t have to be an expert to step into these conversations with your kids. You just need the courage to sat, 'Let’s explore this together.’” About the Guest:Allan Pereira is the dynamic co-creator of The Science Dilemma docu-series and podcast. He’s a veteran of student ministry and creative communications, with years spent championing families and faith—including fighting for foster children, producing faith-based media, and equipping parents to disciple the next generation. While not a scientist by training, his journey proves that curiosity and obedience can change lives. Why This Matters:With “the mind” under attack in today’s secular culture, Christian parents must reclaim their place at the table. Resources like The Science Dilemma offer a compelling, user-friendly way to strengthen faith, equip teens, and show the world that Christianity can stand up to the toughest questions science can pose. Modern Application:Parents, take heart! Your voice—and your willingness to simply ask questions—can be the difference-maker for a child wrestling with doubt in an “anti-faith” world. Episode Links: Watch or learn more about The Science Dilemma: thesciencedilemma.com Follow The Science Dilemma on YouTube and Instagram Follow Allan CP on Instagram Explore resources for parents at Catherinesegars.com Ben Stein's Exchange with Dr. Richard Dawkins Dr. John Lennox exchange "That's a very good question... I notice it was asked originally by a snake." Thought-Provoking Question:How are you preparing your family to handle questions that challenge both their faith and their intellect? What scares you most about engaging these conversations—and what might change if you simply said, "Let’s explore together"? Tune in, and start building a faith that’s as resilient as it is reasonable—one conversation at a time. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life will throw you curveballs—but what does it take to overcome rather than become bitter, broken, or stuck? Every parent knows the reality: plans fall apart, hearts break, and the future can look nothing like what we expected. In those moments, the temptation is to let disappointment, anger, or grief pull us away from God—or, worse, leave us stranded in bitterness and regret. But what if those hard seasons could press us deeper into faith, transforming us into true overcomers and not just survivors? Moving From Crisis to Overcoming In this episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes guest Dr. Erin Barry, an expert counselor, author, and educational consultant with decades of experience supporting families through life’s most disorienting seasons. Picking up from their previous conversation—which focused on navigating crises—this episode goes further: revealing how to actually overcome and grow stronger through adversity. What You'll Learn in This Episode How to Grieve and Process Honestly: Dr. Barry underscores the importance of recognizing loss in every transition, even “good” ones, and learning to sit with grief rather than avoid it. Breaking Free from Unrealistic Expectations: Catherine and Dr. Barry dismantle “Hallmark theology,” warning against the harm of unrealistic cultural ideals, and share how biblical truth brings lasting hope. Wrestling with God: The conversation explores how, like Jacob, we must bring our raw pain and questions directly to God, refusing to let go until He blesses us—even if the blessing looks different than we expect. Offering the Sacrifice of Praise: Catherine shares her personal testimony of practicing gratitude amid heartbreak, describing how worship in the difficult moments is precious to God and changes us. Solidifying Identity in Christ: Crisis shakes the foundations of who we are. Dr. Barry offers practical insight on anchoring your identity not in roles or achievements, but in Christ alone. Building a Circle of Support: Listeners are encouraged to seek empathetic friends and faith-based communities where they can process, pray, and celebrate victories together. Choosing Faith Over Fear: The episode emphasizes the importance of daily hope and steadfastness, holding on even when answers don’t come quickly. Golden Takeaways “The winner isn’t the one who does it perfectly; it’s the one who stays steadfast, who stays in the game.” “If you want to make the enemy furious, offer the sacrifice of praise right in the middle of your heartbreak.” About the Guest Dr. Erin Barry, PhD in Christian Counseling, is a seasoned counselor, speaker, author, and co-founder of Home Educated Mind. Her blend of clinical expertise and biblical wisdom brings unique insight and practical tools to parents navigating tough seasons. A Challenge for Christian Parents What curveball are you facing right now—and where can you choose to move from surviving to overcoming? How are you anchoring your hope and identity in Christ when life doesn’t go as planned? Tune in for inspiration and actionable wisdom—so when life gets crazy, your faith and your family can thrive.   