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Do you desire to stop reacting in the moment and parent with purpose? Are you ready for a deeper connection with Christ and your child? Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes focus on educating and equipping you to recognize the unique individual God entrusted to you and will empower you to partner with Him to parent with eternal perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective View all episodes Godly Motherhood View all episodes Do you desire to stop reacting in the moment and parent with purpose? Are you ready for a deeper connection with Christ and your child? Godly Motherhood episodes focus on educating and equipping you to recognize the unique individual God entrusted to you and will empower you to partner with Him to parent with eternal perspective. All episodes Are you in need of hope? Is your spirit lacking joy? Do you seek peace? Are you tired of comparison? The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast was created for women to sharpen their understanding of Jesus and uncover all He desires for us to live a rich life and deepen our love for Him. Uncover how eternal perspective extends beyond our personal walk. Cling to the truth that Jesus has a unique plan for your life and learn how to choose Him over culture. Future episodes will continue to emphasize an intentional, eternal perspective lifestyle while focusing on faith, life, relationships, parenting, and simply sitting at the feet of Jesus to mature our hearts in genuine worship and gratitude. All episodes FIND WHAT YOU NEED

Self confidence isn't the same as GODLY confidence. A self-confident person relies on self. Godly confidence looks to the One Who created them. So, how do you help your kids build a GODLY confidence? This FREE resource will help you: Debunk the myth of parenting perfection Go deeper with a biblical worldview of free will Know what to do if your child doesn't accept a biblical identity Be aware of culture, without being afraid of culture Guide your child to decipher feelings vs. biblical truths Gain practical advice on how to lead your child back to Him GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* I WANT MY CHILD TO HAVE GODLY CONFIDENCE

What’s the best way for children to see the light of Jesus? It begins with you. How can you help your children desire relationship with Him? The answer? When you crave Him in your personal life and reflect that fellowship in all you do. The most loving gift you can offer your children is to personally love God in a maturing relationship through Jesus. As you inhale Him, you will effortlessly exhale Him onto your children through actions, reactions, words, and desires. This FREE resource will help you: Pray intentionally Encourage you with the fact that God cares about the concerns of your heart Ask God for specific requests for your children Memorize Scripture to carry you - no matter the season of life you and your children face Equip you to be a prayer warrior...and your children, too GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* I WANT PURPOSED PRAYERS

To become a set-apart woman, you must ensure your personal identity is rooted in Him. You know life assigns many labels - Wife, Mom, Grandma, Sister, Daughter, Employee, Homemaker, Beautiful...and some not very flattering...or Christlike. Are your labels helpful or harmful? This free resource answers that question. Who does God say you are? This FREE resource will help you: View your identity through God's eyes Equip you with Scriptural identity truths Learn who God says you are Overcome the lies you've been told (or that you're telling yourself) Identify your talents, without tying your accomplishments to your identity Uncover what God has purposed for you Find out how your burdens can become blessings for multiple generations Become a set-apart woman equipped to help her children build godly identity GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* I WANT TO BE SET-APART

A lot of Christian moms ask me about discipline. Isn't it biblical to discipline kids? Of course, but discipline won't be effective if it's not done with intention. Correction should lead to connection... it doesn't always have to end in tears, tantrums, and tense relationships. Discipline can be redeeming, because discipline should be discipleship. Jesus commands us to make disciples, and our children must be discipled... especially when they make mistakes. This FREE resource will help you: Discover the meaning of biblical discipline Avoid reacting in the moment (e.g. stop yelling) Learn what "spare the rod" in Proverbs 13:24 really means Parent your kids' hearts, not just their behavior How to guide your child to seek God in the hard times GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* I WANT TO DISCIPLE MY KIDS' HEARTS

Do you feel like you say the wrong things to your kids? Or maybe you say the right things, but you're frustrated at how your tone sounded. Here's the thing: A lot of mothers struggle with this. How can we discipline kids, while also making sure every word disciples them to Christ? This FREE resource will help you: Absorb Scripture to shift your mindset about the words you choose Understand why yelling doesn't help in the long run Help you break the habit of yelling Understand why your children aren't listening Build a stronger connection with your kids Pray intentionally about your words GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* I WANT GODLY WORDS SPOKEN IN MY HOUSE

As a Christian mother, you're commanded to raise your children to know and love Jesus. Your influence doesn't end when they're grown. Even if they choose to turn away from God. Or not obey His commands. How do you push through the pain and keep looking Up through the trials and tribulations? This FREE resource will help you: Believe that God can change hearts no matter the circumstances Receive heart-to-heart encouragement from a mom who has been through the fire Cling to His truths, even when your child doesn't Incorporate Scripture into prayers for your older kids Learn practical tips for connection Remember that your prodigal is still His child GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* BE ENCOURAGED + EQUIPPED FOR CONNECTION

GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* BECOME A GODLIER MOM

It's never too early to start parenting your little ones to choose Christ over culture. Even if they can't understand everything you say, you're preparing a firm foundation. Think of the nursery rhymes you heard as a small child, and how those songs are still memorable. That's why I wrote this free devotional for the tiny heart (or hearts) that God has entrusted you to steward. Because you're building a firm foundation now - for them to construct their personal house of faith. This FREE resource will help your child: Spend one-on-one time with you Feel your peace as you read biblical truths Start learning foundational facts that they can remember forever Begin memorizing Bible verses Understand the gospel Learn to pray GET YOUR FREE RESOURCE First name* Last name* Email* I WANT A FIRM FOUNDATION FOR MY CHILD

Have you decided peers and culture won't be the main influence over your children? Are you ready to replace "good" parenting with godly parenting and connection? Would you like to chase Christ over culture with your children? Are you ready to raise kids who choose CHRIST instead of CULTURE? Are you ready to connect with your kids on a DEEPER level? Are you ready to parent with a CONFIDENCE that only comes from God? You know that you need to confidently parent for Christ without fear or regret... Except there's SO much darkness in the world. Have you decided you WON'T let today's culture be the main influence over your children? You need to learn how to stop being a good mom and become a godly parent . SHOW ME HOW! Did parenting feel like it would be a lot easier... before you became a mother? Remember, you're NOT meant to parent in your strength. If you feel…inadequate, GUILTY, discouraged, or OVERWHELMED in motherhood... you’re not alone. The days go by so quickly and you feel like you're not being a "good Christian mom." God calls you to raise SET-APART kids, but you can’t, until YOU ARE set-apart through Christ. Are you ready to move from overwhelmed to overjoyed? I NEED THAT CONFIDENCE! The overwhelm? The worry? The stress? Those thoughts and feelings DON'T come from God... Through Christ, you can raise children with a strong mind, heart, and identity defined by Him . Introducing Chooses CHRIST over CULTURE for herself and her family Has JOY and PEACE while parenting her children Builds an unshakable CONNECTION with her kids A community of moms AND 1:1 mentorship that makes you a GODLY (not just "good") Mom who: APPLY NOW How you'll transform in 12 weeks: In The Set-Apart Collective you'll: Receive one-on-one AND group mentorship You'll get heart-to-heart mentorship in two private sessions, while also having weekly mentorship calls with like-minded mothers. Create a Family Vision/Mission Statement Your Family Vision / Mission Statement will help you pray intentional prayers for your child and your family. The God-ordained vision and mission will help you find even more joy in motherhood. Learn to parent the heart, so discipline becomes DISCIPLESHIP You will learn how to use your kids' behavior as an opportunity to parent the HEART not just the behavior . PREPARE your kids to follow Christ in their MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS, TEEN YEARS, and BEYOND You don't have to be worried about your kids being influenced by culture, peers, or mental struggles. When you parent to PREPARE and not REPAIR, you will have the tools you need to build their identity in Christ. Do life with like-minded mothers on the same mission for Christ You get to connect with other moms with the same values as you. Together, we can share struggles with one another, pray for one another, and encourage each other. Lifelong friendships will be made. I NEED THIS! Bonus An EXTRA free 1:1 MENTORSHIP CALL How we'll sanctify your life, together : WEEK 1 WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 Introduction: Set-Apart Parenting Seek God First Establish Identity Teach Truth Lay the groundwork to break free from relying on self and be equipped to allow God to CARRY you in parenting. Make the Lord a priority in motherhood in ways you've never considered... until now. Your actions, thoughts, AND reactions... they either point to Christ or a fallen world. What are you modeling to your children? You'll find out how to seek God like never before. Before you help your children find and grow their identity, YOU have to have a solid identity. You'll understand your PURPOSE on a deeper level, stop questioning your worth, and find the TRUTH about your identity according to His Word. In a world that is SO fixated on teaching your children lies, what do you do? You teach them HIS TRUTHS. You'll learn timeless, biblical tools to teach your children... so they won't be swayed by a secular culture. WEEK 4 WEEK 5 WEEK 6 WEEK 7 A Set-Apart Woman Being set-apart begins with our hearts and minds. If your soul and conscience are set on God, your ACTIONS and REACTIONS will point your children towards Him. Parent Set-Apart Kids Do you want your kids to look more like the WORLD or THE WAY? Are you tired of being concerned about the middle school, teen, and adult years? You will be able to parent set-apart kids with God's confidence. Arm for Battle A set-apart mom knows TIME IS SHORT. The devil seeks to devour her, her children, and her family. She trains for earthly battles the way God instructs, with a peace that surpasses understanding. Relationships Your relationship with God is the STANDARD for all your relationships. Whether it's that one difficult person or the child you want an even deeper connection with, you'll know how to flourish with family and friends. WEEK 8 Training You will be equipped to train your children to be set-apart... such a skill becomes a blessing that can be passed down for GENERATIONS. By building a legacy of faith, you'll be a GODLY mom. "Terri Hitt has been an absolute blessing to me as a mother. Her practical and insightful guidance on how to shepherd a child in a way that can foster their spiritual growth has transformed my perspective. I truly appreciated the thoughtfulness and care she put into every detail, from the beautiful course design to the live trainings and recordings that gave me a real sense of community. Terri's Bible reading plans were a wonderful addition to the Collective, as it is so important for me to deepen my own walk with the Lord while nurturing my children's spiritual lives. I am so grateful for her wisdom and the way she pours her heart into helping families thrive in their faith." Emily "I was so grateful for God's perfect timing in leading me to be a part of the Set-Apart Collective. As a momma who parented four kids into their teen and young adult years and suddenly found herself in 'round two' with a baby as an adoptive mom, I feel like this was the perfect season to re-focus on my calling as a mom. The information and wisdom Terri shares in this collective is just what my heart needed to give me strength and conviction to start back at square one and be intentional once again to raise young people who love and seek Jesus. I recommend this information to new moms, seasoned moms and all those in between. The information is concise yet deep and will encourage women to live up to our highest calling - motherhood that points to Jesus." Sammie It wasn’t until we connected in person at a LIVE event that I truly saw the depth of Terri's calling. I was immediately drawn to her love for the Father, her gentle wisdom , and—if I’m honest—her best “calling card”: her daughter Marissa. The joy and light of Christ that radiated from her made it clear Terri wasn’t just teaching godly parenting—she was living it out, and it was bearing beautiful fruit. Before joining the Set Apart Collective in January, I thought being a godly mom meant adjusting what I was doing with my daughter —finding the right Bible study or correcting behavior with Scripture. But the longer I tried that approach, the more I felt like something was missing . It wasn’t clicking the way I thought it should. Through Terri’s guidance, I realized the true shift wasn’t about changing what I was doing with my child—it was about changing what I was doing that drew me closer to Jesus. When I started focusing on intimacy with Him, everything else began to overflow from that place. That was the missing link I didn’t even know how to name before. Inside the Set Apart Collective, I found more than just a parenting program—I found a home. A sisterhood of godly women walking through the same questions and struggles I had . I found a mentor in Terri who doesn’t sugarcoat or pretend to have all the answers, but who shares from her own wins and wounds, always pointing us back to Christ. I received tools that helped me root my identity in Him—and model that process for my daughter. Now I have language to express what had been stirring in my spirit all along. I’m parenting from overflow instead of striving. I feel nurtured, supported, and equipped in a way I never did before. If you’re wondering, “Will this really work for me?”—I get it. I was there, too. But here’s what I’ve learned: if you’re ready to stop chasing perfection and start pursuing Jesus more deeply, then this is exactly where you need to be. Terri doesn’t just teach parenting—she walks with you, shoulder to shoulder, as you become the woman and mother God created you to be. Carolyn Wiley Founder of Rose and Pearl Publishing Being a "Christian" isn't enough. You long to nurture active, lasting faith but wonder how. A hectic once-a-week trip to church isn't enough to cultivate the relationship you dream of with Christ and for your children. You feel like there isn’t enough time through the week to dig deeper in your personal walk with Jesus or disciple your children the way you thought you would. You wonder how to find TIME for Him yourself and question how to lead your children to Jesus. Fears or concerns arise when you see kids follow the influence of friends or listen to society more than parents. You don’t want that to happen in your home. You're not the only woman who wants more for her children NOW and for ETERNITY. SHOW ME HOW You could listen to another podcast... or you could start putting GODLY PARENTING into ACTION. You could keep going to therapy... but it's not rooted in biblical principles. You could keep talking to your friends and getting advice from other moms... but they haven't parented two sets of children over two generations. You can only bring your family closer to Christ with time and commitment... and you're not alone. You can only bring your family closer to Christ with time and commitment... and you're not alone. You can only bring your family closer to Christ with time and commitment... and you're not alone. You can only bring your family closer to Christ with time and commitment... and you're not alone. An investment of ETERNAL value 12 weeks 8 weeks The sanctification of becoming a GODLY mom is the same as polishing a diamond that was always there... Here's what life will look like AFTER: You're going to grow closer to the Lord, You're going to find out what's holding you back in parenting (in ways you never thought of before), You're going to grow closer to your child, Church won't feel like the only solution to keep your kids connected to Christ... you'll find new, unique ways to INHALE Christ so you can EXHALE Him to your children. You'll STOP being a GOOD mom... and become a GODLY mom Are you ready to be a Set-Apart mom? APPLY NOW One of my favorite things about the Set Apart Collective was learning that we are the first version of Jesus that our children will see . That's weighty , convicting , and absolutely changes the way I interact with and disciple my son." Darby GODLY OVER GOOD GODLY OVER GOOD GODLY OVER GOOD GODLY OVER GOOD Losing my adult daughter was THE hardest experience as a parent... The loss of my daughter was a wake-up call... Mom to mom? I DON'T WANT YOU TO ASK YOURSELF THE SAME QUESTION I DID... "What went WRONG?" I thought I was a good mom - doing it all the right way. But I wasn't focused on being a GODLY mom. Your kids need you to lead the way to Christ. You can't exhale what you don't inhale. Are you ready to be a set-apart mom leading your children straight to Christ? I'm mom of four who raised my children in two “sets,” and over two generations, allowing me a unique perspective about parenting. I've learned... Nothing is more important than raising the children God ENTRUSTED to you - for Him. YES! This program isn't for everyone... but it is for you if you know these truths... You won't get worldly advice, You'll get a wisdom-filled, biblical perspective You won't know how to just parent for today... You'll learn how to parent your kids for today AND for their ETERNAL LIFE You won't get common parenting critiques, You'll get intentional, personal, Christian mentorship that always points to Him Like most moms, you probably plan for the temporal (e.g., the right baby crib, the right school, the right finances for their future...) . But how quickly do those plans fade to memories? How are you planning for the eternity of your children? I WANT TO START! In The Set-Apart Collective™, you’ll be strengthened to live a life that pursues Christ in every way. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord .” Isaiah 55:8 You desire: Deeper relationship with Christ and your children To stop using worldly wisdom Be more prayerfully purposed To raise “godly ,” not "good" or “typical” children To raise your children with faith that thrives even after they are grown To parent the heart , not the behavior Discipline to disciple , not punish To stop overwhelm and become overjoyed “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise .” Deuteronomy 6:6-7 Have you planned for your home to be a foundation for eternity? “Where there is no vision, the people perish .” Proverbs 29:18a FAQs Do I have to be a Christian to join? Yes... This mentorship is for you if you're a Christian so our foundational values are in alignment. What if this is above my budget? I understand... but I also KNOW how ESSENTIAL it is to teach our children (and future generations) TRUTH. And if you've read this far? You probably do, too. You don't want anxiety to be passed down. You don't want to be concerned about the middle school and teen years. Peace that surpasses understanding? A stronger relationship with Christ? The surety that you *and* your family are choosing Christ over culture? That's an investment of ETERNAL value. Can't I get this kind of mentorship at my church, from a family member, from a friend, by reading the Bible, etc.? Yes and NO... I teach DIRECTLY from God's Word (i.e. When I mentor you, I'm not adding or subtracting from Scripture). HOWEVER, the Bible shows how VITAL it is for women to mentor and be mentored (Titus 2:3-5). We will go DEEP and address SPECIFIC ways you can (or can continue to) show your kids The Way... instead of the world. I pray before - and during - EVERY call. In Christ, I mentor you. ↑ YES... HELP ME DO THIS! What would your life look like if you said YES to GODLY, set-apart parenting? What would your child's life look like if you taught them how to be in the world... but NOT of the world? What would your life (and your family's life) look like if you became a wise mentor who purposely guides godly growth . "The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down ." Proverbs 14:1 I WANT IN!

Break the LIE That GOOD Parenting Creates GODLY Kids GET THE PAPERBACK VERSION GET THE KINDLE VERSION Say goodbye to the LIES culture tells mothers Make mom guilt go away Learn the difference between being a GOOD mom and a GODLY mom Help your children grow with confidence AND stay connected with you Leave a legacy of godliness for generations MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR Doing the “right” things WON'T lead your kids to Christ ...written by a mom who tried I wanted my kids to have a childhood that was COMPLETELY different than mine... In doing so, I showed my little ones the world instead of The Way. Sure, I would've said we were a Christian family, but I was doing so many things wrong... with good intentions, of course. What happened? I raised "typical" teens instead of Christians who were set-apart. My adult daughter chose culture over Christ. I DON'T WANT YOU TO GO THROUGH THE SAME STRUGGLES. STOP BEING A "GOOD" MOM... BECOME A GODLY MOM. "This is going to set some mamas FREE. Terri Hitt is a mom who’s been refined by fire. A woman who doesn’t teach from a pedestal but from her knees. And a writer who keeps pointing us back to Jesus, again and again." CAROLYN WILEY, FOUNDER OF ROSE AND PEARL PUBLISHING Do you want to break free from the LIES? The Good Mom Trap is a godly book to bring into your life. GET THE PAPERBACK VERSION GET THE KINDLE VERSION

I'm Terri Hitt, Christian Motherhood Mentor. I equip women to STOP being good moms - and become GODLY moms who parent with a heart for eternity and raise kids who chase Christ over culture. a Purposed Parenting Plan™️, learn a Motherhood Mindset Model™️, parent the heart of your child, not just the behavior, and learn to disciple, not punish. I also offer a weekly podcast, Purposed Parent Connected Child. Break the parenting beliefs that are holding you back... 🔗LEARN MORE ABOUT MY BOOK Do you know the difference between a GOOD mom and a GODLY mom? Hint: A GOOD mom loves her kids but gets sidetracked by day-to-day activities and responsibilities. A GODLY mom lives with eyes on eternity and chases Christ over culture with her kids. Which do you want to be? I WANT TO BE A GODLY MOM! If you're like me, you want your children to have the fruits of the Spirit , but it begins with YOUR walk with Jesus... Your heart may yearn for an even better relationship with your child , but over time commitments and chaotic days crowd out plans you had to grow in Christ. You might feel guilty because you haven't prioritized growing your own relationship with God . It might feel like you don't have enough time in a day, so you hope that your children will somehow mature their walk with God at a once-a-week church service... You're a good mom. Are you ready to become a GODLY mom? Have a deeper CONNECTION with your kids Know how to lead kids to CHRIST, no matter what today's CULTURE looks like STOP being a GOOD mom, so you can become a GODLY mom I WANT TO BE LEARN MORE! SCHEDULE A CALL Schedule a time for a FREE, 15-minute call to talk about how I can help you. Let's exchange emails LISTEN TO THE PODCAST The Godly Motherhood Podcast episodes equip you to choose Christ over culture for your family. On this podcast, we don't settle for lukewarm relationships with our kids, we're all about practical, biblical ways to connect with our children. Listen to the podcast RESOURCES Are you ready to read personalized, faith-led resources for your connection with Christ and your children? Browse my FREE e-book resources to become a godlier mom. View the resources Testimonials "I am always amazed, encouraged, and inspired by listening to Terri's podcasts. She is like your modern Esther of the Bible. Terri embodies such a love for the Lord and a strong clarity about life in a confused culture. Her messages and topics are timeless and relevant. Her mission to mentor women on choosing Christ over culture and to raise children to love and follow the Lord is contagious. I have followed Terri for some time, and I am always in awe at the wonderful things stored in the treasures of her heart. May God continue to bless the work of her hand." Liz - heaven4thehome.com Remember, your child was entrusted to you by God for mentorship and discipleship. You and your children were created for relationship and deep connection with one another and Christ . Children desire relationshi p that fills individual needs inside them based on their unique personality and interests. Only Christ's truths can transform you into an attuned mother for the children He placed with you. I need to share an important truth: If you are not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway them away from Christ. Your children will build identity or confidence through what society, peers, and culture preach. They'll follow the world instead of the Way. I used to want to be a GOOD mom... Losing my firstborn changed my perspective. While raising her I thought I was following Christ, but busy moments influenced me to act more like a mom following the world instead of the Way. My heart and eyes were opened. I no longer wanted to be a good mom, but a GODLY mom. Choosing CHRIST over CULTURE is my ongoing goal as a parent, and I know you want the same for you, too . HI, I'M TERRI → Here's a truth: Christ created connection and knows the way to your child's heart is through Him . He has given you privilege, purpose, and power to raise godly children for Him . That's why I equip you with a PLAN that is as unique as your children and desires are: BECOME A GODLY MOM "And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up." Deuteronomy 6:5-7 WHY being a good mom isn't enough ... FREE EBOOK GET THE FREE EBOOK You're on your way to becoming a GODLY mom! Make sure to check your spam folder so youdon't miss your free e-book! Christian Parenting Author Terri Hitt Good to Godly Book On the BLOG The Answer to Building Identity Rooted in Christ - Part 1 You know the answer to building identity rooted in Christ isn't found in the shifting voices of the world, but in the unchanging truth of who they are in Christ. How do you ensure you guide them to that important truth? Going to Church Isn’t Enough to Raise Godly Kids It takes more than several church services to raise godly kids and strengthen a Christian family. Here's what moms can do... How Much Time Should I Spend With God? How many times have you sat with the Father wondering how much longer the passage you were reading would last? Or maybe you wondered whether you've spent enough time in prayer. Is Spanking Biblical? Why do some parents choose to spank instead of correcting their children in another way? What do we think we’re teaching our children when we respond with such forceful correction? Should spanking be the first act a parent takes when a child needs correcting? Are parents behaving biblically when they spank? Or are they succumbing to frustration? View All Posts Statement of Faith and Email Address Step 1 Visit The Set-Apart Collective page. Next Steps Step 2 Fill out your application. BECOME A GODLY MOM Step 3 It's official: You're going to become a GODLY mom! Statement of Faith Terri Hitt believes Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior. At Terri Hitt Co., LLC, we seek to know Him more clearly and humbly depend on Jesus more each moment. We joyfully strive to equip women to leave a legacy of Christ for their family and future generations. We believe in the Truth of God’s Holy Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and strive to follow Jesus in life, as well as in coaching practices.

MENTOR, AUTHOR, SPEAKER, "GODLY MOTHERHOOD" PODCAST HOST LEARN MORE Ready to learn from a mom with over 46 years of experience? CLICK TO LEARN MORE BOOK COMING SOON Most women strive to be GOOD moms. We revert to reliance on personal strength and follow a definition set by the world's standards. "The Good Mom Trap" shows Christian mothers how to shift from that GOOD mom mentality and become a GODLY mom who abides and parents in His strength. I EQUIP MOTHERS TO CHOOSE CHRIST OVER CULTURE... Urgency is the word I use to describe why I mentor moms to raise GENERATIONS of Christ followers. God has instilled such a deep desire within me to help women uproot lies. Whether it's through their personal identity to the way they disciple their kids, I equip moms to lead their children to The Way instead of the world. You might wonder why I'm so passionate about moms. It's because I was once the woman who tried to be a "good" parent. At the time, I didn't realize I was filling the expectations of family or society, instead of fixing my eyes above to purposely become a GODLY parent. I raised two kids, only to realize that they were "typical" teens and young adults...instead of being set apart for Him. Before our third child came home, my husband and I agreed to parent our baby to love, honor, and shine Christ. We crafted a purposed plan and remained committed, even when trials like deaths in the family and job losses happened. Later, we brought our fourth child home at the age of nine years. Despite facing unique medical and learning needs, we gathered at the feet of our Father and stayed with that Purposed Parenting Plan. In following years, our firstborn daughter passed away in her twenties. This devastating loss drew me even closer to Christ. He showed me just how VITAL it is to focus on eternity. Mothers get distracted - paying attention to the "now" (the right crib, which school their kids will attend, how to approach the middle school and teen years). But remember, your children are on loan. God has ENTRUSTED you to steward them for Him. That's why I speak at events, appear on podcasts, wrote my book, and welcome media features. Are you ready to widen and deepen your relationship with Jesus? I invite you to join me in a Spirit-led movement to normalize GODLY over GOOD parenting - and to ensure that women understand the DIFFERENCE - between good parenting by the world's standards and in parenting through the Way. Let's pursue GODLY motherhood together. Featured On FROM CHAOS TO CHRIST REPLAY → CIRCLE 31 PODCAST EPISODE 70 → CIRCLE 31 PODCAST EPISODE 28 → KINGDOM LIFE COACHING PODCAST → OUT OF THE DARKNESS PODCAST → COUNTER CULTURE MOM PODCAST → HOMESCHOOL HINTS PODCAST → BOLD JOURNEY ARTICLE → APPROVED BIO FOR PRESS & MEDIA Terri Hitt is an experienced mom of four, having raised two "sets" of kids over the course of two generations. Married to her high school sweetheart for 47 years, Terri has navigated marriage and motherhood through many different seasons of life, and has mentored countless women. With an urgency to equip women to become godly moms, Terri leads mothers to choose Christ over culture. She does this through her book, The Good Mom Trap , the Godly Motherhood Podcast, and The Set-Apart Collective™ program. Terri is also available for private mentoring and speaking engagements. Stop Being a Good Mom and Become the Godly Parent God Entrusted You to Be Disciple the Heart, Not Discipline the Behavior How to Raise Kids to Choose Christ over Culture Children Are on Loan – What Heavenly Deposit Are You Multiplying in Them? Purposed Parenting through Christ to Build Generational Faith How Your Identity Is Sabotaging Your Kids Don’t Raise Typical Children Don't Raise Typical Teens How My Daughter's Death Changed My Life How to Raise Children More Influenced by Parents than Peers How to Stop Living for Today and Focus on Eternity Guest speaking, podcasts, articles, etc. LET'S CONNECT Tell me about yourself - your media proposal and budget - and which topic lights YOU up. (Please title the email Subject, "MEDIA"). info@terrihitt.com TOPICS THAT LIGHT ME UP