Episode Resources inseparableLives.com – More about Dr. Erin Barry and her ministry. Yes, You Can Homeschool! The Terrified Parent’s Companion To Homeschool Success – Buy on Amazon catherinesegars.com – Catherine's free Christian parenting resources and newsletter. Christian Parent/Crazy World podcast archive Previous episodes: When Life Unravels: Biblical Strategies for Life's Hardest Seasons (w/ Dr. Erin Barry) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When Life Throws a Curveball: How to Stay Faithful When the Bottom Drops Out Few challenges stretch a parent’s faith and emotional reserves more than life’s unexpected curveball seasons—the plot twists that leave you wondering, “God, what are you doing?” How do you remain anchored in truth when the bottom drops out? This week on Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes back her very first guest and trusted friend, Dr. Erin Barry, to help parents not only survive, but find hope and stability in life’s most turbulent moments. Dr. Barry is a clinical Christian counselor, author, homeschool expert, and co-founder of inseparableLives.com. Her biblically grounded wisdom comes from over 30 years of walking families through the storms of life. In this transparent and practical episode, Catherine gets real about her own season of loss, uncertainty, and a series of shocking life upheavals—from parenting a prodigal, to family moves, to sudden job loss. Using these stories as a backdrop, Dr. Barry unpacks essential biblical strategies for clinging to faith and finding stability when life feels out of control. Key Insights & Takeaways Find Your Safe Circle Not everyone is equipped to carry the weight of your story. Dr. Barry urges listeners to seek out wise, mature friends or a counselor who can “sit in the ashes” with you—without minimizing, judging, or rushing your healing process. “For seven days Job’s friends sat in silence—sometimes, that’s all we need.” Grieve Without Comparison Your pain is valid, even if others have it worse. This episode addresses the tendency to minimize your own suffering and offers permission to mourn at your own pace. “Healing is not a competition—it’s a process.” Honor Different Grieving Styles Don’t expect everyone in your family to process pain the same way. Grace and patience protect relationships from being torn apart during crisis. Anchor in Truth, Not Fear When fear and catastrophic thinking take over, Dr. Barry encourages listeners to pause and return to “what is true today.” Worrying about every “what if” tomorrow is not God’s design. “God promises what we need for today—not for every ‘what if’ tomorrow brings.” Worship as a Weapon True perspective and peace are found in worship, not just on Sundays, but in everyday moments. Worship redirects your focus to God’s character and faithfulness. Embrace God’s Bigger Story Even when God doesn’t “remove the rocks”—the hardships—He can “raise the water” and carry you over them, bringing profound good out of suffering. Notable Moments Catherine shares how her perspective on parenting was upended by a prodigal child season and life transitions. Dr. Barry recounts her son’s diabetes diagnosis and how walking through pain has deepened her empathy and faith. Inspiring testimony of hope: The legacy of Ashley Averell and how God brings good from heartbreak, equipping and sending young people on mission. “The greatest human tragedy—the Cross—became the foundation of our hope. God is still good, even when the rocks don’t move.” About the Guest Erin A. Barry is an author, speaker, counselor, and educational consultant. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education, an NCCA Masters of Arts, and Doctor of Clinical Christian Counseling. Erin’s passion is to see people walking in wholeness, body, soul, and spirit as God designed. She is the author of Yes, You Can Homeschool! The Terrified Parent’s Companion To Homeschool Success and, alongside her husband Brett, is co-founder of inseparableLives.com, a ministry devoted to nurturing Christ-centered hearts dedicated to oneness with God, spouse, and community. Episode Resources inseparableLives.com – More about Dr. Erin Barry and her ministry. Yes, You Can Homeschool! The Terrified Parent’s Companion To Homeschool Success – Buy on Amazon catherinesegars.com – Catherine's free Christian parenting resources and newsletter. Christian Parent/Crazy World podcast archive Previous episodes: How Can a Good God Allow So Much Evil and Suffering in the World?(w/ Dr. Douglas Groothuis) Call to Action Are you in a season where your carefully written life script has been torn up? Do you wonder how to support your children when you yourself are shaken? Listen in for compassionate, biblically wise encouragement that brings both honesty and hope. How do you model to your children what it means to grieve, persevere, and worship in the midst of disappointment? Share your thoughts or experiences—your story might encourage another parent walking a similar journey. Don’t miss next week as Dr. Barry returns with more practical wisdom for navigating life’s greatest challenges—with faith,