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #132 – Am I Hearing You, God? Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. January, 2018 was the last time I spoke to my father-in-law. Sadly, he passed from cancer shortly after his 80th birthday. One of his best qualities and one of the things I loved most about him is that he was always ready to talk about Jesus to anyone at any time. Beyond the gospel or how Christ has changed my life, I also enjoy sharing what I call God-stories. The Lord has done so much in my life, changing me from the inside, and has provided for me beyond my wildest dreams. One of the ways He has done this is by speaking directly to me and helping me learn to love, worship, and obey Him. People have often asked me how I know when God is speaking to me. How do I know I am hearing Him through the noise, distractions, and fleshly desires that seem to be so much louder in this world? When I think about hearing from God, I think of our perfect example, Jesus. What a beautiful mentor for showing us how to hear God! I’m far from the example Christ set, but Jesus surely showed us the way to mature every aspect of our Christian walk and our relationship with the Father; especially how to hear the voice of God and respond in obedience to Him. Did you know that Jesus did not begin His earthly ministry until He was 30 years old and filled by the Holy Spirit? Philippians 2:5-7 says, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” If we pay attention to and study Scripture, we see that Jesus showed us how to walk with and hear from God. Through Him, we learn that the Holy Spirit, who lives inside every believer will guide us in the Truth. John 16:13 says, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on his own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come.” When we become believers of Christ, the Holy Spirit living within us will help us to hear from and to speak to our Heavenly Father. Romans 8:26-27 says, “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. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Jesus teaches us that: 1. God desires personal relationship. John 8:47 says, “Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” 2. God calls us to repent and listen. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 3. God calls us to connect through prayer. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 4. God calls us to know Him. Psalm 119:160 says, “The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous rules endures forever.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 5. God wants us to get rid of distractions and focus on Him. Proverbs 3:5-7 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.” 6. God calls us to renew our mind so it is in alignment with His. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” 7. God calls us to humble ourselves before Him. John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” 8. God calls us to seek His wisdom, discernment, and guidance. Psalm 27:11a says, “Teach me Your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path.” Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to Me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” 9. God speaks in different ways to each person, but always in alignment with Scripture. Isaiah 30:21 says, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” Deuteronomy 13:4 says, “You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear Him and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.” 10. God assures us that those who love and follow Him will hear His voice. John 10:4-5 says, “When He has brought out all his own, He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from Him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” How Can You Ensure You Hear From God? 1. Study His Word – Read and study the Bible so you know God’s Word, His character, commands, promises, holiness, sovereignty, and love. Then you will recognize and respond to Him. We make time for what we want to do. 2. Recognize His Voice – Once you recognize His voice, remember that God can speak loudly, as a warning to keep you from danger or to provide and protect – or He can speak softly, depending on the need and situation. He also finds personal ways to speak to each believer and follower. Situations, people, and whispering in your spirit may be some of the ways. He may speak differently to you, but God will never speak anything to you that goes against His holy Word. Know His Word and know Him, then you will recognize Him speaking to you. 3. Focus on God – Thoughts, desires, hurts, confusion, and a variety of other things can keep you from centering your mind on Him. Staying in His word, studying God’s Word, consistent prayer with Him, and intentionally maturing your walk are ways to quiet your spirit and prepare to meet and hear Him at any time. 4. Pray Scripture – Even if you have to read verses from the Bible as you speak to God, pray His powerful words to Him. As you read and pray about the splendor, holiness, sovereignty, and love of God or read His promises and truths, it becomes easier to focus on pleasing Him, praising Him, serving Him, and obeying Him. 5. Talk to God and Listen For God – Spend quiet time with the Lord, but also abide with Him through each day. Share with God. Ask Him to speak to you. You must have the desire to hear God before you will listen for Him. Be prepared to listen, pray, and obey. Make sure to check what you believe God is saying to you against Scripture and the character of God. God does speak to His children. Sometimes He fills our mind and heart with His desires, sometimes He whispers gentle commands for us to obey. Other times, God places people in our path to direct us. At other times, God may issue loud warnings in our spirit. Sometimes a Bible verse or passage may be the exact word we need. Sometimes events happen that are so personal and unique that we know the finger of God has extended to earth. These are not the only ways God works or speaks. I know the ways He usually reaches me. I’m forever thankful for my Father and pray that I am always able to hear His voice and follow His commands more clearly and quickly each day of my life. What are some benefits of making sure you clearly hear God? God’s Word and Voice Give Peace. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” God’s Word and Voice Hold Wisdom. Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” and Ecclesiastes 7:12 says, “For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.” God’s Word and Voice Convict. John 16:8 says, “And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” God’s Word and Voice give Rest. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” God’s Word and Voice Remove Fear. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s Word and Voice are Truth. John 14:6 says, “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” God’s Word and Voice Discern. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” God’s Word and Voice offer Strength. Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” God’s Word and Voice offer Hope. Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” The closer we draw to Christ, the clearer we hear our Father speak. Jesus shows us the way to God and the way to clearly hear His voice. Our patient Father waits for us to seek His wisdom, guidance, and discernment. Know He personally speaks to each of us, but also remember that His voice always aligns with Scripture and His character. Dear Heavenly Father, You are so good. Your patient guidance calls to us to seek You and follow where You lead. Thank you for the personal and intimate care You long to offer each of us who know and follow You. God, Your loving kindness is overwhelming. We pray that Your voice is the one we seek and hear. We pray that we hear You more clearly than our desires and demands. May we draw ever nearer to Christ and allow You to carry us to the heights You have purposed for us because they glorify You and draw others even nearer to You and Your ways. Father do not exalt us, but fill us with Your beautiful promises and provisions. Bring others to You. Help us walk and stay within Your guidelines and grow in the ways You purpose so that we may hear Your voice. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. Remember that you may find transcripts online at terrihitt.com. On the website you may also find my “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast and transcripts. Both podcasts are also available on iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 132 - Am I Hearing You God? Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #132 – Am I Hearing You, God? Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. January, 2018 was the last time I spoke to my father-in-law. Sadly, he passed from cancer shortly after his 80th birthday. One of his best qualities and one of the things I loved most about him is that he was always ready to talk about Jesus to anyone at any time. Beyond the gospel or how Christ has changed my life, I also enjoy sharing what I call God-stories. The Lord has done so much in my life, changing me from the inside, and has provided for me beyond my wildest dreams. One of the ways He has done this is by speaking directly to me and helping me learn to love, worship, and obey Him. People have often asked me how I know when God is speaking to me. How do I know I am hearing Him through the noise, distractions, and fleshly desires that seem to be so much louder in this world? When I think about hearing from God, I think of our perfect example, Jesus. What a beautiful mentor for showing us how to hear God! I’m far from the example Christ set, but Jesus surely showed us the way to mature every aspect of our Christian walk and our relationship with the Father; especially how to hear the voice of God and respond in obedience to Him. Did you know that Jesus did not begin His earthly ministry until He was 30 years old and filled by the Holy Spirit? Philippians 2:5-7 says, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” If we pay attention to and study Scripture, we see that Jesus showed us how to walk with and hear from God. Through Him, we learn that the Holy Spirit, who lives inside every believer will guide us in the Truth. John 16:13 says, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on his own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come.” When we become believers of Christ, the Holy Spirit living within us will help us to hear from and to speak to our Heavenly Father. Romans 8:26-27 says, “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. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Jesus teaches us that: 1. God desires personal relationship. John 8:47 says, “Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” 2. God calls us to repent and listen. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 3. God calls us to connect through prayer. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 4. God calls us to know Him. Psalm 119:160 says, “The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous rules endures forever.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 5. God wants us to get rid of distractions and focus on Him. Proverbs 3:5-7 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.” 6. God calls us to renew our mind so it is in alignment with His. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” 7. God calls us to humble ourselves before Him. John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” 8. God calls us to seek His wisdom, discernment, and guidance. Psalm 27:11a says, “Teach me Your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path.” Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to Me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” 9. God speaks in different ways to each person, but always in alignment with Scripture. Isaiah 30:21 says, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” Deuteronomy 13:4 says, “You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear Him and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.” 10. God assures us that those who love and follow Him will hear His voice. John 10:4-5 says, “When He has brought out all his own, He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from Him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” How Can You Ensure You Hear From God? 1. Study His Word – Read and study the Bible so you know God’s Word, His character, commands, promises, holiness, sovereignty, and love. Then you will recognize and respond to Him. We make time for what we want to do. 2. Recognize His Voice – Once you recognize His voice, remember that God can speak loudly, as a warning to keep you from danger or to provide and protect – or He can speak softly, depending on the need and situation. He also finds personal ways to speak to each believer and follower. Situations, people, and whispering in your spirit may be some of the ways. He may speak differently to you, but God will never speak anything to you that goes against His holy Word. Know His Word and know Him, then you will recognize Him speaking to you. 3. Focus on God – Thoughts, desires, hurts, confusion, and a variety of other things can keep you from centering your mind on Him. Staying in His word, studying God’s Word, consistent prayer with Him, and intentionally maturing your walk are ways to quiet your spirit and prepare to meet and hear Him at any time. 4. Pray Scripture – Even if you have to read verses from the Bible as you speak to God, pray His powerful words to Him. As you read and pray about the splendor, holiness, sovereignty, and love of God or read His promises and truths, it becomes easier to focus on pleasing Him, praising Him, serving Him, and obeying Him. 5. Talk to God and Listen For God – Spend quiet time with the Lord, but also abide with Him through each day. Share with God. Ask Him to speak to you. You must have the desire to hear God before you will listen for Him. Be prepared to listen, pray, and obey. Make sure to check what you believe God is saying to you against Scripture and the character of God. God does speak to His children. Sometimes He fills our mind and heart with His desires, sometimes He whispers gentle commands for us to obey. Other times, God places people in our path to direct us. At other times, God may issue loud warnings in our spirit. Sometimes a Bible verse or passage may be the exact word we need. Sometimes events happen that are so personal and unique that we know the finger of God has extended to earth. These are not the only ways God works or speaks. I know the ways He usually reaches me. I’m forever thankful for my Father and pray that I am always able to hear His voice and follow His commands more clearly and quickly each day of my life. What are some benefits of making sure you clearly hear God? God’s Word and Voice Give Peace. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” God’s Word and Voice Hold Wisdom. Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” and Ecclesiastes 7:12 says, “For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.” God’s Word and Voice Convict. John 16:8 says, “And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” God’s Word and Voice give Rest. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” God’s Word and Voice Remove Fear. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s Word and Voice are Truth. John 14:6 says, “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” God’s Word and Voice Discern. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” God’s Word and Voice offer Strength. Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” God’s Word and Voice offer Hope. Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” The closer we draw to Christ, the clearer we hear our Father speak. Jesus shows us the way to God and the way to clearly hear His voice. Our patient Father waits for us to seek His wisdom, guidance, and discernment. Know He personally speaks to each of us, but also remember that His voice always aligns with Scripture and His character. Dear Heavenly Father, You are so good. Your patient guidance calls to us to seek You and follow where You lead. Thank you for the personal and intimate care You long to offer each of us who know and follow You. God, Your loving kindness is overwhelming. We pray that Your voice is the one we seek and hear. We pray that we hear You more clearly than our desires and demands. May we draw ever nearer to Christ and allow You to carry us to the heights You have purposed for us because they glorify You and draw others even nearer to You and Your ways. Father do not exalt us, but fill us with Your beautiful promises and provisions. Bring others to You. Help us walk and stay within Your guidelines and grow in the ways You purpose so that we may hear Your voice. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. Remember that you may find transcripts online at terrihitt.com. On the website you may also find my “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast and transcripts. Both podcasts are also available on iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #021 – Peace That Passes Understanding Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Our topic today. Peace that passes understanding. Who doesn’t want to claim that? In the midst of writing this particular podcast episode, I experienced a morning that was far from peaceful. Are you a believer that there is spiritual warfare in the world? Ephesians 6:12 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” It was real today. But, as we know, God always has the final victory. Does it mean things always turn out the way we want them to? No. In fact, sometimes things get worse before they get better. But God has already and will always be the victor. Several things went wrong as I attempted to start my day and work on this episode. After I had breakfast I tuned in to listen to the podcast I had just released. I don’t always listen after the episode releases, but I kept having little thoughts that I should. About three minutes in, I realized the unedited version was aired instead of the final cut. “Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh, No, no, no.” I kept repeating. Stunned that the wrong version was being played to anyone tuning in, I was so upset. After the podcast episode was removed and the correct one aired, I realized I was still sad inside and wondered how many people had heard how terrible it sounded. I strive each week to write, record, and produce episodes that I believe God is calling and directing. I want to quality to continue to improve each week. When I heard the episode with several mistakes, it really hurt. I didn’t want people to think I didn’t care about what went out or to get too focused on the errors to hear the value behind what I was trying to say. Anxiety does not visit me often, but oh, I could feel it rising in the pit of my stomach that morning. I had to make myself focus and sit down to pray. I asked God to remove the feelings I was having and to allow me to absorb His peace, knowing that this mistake was not the worst thing that could ever happen. I stayed, and resting in God’s presence, talking to Him, until I felt His peace cover and protect me. Although it was distressing to have, and to work to quickly resolve the episode mix-up, the person most affected throughout the day was my husband. It seemed that everything he tried to do brought more problems that he had to tackle or correct. One after another issue popped to his attention and took up his time until evening arrived and it seemed he received a reprieve. You know those days. We all get to experience them. While we cannot escape the dreaded, “bad day,” we can monitor and shift our attitude and heartitude to remember what Jeremiah 12:3a says, “But as for me, Lord, you know my heart. You see me and test my thoughts.” We must continue to train ourselves to allow obstacles to extract bitterness, anxiety, and dissatisfaction from within us. We must pray for them to as we place them in God’s capable hands. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” When we, as believers, release our anxiety to God we are trusting Him, believing that our Heavenly Father will give us His peace. Even more than just calmness, we receive God Himself, the Holy Spirit within us extending His presence, comfort, and protection. Have you felt it? The deepest tranquility flowing through you, extending past our level of understanding. Isaiah 26:3 says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” When our mind is fixed on Him, when it “stays” on Him, He is faithful to His word. We have to remember Him – His strength and not rely on our own limited abilities. The verse from Isaiah relays the truth well. He keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is fixed on Him. When we trust that He will carry our loads, that He is able and desirous, we readily release our burdens to Him. Whenever I experience the slightest awareness of fear or stress, I must remember to immediately stop what I am doing and realize that means that I am attempting to carry concerns or hardships myself, which prompts me to pray. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s peace cannot be defined by the standards of the world. His ways are above our logic or limited understanding. John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” Pay attention that Jesus did not say, “If you have trouble.” He said, “When you have trouble.” Afflictions, burdens, irritations, and concerns will come. Even Jesus had hardships and troubles. Why should we expect anything less? Remember, obstacles are opportunities that press us into the arms of Jesus. We have the freedom to choose to let the experience, whether large or small, cause us to draw nearer to Him and grow in Him. Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” Peace is a gift extended as we believe and ask our Father to carry our loads. Hebrews 13:20-21 says, “Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. God so intensely desires peace to inhabit us that He is called “the God of Peace.” Peace is part of Who and What our Heavenly Father is. As believers carrying the indwelling Holy Spirit, we have that peace within us. As frail, sinful humans, we often forget that power and source because we rely on self unless we intentionally focus on Him and live with an eternal perspective mindset that pertains to all that we have been given or that affects us. Peace is absent in many, yet each of us desire it. When peace is not present in our life, it is often due to the pace we are living. Are we moving too fast? Do we set ourselves up to experience calmness or tranquility? Peace cannot exist when we move too fast to fix our spirit on God. Busy schedules and lifestyles don’t allow us time to fix our gaze above. Our heart must be given the opportunity to seek Him above all else. 2 Thessalonians 3:16a says, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” To experience peace we must abide in the Source. Isaiah 48:17-18a says, “This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river.” God knows what is best for us, and because He is a loving Father, we should listen to Him. Peace flows to those who pay heed to what God teaches and directs. We must seek to know Him in order to obey Him. As believers, it is our duty to seek Him. The closer we draw to Jesus, the more deeply we desire Him to lead our life. As we allow Him to work through us and we begin to experience the riches of a Christ-centered life, our love for Him deepens, causing us to aspire to higher obedience. Therefore, if peace is absent from our lives, there are certain questions we should stop to consider. 1. Who do I rely on? Self-reliance and reliance on God cannot co-exist. Peace cannot be present when we rely on self instead of God. 2. What do I hold in my heart? Are bitterness or unforgiveness weaving a thread through the tapestry of my emotions? Forgiveness is sometimes easily extended, but at other times, the hardships and pains of this world are too excruciating to release without total reliance on Jesus. Without erasing the disobedience of unforgiveness and bitterness from our spirit and heart, we cannot carry peace. 3. What are you afraid of? God does not give the spirit of fear. 4. How do I handle mistakes? Am I a perfectionist? Only God is perfect. Stop trying to be Him. 5. What do I value? Does materialism have a grip on me? What do I value? Where do I spend my time and money? 6. Who do I choose to grant time to? Who are the people I am with most? What kind of influence do they have on me? 7. What do I choose to grant time to? 8. Am I able to handle my emotions? Am I even-tempered? 9. What does my heart seek? 10. Where do I find my worth? Does the world carry more weight with my thoughts and actions or does the Holy Spirit living inside me influence my emotions and behavior? 1 Corinthians 13:11-13 says, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” As we intentionally mature in our Christian relationship through Jesus, we see more clearly all that the Lord has for us. Our walk leads us closer to Him in fresh ways as we discover life is not about our selfish whims and desires. Through study of His holy word, we learn ways to grow in and through Him to understand Him more clearly to please Him. As we do so, we draw the peace promised by God into our lives. 1. Know the Bible. In order to develop and deepen our on-going relationship with Jesus, we must read His word. In order to know Him and all that He desires, we have to know His word and seek and recognize His truths. Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” 2. Pray. Prayer is an integral and continuing responsibility and privilege for believers. Pray for God’s will and purpose in our life. Pray to see, know, and understand Him more clearly. Pray to make Him known to others. Pray for His peace and guidance. Psalm 85:8 says, “I will hear what God the Lord will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; but let them not turn back to folly.” We hear God speak when we are close enough to listen. 3. Search our self and motives to ensure we live according to God’s ways and purposes. Proverbs 16:7 says, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” 4. Release our dreams to Him. God created us and knows exactly what will truly fulfill us. Trust Him and His design for our life. If we live in opposition to what God desires for us, we never find peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33a says, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” 5. Believe that obstacles are opportunities. Treat them as such. Our positive mindset allows the peace of God to reside within us. Allow Him to carry the burdens and fears. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” 6. Obey God. Seek to please and rely on Him. Seek Him to know His will and ways and put them into effect in our life. Turn away from sin that may be restricting the peace of God. Ask God to seek your heart and reveal areas to you that need to be turned away from or repented and given to Him. 1 Peter 3:11 says, “Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.” 7. Gratitude, despite surroundings or events should be reflected in our heart, mind, words, and attitude. Isaiah 26:12 says, “Lord, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.” 8. Serve others less fortunate. When we look at others with a heart for and from the Lord, we seize the ways we can shine Him to others and it allows us to live with more grateful hearts. When we serve others, it causes us to examine our relationship with those we serve, and with God. Serving erases division and unites. James 3:18 says, “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 14:19 says, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” 2 Corinthians 13:11 says, “Finally, brothers rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 9. Go outdoors. Sometimes a steady heart naturally flows through us when we seek solace in His creation. Ezekiel 34:25 says, “I will make a covenant of peace with them, and cause wild beasts to cease from the land; and they will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods.” 10. Relax. God never called us to perfection. Learn to distinguish between what does not matter and can be let go. Concentrate on what God calls to attention in your life to reduce anxiety or stress. Psalm 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.” Other important questions to ponder are: Where do I find my peace? Is it ever-lasting? Does it come from trusting Jesus and my relationship with God through Him or from my surroundings and circumstances? God says He will give peace to His people. He longs for harmony and contentment to be fixed in our spirit and life. His encompassing peace truly can be well with our soul when we surrender regularly and naturally to God’s sovereignty over us and maintain a closeness that remains committed to keeping Him on the throne of our life. I want to share one more verse that is actually a promise from God. Isaiah 9:6 says, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Prince of Peace. Jesus, the Prince of Peace lives within you when you are His. There is absolutely no greater power to give you or restore peace within you than Him. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, would you please make time to leave a review and rating for the show? Send me an email at thedoovermom@gmail.com if you don’t know how and I will walk you through step-by-step. I pray you find value in our weekly topics. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Can you think of a friend who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them so that they will also find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 021 Peace That Passes Understanding Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #021 – Peace That Passes Understanding Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Our topic today. Peace that passes understanding. Who doesn’t want to claim that? In the midst of writing this particular podcast episode, I experienced a morning that was far from peaceful. Are you a believer that there is spiritual warfare in the world? Ephesians 6:12 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” It was real today. But, as we know, God always has the final victory. Does it mean things always turn out the way we want them to? No. In fact, sometimes things get worse before they get better. But God has already and will always be the victor. Several things went wrong as I attempted to start my day and work on this episode. After I had breakfast I tuned in to listen to the podcast I had just released. I don’t always listen after the episode releases, but I kept having little thoughts that I should. About three minutes in, I realized the unedited version was aired instead of the final cut. “Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh, No, no, no.” I kept repeating. Stunned that the wrong version was being played to anyone tuning in, I was so upset. After the podcast episode was removed and the correct one aired, I realized I was still sad inside and wondered how many people had heard how terrible it sounded. I strive each week to write, record, and produce episodes that I believe God is calling and directing. I want to quality to continue to improve each week. When I heard the episode with several mistakes, it really hurt. I didn’t want people to think I didn’t care about what went out or to get too focused on the errors to hear the value behind what I was trying to say. Anxiety does not visit me often, but oh, I could feel it rising in the pit of my stomach that morning. I had to make myself focus and sit down to pray. I asked God to remove the feelings I was having and to allow me to absorb His peace, knowing that this mistake was not the worst thing that could ever happen. I stayed, and resting in God’s presence, talking to Him, until I felt His peace cover and protect me. Although it was distressing to have, and to work to quickly resolve the episode mix-up, the person most affected throughout the day was my husband. It seemed that everything he tried to do brought more problems that he had to tackle or correct. One after another issue popped to his attention and took up his time until evening arrived and it seemed he received a reprieve. You know those days. We all get to experience them. While we cannot escape the dreaded, “bad day,” we can monitor and shift our attitude and heartitude to remember what Jeremiah 12:3a says, “But as for me, Lord, you know my heart. You see me and test my thoughts.” We must continue to train ourselves to allow obstacles to extract bitterness, anxiety, and dissatisfaction from within us. We must pray for them to as we place them in God’s capable hands. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” When we, as believers, release our anxiety to God we are trusting Him, believing that our Heavenly Father will give us His peace. Even more than just calmness, we receive God Himself, the Holy Spirit within us extending His presence, comfort, and protection. Have you felt it? The deepest tranquility flowing through you, extending past our level of understanding. Isaiah 26:3 says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” When our mind is fixed on Him, when it “stays” on Him, He is faithful to His word. We have to remember Him – His strength and not rely on our own limited abilities. The verse from Isaiah relays the truth well. He keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is fixed on Him. When we trust that He will carry our loads, that He is able and desirous, we readily release our burdens to Him. Whenever I experience the slightest awareness of fear or stress, I must remember to immediately stop what I am doing and realize that means that I am attempting to carry concerns or hardships myself, which prompts me to pray. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s peace cannot be defined by the standards of the world. His ways are above our logic or limited understanding. John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” Pay attention that Jesus did not say, “If you have trouble.” He said, “When you have trouble.” Afflictions, burdens, irritations, and concerns will come. Even Jesus had hardships and troubles. Why should we expect anything less? Remember, obstacles are opportunities that press us into the arms of Jesus. We have the freedom to choose to let the experience, whether large or small, cause us to draw nearer to Him and grow in Him. Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” Peace is a gift extended as we believe and ask our Father to carry our loads. Hebrews 13:20-21 says, “Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. God so intensely desires peace to inhabit us that He is called “the God of Peace.” Peace is part of Who and What our Heavenly Father is. As believers carrying the indwelling Holy Spirit, we have that peace within us. As frail, sinful humans, we often forget that power and source because we rely on self unless we intentionally focus on Him and live with an eternal perspective mindset that pertains to all that we have been given or that affects us. Peace is absent in many, yet each of us desire it. When peace is not present in our life, it is often due to the pace we are living. Are we moving too fast? Do we set ourselves up to experience calmness or tranquility? Peace cannot exist when we move too fast to fix our spirit on God. Busy schedules and lifestyles don’t allow us time to fix our gaze above. Our heart must be given the opportunity to seek Him above all else. 2 Thessalonians 3:16a says, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” To experience peace we must abide in the Source. Isaiah 48:17-18a says, “This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river.” God knows what is best for us, and because He is a loving Father, we should listen to Him. Peace flows to those who pay heed to what God teaches and directs. We must seek to know Him in order to obey Him. As believers, it is our duty to seek Him. The closer we draw to Jesus, the more deeply we desire Him to lead our life. As we allow Him to work through us and we begin to experience the riches of a Christ-centered life, our love for Him deepens, causing us to aspire to higher obedience. Therefore, if peace is absent from our lives, there are certain questions we should stop to consider. 1. Who do I rely on? Self-reliance and reliance on God cannot co-exist. Peace cannot be present when we rely on self instead of God. 2. What do I hold in my heart? Are bitterness or unforgiveness weaving a thread through the tapestry of my emotions? Forgiveness is sometimes easily extended, but at other times, the hardships and pains of this world are too excruciating to release without total reliance on Jesus. Without erasing the disobedience of unforgiveness and bitterness from our spirit and heart, we cannot carry peace. 3. What are you afraid of? God does not give the spirit of fear. 4. How do I handle mistakes? Am I a perfectionist? Only God is perfect. Stop trying to be Him. 5. What do I value? Does materialism have a grip on me? What do I value? Where do I spend my time and money? 6. Who do I choose to grant time to? Who are the people I am with most? What kind of influence do they have on me? 7. What do I choose to grant time to? 8. Am I able to handle my emotions? Am I even-tempered? 9. What does my heart seek? 10. Where do I find my worth? Does the world carry more weight with my thoughts and actions or does the Holy Spirit living inside me influence my emotions and behavior? 1 Corinthians 13:11-13 says, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” As we intentionally mature in our Christian relationship through Jesus, we see more clearly all that the Lord has for us. Our walk leads us closer to Him in fresh ways as we discover life is not about our selfish whims and desires. Through study of His holy word, we learn ways to grow in and through Him to understand Him more clearly to please Him. As we do so, we draw the peace promised by God into our lives. 1. Know the Bible. In order to develop and deepen our on-going relationship with Jesus, we must read His word. In order to know Him and all that He desires, we have to know His word and seek and recognize His truths. Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” 2. Pray. Prayer is an integral and continuing responsibility and privilege for believers. Pray for God’s will and purpose in our life. Pray to see, know, and understand Him more clearly. Pray to make Him known to others. Pray for His peace and guidance. Psalm 85:8 says, “I will hear what God the Lord will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; but let them not turn back to folly.” We hear God speak when we are close enough to listen. 3. Search our self and motives to ensure we live according to God’s ways and purposes. Proverbs 16:7 says, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” 4. Release our dreams to Him. God created us and knows exactly what will truly fulfill us. Trust Him and His design for our life. If we live in opposition to what God desires for us, we never find peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33a says, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” 5. Believe that obstacles are opportunities. Treat them as such. Our positive mindset allows the peace of God to reside within us. Allow Him to carry the burdens and fears. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” 6. Obey God. Seek to please and rely on Him. Seek Him to know His will and ways and put them into effect in our life. Turn away from sin that may be restricting the peace of God. Ask God to seek your heart and reveal areas to you that need to be turned away from or repented and given to Him. 1 Peter 3:11 says, “Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.” 7. Gratitude, despite surroundings or events should be reflected in our heart, mind, words, and attitude. Isaiah 26:12 says, “Lord, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.” 8. Serve others less fortunate. When we look at others with a heart for and from the Lord, we seize the ways we can shine Him to others and it allows us to live with more grateful hearts. When we serve others, it causes us to examine our relationship with those we serve, and with God. Serving erases division and unites. James 3:18 says, “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 14:19 says, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” 2 Corinthians 13:11 says, “Finally, brothers rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 9. Go outdoors. Sometimes a steady heart naturally flows through us when we seek solace in His creation. Ezekiel 34:25 says, “I will make a covenant of peace with them, and cause wild beasts to cease from the land; and they will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods.” 10. Relax. God never called us to perfection. Learn to distinguish between what does not matter and can be let go. Concentrate on what God calls to attention in your life to reduce anxiety or stress. Psalm 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.” Other important questions to ponder are: Where do I find my peace? Is it ever-lasting? Does it come from trusting Jesus and my relationship with God through Him or from my surroundings and circumstances? God says He will give peace to His people. He longs for harmony and contentment to be fixed in our spirit and life. His encompassing peace truly can be well with our soul when we surrender regularly and naturally to God’s sovereignty over us and maintain a closeness that remains committed to keeping Him on the throne of our life. I want to share one more verse that is actually a promise from God. Isaiah 9:6 says, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Prince of Peace. Jesus, the Prince of Peace lives within you when you are His. There is absolutely no greater power to give you or restore peace within you than Him. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, would you please make time to leave a review and rating for the show? Send me an email at thedoovermom@gmail.com if you don’t know how and I will walk you through step-by-step. I pray you find value in our weekly topics. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Can you think of a friend who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them so that they will also find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast- Episode 107 - Why It's Important to Teach Your Child to Prioritize Jesus Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 107 – Why It’s Important to Teach Your Child to Prioritize Jesus Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode about why it’s important to teach your child to prioritize Jesus… One of the highlights of my days is sharing Bible study with my two youngest daughters. Teaching the truths of God, maturing our faith together, and viewing their faith growth is a gift and blessing I never take for granted. Because we share this time, I get to hear their questions and answers, see those “aha” moments, and watch them practice their faith in daily life situations. I know I’m not responsible for their faith in Christ, for God does the work within each of us. But I do know that one decision my husband and I made years ago became the foundation upon which their faith is grounded. We committed to raising our child for Him, no matter what obstacles life threw at us. When we knew God was calling us to adopt our sweet baby girl from China in 2005, we prayerfully and purposely created a parenting plan that would be the root of biblical training she (and a sister we brought home ten years later) would receive. Because we had already parented one set of children and experienced maturing faith in Christ, my husband and I had the gift of knowing what we wanted to change and what we thought worked well the first time we parented. You probably know that I often talk about being a good versus godly parent. When I tell you that I was a good parent the first time and a godly parent in my second round of parenting, I mean that I no longer rely on self. This parenting shift has nothing to do with my children, but everything to do with honoring God with the children He entrusted to me. As my personal faith grew and I realized how parenting values in this world are so far from what God desires, I knew what I offered was a shadow of what God commands. When raising my first two, I loved the Lord, but got sidetracked without knowing it. I never realized I was a good mom who unintentionally valued the world more than the Word . How is your life? Are you intentionally living with an eternal perspective that propels you to invite Jesus to rule over your life moment my moment? Maybe you’re His, but you haven’t really submitted to daily living under His Lordship. It’s not too late. Do it today. Do it now. You see, in order to desire to raise godly children, then complete that high calling, you must be intentional . Purposed . Jesus must be the focus of your parenting . You can’t simply hope to raise kind, successful, well-adjusted kids, because they’ll be raised on the standards of this world . Without purposely teaching your kids strong and intentional identity through Christ, your children won’t have lasting joy, hope, or peace. Those qualities and gifts are only present when your child is filled with the Holy Spirit and submitted to Christ themselves. As parents, we can know we love God, be His through salvation through Jesus, but still unknowingly focus on world more than Word. How? Because we are human. We get distracted. We think that just because we love Jesus and have called Him to be our Lord and Savior that our children will do the same. But with hectic schedules and all that comes with work, home life, raising kids, fostering relationships, and you know the list goes on…unless you commit to God and with your spouse that you will do whatever it takes to raise your children for Jesus with purpose each day, time will slip away. This is why it’s important that you prioritize Christ. Moment by moment. That’s how you will teach your children to prioritize Jesus. Deuteronomy 6:5-8 says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ” Consider your home life…honestly. Do your days reflect you and your spouse loving God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength? Are God’s commandments on your hearts moment by moment? Is God top of mind or is it the newest designer bag or the errands you need to run? God made His command for parents very clear. Love Him with all your heart – with all your soul – with all your strength . You can’t do that if you don’t have a purposed relationship with Jesus. One that is growing , widening , and deepening moment by moment. Know God and His Word so you can teach your children His truths . Study God’s Word daily. Teach Him to your children moment by moment. This world is filled with deceit. How will you – how will your children recognize deceit if you don’t know God’s Word? You simply can’t . You will not recognize the lies of this world, of culture, of society, of flesh unless you know and follow God’s truths. Plant God’s commands on your heart. Impress them on your children. Not as a sword raised over their heads, but as truth you know, believe, love, and follow moment by moment. Consider this truth: You are the first Jesus your children see . How are you representing Him? Are you drawing your children toward God and His Word? Or do you ignorantly send them into the world to absorb deceit as truth? Talk about the Lord at home , on the road , when you lie down , and when you get up . Weave Him into your soul so that you breathe Him into all you do. What does this look like? This means you know Jesus well through fellowship and submission to the Word, God’s truths, and that you love and honor the Lord so much that you prioritize Him and place Him on the throne of your day. Start with Bible study, even if you have to get up earlier or listen instead of read some days. Make sure you are inhaling truth so that you can exhale truth to your children . Knowing and teaching God’s truths creates a solid foundation for your child to build on. Because you are teaching His Truth , you will begin teaching respect for God. You will teach honor and obedience to Him. Psalm 111:10 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise .” What else does this look like? Showing godly character even when no one is watching. It means following God when you relax as a family. The shows you watch, the music you listen to, the books and magazines you read should be evaluated through a lens of Christlike scrutiny. It sounds challenging. I know. We’re human. But as you submit to God in these areas, you will see the difference He makes in your life, the life of your spouse, and the life of your children and family as a whole. When you profess Jesus as your Savior, it takes effort to grow that relationship, just like it does with each person in your life. It’s frighteningly easy to drift away from the Lord and close relationship with Him. All it takes it you doing nothing. Falling into a pattern or not reading the Word, not praying, not listening for His voice and not obeying immediately when you do hear instruction. It’s taking shortcuts because you say you’re too busy, but we all know deep down that we can make time for what we really want to do. God deserves your attention. He deserves all glory and praise. As you are careful about how you live, as you teach your children about God, about relationship with Jesus, and to know truth and recognize deceit, you will also teach respect and praise for God. Ephesians 5:1-20 says, “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ .” How convicting this passage is. We need to be convicted by God’s Word, lest we continue to fall away in ways we consider small day by day…and lead our children with us . We cannot lead our children to the Way unless we live the Word. There are several important, simple truths you can easily weave into conversations with your children. These will undergird the foundation you build on Christ. Discuss these during Bible studies, show them in your words and actions daily. I’ll share some now. · God has good guidelines or commands that we must obey. · God gives Mom and Dad guidelines, too. The most important is to teach our children about Jesus. · We must fear God - which means loving and respecting Who He is. · God gives grace. · Jesus is the way to relationship with God. · The Bible (God’s Word) leads us to His truths and relationship with Jesus · Relationship with Jesus gives us the Holy Spirit. · The Holy Spirit guides us in all truth and gives us the fruits of the Spirit. · We receive godly wisdom when we obey God. · We cannot make wise or godly choices without God’s truths and wisdom. · God is truth, so He perfectly guides us in truth. · The book of Genesis in the Bible gives us the keys to a godly life that is pleasing to our Father. · The book of Romans in the Bible shows God’s righteousness. Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you .” Also lovingly teach your children that they respect God when they honor, respect, and obey you - their parent. Then do not exasperate them . Do not ignorantly show your children the world instead of the Way. God has many reasons for calling children to respect parents. When children respect God, they desire to please Him . When a child desires to please God, they build more connection and stability within the family. When family members are all respectful of and loving to one another, they honor God. A family unit is built that shines Christ in society. When this happens, the community is strengthened because family is a central component to building a strong culture, government, and world. Your children must understand that God is sovereign . They won’t learn that fact unless you believe and teach it. God must be honored. He is the Creator of all. He deserves honor and praise. As each person is created in God’s image and for His good purposes, we must intentionally treat one another with love, honor, and respect. When we direct our children to prioritize Him above all else, we train our children to rely on God and His strength within them. As they travel through life, no matter what they face, this godly mind and heart attitude will teach them to submit to their Heavenly Father. Instead of walking beside Him, they will invite Him to carry them. Assess which areas you should place focus to strengthen in 2025. Look at where you may have failed in the past. Look at the strengths you hold for building relationship with Jesus in your home. Prayerfully seek God and ask what He desires you to release. Where does He want you to focus so that you and your family see and shine Him more freely and diligently? How can you joyfully (and with open hands) direct your children to prioritize Jesus? What will you change now so you will guide your children to His Word, Truths, and feet? It’s timely that this episode is coming out just before Christmas. As you run around doing tasks such as decorating and cooking, buying presents, and having parties, enjoy yourself! Have fun experiencing the holidays, but please remember to think of this season as we imagine God does. Jesus is first. Forgive the cliché, but He is the reason for the season. We experience Christmas in the ways of the world, and as parents, we try to make the holiday a memorable and beautiful one. I’m sure God loves to see us give and spread happiness, but true joy only comes from Him – the Holy Spirit living within us. Praise God for Jesus. Thank you, Jesus for all You sacrificed for us. Please remember to stop this year (if you haven’t already) and allow your focus to shift to an eternal lens. Put Jesus first and foremost in your activities. Create new traditions that shine more focus on Him – where it needs to be. Allow your children to experience the wonder of Christ and help them deepen their walk this Christmas. It’s the only gift that will last into eternity. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that guides and guards us. Thank you for Jesus who enables us to have joyful relationship with You that lasts into eternity. Help us to be godly mothers who place Jesus first as we progress through our days. Each moment is gone so quickly that time passes before we realize we haven’t focused on what You deem important. Forgive us our negligence and disobedience. Help us seek You more intimately and openly. Help us shine You into our families in ways that change generations for Jesus. In His precious name we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with professionals who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #057 – God’s Mission for Parents Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Would you like to know one of the highlights of my days? It’s when the girls and I share Bible and devotional time. The topics change with different studies, but right now we are studying Revelation. As powerful as it is to experience studying God’s word together, I know this is not enough to ensure that they have a solid foundation on which to build a life of passionate devotion to God. Prayer time together always precedes Bible study, and we frequently pray together through the day as needs arise or if we hear of someone who needs prayer. We always try to stop what we are doing and pray in that moment. I also ask my girls to pray for me. I want them to know I rely on the Lord to provide what I need and I want them to see that it is acceptable to not have all of the answers or abilities on their own. I want my chldren to be comfortable relying on God , no matter the need. Despite enjoying the blessings of purposely sharing this study time together, my youngest was not hungry to search the scriptures alone. It was time to encourage her to commit to the next step because I know she has a growing love for Jesus, but it cannot flourish if she does not root herself in God’s word. I knew had to reach her through one of her love languages. So now, before she receives any evening screen time, she has to have read from her Bible that day. It was time to develop the pattern that would give her the lifeline she will need to cling to in this world. Here’s the truth: we all have time for what is deeply important to us. I want God and His truths and words to be the oxygen required to make it through her day. How will she crave God if she doesn’t acquire a taste for Him? We settled on a schedule and I guided her with several suggestions to begin reading. Do you know what our best surprise was? My girl realized the joy of seeking and learning from God on her own. She learned it was fun to discover more about the wisdom of God and the people highlighted in the Bible. As she read Proverbs, she found the wisdom so fascinating that she read beyond the scheduled reading sections. As you may know, I am raising my second set of children. Like you, I learn as I go. Since I had my first two at 18 and 21, my parenting skills were similar to how my husband and I were parented. We made changes from what we didn’t like or appreciate growing up, but the rest was patterned after what we had experienced. I was not a follower of Jesus as a young mother. Thankfully, over the years, I have been blessed to discover and accept Jesus and to allow Him to mold me as He desires each moment. Jesus reveals mistakes and ideas to me often, as He does to all who seek Him diligently. I’m honored to be able to share what I have learned through trial and error, plus what God has revealed as I have studied Him and attempted to model my life after Jesus. Mothers, in order for our children to live a life that God would deem successful, we must continuously sharpen our personal skills to live each day with a perspective beyond the moment. Our heart and mind must be set in alignment with a compass focused on God, our True North. We are responsible for ensuring we have done everything to make Him known. Many children leave home without strong faith to set them apart in this world or one that equips them to cleave to God and allow Him to handle their decisions and battles. Ultimate parenting is God-centered and focused. Make each moment you have with your child count for eternity. You do not need to have all of the answers, but it is your duty and opportunity to guide your child to the One who does. The Bible is a God-inspired, perfect source of guidance, wisdom, and direction for parents. God purposely and generously offered His word to us as a guide for life, parenting, and relationships. As we study the Bible, and come to know Him more clearly, we develop skills needed to realize God’s commands, promises, and guidance consistently and introspectively. We feel and notice Him resetting our mind, heart, attitude, actions, thoughts, and behavior. As the Holy Spirit lives in us and we access and release His power through a maturing walk with God, others notice, as well. Each change we experience can impact the eternity of those around us, especially our spouse and children. When we read the Bible, we must consider the meanings and truths beyond what we see. There is a depth that exposes every need we have, as well as the solutions to living a God-centered life complete with joy and peace. Our children were not an after-thought. God provides for our need, as well as theirs, through His guidebook of life, the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” In order to direct our children to Him, we must already know God. Today, I want to read from one of my favorite areas of the Bible. The instructions God reveals are integral to pleasing our Heavenly Father and completing the task He has for parents and followers of Him. In Deuteronomy, God clearly directs us in what we are to hold as a sacred parental responsibility. This duty should be seen as a privilege when we already strive to live with a heart and mind set for Him. I want to share some of my favorite passages, because the words are such clearly instructive verses we are wise to follow. Deuteronomy 6:1-2a says, “These are the commands, decrees, and regulations that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you. You must obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, and you and your children and grandchildren must fear the Lord your God as long as you live.” God graciously gifts His people with formal, authoritative orders for our guidance and protection. What may seem binding or restrictive is meant to free us. Reverent fear for the Lord God isn’t mentioned often in society today. People, and many churches, tend to pass it by in favor of what they consider the “feel good” love of Jesus. Instead of facing God’s sovereignty, they tend to prefer speaking of gentleness and humbleness. Yet, God is a jealous God who wants our complete devotion. The author of excellence and creation, who created each of us for a purpose, deserves it. When we teach our children and grandchildren to humble themselves before the Lord and love and serve Him as He desires, we are gifting them beyond measure and for eternity. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 says, “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” The greatest act of obedience we offer God is to love Him freely and passionately. In this passage, we are commanded to love God with our heart, soul, and all of our strength. This act is foundational for all of living. Do you believe we can be commanded to love? You may have heard that love is a choice. I believe that to be true. The best definition I’ve read about the love God offers and commands from us came from Dr. David Jeremiah. He wrote that, “Love in Hebrew is not confined to feelings; the term heart centers on the intellect, sensibilities, and will. So when God commands that His people love Him, it means to decide to cleave to Him, and Him alone. The command includes soul, which here is a synonym for heart – the true essence of a person. Strength translates a phrase that means, Give it all you have!” We are to love God with everything we are and have. God deserves and is worthy of our passionate love. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says, “And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Breathing God in as the air we must have to sustain life, allowing Him to be head of our life, sharing Him naturally with our children, yet maintaining awe, and teaching them to honor and respect the Lord should flow naturally and readily because we love Him. Obeying the command to love God is a lifetime action of passionate devotion that becomes more meaningful daily as our love deepens. The God of all creation is not to be an after-thought. We are to willingly include Him in all. Deuteronomy 6:20-25 says, “In the future your children will ask you, ‘What is the meaning of these laws, decrees, and regulations that the LORD our God has commanded us to obey? “Then you must tell them, ‘We were Pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt, but the LORD brought us out of Egypt with his strong hand. The Lord did miraculous signs and wonders before our eyes, dealing terrifying blows against Egypt and Pharaoh and all his people. He brought us out of Egypt so he could give us this land He had sworn to give our ancestors. And the Lord our God commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear Him so He can continue to bless us and preserve our lives, as He has done to this day. For we will be counted as righteous when we obey all the commands the Lord our God has given us.” Mothers, we are God-assigned managers and stewards of His children. God commands us to love Him and teach our children to love Him. We are to mentor that passionate, devoted love for God that is for Him, and Him alone. Our children are to experience us loving God without the entrapment of idolatry in this world as we seek Him with our mind, heart, emotions, talents, time, and purpose. We are to live a lifestyle of worship as we seek, love, and follow Him so passionately that they will, too. When we pass on the love God commands, what He has done for us, and a strong faith to sustain and mature it, God lives fully through us and attracts our children more strongly than the world. Psalm 34:8 says, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” When our child sees us live with a passionate and consistent love for Christ that lovingly flows through all we are and do, they begin to recognize the difference He makes. Heavenly Father, we thank you for Your word and the Holy Spirit that lives inside believers. You have offered everything we need to equip us to live with a passion You deserve. Help us to clear our heart and mind to focus on what is important to You and show it to our children and others around us. Help us to study and know Your word so that it stands as our guide against the noise and distractions from this loud, harsh world. Teach us to live our life with the eternal perspective Jesus carried so that all we do honors and pleases You. May we bring you joy. May you carry that through to our children as we teach them to love and obey You, as well. In Your holy and precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and encourage you to raise or influence children to chase Jesus instead of this world. Be sure to sign up for my email list to be notified when my next resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” releases soon. This eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 057 God's Mission for Parents Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #057 – God’s Mission for Parents Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Would you like to know one of the highlights of my days? It’s when the girls and I share Bible and devotional time. The topics change with different studies, but right now we are studying Revelation. As powerful as it is to experience studying God’s word together, I know this is not enough to ensure that they have a solid foundation on which to build a life of passionate devotion to God. Prayer time together always precedes Bible study, and we frequently pray together through the day as needs arise or if we hear of someone who needs prayer. We always try to stop what we are doing and pray in that moment. I also ask my girls to pray for me. I want them to know I rely on the Lord to provide what I need and I want them to see that it is acceptable to not have all of the answers or abilities on their own. I want my chldren to be comfortable relying on God , no matter the need. Despite enjoying the blessings of purposely sharing this study time together, my youngest was not hungry to search the scriptures alone. It was time to encourage her to commit to the next step because I know she has a growing love for Jesus, but it cannot flourish if she does not root herself in God’s word. I knew had to reach her through one of her love languages. So now, before she receives any evening screen time, she has to have read from her Bible that day. It was time to develop the pattern that would give her the lifeline she will need to cling to in this world. Here’s the truth: we all have time for what is deeply important to us. I want God and His truths and words to be the oxygen required to make it through her day. How will she crave God if she doesn’t acquire a taste for Him? We settled on a schedule and I guided her with several suggestions to begin reading. Do you know what our best surprise was? My girl realized the joy of seeking and learning from God on her own. She learned it was fun to discover more about the wisdom of God and the people highlighted in the Bible. As she read Proverbs, she found the wisdom so fascinating that she read beyond the scheduled reading sections. As you may know, I am raising my second set of children. Like you, I learn as I go. Since I had my first two at 18 and 21, my parenting skills were similar to how my husband and I were parented. We made changes from what we didn’t like or appreciate growing up, but the rest was patterned after what we had experienced. I was not a follower of Jesus as a young mother. Thankfully, over the years, I have been blessed to discover and accept Jesus and to allow Him to mold me as He desires each moment. Jesus reveals mistakes and ideas to me often, as He does to all who seek Him diligently. I’m honored to be able to share what I have learned through trial and error, plus what God has revealed as I have studied Him and attempted to model my life after Jesus. Mothers, in order for our children to live a life that God would deem successful, we must continuously sharpen our personal skills to live each day with a perspective beyond the moment. Our heart and mind must be set in alignment with a compass focused on God, our True North. We are responsible for ensuring we have done everything to make Him known. Many children leave home without strong faith to set them apart in this world or one that equips them to cleave to God and allow Him to handle their decisions and battles. Ultimate parenting is God-centered and focused. Make each moment you have with your child count for eternity. You do not need to have all of the answers, but it is your duty and opportunity to guide your child to the One who does. The Bible is a God-inspired, perfect source of guidance, wisdom, and direction for parents. God purposely and generously offered His word to us as a guide for life, parenting, and relationships. As we study the Bible, and come to know Him more clearly, we develop skills needed to realize God’s commands, promises, and guidance consistently and introspectively. We feel and notice Him resetting our mind, heart, attitude, actions, thoughts, and behavior. As the Holy Spirit lives in us and we access and release His power through a maturing walk with God, others notice, as well. Each change we experience can impact the eternity of those around us, especially our spouse and children. When we read the Bible, we must consider the meanings and truths beyond what we see. There is a depth that exposes every need we have, as well as the solutions to living a God-centered life complete with joy and peace. Our children were not an after-thought. God provides for our need, as well as theirs, through His guidebook of life, the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” In order to direct our children to Him, we must already know God. Today, I want to read from one of my favorite areas of the Bible. The instructions God reveals are integral to pleasing our Heavenly Father and completing the task He has for parents and followers of Him. In Deuteronomy, God clearly directs us in what we are to hold as a sacred parental responsibility. This duty should be seen as a privilege when we already strive to live with a heart and mind set for Him. I want to share some of my favorite passages, because the words are such clearly instructive verses we are wise to follow. Deuteronomy 6:1-2a says, “These are the commands, decrees, and regulations that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you. You must obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, and you and your children and grandchildren must fear the Lord your God as long as you live.” God graciously gifts His people with formal, authoritative orders for our guidance and protection. What may seem binding or restrictive is meant to free us. Reverent fear for the Lord God isn’t mentioned often in society today. People, and many churches, tend to pass it by in favor of what they consider the “feel good” love of Jesus. Instead of facing God’s sovereignty, they tend to prefer speaking of gentleness and humbleness. Yet, God is a jealous God who wants our complete devotion. The author of excellence and creation, who created each of us for a purpose, deserves it. When we teach our children and grandchildren to humble themselves before the Lord and love and serve Him as He desires, we are gifting them beyond measure and for eternity. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 says, “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” The greatest act of obedience we offer God is to love Him freely and passionately. In this passage, we are commanded to love God with our heart, soul, and all of our strength. This act is foundational for all of living. Do you believe we can be commanded to love? You may have heard that love is a choice. I believe that to be true. The best definition I’ve read about the love God offers and commands from us came from Dr. David Jeremiah. He wrote that, “Love in Hebrew is not confined to feelings; the term heart centers on the intellect, sensibilities, and will. So when God commands that His people love Him, it means to decide to cleave to Him, and Him alone. The command includes soul, which here is a synonym for heart – the true essence of a person. Strength translates a phrase that means, Give it all you have!” We are to love God with everything we are and have. God deserves and is worthy of our passionate love. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says, “And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Breathing God in as the air we must have to sustain life, allowing Him to be head of our life, sharing Him naturally with our children, yet maintaining awe, and teaching them to honor and respect the Lord should flow naturally and readily because we love Him. Obeying the command to love God is a lifetime action of passionate devotion that becomes more meaningful daily as our love deepens. The God of all creation is not to be an after-thought. We are to willingly include Him in all. Deuteronomy 6:20-25 says, “In the future your children will ask you, ‘What is the meaning of these laws, decrees, and regulations that the LORD our God has commanded us to obey? “Then you must tell them, ‘We were Pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt, but the LORD brought us out of Egypt with his strong hand. The Lord did miraculous signs and wonders before our eyes, dealing terrifying blows against Egypt and Pharaoh and all his people. He brought us out of Egypt so he could give us this land He had sworn to give our ancestors. And the Lord our God commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear Him so He can continue to bless us and preserve our lives, as He has done to this day. For we will be counted as righteous when we obey all the commands the Lord our God has given us.” Mothers, we are God-assigned managers and stewards of His children. God commands us to love Him and teach our children to love Him. We are to mentor that passionate, devoted love for God that is for Him, and Him alone. Our children are to experience us loving God without the entrapment of idolatry in this world as we seek Him with our mind, heart, emotions, talents, time, and purpose. We are to live a lifestyle of worship as we seek, love, and follow Him so passionately that they will, too. When we pass on the love God commands, what He has done for us, and a strong faith to sustain and mature it, God lives fully through us and attracts our children more strongly than the world. Psalm 34:8 says, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” When our child sees us live with a passionate and consistent love for Christ that lovingly flows through all we are and do, they begin to recognize the difference He makes. Heavenly Father, we thank you for Your word and the Holy Spirit that lives inside believers. You have offered everything we need to equip us to live with a passion You deserve. Help us to clear our heart and mind to focus on what is important to You and show it to our children and others around us. Help us to study and know Your word so that it stands as our guide against the noise and distractions from this loud, harsh world. Teach us to live our life with the eternal perspective Jesus carried so that all we do honors and pleases You. May we bring you joy. May you carry that through to our children as we teach them to love and obey You, as well. In Your holy and precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and encourage you to raise or influence children to chase Jesus instead of this world. Be sure to sign up for my email list to be notified when my next resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” releases soon. This eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #054 – Parenting His Purpose Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. A few days ago I was working on the podcast, but stopped and began listening with a smile when I heard my daughters giggling together over something in the kitchen. Their carefree laughter brought such joy to my spirit. It brought to mind how God must feel each time we eagerly seek His presence and take joy in learning more of Him. Just as the girls were authentically sharing moments together, God wants us to invite Him to share both large and small memories with Him. Our Heavenly Father created us for special fellowship together. Since the fall of creation, this world we live in has been warped and broken. Our spirits have been yearning to reconnect with God in the intimate ways He designed for us. The Good Father created us on purpose with a purpose. As we know, before Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, they shared a very unique and special relationship with God that carried privileges we have never experienced. 1. Adam and Eve were privileged to walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. After disobeying God, sin damaged and severed their perfect relationship with God. The intimate bond and communion Adam and Eve shared with God was destroyed. After they chose to believe Satan, and made choices that tore them from God’s perfection, their knowledge and understanding of God became twisted. Although they once walked with God in abundant life, they now hid in the shadows of their once peaceful world, as death entered their world and altered their existence. Our lives are now positioned on what occurred through Adam and Eve’s choice and what the world became after the Fall. Every man and woman has been separated from God, we are not wise to the truths of God, and we are each condemned to not only a physical death, but a spiritual death as well. Thankfully, because of Jesus, we have a Redeemer and Rescuer who has brought us back into a beautiful fellowship with God. We don’t have to live alienated from God, ignorant of God, condemned to death, or without hope or purpose. So why do so many Christians who rejoice in the fact that they are saved through Jesus and proclaim to love the Lord neglect to live a lifestyle that focuses on eternity with a heart and mindset like Jesus? Why don’t we teach our children to live with a mindset and purpose that is set for eternity and raise them for Jesus? Because, just like Jesus said in Luke 23:34a, “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Just as Satan’s words to Eve contained partial truth (although it was twisted), the devil uses the same tactics with us today. Satan tempts humans by appealing to our desires. Often, mothers want so much for their children that we forget how very little they really need. We are so busy trying to do and get all we can for them. All they really need is a firm foundation set on Jesus and a life that seeks and reflects Him. The same truth applies to us. Our life should not be defined by how much our children have or what they do. Stop trying to present them with the best or the most and commit to loving them as God calls. Help them build a firm and solid foundation on Jesus. God will equip and lead you to give them what they truly need and He will also surprise you with blessings beyond as you follow Him with a joyous and honoring heart. As a woman who has raised two sets of family over a span of forty-two years, I’ve watched fads come and go, and I’ve seen the way current culture affects home and family. I’ve experienced the consistency of a firm foundation settled on Jesus, as well as life without much thought to Him. No strategy, no amount of love or attention, no hope, no plans, no relationship with a human, nothing carries the value and hope that a maturing relationship with God through Jesus holds. When we live a life connected to Jesus, it builds a lifeline between our children and the Lord. Philippians 3:8 says, “Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” If we really believe that verse, why don’t we live like it? Why don’t we ensure that our children know Jesus and teach them that nothing in this life lasts, nothing matters but a firm foundation built on Him? Do you understand what the word foundation means in relation to our child and his relationship with and dependency on Christ? Really take a few moments to soak in the importance of the word and meaning. A life built on the foundation of Jesus will have a life-affirming, truthful basis for a belief system, stability, support, and a life patterned after the Authority and Creator. For a year I have written podcasts set to build our relationships with God through maturing our walk with Jesus. Without Him, this world has no hope, no peace, and cannot offer love or understanding. Look at the way our culture continues to change and the effects it has on us, let alone our children. Media, shows, books, magazines, fashion, education, celebrities, and superstars all desensitize our precious children and we are to blame, as we ignorantly or lazily let it continue. Many kids grow up wanting fame at the cost of anything, including morals, reputation, relationships, and life. Instead of humbly following the Lord, they follow strangers who lead them far away from where a true believer and follower of Christ should be. Our children have time for phones and social media, but make no time to invest in growing and deepening a walk with Jesus. We have ourselves to blame if we have not allowed Christ to rule our life and modeled Him humbly and purely to them daily. Most of the time, our children pattern themselves and their life choices after what they see us do. I hope that if you are listening to this podcast you are either already maturing your walk with Jesus through an intentional, continuous basis or that you are very interested in doing so. I have known Jesus for 39 years. My walk with Him has not been perfect, but Jesus has never left my side. It is my honor, and frankly my duty, as I know where God is calling me, to teach you what God has shown to me, as well as to lead you straight to Him through the practical ways I’ve shared over the last year. Heavy on my heart at this time, as I know God has laid it there, is the knowledge that He is calling me to walk with you in the way our children are raised. Am I saying I have all of the perfect answers to raising children? Absolutely not! But I know Who does and how to guide you to Him. I have seen the truth of God’s word come true over and over again. Everything in the Bible is truth and God is not mocked. We do reap what we sow. Our children are affected by what we believe and the actions we choose. As you raise and provide for your precious children, be certain of what you believe and stand for, how you represent Jesus, and what you model for your children. I’m going to list questions that each of us should regularly remember to ask ourselves and evaluate honestly. These are vitally important, not only for us, but for those around us, especially for the children God entrusted to our care. 1. What do I believe? Do I know my beliefs and how they affect my eternity? Have I thought about how they shape the eternity of those around me? If I am a believer in Jesus, it is imperative that I am clear in these areas and striving to grow in Him daily and make Him clearly known to my children. 2. Is it apparent that I am a Christian? What does that word mean to me? Have I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior? How do I represent Christ each day? Do I say one thing and do another? Am I consistent in my attitude and heartitude, making my maturing relationship with Jesus loving and evident? 3. What are my children learning? Do they know Jesus as Savior? Are they lovingly and intentionally maturing their walk with God through Jesus each day or are they Christians in name or claim only? Do I see fruits of the spirit continuously ripening in them? 4. Am I actively helping my children grow in Jesus daily or expecting the church or someone else to help them grow in maturity? How are they seeing me intentionally grow my walk with Christ? What kind of relationship do they see? Am I making Jesus known to them in real and personal ways? Do I regularly model and mentor them in Jesus in a loving and godly way? Let’s think back to the points I made at the beginning of this podcast when I discussed Adam and Eve in the garden. 1. Adam and Eve were able to walk and talk with God daily. As mothers who believe in Jesus, it should be our deepest desire to see our children walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. We should desire that our children know the word of God and His love through Jesus so that they are not confused by sin and are not attracted to what this world shoves at them. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. Godly parenting looks for ways to fill the minds of our children with the fullness of joy God intends for them and looks for ways to help our children mature and shine fruits of the Spirit. 4. Adam and Eve looked forward to spending time with God. Getting to know the Lord should not be a chore or something we barely make time for. Our relationship with God should be a priority so that it becomes one for our children. How can we, as humans, fill these demanding roles? Only through the power and presence of Jesus in our life. Parenting is hard. I think of our loving Heavenly Father, who always stands ready to carry us. God never leaves our side. If you are a parent, grandparent, or person of influence over a child’s life, I urge you to acknowledge that there is nothing more important you can do for the one you love than to allow God to work through you to form their soul and eternal relationship with Him. God did not pick you because you have it all together. He is allowing your influence on His child, because God trusts that you will allow Him to work through you. When I became a mother at the age of 18, I did not have a relationship with Christ. I thought I was so mature for my age, and I was to a point. But as Jeremiah 9:23 says, “This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches.” Likewise, Proverbs 3:13 says, “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.” And listen to this wisdom from Job 28:28, which says, “And this is what he says to all humanity: ‘The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.” One of my favorites is Luke 2:52, which says, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” How blessed we (and our children) are if God can proclaim that our children are growing in favor with Him! It is up to each one of us to have such a close, honoring, and obedient relationship with the Lord that we must equip our children to develop deep and wide-spread roots of faith. When the storms of life come, and they will, our children will be able to withstand the trials of life because the soil they embed their life in is rich and their roots are straining to the depth and width strong faith requires. Trees with weak root systems and poorly cultivated soil will weaken and “hollow-out” as life attacks them. Storms and winds, pestilence and disease are strong when the tree is not lovingly watched over and provided for. When the root system of a tree is not carefully guarded, the tree fails to thrive and often dies. In contrast, a healthy root system can even sprout new trees when the above ground part of the tree is burned. It is imperative for our children to have strong faith roots in order for them to know, honor, follow, and shine Jesus. We are the gardener, working directly for the Master to ensure that His trees are raised to bloom healthy and strong in and through Him. Life in this world will not prepare our children for a lifetime of following Jesus and living a rich life blessed with the fruits of following Him. As the mothers entrusted to protect, nurture, and train God’s precious child, we must grasp the weight of the holy work our Heavenly Father God has allowed us to participate in. Jesus is our strength and guide. In order to properly guard and counsel our children, it is imperative that we are attuned to Him through a close and maturing walk ourselves. We live in a world that is in direct opposition to what God desires for and requires of us. An example of this comes to mind when I think of how our schools have taught a warped science that excludes God and religion. How can you teach a subject without including the author of that subject? Science and religion are not separate. Educators use textbooks that teach subjects without divine inspiration from the author of creation, and they are unable to speak His word or truths in school. Our children are victims, living without wisdom or values from God and striving for the emptiness of this world system, which will never fulfill them. Mothers, it is imperative that we take a stand. One day each of us will stand before God and be held accountable for the way we influenced His children. Your future relationship with your child and their eternal future depends on the decisions and priorities you establish and adhere to right now. As you may know, I homeschool. It has made a critical difference in my ability to reach my children for the Lord. An education at home has allowed me the benefit of studying and understanding my children at a depth I would not have been privileged to observe and discover if I sent them away for hours to go to school elsewhere each day. I see the character and attitudes of my girls clearly and honestly, and the same is true in reverse. They see the passion I have for Jesus, and my loving desire and reasons for them to know, honor, love, and obey Him. My children are receiving an education based on morals and integrity taught from God’s Holy Word and learning the basis for what we hold to be standards for right and wrong. Character formation is a difficult, but worthy and holy task. I am blessed to work at it at great lengths daily in our time together. I have also raised children through the public school system. I also know many Christians who have. I pray that each of us will trust God to provide and guide, and not make decisions based out of fear or ignorance. Allow Him to choose where and how your child will be educated, but understand that the decision will influence how much “clean up work” you will be involved in. Many children have been raised through the public school system or private schools and they have stayed true to the faith taught by diligent parents, however, I know it is becoming more and more difficult to combat the lies and unbiblical actions thrust at our children every day for years. When I was a young mother and a new Christian, I foolishly believed that the church was where my children learned about God. I thought that if they know I loved Jesus and we went to church each week, that they would be raised as followers of Jesus. How naïve! This world, school systems, peers, social media, strangers, and others have much access to the ones we love most and we must have a plan in place to teach them the truths and joys God desires for them. God provides freedom from this world, not restriction. He bestows grace, not condemnation. Teach the truth because it is absolutely certain that others are filling your children with deceit. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for lovingly entrusting your precious, specially-crafted children into our hands. I pray we have the mindset you desire to raise them and lovingly teach them of You. Help us to perfect our walk with you more and more daily, mentoring the way for our children to have an even stronger walk with You. May each generation become stronger and deeper in faith and reach many as You work through them. Show us the way You desire us to love and teach each unique child you have allowed us. Make it clear where we need to change and grow in You ourselves, and may we admit our mistakes and change our course. May we shine You so well that our children cannot turn away. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence children with love and purpose through Him. If you would like another episode specifically about parenting children, you may like listening to “Equipping Children,” Episode #7 of the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. I pray you intentionally continue to draw nearer to Jesus and cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 054 Parenting His Purpose Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #054 – Parenting His Purpose Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. A few days ago I was working on the podcast, but stopped and began listening with a smile when I heard my daughters giggling together over something in the kitchen. Their carefree laughter brought such joy to my spirit. It brought to mind how God must feel each time we eagerly seek His presence and take joy in learning more of Him. Just as the girls were authentically sharing moments together, God wants us to invite Him to share both large and small memories with Him. Our Heavenly Father created us for special fellowship together. Since the fall of creation, this world we live in has been warped and broken. Our spirits have been yearning to reconnect with God in the intimate ways He designed for us. The Good Father created us on purpose with a purpose. As we know, before Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, they shared a very unique and special relationship with God that carried privileges we have never experienced. 1. Adam and Eve were privileged to walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. After disobeying God, sin damaged and severed their perfect relationship with God. The intimate bond and communion Adam and Eve shared with God was destroyed. After they chose to believe Satan, and made choices that tore them from God’s perfection, their knowledge and understanding of God became twisted. Although they once walked with God in abundant life, they now hid in the shadows of their once peaceful world, as death entered their world and altered their existence. Our lives are now positioned on what occurred through Adam and Eve’s choice and what the world became after the Fall. Every man and woman has been separated from God, we are not wise to the truths of God, and we are each condemned to not only a physical death, but a spiritual death as well. Thankfully, because of Jesus, we have a Redeemer and Rescuer who has brought us back into a beautiful fellowship with God. We don’t have to live alienated from God, ignorant of God, condemned to death, or without hope or purpose. So why do so many Christians who rejoice in the fact that they are saved through Jesus and proclaim to love the Lord neglect to live a lifestyle that focuses on eternity with a heart and mindset like Jesus? Why don’t we teach our children to live with a mindset and purpose that is set for eternity and raise them for Jesus? Because, just like Jesus said in Luke 23:34a, “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Just as Satan’s words to Eve contained partial truth (although it was twisted), the devil uses the same tactics with us today. Satan tempts humans by appealing to our desires. Often, mothers want so much for their children that we forget how very little they really need. We are so busy trying to do and get all we can for them. All they really need is a firm foundation set on Jesus and a life that seeks and reflects Him. The same truth applies to us. Our life should not be defined by how much our children have or what they do. Stop trying to present them with the best or the most and commit to loving them as God calls. Help them build a firm and solid foundation on Jesus. God will equip and lead you to give them what they truly need and He will also surprise you with blessings beyond as you follow Him with a joyous and honoring heart. As a woman who has raised two sets of family over a span of forty-two years, I’ve watched fads come and go, and I’ve seen the way current culture affects home and family. I’ve experienced the consistency of a firm foundation settled on Jesus, as well as life without much thought to Him. No strategy, no amount of love or attention, no hope, no plans, no relationship with a human, nothing carries the value and hope that a maturing relationship with God through Jesus holds. When we live a life connected to Jesus, it builds a lifeline between our children and the Lord. Philippians 3:8 says, “Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” If we really believe that verse, why don’t we live like it? Why don’t we ensure that our children know Jesus and teach them that nothing in this life lasts, nothing matters but a firm foundation built on Him? Do you understand what the word foundation means in relation to our child and his relationship with and dependency on Christ? Really take a few moments to soak in the importance of the word and meaning. A life built on the foundation of Jesus will have a life-affirming, truthful basis for a belief system, stability, support, and a life patterned after the Authority and Creator. For a year I have written podcasts set to build our relationships with God through maturing our walk with Jesus. Without Him, this world has no hope, no peace, and cannot offer love or understanding. Look at the way our culture continues to change and the effects it has on us, let alone our children. Media, shows, books, magazines, fashion, education, celebrities, and superstars all desensitize our precious children and we are to blame, as we ignorantly or lazily let it continue. Many kids grow up wanting fame at the cost of anything, including morals, reputation, relationships, and life. Instead of humbly following the Lord, they follow strangers who lead them far away from where a true believer and follower of Christ should be. Our children have time for phones and social media, but make no time to invest in growing and deepening a walk with Jesus. We have ourselves to blame if we have not allowed Christ to rule our life and modeled Him humbly and purely to them daily. Most of the time, our children pattern themselves and their life choices after what they see us do. I hope that if you are listening to this podcast you are either already maturing your walk with Jesus through an intentional, continuous basis or that you are very interested in doing so. I have known Jesus for 39 years. My walk with Him has not been perfect, but Jesus has never left my side. It is my honor, and frankly my duty, as I know where God is calling me, to teach you what God has shown to me, as well as to lead you straight to Him through the practical ways I’ve shared over the last year. Heavy on my heart at this time, as I know God has laid it there, is the knowledge that He is calling me to walk with you in the way our children are raised. Am I saying I have all of the perfect answers to raising children? Absolutely not! But I know Who does and how to guide you to Him. I have seen the truth of God’s word come true over and over again. Everything in the Bible is truth and God is not mocked. We do reap what we sow. Our children are affected by what we believe and the actions we choose. As you raise and provide for your precious children, be certain of what you believe and stand for, how you represent Jesus, and what you model for your children. I’m going to list questions that each of us should regularly remember to ask ourselves and evaluate honestly. These are vitally important, not only for us, but for those around us, especially for the children God entrusted to our care. 1. What do I believe? Do I know my beliefs and how they affect my eternity? Have I thought about how they shape the eternity of those around me? If I am a believer in Jesus, it is imperative that I am clear in these areas and striving to grow in Him daily and make Him clearly known to my children. 2. Is it apparent that I am a Christian? What does that word mean to me? Have I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior? How do I represent Christ each day? Do I say one thing and do another? Am I consistent in my attitude and heartitude, making my maturing relationship with Jesus loving and evident? 3. What are my children learning? Do they know Jesus as Savior? Are they lovingly and intentionally maturing their walk with God through Jesus each day or are they Christians in name or claim only? Do I see fruits of the spirit continuously ripening in them? 4. Am I actively helping my children grow in Jesus daily or expecting the church or someone else to help them grow in maturity? How are they seeing me intentionally grow my walk with Christ? What kind of relationship do they see? Am I making Jesus known to them in real and personal ways? Do I regularly model and mentor them in Jesus in a loving and godly way? Let’s think back to the points I made at the beginning of this podcast when I discussed Adam and Eve in the garden. 1. Adam and Eve were able to walk and talk with God daily. As mothers who believe in Jesus, it should be our deepest desire to see our children walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. We should desire that our children know the word of God and His love through Jesus so that they are not confused by sin and are not attracted to what this world shoves at them. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. Godly parenting looks for ways to fill the minds of our children with the fullness of joy God intends for them and looks for ways to help our children mature and shine fruits of the Spirit. 4. Adam and Eve looked forward to spending time with God. Getting to know the Lord should not be a chore or something we barely make time for. Our relationship with God should be a priority so that it becomes one for our children. How can we, as humans, fill these demanding roles? Only through the power and presence of Jesus in our life. Parenting is hard. I think of our loving Heavenly Father, who always stands ready to carry us. God never leaves our side. If you are a parent, grandparent, or person of influence over a child’s life, I urge you to acknowledge that there is nothing more important you can do for the one you love than to allow God to work through you to form their soul and eternal relationship with Him. God did not pick you because you have it all together. He is allowing your influence on His child, because God trusts that you will allow Him to work through you. When I became a mother at the age of 18, I did not have a relationship with Christ. I thought I was so mature for my age, and I was to a point. But as Jeremiah 9:23 says, “This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches.” Likewise, Proverbs 3:13 says, “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.” And listen to this wisdom from Job 28:28, which says, “And this is what he says to all humanity: ‘The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.” One of my favorites is Luke 2:52, which says, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” How blessed we (and our children) are if God can proclaim that our children are growing in favor with Him! It is up to each one of us to have such a close, honoring, and obedient relationship with the Lord that we must equip our children to develop deep and wide-spread roots of faith. When the storms of life come, and they will, our children will be able to withstand the trials of life because the soil they embed their life in is rich and their roots are straining to the depth and width strong faith requires. Trees with weak root systems and poorly cultivated soil will weaken and “hollow-out” as life attacks them. Storms and winds, pestilence and disease are strong when the tree is not lovingly watched over and provided for. When the root system of a tree is not carefully guarded, the tree fails to thrive and often dies. In contrast, a healthy root system can even sprout new trees when the above ground part of the tree is burned. It is imperative for our children to have strong faith roots in order for them to know, honor, follow, and shine Jesus. We are the gardener, working directly for the Master to ensure that His trees are raised to bloom healthy and strong in and through Him. Life in this world will not prepare our children for a lifetime of following Jesus and living a rich life blessed with the fruits of following Him. As the mothers entrusted to protect, nurture, and train God’s precious child, we must grasp the weight of the holy work our Heavenly Father God has allowed us to participate in. Jesus is our strength and guide. In order to properly guard and counsel our children, it is imperative that we are attuned to Him through a close and maturing walk ourselves. We live in a world that is in direct opposition to what God desires for and requires of us. An example of this comes to mind when I think of how our schools have taught a warped science that excludes God and religion. How can you teach a subject without including the author of that subject? Science and religion are not separate. Educators use textbooks that teach subjects without divine inspiration from the author of creation, and they are unable to speak His word or truths in school. Our children are victims, living without wisdom or values from God and striving for the emptiness of this world system, which will never fulfill them. Mothers, it is imperative that we take a stand. One day each of us will stand before God and be held accountable for the way we influenced His children. Your future relationship with your child and their eternal future depends on the decisions and priorities you establish and adhere to right now. As you may know, I homeschool. It has made a critical difference in my ability to reach my children for the Lord. An education at home has allowed me the benefit of studying and understanding my children at a depth I would not have been privileged to observe and discover if I sent them away for hours to go to school elsewhere each day. I see the character and attitudes of my girls clearly and honestly, and the same is true in reverse. They see the passion I have for Jesus, and my loving desire and reasons for them to know, honor, love, and obey Him. My children are receiving an education based on morals and integrity taught from God’s Holy Word and learning the basis for what we hold to be standards for right and wrong. Character formation is a difficult, but worthy and holy task. I am blessed to work at it at great lengths daily in our time together. I have also raised children through the public school system. I also know many Christians who have. I pray that each of us will trust God to provide and guide, and not make decisions based out of fear or ignorance. Allow Him to choose where and how your child will be educated, but understand that the decision will influence how much “clean up work” you will be involved in. Many children have been raised through the public school system or private schools and they have stayed true to the faith taught by diligent parents, however, I know it is becoming more and more difficult to combat the lies and unbiblical actions thrust at our children every day for years. When I was a young mother and a new Christian, I foolishly believed that the church was where my children learned about God. I thought that if they know I loved Jesus and we went to church each week, that they would be raised as followers of Jesus. How naïve! This world, school systems, peers, social media, strangers, and others have much access to the ones we love most and we must have a plan in place to teach them the truths and joys God desires for them. God provides freedom from this world, not restriction. He bestows grace, not condemnation. Teach the truth because it is absolutely certain that others are filling your children with deceit. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for lovingly entrusting your precious, specially-crafted children into our hands. I pray we have the mindset you desire to raise them and lovingly teach them of You. Help us to perfect our walk with you more and more daily, mentoring the way for our children to have an even stronger walk with You. May each generation become stronger and deeper in faith and reach many as You work through them. Show us the way You desire us to love and teach each unique child you have allowed us. Make it clear where we need to change and grow in You ourselves, and may we admit our mistakes and change our course. May we shine You so well that our children cannot turn away. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence children with love and purpose through Him. If you would like another episode specifically about parenting children, you may like listening to “Equipping Children,” Episode #7 of the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. I pray you intentionally continue to draw nearer to Jesus and cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode 009 - Uniquely Christ's Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #009 – Uniquely Christ’s Are you yearning for greater connection with your child? Would you like to parent beyond the moment with eternal perspective? Let’s grow together now with practical tips, scripture, and stories geared to draw your heart to Jesus and guide your child into His arms. Because I homeschool, I’ve been able to spend much more time with my two youngest daughters than I was able to be with my oldest children, who attended public school while I worked full-time. When you stay home with your children, plus serve as their educator in the classroom, you have the opportunity to craft a special relationship with each child. Not only do I know their natural inclinations toward learning and life, but I understand their attitude and desires. I have a front row seat to viewing when lessons and material stick and when we need to work harder; I get to be present when they accomplish big goals and look them in the eye to share successes in the moment. Just as I have memorized the faces of my beautiful daughters, their spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical states are well known by me. Our closeness comes from time spent together and by pursuing relationship through thick and thin. I know what lights them up and what dims their interest. God clearly shows Himself to me daily through my interactions with them as I recognize His mighty hand in the way He crafted them with special talents, interests, and dreams that can only come from Him. Some may believe that all people are created as “blank slates” with potential to become anything they desire. While part of that statement can be considered true, if we look to scripture, we see that God actually purposed to craft uniqueness into each of us. Psalm 139:13-16 says, “ For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” When we examine this passage closely, we are able to detect the intimacy of God and begin to understand how He planned for and brought each of us into existence. God created our “inmost ” being, meaning our intimate thoughts, our deepest desires. As he formed each of us, we were knitted together, meaning His actions were designed uniquely for each specific human He thought of and created. Every single person is exceptional and exclusive, complex, and created for a purpose designed by the Great I Am. God, the Author of Life was involved in planning and forming each inmost area and outer detail of our soul and body. As the passage of scripture in Psalm 139 continues, we read affirmation that God planned us, saw us, and formed us. He knew all the seconds and days our life would hold before we even came to be. It is no coincidence that you are paired with and have the particular child you were given at the exact time they came to be with you. Whether by birth or adoption, God knew you would parent exactly who you do. Over my extended years of parenting I have found comfort and direction in these verses from Psalm 139. I hope they bring you peace and strength in your parenting journey, as well. Not only are we able to find assurance and affirmation in self-worth for ourselves, but most importantly, for our children. This passage of scripture leaves no doubt that we are each cherished and planned. Your child is not an after-thought. His or her life matters. God purposed for your children to exist. He planned each of us, made each of us, knew us before we were born, and knew the exact second each of us were conceived. Even more, God is present at every moment of formation and development for everyone. He knows when we are born and He knows when we will leave this earth. There is no greater method of teaching your child that her life matters and that God has specific plans for her than through this section of Psalms. Of course, most parents wouldn’t argue the fact that their child is special. Yet, the way we view “special” in earthly or secular terms versus how God defines unique is often quite different. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do .” Combining the passage we read earlier from Psalms with this verse from Ephesians proves that we, and our children are each alive and purposed for special plans that can only come from the Father and are to be used for the Father. Ephesians 2:10 affirms again that we are God’s workmanship and are created in Christ for good works, which were prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Because of our relationship with Jesus, believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to do the good works predestined for them to accomplish through Christ. It is very interesting that the word “workmanship” translated in Greek becomes the word poiema (poyeema), which is the root of the English word, “poem.” I find two definitions for the word “poem” to be beautifully interesting in light of the context we are seeking here. The first definition of “poem” is, “a composition in verse, especially one that is characterized by a highly developed artistic form and by the use of heightened language and rhythm to express an intensely imaginative interpretation of the subject .” The second definition is: “composition that, though not in verse, is characterized by great beauty of language or expression .” How God loves each of us and our children to compose us in such specific, artistic ways that showcase His imagination and sovereignty . How clearly He values our individuality and purpose . How deeply He yearns and calls for us to honor Him with what we do and how we use what He has instilled within us. As Christians, we can earnestly believe that we are to raise our child to honor Christ, yet be stuck in how to do it. How is a parent supposed to find the ways each child is unique? 1. Relationship with you – Spending time with your child, observing their tendencies and giftedness. The most important part of this piece is to observe your child through God’s eyes and heart to find what may be used for Him. 2. Play – We all know God works hard, but He also allows Himself to relax. Just seeing the playfulness of each of God’s creations, not only in people, proves that He crafted and understands the importance of play. Children deeply need time to process and understand life, relationships, feelings, and emotions. Try to spend at least a small portion of each day doing some type of play with your child. Much will be discovered during this personal time spent together. If your child is older, play time includes their love language: shopping together, visiting coffee shops, sitting in their room together, chatting and laughing, or enjoying a sporting event or physical activity together. It doesn’t include just going to watch them in an event. Make time to hang out together to deepen your relationship together and get the opportunity to really observe and enjoy your child. 3. Feelings and Emotions – Through much time spent together in playful and serious moments, you will witness your child will express a variety of feelings and emotions. As they express joy or pour out their thoughts or show you through actions, you have the opportunity to see how they are constructed. Are they quiet, do they withhold feelings, do they need time to process, or do they spill and regret? 4. Interests – What lights up the eyes of your children? What makes them excited? What disappoints or scares them? Do they repeatedly seek the same things or like new adventures? Is there a skill or talent that shines through them? How do we help our child to recognize the ways God has made him unique? 1. Healthy parent – When we have and are building a strong, mature relationship with Christ and we show our child the importance of relationship with Him, it will become important to our child. Accepting the gifts and talents God crafted within us is crucial. If we put ourself down and show no value in the way God has constructed us, our child will not find value in himself. As a parent, I believe we also have a very important responsibility to continue seeking God, allowing Him to develop and alter us. We cannot help and enable our children to become what God requires of them if we are not giving our needs to the Lord in humble, loving submission and allowing Him to graft Himself throughout us. Society often reminds us we can only do our best, but I don’t want your best or my best for our precious children. I desire God’s best for us so that they receive His best, as well. 2. Self-esteem – Whether we brag about our abilities or complain about what we feel is wrong with us, neither is the type of confidence Christ would have for us or our children. Building self-esteem through the Lord builds our walk with Him and becomes an example to our children, teaching them how to rely on Christ and trust that He has placed value within them. Helping our child to build their esteem through Jesus is the greatest foundation they will have. They must understand Who they belong to and what to craft their life around. Actively building that relationship with you and Christ together daily enables your child to recognize their godly potential and step out in faith to continue building it. How do we guide our child to use their giftings, interests, or talents for God? 1. Safety – When we are focused on constructing and maintaining strong relationship with our child and Christ, our child feels safe to learn and grow with us. It is much easier to trust Jesus when your child knows she can trust you. When we remark on their abilities and strengths and offer suggestions as to how to use them for the Lord, our child hears and listens to our suggestions and feels safe enough to trust our encouragement and testimony to pursue their own faith. 2. Encouragement – Acknowledging the strengths of our children and offering glory to God for them teaches them to do the same. 3. Relationship with Jesus – When our child discovers faith and purposely develops it as their own, relationship with Christ will slowly mature. As they see, hear, and remember the way we have taught them to respect how God made them individually and for a purpose, and see how we use our own giftings for the Lord, they will believe their Heavenly Father can guide them in the way to honor Him. As we continue to love God with all our heart, all our soul, all our mind, and with all our strength, and humbly seek His way in building relationship with our children and allowing Him to continue transforming us moment by moment, our children are taught by example. As we recognize and help them develop the interests and talents God specifically chose to craft within them, then teach them the joy of serving God through them, we honor our Lord in ways that last for eternity. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are! Thank you for entrusting us with the talents and gifts You crafted within each of us and for the ones You gifted to our children. Help all of us to see and use what You have given us and enable our children to use them in mighty ways for Your kingdom and purpose. May our children delight You in the way they use the creativity and interests You chose for them. Your word tells us that before You formed our children in the womb You knew them, before they were born You set them apart, just as You did for us. What a holy honor to walk in the plans You have set for us. Help us to be so close to You, help our children to choose You and walk in Your ways that we each easily discern Your purpose and ways. Your word assures us that even the very hairs of our head are all numbered . You tell us that You, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, You are the potter; we are all the work of Your hand . In so many ways You make it clear that You are the Great I Am, but You also show how deeply and clearly You love us and chose to be with us. How thankful we desire to be. Help us please You as we understand more clearly moment by moment just how good You are, just how lavishly You love. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. If you pray for your child, please look for my free ebook, “Prayers for My Child,” available on the website under the “Resources” page and is designed to guide the heart of your child to the feet of Jesus through scripturally-based prayer. The Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast is now available at terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, receive access to blog posts, read transcripts, and find additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence connected children through Him. God knows that we are not capable of successful parenting on our own. As we rely on Him, releasing doubts and expectations, and humbly bow to His guidance and experience, we find greater clarity in parenting and a wondrous walk with our Creator that will extend to our children and those around us for generations . I pray this podcast helps you parent with purpose and deepen your connection to Jesus and your children as you intentionally place Christ above culture or self. Allow Him to work through you for true connection that will draw your children to Him and build a maturing relationship with Christ and your child that lasts for eternity. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 117 - Should Kids Be Spanked? Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 117 – Should Kids Be Spanked? Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, would you please share this episode with a friend or family member who would enjoy learning more about raising kids for Christ? Also, many have promised to leave a rating and review for the podcast, but life happens…and they don’t. So, if you haven’t already, would you please take a moment to leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast? Sharing episodes and leaving a review ensures that others will find the podcast. Then guess what? You’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode with an important and controversial question with an often divided answer…should kids be spanked? First, I want to start with a story. I was on a neighborhood walk recently when a loose dog was crisscrossing the street and a screech of brakes alerted me that it was almost hit. Terrified by the sound and the loud voice of the driver, the dog stood frozen in front of the car. When the owner heard the commotion and saw his dog standing in the roadway, he lovingly called from his yard for the dog to come to him. Seeing his beloved, trusted master and hearing his sweet call, the dog quickly ran home, expecting safety. Instead, as soon as the dog reached him, the owner beat his dog and yelled at him for being in the street. Will this act change the behavior of the dog? As you know, the topic of this episode is spanking, so you might wonder why I opened with this story about a dog. You could argue that a dog and a child can’t be compared as they don’t reason the same. However, according to developmental tests reported by NBC News, even the average dog has the abilities of a toddler. In some areas, dogs are even more intelligent than preschoolers. Speaking of preschoolers, according to a study by the American Psychological Association, they’re the most likely group to be spanked. I don’t want to make this episode one that shames, but I do want parents to realize the gravity of the gift we’ve been given. We are raising children for the Great I Am. We want to be good parents. Of course we want to do our best. But remember, our best falls far below the standard of our holy Heavenly Father . That’s why we must , as those entrusted to parent for God, stop and evaluate the reasoning behind why we make specific decisions and why we take certain actions. Why do some parents choose to spank instead of correcting their children in another way? What do we think we’re teaching our children when we respond with such forceful correction? As we ponder these questions, it leads me to the next ones. Should spanking be the first act a parent takes when a child needs correcting? Are parents behaving biblically when they spank? Or are they succumbing to frustration? Or last resorts when they grab the belt, hair brush, or use their hand in an effort to teach their child? Most parents who spank were spanked as a child. It’s the way they were raised, so it’s what they revert to. But does that mean it is the best method for training God’s children in righteousness? Is spanking the choice we should make to build connection with God and us? Many parents also share that the reason they spank is to cause pain that changes the behavior of their child. We have to consider what type of changes will occur. Surprisingly, research also indicates that parents will hit their child more frequently when they are an active or strong-willed boy between the ages of three to four. When you hear that statistic, how does it make you feel? The common phrase, “boys will be boys” seems appropriate in this application. Does the fact that boys disrupt quiet or make messes make them targets for spanking? Does spanking make them better men when they grow up? Or does a relationship of teaching and connection make the necessity to spank disappear? The answers to these questions are what parents should seek before deciding to spank. We’ve talked about some of the reasons parents choose to spank. The frequency of spanking also varies based on parental or child age, race, gender, education, or socio economic status of the family. The topic of spanking is a divisive one. Most people have feelings one way or another. As I shared earlier, those feelings often stem from the way parents were disciplined as a child. One Bible verse is often quoted as evidence to back pro-spanking parents. Proverbs 13:24 says, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” If we look at the verse with an observant, knowledgeable heart and take our thoughts captive for Christ to prayerfully seek God’s wisdom in this area, we may come to a different conclusion about spanking. For example, Strong’s Lexicon, a type of concordance, teaches that the rod was generally a stick used by shepherds for protecting and guiding their flocks. Shepherds used the rod to steer the sheep in the right direction, or to keep them gathered when they strayed. The rod was also used to fend off predators or warn and comfort the sheep. Used these ways, the rod isn’t a tool for inflicting injury. Instead, it is a tool for loving, protective guidance . When many parents hear the word discipline, they imagine spanking or another form of punishment. However in biblical days the meaning was quite different. In the semitic root, the word rod refers to a type of measuring stick. In the same way we use a yardstick today, the rod was used to measure distances to danger or to measure the growth of sheep in the shepherd’s care . The rod was not intended to inflict pain upon people or sheep. The word rod is also used for scepter. Although the verse from Proverbs 13:24 is usually interpreted as a directive to spank children, when we consider how a scepter was used, we understand that it could be used to extend grace and mercy or death by the King. Since the king wouldn’t speak much or at all to his subjects, he would often make his intentions or directives known by his scepter, the recognized symbol of authority. Whether it was the king or an appointed servant using the scepter, it was understood that the instrument held authority. So as we read Proverbs 13:24 we can see that the rod is seen as the idea of authority , not a literal rod. If you also consider that it was Solomon who penned the verse in Proverbs, you must remember that he was a king. His terminology would have been written with the mindset of one who used the scepter for the purposes I just shared. As king, Solomon was an authority figure to many, but remember, he was also a father, or symbol of authority to his children. Using this frame of thinking, we can reason that Solomon wasn’t condoning beating children, but instead encouraged using the rod, which would be showing love or direction. So, when parents extend the rod, we are paying attention to what our children are doing. We are considering the current situation, as well as looking forward to the future. We are choosing to extend mercy by correcting the behavior, not simply punishing. Dealing with the situation we need to address doesn’t mean to beat or spank. It doesn’t mean to ignore the actions of our children, either. Just as God extends mercy and forgiveness to us when we are disobedient, He also allows us to suffer consequences. Consequences will differ depending on the act and repercussions, but God doesn’t desire that we beat down children. His discipline is always designed to reach and transform our heart for Him. Just as we should intentionally strive to do with the children He entrusted to our care. Correcting our children means to instruct and guide in ways that lead to Christlikeness and connection through heart change . Remember, lack of discipline can cause destructive or ungodly morals and behavior. So does the wrong kind of discipline. Discipline offered in anger can destroy connection and confidence in the parent, then ultimately in Christ. Spanking doesn’t show loving discipline that exhibits clear connection between the action of the child and the consequence. Spanking is often given in anger or bitterness, frustration or embarrassment, or even because of a feeling of disrespect. Spanking often resembles beating and can inflict injury, but doesn’t reach the heart of the child. Also, parents often spank in the heat of the moment and can accidentally abuse their child. Since spanking isn’t tied to natural consequences of the behavior, it has often been shown to increase aggressiveness in children. Instead of resorting to spanking quickly, pay attention to the times your child is misbehaving. Could it be when you’re very distracted or busy and your child is trying to get your attention? Is your child misbehaving because he is tired or hungry? Look for the root cause and discipline to bring about godly discipleship. Remember, discipline should be loving guidance and correction that disciples the heart , not a form of punishment. Discipline comes in many forms. Children are unique. There is no “one size meets all requirements” approach. But I do believe every parent should see the word discipline as discipleship to keep them accountable to building relationship and connection between their child and God. All godly correction should allow children to grow up with closer connection to Christ and family, and a joy-filled life with respect for their Heavenly Father and society. Discipline should be a step that builds transformation of the heart of your child. If a parent still intends to spank, I do not recommend it as a first form of correction. Just as I said earlier, children are unique on purpose. Just as God reaches each of us in different ways over time, parents must find what form of discipline works for each child. Be careful not to use a strong-willed child as an excuse to spank. Find ways to craft that strong will into a strong heart for godliness and with connection for Christ. Your child’s will must be guided, not squashed into rebellion. Alternate means of correction might be: loss of privileges, time out, time in, stern looks, hand signals, a hushed voice, work, or redirection of behavior. Use your situation to find natural consequences for teaching your children, but always remain mindful of the objective of stepping them closer to God and changing their heart for Him through the form of correction you choose. When a child consistently misbehaves or disobeys, it’s important to locate theroot cause in order to reach their heart for change. Remember, discipline should be correction and training toward discipleship, not punishment. Discipline should be designed as an instrument that assists in correcting behavior and facilitating heart change . Spanking doesn’t get to the core of what needs correcting. Correcting behavior (which stems from the heart of your child) allows you to draw your child’s heart nearer to Christ. Addressing heart issues moves the child closer to transformation, both in the heart and in the behavior that stems from it . Spanking punishes, but doesn’t change the heart, except perhaps planting bitterness that can place a wedge between parent and child, or more importantly, between Christ and child. Proverbs 9:10 which says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding .” Apart from the Lord we don’t have wisdom or understanding. Both are needed as you prayerfully determine whether God calls you to spank His children. Remember, that in order to change behavior, children should also see that their parents acknowledge their own personal sins. They need to understand that Mom and Dad repent to God. Then they understand that correction is a lifelong process for both children and adults. They begin to understand that we all need behavior that is fitting to the Lord. Everyone needs to honor God and submit to Him so we develop obedience and closer relationship with Him. Consider this thought - spanking doesn’t teach children to obey the parent or obey God out of love, trust, and obedience. We know that God’s grace and mercy should be the motivator used to discipline children. Discipline should be intended to draw the heart and mind of children nearer to the heart and mind of God. Using discipleship as discipline is the way to reach the heart. God’s Word teaches, corrects, trains, equips, and forgives. Our method of correction should do the same and build a foundation for our children to desire God’s Word and ways. Make sure you and your spouse are prayerfully aligned, so you’ll follow how God instructs you to discipline to disciple. Dear Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your mercy and goodness to us. Thank you for gifting us with the honor and privilege of raising Your children. Thank you for Your patience and forgiveness in our lives. Please show us the way to mentor our children with Your loving kindness. Don’t let us forget the holy authority You entrusted to us with the responsibility of parenting Your precious children, even on the most challenging days. Help us to seek You in every way, including the way we discipline to disciple. Help us keep You in the forefront of our mind so we remember the truth that discipling should be correcting and directing, not punishing. Help our children love, trust, honor, and obey You because they see us do the same. Show us the way to the hearts of the children in our care. Transform us daily because we continue to seek You and rest and abide in Your capable arms. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. This is the part of the episode that you usually hear me talk about the Set-Apart Collective. Today I want to share about my new mini program called “Establish Identity.” Why? Your identity is a major force behind what you do. Who you believe yourself to be, and who you find your identity through affects the way you live, parent, love, serve, and discipline. Your identity is one of the lifelines, a pulse point of your home. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Even if they are grown, your identity affects your child. The way you think, speak, and react is rooted in your identity. Send me a message at info@terrihitt.com if you’d like details or go to terrihitt.com and join my email list. You’ll get updates before anyone else and hear a little about what makes this so important. If you join the email list you’ll also be able to access free resources such as my new Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 037 - Life Lessons From my Teen Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #037 – Life Lessons From my Teen Thank you for listening to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast. My prayer is that you and I will parent with purpose and confidently connect with Christ and our children moment by moment. Since my middle daughter recently graduated from high school, I enjoy listening to her thoughts on childhood and her upbringing. While sharing a walk in the neighborhood recently, I spontaneously asked her to share 3 things she thought I did well while raising her. Would you like to hear her response? The top 3 things my daughter believes helped shape the morals she holds as a young adult were: 1. Church/Service – Because she was raised going to church out of reverence and love for God, and we were very active in many activities and committees as she was growing up, my daughter believes it taught her to make God a priority and that serving in the areas He calls you to at church is an act of love and obedience. Every committee meeting I could bring my daughter to, I made sure she was present. Sometimes my husband took her to his. My daughter helped set up for events, she danced at meetings and programs, and she helped make decorations. When I prepared materials for VBS, she helped. When I had to clean up after VBS, she helped. When we opened our home several times to house out of town college students, she was part of the conversations we had. Everything she could take part in, we allowed. Now she is a four-time Presidential Gold Service Award winner and has hours logged in other years that she never submitted for awards. Serving is natural for her and now, as an adult Christian she knows that she is serving for Him above all. 2. Awareness – Because we taught her to be selective and careful about what clothing she wore and what types of music she listened to, my daughter believes she learned a foundational understanding of being conscious of how she presents herself and what she allows to reside in her mind. She believes that how she learned to manage what she allowed into her mind taught her to carefully consider what she listens to or watches. For example, we taught her not to wear a bikini out in public as we did not want her to desire wearing scanty clothing when she was a tween or teen. We didn’t allow short shorts or shorts and sweats with writing on the bottom. Looking forward to the future with present decisions made a huge difference in what she came to desire as she matured. 3. Respect – Because my daughter feels that my husband and I respected the gifts and talents God placed within her, and that we helped and encouraged her to find and pursue them, she feels very blessed for our support. My daughter believes that when parents truly respect the child as a whole and unique person created by God, it makes it much easier to find the passions He crafted within and allows a stronger parent/child relationship. She felt that we actually paid attention to who she is and not what we wanted her to be or become. I enjoyed hearing her answers so much. I want to state that I didn’t know what she would say and truly, her answers surprised me. They weren’t the answers I thought she would give, but I’m so thankful for the ways God spoke to us while raising her. I thankful for the tiny acts that we made consistently over the years. They paid off for her and us in the best ways now that our daughter is facing young adult years. Please mothers, use what I shared to remember that what you do matters ! Continue to seek God’s Word and use it in practical, godly ways. Proverbs 4:5 says, “Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them .” Ask God for the wisdom to raise your children wisely. Ask Him to lead you in raising godly children who know and honor Him. Ask Him to keep you consistent in pursuing and shining Him to your children and family. Making God a priority and remaining in Him over the years will teach your children that your faith is real because God is. If you’d like to hear more, I will release an interview with my daughter this summer. I’ll be sure to let you know when it airs. Remember, I’m not sharing this with you because I think I’m the greatest mother. I share because anything that worked well came from God. I know anything I did well came from His wisdom. Mothers, continue looking Up and seek Him in all decisions. Although I fall short, He still lifts up what I offer and multiplies beyond my wildest dreams. He will absolutely do the same for you. Dear Heavenly Father, Your goodness to us is overwhelming. Your love is beyond what we can comprehend. How faithful You are. I thank you for all You are and do in our lives. Father, even when we absolutely do not deserve Your best, You still offer it. Thank you. Lord, please help me, help each of us to continue to seek You through Your Word, prayer, and service in all the ways You call and desire. Help us to hear You clearly because we seek You consistently. May we, and our children, please You more each day. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast. This summer the episodes will be shorter and I may occasionally offer favorite replays as I spend time with my family and follow a special collective I believe God is calling me to complete for Him. Remember, this podcast, and the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast, may be found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? Did you know that when you review my podcasts on Apple, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcasts online so that more people are allowed to find and hear them. Will you please take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway them away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Parent and Connect With Eternal Perspective. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #016 – Gratitude Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Living with eternal perspective drives us to develop qualities that mold us into the person we were designed to be when God created us from nothing but His longing for us. One of the things I am so thankful for is the gift of time with my youngest child, who adores playing with me. We make it a point to devote a portion of each day to dedicated play time. She chooses what we do, and guess what it is 99% of the time. Legos. Knowing we will share these moments together daily allows my girl to rest in the truth that she is treasured. She is worth my attention. As we spend these moments together, I watch for areas she may be struggling with. Play time is especially important because it allows the creativity of our children to flow while also supporting their ability to process life, emotions, fears, and joys. When we play, I look for questions that are presented through conversation, as well as shown through her actions. I enjoy this simple method of forming thought processes and habits within my girl through a fun and unchallenging environment. My favorite times are when she allows her Lego figures to speak the truths she has learned, and that prove she has absorbed and is digesting, the messages she was taught. Yesterday, she devised a new plot in our ongoing storyline. Several baby dragons matured into full-grown creatures who were supposed to help save Lego city. Three of the four dragons grew beautiful wings, except the one I was supposed to play with. She built mine with tiny wings made of bricks instead of flowing, colorful wings. I looked at the other dragons and wondered why I didn’t get the opportunity to enjoy a pretty one. Before I began pouting, because who really wants to play with a whiny mother, I probed her with questions about when my dragon was going to grow a better set of wings. “She already has wings,” my daughter told me. “Why are they little ones?” I asked. “They aren’t little. They’re special,” she insisted with conviction. I looked at the dragon I held in my hands, then glanced at hers. Mine had bricked wings almost two inches long. The winged creatures she played with wore colorful, delicate attachments spanning eight to ten inches. “These wings look little compared to the other dragons,” I protested. “She is special. Trust me,” she replied with assurance. Her words struck me. Trust me. That is when I heard God whisper to my spirit. “Be grateful for this time with my beautiful child,” He spoke to me. “Look at these creations she has made with her eyes, as I look at you with my eyes of love.” I thought of God’s words, then replayed in my mind the words my daughter spoke so confidently. I remembered the love she shows me every day and how she gives of herself so unselfishly. Mentally, I began processing the past days we had played, those that built up the foundation of this storyline. All of a sudden, moments clicked into place. I understood the plot line she was creating with this tiny-winged dragon. “Special” is what she called this creation made for me. I believed this one was made to be a water dragon. “Did you make this one with tiny wings so that it can fly and swim,” I asked her. “Yes,” she answered with excitement. “I love it,” I assured her, seeing the unique abilities this animal possessed. “It’s the only one who can do both.” “Yes,” she said. Such special qualities this dragon held, and she entrusted it to me. In fact, it was designed for me. How often do we not understand what God crafts especially for us? How quickly do we when or complain that we don’t receive what we want or think we should? As we played out her story, I purposely made my dragon comment that she was the last one to develop into a larger dragon and that she was the only one with little wings. Finally, I made the creature realize that her wings were special and could switch to fins that carried her into an underwater land, where none of the other beasts could travel. Understanding that they were each uniquely created with special gifts given as God appoints according to His purposes was the main theme of playtime that day. Sharing time together in this way has helped my child understand and accept so much of life. It has undoubtedly deepened our relationship. Playing with my girl daily challenges my creativity and my compassion. It helps erase selfishness and desires that threaten to move me away from what is ultimately important in life. Entertaining my child with Legos may seem trivial, but devoting time together shows her how important she is and drives home the truth that God created her with an incredibly special set of skills and qualities that no one else has. As we played her creative storyline underscoring God’s truths and the importance of not comparing gifts and abilities, or complaining about what we receive, she was reminded without being told, that each person is conceived in the mind of our Heavenly Father for a specific purpose, just as each dragon was. Just as she was. Although she has heard this many times, as we built the truth into our story, she acted it out with a new sense of confidence that I had never seen. Her imagination had built a complete tale from core beliefs we helped shape, and I seized the opportunity to applaud and confirm what she was living and releasing. Gratitude filled my heart and spirit for the abundance of lessons my daughter had learned and now applied, and for the lessons God was still crafting in both of us. Gratitude is built on a foundation of trust. Our Heavenly Father knows what He is doing. When we trust Him, we can be thankful no matter our circumstances. Have you noticed that life brings so many unexpected events and turns? In fact, days rarely run smoothly. As I prepare to air this podcast, many of my friends are struggling or living through hardships and I am lifting many prayers for them. My family is personally enduring months of zero salary and no medical insurance, due to the COVID-19 work restrictions. Heartache touches each of us in different ways and at various times. None of us are immune to trouble or pain. How do we keep gratitude constant in our hearts and on our lips? The key is to maintain gratefulness. There is a definite difference between living with gratitude and without. I view living without gratefulness as falling from a ship in the middle of a raging ocean without a life vest. Maintaining an attitude of praise and appreciativeness, despite hardships, sustains and increases our faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us, ”Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” What does this verse mean? Those of us who know and follow Jesus should reflect a prayerful life. We don’t walk around in a trance praying every moment, but live with a prayerful attitude and mindset. We converse with Jesus as easily as we breathe and unconsciously think of and speak to Him. Our life reflects an attitude of prayer which easily raises acknowledgement not only for the good gifts we receive, but also in times of hardship, because we understand and acknowledge that God is in control and He does work all things together for good for those who are called according to His purpose, just as we are taught in Romans 8:28. Everything is an opportunity for us to choose to accept a blessing, even when it is disguised. My prayers often include pleas to God, asking Him to allow me to always live with a heart that carries thanksgiving and that worships and relies on God no matter my circumstances. Does that mean praise always flows from my heart and lips? Not on its own. For me, it is similar to training to be an athlete. I have to work my gratitude muscles, intentionally strengthening them so that if I don’t feel like being thankful when hurtful or difficult trials come, I’m equipped to rely on the training that automatically reverts my thoughts and heart to praising God during that particular load. The truth is that nothing should separate us from praising and worshipping God. When I want to complain that I have sacks of grocery items to disinfect before putting them away, my spirit immediately erases the burden mindset and writes thankfulness in its place. By constantly looking for areas in which I may praise God, my mind and heart begin to subconsciously search for all the blessings I have. Even in the worst of times, God bolsters my faith to enhance my relationship with Him and change the way I view this life. When my oldest daughter died, I focused on the way God carried and equipped me to maintain joy despite tremendous heartache. We must realize we have been given this moment to allow God to shift our attitude and perception into a Holy alignment with His. My youngest child is releasing more of her history to me. The moments come in broken spurts of memories. Each time she confides in me, I recognize the bravery and trust she is releasing as she allows herself to relive a time she rarely remembers with happiness. My job as her mother, her mentor in Christ, is to direct her pain and heartache to Him. As I watch and listen to her, as I rely on Him to lead me to help her purge the old trauma and disappointment from her soul, I am thankful that He has sent her to me to parent. What a gift I have been presented. Despite a difficult and disappointing past, she is being taught to voice her emotions, walk through the hurt, and find hope and trust in Him. I am teaching her to live with praise and gratefulness, even when she does not understand. Romans 5:3-5 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Peace and joy come to us, despite difficulties and hurts, rejections and failures, when we exercise gratitude. At first, we may not be able to thank God. As we draw nearer to Him, we recognize God’s sovereignty in our life and allow Him to shift our mindset to peaceful expectation of His provision. He will never fail us when we take the steps that lead us to be thankful despite suffering or pain, disappointments and failures. The answers are not always what we desire, but they are always what He needs to accomplish His purposes and that will eventually, if we allow it, bring us to our knees before Him in humble thanksgiving and praise. Not always for the tragedy or hardship, but for the closeness we find with Him through it. The hardest times in my life have been soothed by Him. Although I never want to live the circumstances again, especially those carved by deep loss, I am overwhelmed by the measures the Creator of the Universe went to in order to move me exactly where I am the most effective for Him and where I unite in deeper communion with Jesus. Although I will never be exactly where I should be this side of Heaven, I see the changes He makes in me daily. I know He is real. I know He is for me and never against me. 2 Corinthians 4:15 says, “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” The ways the Lord has impacted my life, carrying me each moment and replacing a shattered heart with joy that surpasses earthly understanding, the way He has performed miracles as I step out in obedience to Him, forces my heart to desire pleasing Him above all else. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us, “ Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and to worship God acceptably, with reverence and awe.” What would be the greatest blessings God could bestow on each of us? The ability to see each other and the world through His eyes, to love one another as He does, to acknowledge the new mercies we receive from Him every morning, to purposely renew our spirit through Him each moment, to keep our eyes and hearts focused on Him, and to react in situations as He would, even through persecution and sacrifice. If we ask Him and seek to build these qualities daily through Him, He will honor our prayer because it is in alignment with how He would desire us to live. Romans 6:13 instructs, “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to Him as an instrument of righteousness.” How do we shift from our selfish, fleshly, self-absorbed mindset to one that desires a Christ-like perspective in all ways? Only through a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. What are ways we can strengthen our walk with Jesus through abundant praise and thanksgiving? 1. We must release fear. When we are anxious or worrisome, or hold onto fear, we are placing our trust in self, not our Heavenly Father. 2. We must realize how we worship the clock. Time has become another master in our lives. In order to savor moments with God and our loved ones, we simply need to slow down. As we relax, we begin to hear our Father and can acknowledge the gifts we have received with praise and thanksgiving. Once we allow gratitude to enter our mindset, we build the capacity to see adversity with a new measure of appreciativeness, for we believe the work God will do through us if we allow Him to. 3. We must desire abundance. If we allow thoughts and emotions to rule our attitudes and actions, we may never receive the blessings of living with a grateful heart and spirit. Do you know people who never seem appreciative of anything? Do you want to be around them? What about those who complain constantly? Do you want to live like that? Neither do I. In order to desire abundance, we must release our selfish expectations at the foot of the cross. What does Jesus desire for me? How can I please Him? What do I need to shift in my life to acquire the skills to follow where He calls? Those are steps to walking with abundance. Only through allowing Him to carve the life we were created to live, will we truly live with abundance. 4. We must be obedient. When we trust the Lord to execute the plans He has for us, we step out in faith, knowing that beyond the fear lives joy. With joy, we freely offer thankfulness and gratitude. How do we train ourselves to live with abundant gratefulness that ignores circumstances or disappointment and focuses on God’s abundant love and mercy? 1. Ask God to fill us with the recognition of His blessings and a grateful heart and spirit. 2. Cling nearer to Jesus through a prayerful life that includes Him in all we are and do. 3. Develop a deeper relationship with Him because we desire sweet fellowship. 4. Listen to praise music that helps us to recognize the attributes and actions of our Heavenly Father. 5. Wear our Bible out through study and reflection in God’s word. Use this gift as a tool to strengthen all areas of our life and as the manual it was presented to be. The life of Jesus should be our mentor and God’s promises, our hope. 6. Memorize God’s word. If memorization is difficult, write His word or read and reflect on it, so that it is easy to recognize anything counter to His truths. 7. Journal prayer requests and God’s answers to them. This is a practice I stopped making time for, although I used to write in journals quite a bit. I sometimes miss the wonder I once felt when I read old entries and remember long-forgotten recorded prayers and the ways God answered them. 8. Add service to your routine. When we forsake our needs or desires and serve others with genuine joy, we receive so much more than we give. Find an organization you believe in or simply offer kindness in ways unique to the individuals you want to bless. God will show you who He wants to touch through you if you ask Him to. 9. Monitor the words and tone you extend to others. When we live with an awareness of how we are perceived by others and how what we show them of Jesus through our words and actions can affect their eternity, we begin to care much more about how we spend our time and treat our loved ones, as well as strangers. 10. Forgive. Living with gratitude is not possible when we harbor a bitter spirit or hold unforgiveness closer than we hold onto Jesus. When we live contrary to what God calls for us, we cannot step into freedom through what He has done for us. When we cannot forgive, we live counter to the sacrifice Jesus made for each one of us. If He can love enough to offer complete forgiveness through His death for you and for me, how can we justify neglecting absolution to others? Gratitude is an emotion and an action. The closer we live to Him, the more thankfulness resides in and seeps from us, just as every quality He desires for us continues to grow through our eternal relationship with Him. When our days are hard and no relief seems to be in sight, we cling to the words penned in the diary of our soul, the Bible. Meditating on the verses God offers for every need brings us closer to true worship and abundant living, leading to extravagant recognition of all we have been given. Psalm 7:17 says, “I will give thanks to the Lord because of His righteousness; I will sing the praises of the Lord Most High.” Psalm 9:1 says, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” James 1:2-4 calls us to, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Offering praise in the most difficult times, when the pain life in this world exceeds joy, we discover the higher purpose and benefits of a grateful heart. Living as though we already carry a heart of gladness, forces it to sprout. As Jesus hung on the cross, separated for a time from His Heavenly Father, bearing the sin of each one of us, He no doubt still carried gratitude in His heart. As he had dined with his disciples at the Last Supper, He knew what faced Him, yet offered divine gratitude as He broke bread and drank from the cup He had been assigned. Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song, I praise Him.” When we realize and deeply understand that all we have and are comes from God for a divine purpose, and recognize the love He carries despite anything we do, we are able to lift pure praise as David did in 1 Chronicles 29:12-13, “Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might, and in Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.” or offer praise as Paul did in Ephesians 5:19b-20, “Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Is it your desire to live your life with a bitter, selfish spirit and angry demeanor? Then live without with gratitude. Or do you desire to cultivate and plant contentment and gratitude that grows God’s joyful spirit in your soul, that exhibits your joy and thankfulness for the sacrifice Jesus made for you? Offer gratitude to God and others daily and watch your spirit attract more joy and contentment with each praise you lift and share. Thank you so much for listening to this podcast. Have you found value in our weekly topics? I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you want to hear more from this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Please share this podcast with a friend. I want everyone to hear encouragement in Jesus and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 016 Gratitude Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #016 – Gratitude Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Living with eternal perspective drives us to develop qualities that mold us into the person we were designed to be when God created us from nothing but His longing for us. One of the things I am so thankful for is the gift of time with my youngest child, who adores playing with me. We make it a point to devote a portion of each day to dedicated play time. She chooses what we do, and guess what it is 99% of the time. Legos. Knowing we will share these moments together daily allows my girl to rest in the truth that she is treasured. She is worth my attention. As we spend these moments together, I watch for areas she may be struggling with. Play time is especially important because it allows the creativity of our children to flow while also supporting their ability to process life, emotions, fears, and joys. When we play, I look for questions that are presented through conversation, as well as shown through her actions. I enjoy this simple method of forming thought processes and habits within my girl through a fun and unchallenging environment. My favorite times are when she allows her Lego figures to speak the truths she has learned, and that prove she has absorbed and is digesting, the messages she was taught. Yesterday, she devised a new plot in our ongoing storyline. Several baby dragons matured into full-grown creatures who were supposed to help save Lego city. Three of the four dragons grew beautiful wings, except the one I was supposed to play with. She built mine with tiny wings made of bricks instead of flowing, colorful wings. I looked at the other dragons and wondered why I didn’t get the opportunity to enjoy a pretty one. Before I began pouting, because who really wants to play with a whiny mother, I probed her with questions about when my dragon was going to grow a better set of wings. “She already has wings,” my daughter told me. “Why are they little ones?” I asked. “They aren’t little. They’re special,” she insisted with conviction. I looked at the dragon I held in my hands, then glanced at hers. Mine had bricked wings almost two inches long. The winged creatures she played with wore colorful, delicate attachments spanning eight to ten inches. “These wings look little compared to the other dragons,” I protested. “She is special. Trust me,” she replied with assurance. Her words struck me. Trust me. That is when I heard God whisper to my spirit. “Be grateful for this time with my beautiful child,” He spoke to me. “Look at these creations she has made with her eyes, as I look at you with my eyes of love.” I thought of God’s words, then replayed in my mind the words my daughter spoke so confidently. I remembered the love she shows me every day and how she gives of herself so unselfishly. Mentally, I began processing the past days we had played, those that built up the foundation of this storyline. All of a sudden, moments clicked into place. I understood the plot line she was creating with this tiny-winged dragon. “Special” is what she called this creation made for me. I believed this one was made to be a water dragon. “Did you make this one with tiny wings so that it can fly and swim,” I asked her. “Yes,” she answered with excitement. “I love it,” I assured her, seeing the unique abilities this animal possessed. “It’s the only one who can do both.” “Yes,” she said. Such special qualities this dragon held, and she entrusted it to me. In fact, it was designed for me. How often do we not understand what God crafts especially for us? How quickly do we when or complain that we don’t receive what we want or think we should? As we played out her story, I purposely made my dragon comment that she was the last one to develop into a larger dragon and that she was the only one with little wings. Finally, I made the creature realize that her wings were special and could switch to fins that carried her into an underwater land, where none of the other beasts could travel. Understanding that they were each uniquely created with special gifts given as God appoints according to His purposes was the main theme of playtime that day. Sharing time together in this way has helped my child understand and accept so much of life. It has undoubtedly deepened our relationship. Playing with my girl daily challenges my creativity and my compassion. It helps erase selfishness and desires that threaten to move me away from what is ultimately important in life. Entertaining my child with Legos may seem trivial, but devoting time together shows her how important she is and drives home the truth that God created her with an incredibly special set of skills and qualities that no one else has. As we played her creative storyline underscoring God’s truths and the importance of not comparing gifts and abilities, or complaining about what we receive, she was reminded without being told, that each person is conceived in the mind of our Heavenly Father for a specific purpose, just as each dragon was. Just as she was. Although she has heard this many times, as we built the truth into our story, she acted it out with a new sense of confidence that I had never seen. Her imagination had built a complete tale from core beliefs we helped shape, and I seized the opportunity to applaud and confirm what she was living and releasing. Gratitude filled my heart and spirit for the abundance of lessons my daughter had learned and now applied, and for the lessons God was still crafting in both of us. Gratitude is built on a foundation of trust. Our Heavenly Father knows what He is doing. When we trust Him, we can be thankful no matter our circumstances. Have you noticed that life brings so many unexpected events and turns? In fact, days rarely run smoothly. As I prepare to air this podcast, many of my friends are struggling or living through hardships and I am lifting many prayers for them. My family is personally enduring months of zero salary and no medical insurance, due to the COVID-19 work restrictions. Heartache touches each of us in different ways and at various times. None of us are immune to trouble or pain. How do we keep gratitude constant in our hearts and on our lips? The key is to maintain gratefulness. There is a definite difference between living with gratitude and without. I view living without gratefulness as falling from a ship in the middle of a raging ocean without a life vest. Maintaining an attitude of praise and appreciativeness, despite hardships, sustains and increases our faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us, ”Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” What does this verse mean? Those of us who know and follow Jesus should reflect a prayerful life. We don’t walk around in a trance praying every moment, but live with a prayerful attitude and mindset. We converse with Jesus as easily as we breathe and unconsciously think of and speak to Him. Our life reflects an attitude of prayer which easily raises acknowledgement not only for the good gifts we receive, but also in times of hardship, because we understand and acknowledge that God is in control and He does work all things together for good for those who are called according to His purpose, just as we are taught in Romans 8:28. Everything is an opportunity for us to choose to accept a blessing, even when it is disguised. My prayers often include pleas to God, asking Him to allow me to always live with a heart that carries thanksgiving and that worships and relies on God no matter my circumstances. Does that mean praise always flows from my heart and lips? Not on its own. For me, it is similar to training to be an athlete. I have to work my gratitude muscles, intentionally strengthening them so that if I don’t feel like being thankful when hurtful or difficult trials come, I’m equipped to rely on the training that automatically reverts my thoughts and heart to praising God during that particular load. The truth is that nothing should separate us from praising and worshipping God. When I want to complain that I have sacks of grocery items to disinfect before putting them away, my spirit immediately erases the burden mindset and writes thankfulness in its place. By constantly looking for areas in which I may praise God, my mind and heart begin to subconsciously search for all the blessings I have. Even in the worst of times, God bolsters my faith to enhance my relationship with Him and change the way I view this life. When my oldest daughter died, I focused on the way God carried and equipped me to maintain joy despite tremendous heartache. We must realize we have been given this moment to allow God to shift our attitude and perception into a Holy alignment with His. My youngest child is releasing more of her history to me. The moments come in broken spurts of memories. Each time she confides in me, I recognize the bravery and trust she is releasing as she allows herself to relive a time she rarely remembers with happiness. My job as her mother, her mentor in Christ, is to direct her pain and heartache to Him. As I watch and listen to her, as I rely on Him to lead me to help her purge the old trauma and disappointment from her soul, I am thankful that He has sent her to me to parent. What a gift I have been presented. Despite a difficult and disappointing past, she is being taught to voice her emotions, walk through the hurt, and find hope and trust in Him. I am teaching her to live with praise and gratefulness, even when she does not understand. Romans 5:3-5 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Peace and joy come to us, despite difficulties and hurts, rejections and failures, when we exercise gratitude. At first, we may not be able to thank God. As we draw nearer to Him, we recognize God’s sovereignty in our life and allow Him to shift our mindset to peaceful expectation of His provision. He will never fail us when we take the steps that lead us to be thankful despite suffering or pain, disappointments and failures. The answers are not always what we desire, but they are always what He needs to accomplish His purposes and that will eventually, if we allow it, bring us to our knees before Him in humble thanksgiving and praise. Not always for the tragedy or hardship, but for the closeness we find with Him through it. The hardest times in my life have been soothed by Him. Although I never want to live the circumstances again, especially those carved by deep loss, I am overwhelmed by the measures the Creator of the Universe went to in order to move me exactly where I am the most effective for Him and where I unite in deeper communion with Jesus. Although I will never be exactly where I should be this side of Heaven, I see the changes He makes in me daily. I know He is real. I know He is for me and never against me. 2 Corinthians 4:15 says, “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” The ways the Lord has impacted my life, carrying me each moment and replacing a shattered heart with joy that surpasses earthly understanding, the way He has performed miracles as I step out in obedience to Him, forces my heart to desire pleasing Him above all else. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us, “ Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and to worship God acceptably, with reverence and awe.” What would be the greatest blessings God could bestow on each of us? The ability to see each other and the world through His eyes, to love one another as He does, to acknowledge the new mercies we receive from Him every morning, to purposely renew our spirit through Him each moment, to keep our eyes and hearts focused on Him, and to react in situations as He would, even through persecution and sacrifice. If we ask Him and seek to build these qualities daily through Him, He will honor our prayer because it is in alignment with how He would desire us to live. Romans 6:13 instructs, “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to Him as an instrument of righteousness.” How do we shift from our selfish, fleshly, self-absorbed mindset to one that desires a Christ-like perspective in all ways? Only through a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. What are ways we can strengthen our walk with Jesus through abundant praise and thanksgiving? 1. We must release fear. When we are anxious or worrisome, or hold onto fear, we are placing our trust in self, not our Heavenly Father. 2. We must realize how we worship the clock. Time has become another master in our lives. In order to savor moments with God and our loved ones, we simply need to slow down. As we relax, we begin to hear our Father and can acknowledge the gifts we have received with praise and thanksgiving. Once we allow gratitude to enter our mindset, we build the capacity to see adversity with a new measure of appreciativeness, for we believe the work God will do through us if we allow Him to. 3. We must desire abundance. If we allow thoughts and emotions to rule our attitudes and actions, we may never receive the blessings of living with a grateful heart and spirit. Do you know people who never seem appreciative of anything? Do you want to be around them? What about those who complain constantly? Do you want to live like that? Neither do I. In order to desire abundance, we must release our selfish expectations at the foot of the cross. What does Jesus desire for me? How can I please Him? What do I need to shift in my life to acquire the skills to follow where He calls? Those are steps to walking with abundance. Only through allowing Him to carve the life we were created to live, will we truly live with abundance. 4. We must be obedient. When we trust the Lord to execute the plans He has for us, we step out in faith, knowing that beyond the fear lives joy. With joy, we freely offer thankfulness and gratitude. How do we train ourselves to live with abundant gratefulness that ignores circumstances or disappointment and focuses on God’s abundant love and mercy? 1. Ask God to fill us with the recognition of His blessings and a grateful heart and spirit. 2. Cling nearer to Jesus through a prayerful life that includes Him in all we are and do. 3. Develop a deeper relationship with Him because we desire sweet fellowship. 4. Listen to praise music that helps us to recognize the attributes and actions of our Heavenly Father. 5. Wear our Bible out through study and reflection in God’s word. Use this gift as a tool to strengthen all areas of our life and as the manual it was presented to be. The life of Jesus should be our mentor and God’s promises, our hope. 6. Memorize God’s word. If memorization is difficult, write His word or read and reflect on it, so that it is easy to recognize anything counter to His truths. 7. Journal prayer requests and God’s answers to them. This is a practice I stopped making time for, although I used to write in journals quite a bit. I sometimes miss the wonder I once felt when I read old entries and remember long-forgotten recorded prayers and the ways God answered them. 8. Add service to your routine. When we forsake our needs or desires and serve others with genuine joy, we receive so much more than we give. Find an organization you believe in or simply offer kindness in ways unique to the individuals you want to bless. God will show you who He wants to touch through you if you ask Him to. 9. Monitor the words and tone you extend to others. When we live with an awareness of how we are perceived by others and how what we show them of Jesus through our words and actions can affect their eternity, we begin to care much more about how we spend our time and treat our loved ones, as well as strangers. 10. Forgive. Living with gratitude is not possible when we harbor a bitter spirit or hold unforgiveness closer than we hold onto Jesus. When we live contrary to what God calls for us, we cannot step into freedom through what He has done for us. When we cannot forgive, we live counter to the sacrifice Jesus made for each one of us. If He can love enough to offer complete forgiveness through His death for you and for me, how can we justify neglecting absolution to others? Gratitude is an emotion and an action. The closer we live to Him, the more thankfulness resides in and seeps from us, just as every quality He desires for us continues to grow through our eternal relationship with Him. When our days are hard and no relief seems to be in sight, we cling to the words penned in the diary of our soul, the Bible. Meditating on the verses God offers for every need brings us closer to true worship and abundant living, leading to extravagant recognition of all we have been given. Psalm 7:17 says, “I will give thanks to the Lord because of His righteousness; I will sing the praises of the Lord Most High.” Psalm 9:1 says, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” James 1:2-4 calls us to, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Offering praise in the most difficult times, when the pain life in this world exceeds joy, we discover the higher purpose and benefits of a grateful heart. Living as though we already carry a heart of gladness, forces it to sprout. As Jesus hung on the cross, separated for a time from His Heavenly Father, bearing the sin of each one of us, He no doubt still carried gratitude in His heart. As he had dined with his disciples at the Last Supper, He knew what faced Him, yet offered divine gratitude as He broke bread and drank from the cup He had been assigned. Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song, I praise Him.” When we realize and deeply understand that all we have and are comes from God for a divine purpose, and recognize the love He carries despite anything we do, we are able to lift pure praise as David did in 1 Chronicles 29:12-13, “Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might, and in Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.” or offer praise as Paul did in Ephesians 5:19b-20, “Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Is it your desire to live your life with a bitter, selfish spirit and angry demeanor? Then live without with gratitude. Or do you desire to cultivate and plant contentment and gratitude that grows God’s joyful spirit in your soul, that exhibits your joy and thankfulness for the sacrifice Jesus made for you? Offer gratitude to God and others daily and watch your spirit attract more joy and contentment with each praise you lift and share. Thank you so much for listening to this podcast. Have you found value in our weekly topics? I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you want to hear more from this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Please share this podcast with a friend. I want everyone to hear encouragement in Jesus and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