Every Christian parent will, at some point, “blow it” with their kids—but what you do next could be the difference between wounds that linger and relationships that deepen. In this special “Best Of” episode, host Catherine tackles one of the most universal and important questions in parenting: How do you reset when you’ve messed up with your kids? Whether it’s a moment of lost control, harsh words, or simply allowing daily stresses to overflow, the fallout can feel overwhelming. And yet, as Catherine reveals, these are the moments that matter most in shaping your child’s faith, resilience, and trust. To guide listeners through this minefield, Catherine welcomes Kirsten Vossler, a mother of nine (now ten!)—and host of the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast—who has worn just about every ministry hat imaginable: children’s pastor, worship leader, writer, conference speaker. Most importantly, she’s a “real life, grace-filled, occasionally blown it, but willing to repair” mom who believes that even when the stage gets smaller, the impact gets deeper. In This Episode: Kirsten Vossler shares her “seven-step reset” for when relationships with your kids feel fractured, starting with the courage to just stop in the heat of the moment and physically remove yourself if needed. Both Catherine and Kirsten open up about their own imperfect moments—reminding listeners that every parent is in need of God’s grace and practical tools. Step-by-step, Kirsten offers ways to invite God into your frustration, humble yourself with heartfelt apologies (including the power of actually asking your child “Will you forgive me?”), and walk forward with tenderness, not guilt. They discuss the messy intersections of past wounds, present stressors, and the spiritual battle within, encouraging parents to invite the Holy Spirit to heal both their hearts and their children’s. Notable Moments and Quotes: “Time doesn’t heal all wounds. If we ignore these moments, our kids carry them into adulthood.” – Catherine “Sometimes, we feel like the only options are to give up or give in—but there’s a better way: to reset, reconnect, and model humility.” – Kirsten Vossler Kirsten Vossler offers the truth: “Perfection isn’t the goal. Even the best parents can’t save or heal their kids completely. But we can model turning to Jesus—the only One who can.” As Catherine sums it up, humility and repair don’t diminish your authority as a parent—they deepen trust and show your kids what grace looks like in real time. About the GuestKirsten Vossler is a mama of nine (make that ten!), former children’s pastor and worship leader, and the gentle, authentic voice behind the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast. Her steps have been forged in the crucible of daily life with a big family—and a bigger heart for connection and growth. Parenting is crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone.This week, try Kirsten Vossler’s reset steps the next time you “lose it”—and notice how God meets you in your humility. How will you choose connection over perfection with your kids this week? EPISODE LINKS: Kirsten's Website & Podcast Subscribe and invite Catherine into your parenting journey at catherinesegars.com for free resources, encouragement, and faith-filled insight. Parenting as a Christian may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nothing repairs a parent-child relationship—or models the heart of the gospel—more powerfully than eight humble words: “I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me.” In a world where authority is often prized over humility, Catherine shines a light on the crucial, yet challenging, words every parent must be willing to say. In this deeply practical “Best Of” episode, Catherine explores why these eight words are harder to say than most—and how they carry the potential to transform the atmosphere of our homes. With her trademark honesty and grace, Catherine tackles the barriers parents face in admitting fault and offers biblically-grounded wisdom for restoring trust when we inevitably get it wrong. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: The three critical objectives achieved when parents humbly apologize, including healing breaches in trust, modeling biblical repentance, and affirming your child’s growth and autonomy. Why saying “I’m sorry” isn’t always enough—and the importance of going beyond surface-level apologies to confessing, “I was wrong,” especially when our delivery lacks love. A breakdown of the four parenting phases—caregiver, cop, coach, and counselor—and how operating in the wrong one can damage relationships with older kids. Catherine’s actionable, eight bonus words: “What can I do to make it right?”