I invite you to begin this 31-Day Scripture study designed to equip your mind and heart to shift from being a good mother to become a godly mother. The Scriptures included in this guide are shared for the purpose of drawing you closer to Christ. Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture & Prayer Guide I invite you to begin this 31-Day Scripture study designed to equip your mind and heart to shift from being a good mother to become a godly mother. The Scriptures included in this guide are shared for the purpose of drawing you closer to Christ. Download

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast - Episode 088 - The Truth About Affirmations Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 088 – The Truth About Affirmations Thank you for taking time to share your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children. I have some questions for you to ponder as we start the episode today. What do you do when you desire change in your life? Where is the first place you seek to find direction? What gives you strength? Where do you find hope that change can occur? Many people turn to a popular source of hope for change. Affirmations are often used in today’s society. Many coaches, speakers, and influencers recommend their use for daily life and business success. You may wonder what affirmations are. I think an easy description is that affirmations are a method that some people use to change beliefs or behaviors. Affirmations can be written or spoken and are to be used as if they are “already happening.” Some examples would be: “I am successful in my career” or “I attract wealth.” As people use affirmations they create or choose, the written or spoken word is meant to “reprogram” the mind, encourage, and change beliefs or actions about self, life, business, finances, and so on. Affirmations are believed to alter thoughts and actions as they attract what the user desires. Affirmations may be popular, but as I describe them, do you think they sound biblical? As you listen, can you see that they actually sound secular? A word like “attract” is more often a “New Age” term and should alert believers to beware. As we continue this episode, ask God to give you discernment as to whether you should be using affirmations. I’ll show you why I think He calls us to another source. Scripture is very clear that Christians don’t carry transformative power, except for that of the Holy Spirit alive within us. So why would we believe that speaking affirmations that are simply words and thoughts coming from human experiences, beliefs, and desires would be worth repeating in an effort to manifest change ? Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it ?” Romans 8:7 says, “The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so .” Some proponents of speaking affirmations believe that using them “raises vibrations” or “channels abundance.” Again, this is stepping into New Age terminology and beliefs that are in opposition to God and His Word. Others in favor of using affirmations may believe they’re using positivity to create changes within themselves. They use the affirmations as visual reminders of their goals, prompts to remember goals, encouragement to get there, or inspiration to promote change. When you begin to use affirmations, you learn that there are guidelines – or rules as to how to correctly apply affirmations, such as when and how to use them. As followers of Christ, we have been set free of worldly rules of this type. In fact, we must remember that Scripture offers the best guide for creating desired changes in words, behavior, actions, and successes. You don’t need to chant or write words a certain number of times or get caught up in remembering to recite those affirmations daily. Users of affirmations insist they seem to work. I think the mind is pliable and feeds from the positivity and consistency. However, I also believe that affirmations pose a danger in swaying a person to rely on self instead of Savior . The Bible clearly warns believers against self-reliance. As users repeat the practice of claiming affirmations there is increasing reliance on self and decreasing dependance on God. That is not a safe place for any Christian. Let’s back up a bit and start as I often do by finding the meaning of the word affirm . The word is used “to state or assert positively .” Another definition is to “maintain a true .” Simply making a statement and believing it to be true isn’t as impactful or lasting as prayerful consideration of what God calls you to do - or relying on Him to shift your thoughts, actions, reactions, or circumstances. If you’re a user of affirmations, please don’t shut out what I am saying. Would you please prayerfully consider the message I am delivering? As believers, Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight .” Rely on God to “affirm” you, your future, and what you can or should do. Scripture is clear that you are instructed to take thoughts captive for Christ. In fact, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 says, “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ .” Scripture is both your offense and defense . We know from Scripture that the Holy Spirit is the source of the Word . 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. ” You can trust God’s powerful, holy Word. Through it, you are equipped for every good work. Just what is a good work ? What you discern from following God through a maturing walk with Jesus and prayerful consideration of His voice and will . 2 Peter 1:20-21 says, “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit .” Scripture proves that not even prophets could trust self. They were merely humans who spoke from God as the Holy Spirit moved within them. The Holy Spirit, as the third person of the Trinity, is Truth , as God is Truth . The Holy Spirit always works in accordance with Scripture, never contradictory. Since the Word comes from the Source of the Holy Spirit it is the very breath and life of God. Spoken word (and breath) was used by God to create the world, the universe, you and me. Hebrews 11:3 says, “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible .” What power comes from God and His word! In Ephesians 6:17 , we read, “Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God .” Using this image of the sword of the Spirit, we better understand that the strength we hold comes directly from God . As Ephesians speaks of the sword, remember that this is a deadly weapon used in war. The imagery used in this verse reminds us again of the mightiness of God and His Word. Proverbs 18:21a says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue .” Great good or destructive harm can be achieved through the tongue. When you speak affirmations you are choosing to affirm life or death. Anything not based on God’s truth is speaking death. Anything based on power of self over Savior carries deception and death. Do you remember Jesus’s reaction when confronted by Satan in the desert? Scripture was the weapon He used with strength and success . Jesus didn’t bargain with the devil or speak positive affirmations. He went straight to the source of wisdom and power. God’s Holy Word . The best defense you and I can employ in this world is to use Scripture as Jesus did. Our Savior didn’t need to fight or look to self. The Word did all He needed. Just as it does for you and me. Our offense is also the Word. As Scripture is used in preaching, coaching, and counseling we recognize power purposed by our sovereign and holy Heavenly Father as He prepares us to rely on His strength and skill. In a culture increasingly falling away from Christ, we must recognize and resist the pull to affirm self . Dare to deepen your faith and consistently proclaim God’s Word as the foundation of Truth on which to build your basis of identity, morality, or change. As you stand on the Word of God as foundational for your thoughts, dreams, and desires and speak His Words as truth over situations, Satan gains zero foothold over your mind, words, or actions. Instead, you move ever closer to the One who created you, defines you, and loves you with an everlasting source of love, hope, and truth. Seek more of Him and less of self, regardless of what this world may instruct. You will begin to recognize the dreams He planted deep within you when you were created. You will accomplish much more than you can imagine or hope for. How can we think that our words hold power to transform? It is nothing more than pride . Do you see the obedience and power in using God’s Word? When people rely on affirmations made by self , they fall victim to this verse from 2 Corinthians 4:4 which says, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” Instead believer, remember John 1:3 which says, “All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.” God is the expert on you. He knows the dreams built within you that you may not have even discovered yet. Build your walk with Him through Christ and seek His thoughts on what to affirm in your life through His holy Word, through prayer, and through relationship with Him. Allow Scripture, not affirmations, to be the force that rewires your brain pathways and changes your outlook, desires, and actions . Using Scripture is easy. Start with several verses from the Bible. Turn those lines into words you can use to affirm truth, power, and strength from God in your life. First, I’ll read the Scripture as it is in the Bible, then using inspiration from that verse, I’ll craft biblical affirmations of God’s truth as examples for you to use and to begin building additional statements for you to use. I love calling these Scripture Statements . 2 Corinthians 1:4 says, “Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God .” Statement : God is my comforter through any tribulation. He gives me assurance and ability to comfort others in trouble using the comfort and strength He gives to me. 2 Corinthians 3:5 says, “Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God .” Statement: Through God I am competent to claim excellence. Psalm 116:1-2 says, “I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. ” Statement: God hears every one of my prayers. Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart .” Statement: I delight in the Lord! He knows the true desires of my heart and will give me all I need. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble .” Statement: God is my refuge and strength. Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You .” Statement: I have no fear, because I trust in the Lord. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus .” Statement: God’s peace is far above my understanding, and He is the one guarding my heart and mind. Colossians 2:10 says, “And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” Statement: I am complete in every way through God, the head of all principality and power. 2 Corinthians 12:10 says, “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong .” Statement: Because of Christ, I delight in weaknesses and difficulties because my strength is complete in Him. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland .” Statement: No matter my past, I am renewed through Christ! Through God, I have a new way of life and desires. Psalm 94:19 says, “In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my sou l.” Statement: God comforts and delights my heart and soul. 2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight .” Statement: I don’t care what this world brings. I live by faith in the Lord, not by sight. Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go .” Statement: I am strong and courageous because the Lord is with me wherever I go. Do you see the power God gives you through His Word and the Holy Spirit within you? Don’t disobediently rely on man-made words to attempt change in your life. Instead, seek God first and use the power He has gifted you in supernatural, holy ways. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are! We praise You for giving us the gift of Your Holy Word and the strength and guidance You provide to us through it. Father, help us remember to rely on Scripture rather than self. Help us to call on our Savior over self. Help us have your discernment and wisdom. Enable us to discern with Your insight when we are moving away from You or following worldly methods. Bring us back to You and Your will and ways. Help us utilize Your Word as the foundation for our beliefs and identity. Help us craft change in our life because we rely on Scripture and call on Your mighty power. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. If you’re a working mom inside or outside the home and need an easy way to begin teaching your babies, toddlers, or preschoolers about Jesus, send me an email at info@terrihitt.com . I’m currently working on a devotional to bring your children to the feet of Jesus early. Let me know you’re interested, and I’ll let you know how to receive a copy. Also, you may have heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective often in this podcast. Why do I share it so often? I know the program works. Through 8 weeks of one-on-one and group coaching, along with Scripturally-based materials I provide, you will complete 8 steps that include the following: Seek God First, Establish Identity, Teach Truth, A Set-Apart Woman, Parent Set-Apart Kids, Arm for Battle, Relationships, and Training. What you learn and solidify in your personal life will directly affect the way you serve God and parent for Him. It will help you construct godly confidence and esteem through Christ in your children. Whether you’re expecting or your kids are out of the house, I guarantee that the work you do in this collective will carry you closer to Christ and your children. If you’re ready to invest in the future of yourself and your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I seriously want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. If you’ve decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child and you desire to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, the Set-Apart Collective, will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective is open now. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to see whether it would be a good fit for you. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, it only takes a minute to leave a rating and review. I’m asking you to please do that. It makes it easier for others to find the podcast. Since you and I know that the most trusted recommendations are by word of mouth, would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. 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< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 073 - Equip Your Child to Stand Against Sin Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 073 – Equip Your Child to Stand Against Sin Our youngest daughter has a bedtime curfew depending on what day of the week it is. She’s really very good at keeping to the schedule, even when she doesn’t want to. But as my husband was getting ready to leave for work this morning, he shared a story that happened last night when they were watching television together after I went to bed. When her set bedtime arrived on the clock, she started to gather her things to go to sleep. Because they were watching a show that wasn’t over yet, my husband said she could tell me he told her to stay up. “But that would be a lie,” she said. He explained that it wasn’t a lie if he told her she could stay up later, and that he was telling her she could. The next evening, I was already in bed again when they were continuing the series they were watching. When it was time to go to bed, my husband asked her if she was leaving, and she wittily remarked, “Unless you want me to stay.” My daughter felt so strongly about getting to bed at the proper time because she has followed that expectation daily for years, understanding that obeying is a promise between us when I gave her the bedtimes. She recognizes that even if I am not there to remind her of when to go to bed, she is still under authority to make the correct choice. It took convincing from my husband that he also had the authority to tell her she could stay up past her bedtime. While our daughter does need to understand that as her parent, Daddy can alter her bedtime so they can enjoy time together if I’m not there, I’m glad she takes honesty seriously. Even when we purposely raise our children to respect and honor God, it can be easy for them to be deceived or to fall to selfish desires or ambitions. When they do uphold the teachings of God and honor Him and His authority, we reap the beautiful benefits. Genesis 3:1-13 says, “Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” “And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree, which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’ “Then the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” “So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.” “And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” “Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?” “So he said, “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” “And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?” “Then the man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.” “And the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done ?” “The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” It is vitally important for parents to understand that God’s truths must be clearly and repeatedly taught if we desire our children to easily recognize the lies of this fallen world. What we teach our children about truth through God’s eyes and how we live His truths become godly examples that will affect them and future generations. Teaching the book of Genesis is a beautiful lesson in God’s truths. What they learn through Genesis will be the foundation for multiple life issues as they mature and grow. Proverbs is another book filled with truth and wisdom. Teaching your child the truths of God’s Word will always be more important than anything else you could teach them. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life .” Humans carry such selfish desires. It’s easy for us to get caught up in what we want or think we need, and fall short of what God’s best is for us and our family. Pride Arrogance Selfishness Jealousy Deceit Unforgiveness Anger Bitterness So many ungodly characteristics easily arise from actions and thoughts. Without a godly and God-filled home to learn Biblical truths, our children can easily fall victim to fleshly desires, Satan, peers and culture, and the alluring lies of this world. God’s Word clearly instructs us on how to react to the ways of this world. Colossians 3:5-10 says, “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator .” In the book of Ephesians, we learn the learn that God has again gone before us to provide exactly what we need to allow Him to fight worldly and spiritual battles in our place. Teach your child to rely on the armor of God and to allow Him to fight and protect your child through a lifetime of battles. When I say allow, I don’t mean that we hold power over God, but that we humbly submit to Him. Ephesians 6:10-17 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God .” God enables us to fight against sin through His Word and the tools found in Ephesians, but we also have another weapon ready in our arsenal from God. Our identity. Identity formed and established through Jesus Christ is a powerful, effective weapon that releases your child from various strongholds. Colossians 3:1-3 says, “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Purposely building character and identity through relationship with Christ allows your child to stand on a firm foundation that cannot be shaken. God’s truth will be more clearly seen and used for decisions, relationships, and molding character and integrity because your child’s identity will be one with Christ and the way God sees him or her. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 says, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. ” Your child must learn, understand, and believe that God’s Word is the Authority of Truth. His holy Word is the ultimate Truth that can break and demolish strongholds and falsehoods. The Bible calls and equips believers to attack lies with the Truth of God by reading, believing, and utilizing His Word, holy power, and authority. For example, Paul was merely a man, flesh like you and me. Yet, what made Paul strong was that he understood and taught that human brilliance, worldly wisdom, and wits were powerless against the evil and darkness of this world. He relied on the Word and Holy Spirit to guide and guard His mind and heart. Paul relied on those Sources to direct how he lived and taught. He never wavered from what God spoke through the Word and Spirit. None of us can live in freedom or peace through our human strength or wisdom. How frail and weak we are! How easily deceived! We also can’t deepen our walk with God by fighting with our flesh. We cannot defeat this world or the strongholds within it unless we use the Word of God and His truth to attack or stand against ungodly falsehoods. It is His strength; not our own. That is what our children must witness us doing and hear us teach. 1 Corinthians 3:20 says, “And again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile .” It is God’s wisdom and Word that saves you, your children, and future generations. Your job as a believer and parent is to strengthen your belief, trust, and obedience in the Lord and mentor the way to Him for your children with godly purpose and holy-inspired direction. Your job is to combat the lies of this world with the truth of God’s Word and to show your children how to do the same. Your child will never recognize the lies of this world unless they are taught the truths of God and taught to build godly identity through Christ. John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Ephesians 6:17 says, “Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God .” What are the most effective ways to equip your child to stand against sin in an ungodly world? 1. Stay away from sin. When you live a life devoted to pleasing God and strive not to sin against Him as you mirror Christ to your children, you become the most effective witness. 2. Teach your child the importance of the power of God’s holy Word to equip and empower them against sin. Do this through your own life examples and look for ways to highlight God working in the lives of your children and others. 3. Show your child how to use God’s armory against sin and the power of darkness. Teach them what God’s Word instructs and let them witness you using God’s armor daily. 4. Encourage and empower your child to stand in identity through Christ. From the earliest times you have your child, begin speaking Truth into their life and spirit. 5. Teach them godly characteristics, praise those characteristics, such as honesty and integrity when you see them in your child, and mentor those to them. Praise your kids when they are truthful, and notice when they are tempted (but don’t follow that temptation). Show/Tell your children when opportunities arise for honesty (such as when you’re not charged for an item at the store, and your tell the cashier, etc.). Make it clear to your children that you don’t make these types of choices to live with these values because you are a good person or that they are good, it is because you are living the values that are pleasing to God and instructed in His Word. Let them learn that when you love and honor God, you live in ways that are pleasing because your actions reflect on Him. Just as some families teach their children not to soil the family name, it is far more important to understand and honor that our actions and reactions reflect Christ to a watching world that may not yet know Him. 6. Prayer – Seek specific Scriptures you can use as powerful prayers to strengthen and protect your children from sin. Hebrews 4:12-13 says, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account .” Dear Heavenly Father how blessed we are for Your love and care for us. Even before we were Yours through the live-saving power of Christ, You suffered for us. We are so far from You, yet you call us Yours and love with an everlasting love. You have done everything You can to show us that love and to create a way for us to come to You and live with You in eternity. How carelessly we live our days without knowing even the smallest of sins we hold against You. We are so sorry for the pain we cause and pray that You will enable us to stand in our identity through Christ before You and raise the children you entrusted to us in ways that please and delight You. Help us not to sin against You and not to ignorantly cause our children to sin. Enable us to guide and direct our children with Your insight and wisdom. Help us place them on Your pure path and may You keep them there until they meet You in eternity. Father, thank you for your Son and thank you for loving us before we even came to You. Thank you that as we raise our children to love, honor, and obey You we see beautifully joyful blessings through watching them serve You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. I believe godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. Have you decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child? Would you like to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, not to repair a relationship? In the Set-Apart Collective, you will deepen your walk with Christ, learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective wait list is open now. The first group of women is currently growing together. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. 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< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 113 - Are You Parenting Your Toddlers for the Teen Years? Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 113 – Are You Parenting Your Toddlers for the Teen Years? Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to an important question to consider in this episode…are you parenting your toddlers for the teen years? Parenthood gives mothers such unique abilities to learn about relationships. Not only how to foster relationships, but how to recognize potential issues early in relationships and try to avoid those problems. We see our children up close and personal…and they see us, too. Just as our kids know us well by watching and cataloging our expressions, actions, and words, observant mothers will use everyday opportunities to view and evaluate how well our children listen, obey, and care for others. Do they show kindness, respect, and truth? How well are they responding to the truths of God that we present to them in multiple ways daily? Are you aware that the way you parent your toddlers can help set your teens up for failure or success? Common threads are often uncovered among parents when they chat about navigating the tapestry of the teen years, but for the most part mothers don’t share for fear or judgement, rejection, or embarrassment. I find it interesting that when parents are in the throes of raising toddlers, there’s more levity in what’s shared than when a parent is battling an issue with their teen. When a mother is living hard days with a teen in the home, the entire household can be affected for days or months. Although they need guidance or support, women are reluctant to share such personal struggles, and the actions of a wayward or obstinate teen can cause everyone in the home to struggle. On the flip side, it’s much easier to ignore or distract the behavior of a toddler. For example, when a toddler refuses to wear an article of clothing, a mother learns that the next time she wants her child to get dressed she won’t ask. Instead, the next time she’ll prepare her child with a transition between activities and will give her toddler two choices, both of which she has already picked as options. “It’s time to get dressed. You can wear this dress or this one.” Or “It’s time to get dressed. Today you can wear this shirt or this shirt.” Hold the choices up in front of them or lay them on a bed in front of the toddler and let them choose. Of course, if you don’t have a child who cares about the clothing they wear, you don’t need to start the options phase. Don’t bring challenges into your life. Continue picking out their clothes and move on quickly in your morning routine. However, when you recognize that what your child wears matters to him or her, allow your child the freedom to have autonomy. On the other hand, when your teen refuses to wear something you’ve asked them to, and they begin dressing in ways you don’t approve of, the challenge feels much harder. It is, but the way you prepare your child for the teen years while you parent the toddler years and between will make those teen years much less challenging for both of you. You’ll also ensure you don’t create barriers by reacting in ways totally different than any other time in their life. For example, when your child is young, you make life easier by giving them choices you approve of. As your child grows, their ability to reason grows with them. As you see ways they are changing, you begin to build on groundwork you’ve already poured to make that foundation of your relationship stronger. You offer different choices depending on age and abilities, but you’ve been working with them over the years to help your child learn how to reason logically and biblically and to make wise choices. Remember that every child is as unique as a snowflake. They’ll each develop at their own God-given pace, however, there are ways to predict the most common times children will develop new skills. When we look at phases of human development, we see that in the toddler phase of development, children need to get good sleep, nutrition, stimulation, and need to continue building close bonds with their caregivers. So, using the example of attire, if you don’t want your teen to wear certain clothing, you must nourish your relationship and their decision-making in certain ways. I knew I didn’t want my youngest daughters to wear skimpy clothing when they were teens or adults, so I wanted to instill morals and integrity in them that would teach them to want to dress conservatively. Now, at 18 and 20 years of age, they both dress with reserve, yet are still stylish and choose their own clothing based on personality and interests, while remaining modest and current. Because it was a priority to me to teach my girls to respect their body (and not desire to flaunt theirs the way we see women doing on social media), and because I didn’t want them to wear tight, short spandex dresses that almost look like an article of shapewear, I took purposed steps when they were toddlers. Here are some of the most important ways I planned for my girls to dress in the ways I believed God would approve: First, I didn’t dress in the ways I didn’t want my daughters to dress. Next, I didn’t compliment women who dressed in that way. I drew attention to others who dressed modestly, yet stylishly. Finally, I didn’t purchase that type of clothing for my girls, even when they were small. I didn’t place bikinis on them in public, because I didn’t want them to wear them as teens. Since I believed God would find it more pleasing for my girls to wear a modest one-piece swimsuit, that’s what I dressed them in as toddlers. It’s what they got used to wearing. It’s what I also wore when I put a swimsuit on. I also taught the girls these things to think about attire over the years: Is this outfit right for the climate/weather? Is this outfit appropriate for the event I’m attending? Will I be comfortable in my choice? Will my choice of clothing be respectful of others in attendance? I know attire is one simple example, but the same principle applies to other areas of parenting toddlers so that you lay the groundwork for smoother teen years. There are many ways parenting teens and toddlers compliment each other or leave you with similar challenges, so let’s examine a few of those ways. 1. Parents find raising teens challenging because they feel it is hard to talk about certain topics such as sex with their children. When the kids are young, parents are reluctant to talk about those subjects, even though society today is causing parents to broach those topics at younger and younger ages and phases of childhood. So, the parent, who should be able to use their common and God-given sense to know when to approach topics feels pushed to teach things they’re uncomfortable with or they don’t want to harm their child by discussing. Then, on the flip side, once children are teens, parents might find certain topics embarrassing for them or their children, and become slow to tackle that topic. However, if parents wait too long, they may have a teen who has gotten into trouble because they were too naïve to know to stay away from something, or you may find your teen in a dangerous situation because they were never warned or taught godly morals around that situation. You may also have a young child frightened before it is time to hear of certain topics. At either end, if the timing isn’t right, parents may cause issues that could have been avoided, or they may cause trust issues between them and their children after children see or hear about delicate topics from unsavory or untrustworthy sources. 2. Toddlers and teens both have anger, frustration, or distractions that seem very similar to one another. Remember, the temper tantrums, bossiness, and new skill sets you navigate with your toddler can set up your relationship with your teen to be more closely bonded. 3. Both toddlers and teen are searching for identity. Be sure to teach your child godly identity in Jesus because you have (and continue) to deepen yours with Him. Just knowing the gospel won’t be enough for your child to grasp and construct their own house of faith. Be sure that they see Jesus really is important to you, not just words you speak or actions you take, like religiously going to church every week, then leaving Jesus at the door to your home. 4. Notice the strengths and weaknesses your toddler exhibits and direct those in Christlike ways as he grows. Consider the ways your child reacts to trials and triumphs. Is he easily frustrated or angered as a toddler? Help him by your tone, reactions, words, etc. to teach him how to battle and conquer ways of handlings situations in godly ways. 5. Teach your children godly characteristics like honesty, integrity, love, kindness, patience, etc. from toddlerhood. Root those qualities in God’s truths and show them in your own life. This will set them up to carry those same qualities that have been strengthened over the years, like a muscle that has been exercised. 6. Take note of the gifts, talents, and interests God has purposed in your children. As they grow, help them navigate how to stay true to who God made them to be while remaining rooted in His truths. Help them find how to use the gifts, talents, and interests in ways that honor God and serve His purpose for them. 7. Make time to be with your toddler, not only in everyday care, but in play and relaxation. Go outdoors together. Roll on the floor and laugh together. Play games together. Color or draw together. Play ball. Search for insects outdoors or find beautiful leaves on the trees. Let your inner child be revived as you find ways to spend time together. Use your imagination and creativity, or use theirs, but have fun just being together. When you laugh together when your child is a toddler, you’re more apt to continue that routine as they grow and enjoy fun times together when they become a teen. 8. Be there for your toddler when they’re afraid or hurting. Even when it’s hard, let them see that you love them enough to be brave and present when life is hard. Model how to ask God to carry you all through the hard times and show them a pure faith that doesn’t turn away through hard or easy times. 