—a powerful next step for restoration and collaboration with your child. Rooted in 1 Corinthians 13, Catherine reminds listeners that even “if I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy, but I don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.” She vulnerably shares her own journey toward quicker humility and confesses her husband models this with grace she’s always striving to emulate. Notable Quotes from This Episode: “Parenting really isn’t about perfection. It’s about formation—ours and theirs.” “Dictators last for a season. But at some point, there will be a citizens’ revolt.” “Our kids need to see humility and repentance from us.” If you want a legacy of trust, openness, and faith in your family, tune in to learn the eight essential words every parent should have in their relational toolbox. Ask Yourself:When was the last time you told your child, “I was wrong. Please forgive me”? What might change in your home if humility and grace defined your relationship repairs? Want more practical steps for rebuilding after mistakes? Don’t miss next week’s "best of" episode, where Catherine welcomes back Kirsten Vossler, host of the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast, to share seven practical, grace-filled steps for resetting when you’ve blown it with your kids. Subscribe and invite Catherine into your parenting journey at catherinesegars.com for free resources, encouragement, and faith-filled insight. Parenting as a Christian may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Few topics divide opinion in the church like money. But what if much of what we've been taught about giving isn't truly biblical? In this eye-opening episode, host Catherine welcomes Bible scholar and award-winning author, Clifton Payne Jr., to set the record straight on what the Bible really says about money, tithing, and generosity. They cut through decades of confusion and misinterpretation, addressing the guilt-driven giving, prosperity promises, and toxic church culture that have warped how Christians view their finances—and God's character. Clifton Payne Jr. reveals little-known truths from scripture (including the fact that there were actually three different tithes in ancient Israel, not just one!) and explains how biblical principles of stewardship are often misunderstood or misapplied today. What You Will Discover in This Episode: The deep mistrust many Christians have toward churches when it comes to money—and how church scandals, manipulation, and legalism fuel that distrust. Surprising discoveries like the three biblical tithes, special rules for ancient Israel, and what Jesus actually teaches about taxes, tithing, and giving. Why tithing is a model—not a requirement—for modern believers, and how generosity should flow from gratitude rather than obligation. The crucial principle of "first fruits": why giving God our best and first, not our leftovers, directly impacts the spiritual life of our families. The freedom found in New Testament giving, where the heart matters far more than the amount, and how generosity can be an antidote to materialism. Powerful stories—like the unforgettable account of Otzi, an African woman whose tiny, sacrificial gift became the greatest offering in the eyes of God. The conversation is both practical and pastoral, exploring how to talk about money with your kids, build healthy giving habits, and reclaim joy in generosity—even if you’ve been wounded by church abuse around this issue in the past. About the Guest:Clifton Payne Jr. is the author of What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It's Different Than You Think, a book that has earned recognition from both the American Bookfest and International Book Awards. Drawing on years of pastoral ministry and biblical scholarship (including studies at Hebrew University in Jerusalem), Clifton untangles scripture from tradition, helping listeners return to the heart of God in their finances. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Don’t start with guilt or pressure—start with prayer and let giving flow from what God puts on your heart. Giving first is a spiritual discipline that breaks the grip of materialism and invites God’s faithfulness into your life. Teaching kids to give as a first priority (not last, as our culture encourages) will shape their lifelong habits and trust in God. Generosity has enormous power to heal wounds, restore faith, and transform communities when practiced in freedom and love. Episode Resources:What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think by Clifton H. Payne Jr.  Catherine's Free Parenting Resources Other Episodes in This Series: EPISODE 175: When Leaders Exploit the Flock: A Biblical Response to Scandals ( w/ Clifton Payne Jr.) EPISODE 174: Finding Financial Freedom: Breaking Free from Debt and Anxiety (w/ Jade Durham)   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.