9. Speak God’s truths and Words to your toddlers and teens through conversations, everyday life, and prayers. Think of how many similarities there are between toddlers and teens. Both ends of your parenting years can have many of the same interests and characteristics. Listen to these qualities and you will recognize that they apply to toddlers and teens. Selfishness, mood swings, and egos that think the world revolves around them, know-it-all attitudes, desire to gather people and friends, the desire to be independent, even if they’re not ready, risky behaviors (as a toddler your child may run into traffic or climb bookshelves and your teen may partake in dangerous or sneaky behaviors such as smoking, sex, drugs, alcohol, driving dangerously, stealing, or lying. Both toddlers and teens may begin these actions when they need more attention or they may have personalities that are impulsive and inquisitive. Either way, your children, both toddlers and teens, need close, loving guidance toward a loving Savior by a parent who lives what they preach. Remember it is key to be building your own strong identity in Christ. If you have questions about how to do that, please connect with me at info@terrihitt.com . Also, love your toddler and your teen in ways they understand and need. You know your children better than anyone else. The Bible and a strong walk with God will be your guiding tools. Connection with other godly individuals sharing experiences will help you when you’re hurting or confused about how to parent. Connect with your children intentionally – connect with them personally, and connect them to Christ. Don’t treat your children as an afterthought. Let them know how important they are to you. Know their body language and love language. You don’t have to pamper or spoil your children, but you do need to prioritize them over selfish needs. Respect your children and teach them to respect you and most importantly, God. Let your children know you are chosen and entrusted by God to raise them for Him. Foster obedience Don’t exasperate Look to God to guide and guard your parenting decisions. Pray. Put God first in your own life. Read the Word daily – and also read and study the Word together. You have time. It’s all in what you prioritize. Find answers together when your kids have questions you don’t know. Discipline to disciple, not punish Be a godly, not good parent Don’t try to be your child’s best friend. They need godly parents. Infuse your home with a genuine, godly atmosphere. Teach integrity. Make your home a safe place. Enjoy your child’s friends – welcome them, get to know them. Help your kids know how to choose godly, faithful friends. Have godly entertainment in your home (music, books, shows, artwork, etc,). I ‘ve included a few Bible verses you may use to pray over your children or to teach them. Use the concept when your children are young, as they mature, teach the full verse. 1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” 2 Timothy 2:22-26 says, “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.” Ecclesiastes 11:9 says, “Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.” 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” Psalms 119:9 says, “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are, our holy Maker of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for your generosity to us. We in no way deserve to be raising Your precious children, yet You entrust them to us. Equip us to be godly parents who chase You over culture and teach our children to do the same. Work within us. Change us. Mold us into the mothers You desire us to be. Give us a thirst for You that nothing else will quench and help our children to thirst for You, too. Please equip us to raise children who come to know, honor, obey, and serve You with humble love and gratitude. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. This is the part of the episode that you usually hear me talk about the Set-Apart Collective. Today I want to share about my new mini program called “Establish Identity.” Why? Your identity is a major force behind what you do. Who you believe yourself to be, and who you find your identity through affects the way you live, parent, love, serve, and discipline. Your identity is one of the lifelines, a pulse point of your home. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Even if they are grown, your identity affects your child. The way you think, speak, and react is rooted in your identity. Send me a message at info@terrihitt.com if you’d like details or go to terrihitt.com and join my email list. You’ll get updates before anyone else and hear a little about what makes this so important. If you join the email list you’ll also be able to access free resources such as my new Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 089 - Addressing the Top Fears of Christian Mothers with Godly Faith and Wisdom Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 089 – Addressing the Top Fears of Christian Mothers with Godly Faith and Wisdom Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. Motherhood can bring out the best and worst in you. Would you agree? Many emotions push to the surface when a woman becomes a mother. Fear can be one that rises above others to the front of a woman’s mind once she’s responsible for the life of her beautiful, helpless child. So many pressures come with being a wife and mother – or even more, as a single mom. Psalm 94:19 says, “When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.” Praise God for this verse! It is a reminder that His consolations cheer our soul. There are times in life when every person needs The Father, our loving, sovereign God, to reach within our mind and lift fears or anxieties. Most believers understand that fear doesn't come from God, but there are times when fear pops up quickly and unexpectedly. When an accident occurs, a job loss hits, or a death occurs, fear can quickly consume thoughts, if you let them. God desires a different way of life for you than living with fear. He calls you to look to Him for release and guidance. He wants to guard you as a parent, providing a perfect peace that passes understanding. Where are you in this season of life? Whether you have no fears or you are battling many, know that where you are - will not be where you stay. Of course, you may be walking a beautiful and dependent relationship with Christ. You may have surrendered fear or anxieties and live in perfect peace. However, you are human. You live in an imperfect world. Never forget the guard that surrounds you is your strength. You alone are not capable of living in perfect peace. You must keep your eyes, mind, and heart fixed on God. 1 Peter 5:5b-11 says, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. ” Women face many pressures in today’s society that cause fear, anxiety, or stress. Working moms often face little time for self-interests or exercise. Perhaps you desire to get to church or to volunteer, but can’t find a way to shift your schedule to do so. Or it may be challenging to get time alone with your husband. At times you may feel like you can’t manage time to do what you want to at all. It seems the weekend is over before it even starts. Will the busy work week always manage your life? Time at home is short. Often husbands don’t help around the house. Frustration can build and turn into anxiety that often becomes anger. As much as a mom loves her man and children, it can be difficult to feel like there’s enough time to spend with him or the kids. Quality over quantity loses its charm when you know a few minutes at night between greeting them after work, fixing and eating dinner, cleaning the kitchen, homework, and getting ready for bed simply isn’t enough. Real connection seems to be a fleeting fantasy. Between managing technology and keeping kids safe online and in the “real world,” navigating phones, gaming, and social media rules with kids, finding time to communicate with pre-teens and teens when you’re not ready to head to bed, understanding what your kids are exposed to by peers, helping your children navigate teasing and bullying, helping your children learn to be kind and not go with the kids who bully, and how to maintain a sense of worthiness, esteem, and identity in your children in a shifting world, can be exhausting at the very least. Then to top things off, sometimes a mom feels bullied by other women, mom-shamed, or betrayed by people she thought were her friends. Stay-at home and work-from home moms face many of the same worries and distractions in their days. Time may be shifted and activities different, but all Christian moms face similar concerns about raising safe and godly children. Without a purposed plan for parenting that provides a mother with strength that comes from Christ, life can be difficult, lonely, and fearful. Unless a woman seeks God first, builds a strong identity in Christ, and intentionally becomes a woman set-apart for Him, she cannot raise godly children who pursue the Father. She is without the strength, wisdom, insight, and understanding she needs to navigate the concerns she carries in this 21st century. Did you know that when fear, anxiety, or stress flows through you, it means you have taken your mind and eyes off of God? Instead, you have unknowingly centered them on self or surroundings instead of Savior . Every time I have felt fear even begin to touch me I stop and focus on Jesus (and in my mind I actually picture blinders on my face that force my vision upwards on God). As I rest in His presence and pray to Him about the situation I am fearing, He takes the burden and calms any fears. It is said that God leaves the message “Do not fear” 365 times in the Bible. I'm not sure whether that is an accurate count, but I trust that the Lord gives us the command for daily use because He knows our thoughts can easily be distracted. He knows how easily we move from His sovereign holiness and perfect provision and protection. Do you want to feel the perfect peace that can only come from God despite what you are facing in life? I’ll share seven steps you can use to help conquer fears with godly faith and wisdom: 1. Pause People Pleasing – Sometimes fear comes from the expectations others place on you . You have the power to stop them from placing demands on you. Remember, the only one you need to focus on pleasing is God. He will direct your steps and light your path with His will, purpose, and perfect plan. He desires good, not evil in your life and home. He will never lead you astray as you put your hope and trust in Him. Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble .” Ask God to erase expectations of others that are not in His plan. Pray for Him to show you ways to take yourself out of the demands of others and strive to please Him. 2. Break Rules – Sometimes fear forms when you attempt to follow every rule laid out for you – whether it be self-imposed or by a husband or employer. Praise God! He freed you from following the old rules through Jesus. Don’t be entrapped by new ones. As long as you mature your walk with Him and follow His desires for you, He will not lead you astray. Often, women are harder on themselves than anyone else could be. Prayerfully check to see if there are rules you’ve imposed on yourself that need to be lifted or adjusted. Psalm 118:6 says, “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me ?” Maybe you’ve been told you have to cook every meal in your home. Maybe you think you can’t take time to play with the kids or enjoy a walk with your husband. Do you think your home has to be perfectly clean? Break those rules and enjoy life. You only get one. Your kid will grow up before you know it. Make the memories they take with them be the ones full of life and love with you. 3. Be Unique – Often fear can come from trying to be someone other than you were created to be. Are you trying to please everyone but God? Are you attempting to follow every identity you think must be imposed on you because you’re a wife and mother? Instead, look at your life and prayerfully seek where you may not be being “you.” Maybe you’re making life harder by trying to be what others expect instead of who you can excel at being – yourself. Job 11:18-19a says, “You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid .” Sometimes dreams have to wait until your kids are a little older, or perhaps God will make a way for that desire you have to happen now. Lean into your relationship with Him and seek what He calls for you. His Word never lies and it tells us that what He has planned for you is greater than anything you can imagine on your own. 4. Eliminate Excuses – Often fear arises when you feel you can’t handle what is expected of you. Maybe you think you’re not talented enough, smart enough, brave enough, experienced enough, etc. Or maybe you aren’t getting enough support from your spouse, parents, friends, or employer and you may be correct. If after sharing your feelings, things aren’t changing in ways that benefit your needs and the needs of your family, know that there truly is one who cares. God. Have you cried out to Him? Are you placing trust in His capable hands? Are you praying Scriptural prayers about your situation? Is your attitude godly with those who are disappointing you? Forget blame and forge ahead with faith that no matter what happens, you will get through in the Father’s strength. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid .” Have a heart to heart with your husband and let him know your feelings. Pray together and seek how he can begin to help. If he refuses, seek a good friend or family member who can step in when needed to alleviate some of your burdens. Be creative and ask God what changes He would desire you to make. 5. Don’t Dawdle – Do you find yourself frozen with fear or anxiety? Get help. Sometimes women hide that they need help because they don’t want to be seen as weak, incompetent, or a failure. Typically, women are hardest on themselves. Confide in those you trust and allow them to help. First, confide in God and seek His direction. Ask Him to help you change the areas and mindset you need to - and see yourself and your situation as He does. Ask for His direction in areas of parenting that may be worrisome. He know your children, your home, your limitations, and the crazy culture we live in. He knows the way. Listen for His voice and take obedient action. Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” God knows the situations you face. Whether it be parenting questions, marital issues, or job/home concerns, He has the answers you seek. God created you and your family as unique individuals. Your children are not the same as each other or anyone else’s children. Make the time to learn what makes them tick. Discover how God made them. Don’t be afraid to tell them no when needed. They need you to make decisions that will guide them in a godly upbringing. Teach them through relationship with Christ, it is good to be different - to be set-apart. In fact, God requires it. 6. Pursue Positivity – As a mom, you always have little ears, eyes, and hearts following and watching you. Your reactions and habits form theirs . Obviously, you can’t be perfect, but through Christ working within you, He will give you the ability to be transformed moment by moment. Submit to Him. Call on His mighty power to craft a new attitude and mindset within you that recognizes fear or anxiety the moment it rears its ugly head in your life. Psalm 115:11 says, “You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield.” Protect and preserve the faith of your children as they see the way you lift fears, hurts, anxiety, and the like to their Heavenly Father. Help them trust in Him and know that He is real. Help them believe His power and call on it as they mature. 7. Form Flourishing Faith - Above all, no matter what you feel, remember that you need to process those feelings, not stuff them down or hide them. Present them to God and humbly submit to what and where He leads. You may find that you are already in alignment with God and He will carry you through. Or you may see that you are far from His desires for you and need His guidance and growth to get you where you need to go. Your feelings and emotions are powerful, but sometimes they can be powerfully incorrect . Let God help you see where you are and where you need to go. Let Him carry you there as you form a faith that flourishes. Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You .” Seek God first. Even when you feel you don’t have time. He carries the answers you need. Breathe Him in. Trust in and rely on Him. You can’t exhale what you haven’t inhaled. As you navigate life, place God first and family second. God honors the one who correctly prioritizes life by honoring Him. When you are with your husband and children, remember that even when time is short, the intentionality of your interactions matter. Your children and spouse need to see joy in your eyes, reactions, tone of voice, and body language when they enter the room. God has gifted you with a family to grow with and to love as He loves you. Honor them by learning to be a set-apart woman with eyes, mind, and heart centered above. As your children grow, do you want them to live with fear or faith ? Show them the example they need to grasp the hope and peace that is in Christ. Help them find faith that carries them past fear while they are young. If you feel frustrated that you don't have time alone, remember God's direction in prioritizing Him, then spouse, then kids. Let Him know the desires of your heart and ask Him for a way to reeive the self-care you need. Put Him first and see the ways He intimately provides for you. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are Lord. You alone are our sustainer and rock, our guide and guard. Oh, Father. How we need You. While our humanness seeks to go on our own, our soul cries out for You. Help us step into and remain in the palm of Your mighty hands. Cradle us against Your chest so we never want to leave. Show us the way to raise safe and godly children who know, pursue, and love you. Help us not to fear, but to rest. Help us not carry anxiety, but trust in Youi. Make us more like You each moment. We thank you for your grace, mercy, and everlasting love. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Have you heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast? Do you wonder why I share it so often? It’s simply because I know the program works . Through 8 weeks of one-on-one and group coaching, along with Scripturally-based materials I provide, you will complete 8 steps that include the following: Seek God First, Establish Identity, Teach Truth, A Set-Apart Woman, Parent Set-Apart Kids, Arm for Battle, Relationships, and Training. What you learn and solidify in your personal life will directly affect the way you serve God and parent for Him. It will help you construct godly confidence and esteem through Christ in your children. If you’re ready to invest in the future of your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I seriously want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. Send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to chat about details. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make your matter for eternity. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 092 - The Master Blueprint: Exploring the Life of Jesus and What it Means for You and Your Family Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 092 – The Master Blueprint: Exploring the Life of Jesus and What It Means for You and Your Family Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. Jesus . Just saying the name of my Savior name brings me peace , joy , and assurance . Try it. Stop and say His name . Jesus . What feelings or emotions does speaking His name bring to you? I wish we knew more about the life of Jesus from Bible. Wouldn’t It be a beautiful blessing to know more of the day to day moments of His childhood? How about when He was going through puberty? How did He act, what did He think? How did He treat His parents, His siblings? We know Jesus was fully God and yet fully man. Surely, He wrestled with insecurities and fears, or wondered about His future? Or did He? As fixed as He was on the Father, I believe He led a glorious life that reflected how to function with godliness in this world. Although it would be wonderful to know even more details about the life of Jesus, I trust that God gave us exactly what we need to know. While I wish there were more detailed accounts of the life of Jesus, I believe we have just what we need to construct a blueprint of the life Jesus lived here on earth. The first place we should start to know more about Christ is the Bible. My favorite books to read are usually found in the New Testament. With the exception of Genesis, which is the standard for how God wants us to live, I think most people might agree that New Testament books are easier to understand and more enjoyable to read overall. That being said, compare what I just stated with foods. Isn’t it much more enticing to eat desserts instead of the main course? Or, if you’re not really into sweets, at least you may agree that fruits carry more interest than vegetables. Now let’s compare the Bible to these thoughts about foods. While the New Testament, the story of Jesus, and how our lives are changed because of Him is easier and more interesting for many to read, we still need the foundation and direction found in the Old Testament. In fact, it has been said that the Old Testament is the blueprint , while the New Testament is the building . Why? Blueprints show the inner workings of what is to be built . A blueprint explains what is being constructed . The blueprint exposes what is to come . The Old Testament is God’s blueprint to us. Think about this amazing truth I’m about to share. The Old Testament was the beautiful Scripture Jesus Himself read and used. For us, the Words in the Old Testament set a foundation and expectation for what was to come . The Old Testament also exposes problems and promises . Without these truths and prophecies , we cannot understand God’s heart or the healing that is to be offered ; we can’t begin to fathom the sovereignty and holiness of our God. As important as the entire Bible is, there are major differences between the old and new testaments. Have you ever considered this thought? The Old Testament offers the framework that the New Testament is built upon . God reveals Himself in both testaments; through prophets in the Old Testament, and through Jesus in the New. In the Old Testament, God exposes the depravity of sin and how far it is from His holiness . In the New Testament, we learn the importance of repentance and how far our loving, merciful God will go to set us free from the bondage of sin and death. Jesus revealed that the Old Testament pointed the way to Him . He stressed that He came to fulfill the law , and to set us free from it. However, now that we have the grace and mercy of God to save us through the acts of Christ in the New Testament, we must realize that it is impossible to understand faith, love, grace, or mercy without studying the framework God established for us within the Old Testament . Like a balanced meal with all food groups, we must study both old and new testaments in order to grasp the reality of who God is, what He has done for us, and what is to come . Because of Jesus, we can experience abundant life without fear of death. We can live with assurance that we will stand before Him without shame, with sins cleansed . If you’re a believer and follower of Jesus and have proclaimed Christ as your personal Savior, you can know with certainty that you will one day face Him with joy as He welcomes you into eternity . What a gift! Are you living like one redeemed by the King? In the meantime, we have the blessing of God’s Word to help us envision and understand the life of Jesus in deeper ways. Unless we intentionally use the Bible to study Him, we fail to grasp the fullness of what God offers us through Christ. Earlier I shared that Jesus came for many reasons, yet the most important one was to save us from sin and death. In our human mind, it is impossible to grasp the holiness or forgiveness of Jesus. We don’t understand the richness of His mercy, love, or grace. Many adjectives can describe our Savior, but while using them, we still fail to comprehend exactly what each description means or how it affects us. Today we’ll draw nearer to Jesus and attempt to see Him as a Holy Savior, Best Friend, Comforter, King, and so much more. Why is exploring the life of Jesus so important for you and your family? Jesus changed everything . Without Him, this world, you, and your family would have no hope. You would remain entangled in sin and death. As you absorb more of what the life of Jesus means to you, as you better understand His sacrifices and sufferings, you are more equipped to live a godly life pleasing to our Heavenly Father. Then you’re better able to mentor a godly lifestyle and mindset for your children. As we explore the life of Jesus, I think we need to highlight ten very significant details of His life. 1. Birth – Jesus was born of a virgin. Yes, followers of Christ know this fact. But how often do we think on it? What a miracle! Have you pondered the fact that if Jesus were not born of a virgin, we would not have a sinless Savior? As fully God and man, Jesus had to be born of a virgin overshadowed by God to become fully God and fully human. Also, if Jesus had not been born of a virgin, he would have been born as a descendant of Adam and God’s Word is clear that “in Adam all die.” When you look at the birth of Jesus, you also see that His life fulfilled prophecies proclaimed in the Old Testament. All Scriptures point to Christ, even when they are not specifically prophetic. The law is perfectly kept by Christ, yet all sins of humanity are poured out on Him , proving the law is not the way to righteousness and eternal life, only Christ. The miraculous birth of Jesus fulfilled prophecies and build the foundation for the purpose of His life . 2. Baptism – Jesus was about thirty years old when He was baptized by his relative, John the Baptist. This is the time His ministry began. Although Jesus was holy and righteous, He chose to be baptized to fulfill requirements we needed to see and learn. He chose to be baptized not to turn from sin, as He carried no sin, but to dedicate Himself to fully following God’s will on this earth. He chose to show us the way to live as a follower of God. Now we are able to be baptized into Him as we submit to Christ as Savior. In return, He baptizes us with the Holy Spirit. At the time of Jesus’ baptism, we also learn that Jesus’ act of obedience confirmed His identity as Messiah in three key ways. After Jesus was baptized, we see from Scripture that the Spirit of God descended on Jesus like a dove from heaven. This simple act was a fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 11:2 that the Messiah would have the Spirit of God resting on Him. Also, the voice of God from heaven said after the baptism, "This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased ," which confirmed Jesus' identity as the Son of God . We also have the testimony of John the Baptist, who had been proclaiming that the Messiah was greater than Him. When Jesus came to be baptized, John immediately recognized Jesus as the Lamb of God and the Son of God. The baptism of Jesus showed all three persons of the Trinity at the same time: the Son being baptized, the Holy Spirit descending, and the Father speaking from heaven . The act of baptism confirmed Christ's deity as Jesus perfectly submitted to the will of His Father . 3. Miracles – There are around 37 recorded miracles of Jesus in the Bible. Of course, we know that there were many more unrecorded . In fact, John 20:30-31 says, “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name .” Likewise, John 21:25 says, “Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written . 4. Teachings – Jesus left the world with many teachings, but two of the most popular that readily come to mind are the Sermon on the Mount and the parables He used. How I wish I had to wisdom to teach with parables the way He did. Jesus caused others to think and assess their life, desires, and motives. He loved each person where they were, but called them to change. He doesn’t want any of us to stay immersed in sin. In fact, He calls us to go and leave our life of sin. 5. Sufferings – In fulfillment of Isaiah 53 and other prophecies, Jesus suffered persecution, was arrested, beaten, and nailed to a cross to die. Jewish leaders evilly handed Him over to a death sentence approved by the Roman leader Pilate. 6. Death – We often hear that Jesus paid the ultimate price. He suffered, was pierced for our transgressions. He cried out as He was crucified and slowly died a painful death. Yet do we really absorb these facts? I think the truth is so far from what we can humanly comprehend. It’s too ugly and barbaric for our minds to really go there. But our heart needs to. Jesus died for you. He died for your husband, your children, those you love, and those you don’t. Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures. 7. Burial – After His death, Jesus was embalmed with around seventy-five pounds of spices, and laid alone to rest in a tomb for three days. The miracle was about to happen ! 8. Resurrection – After three days, Jesus conquered death as He rose from the tomb. New Testament records show that many people witnessed His empty tomb. They relayed the miracle that Jesus was seen alive . 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 says, “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep. After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time .” 9. Ascension – After forty days Jesus ascended, leaving with a promise that He would return again (as spoken in Matthew 28, Luke 24, and Acts 1). Praise the Lord for His promise to us ! 10. Predicted Return – Several New Testament teachings write of the promised return of Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 is one example that speaks to this certainty. “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words .” Jesus gave hope to encourage followers to live for Him, share testimonies and faith, and so they would look forward to the certainty of eternity with Him . What a miraculous gift that we can come to Christ through His abundant grace and love. Because God sent His son, our Savior to earth to be born from a virgin, live as fully God and fully man, and to be humbly raised by a human mother and adoptive father, everyone can relate to Christ. He came for all and all can know Him. Jesus also clearly relayed to us how to live fully for God. His teachings were direct and truthful. He spent His life abiding in and pursuing the Father. As a child, Jesus craved and considered deep understanding, insight, and wisdom from God’s holy Word. He maintained prayerful communication with the Father. Through His teachings, Jesus showed us how to do the same. Jesus was able to converse and consult with temple teachers, even as a preteen. Through this act of dedication and desire for more, He modeled His miraculous ability to absorb and comprehend complex theological questions, answers, and truths. His insight and understanding were clear, concise, and correct. Jesus’ teachings serve as a foundation for our life and relationship with God . Not only do we have access to how Jesus lived through the Word, but we also learn His focus, priorities, and teachings. We can see that He demonstrated the power of God, as well as the heart and hope of our Heavenly Father. Jesus understood that His life purpose was to fulfill Scripture, mentor to us how to live and reach God, and how to deepen faith and relationship with God and others. He also taught how to please our Heavenly Father. Jesus’ life showed us we do not have to fear death . He secured and showed us the way to eternal life, and He asked us to help others do the same. Jesus was a living example of hope, love, mercy, forgiveness, joy, and compassion. He lived on this earth with us as a man, but died in His rightful place as a King who taught us how to find the true treasure in life. When we submit to Him, we find the key to unlock to secrets of our heart and live a fulfilling, godly life that lasts into eternity. Can you see how exploring the life of Jesus means joy , peace , and life for you and your loved ones? Christ came so that we might live abundant lives in humble obedience to the Father. He came so that we could live with assurance and grace . What does that mean for you and your family? What will you do to follow the blueprint of Jesus’s life and make relationship with Him more meaningful for your children and family? Dear gracious and merciful Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us Your Son. We have limited words to express what Your gift means because our human minds cannot fully grasp the depth of Your love. We humbly thank you for giving us eternal life through Jesus. Please guide and guard us as we journey through life. Give us a strong yearning for You and Your ways. Equip us to grow nearer to You moment by moment and show our children how to do the same. Lord, as we ponder the life of Jesus help us to become stronger in our determination to live for you and to live a godly, pleasing life . We ask this in the precious and holy name of Jesus. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, I have two suggestions. First, consider the Set-Apart Collective. I guarantee this program will deepen your walk with Christ if you let it. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Jesus and your family. Let me know if you’d like more information on this 8-week program where my heart, mind, and prayers support your walk with Christ and godly parenting growth. Second, like most moms, you may have questions or doubts about the way you’re parenting. I invite you to visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click on the link for a call. This is a private one-on-one complimentary session so that I can get my heart and experience on your needs. We’ll pray together and see what God-led strategy will ensure you stop being a good mother and become a godly parent. This is my gift to you and I have a very limited number of spots. Claim yours today and see the difference purposed parenting for Christ makes in your home as you prepare your children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. It’s true that the parenting days are long, but the years are short. Make both matter for eternity. If you appreciated this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a few minutes and makes a big difference in whether people are able to find the podcast. Also, you and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so please choose a friend to recommend the show to. Imagine the changes we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #048 – Preparing for Christ – Part 2 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. As it is the end of the year, many worthy organizations are looking for end of year support, and I want to take a moment again today to mention one of my favorite local charities in Kansas City, the “Who Is Carter Foundation.” Did you know that they have established a worldwide project to provide support, treatment options, and resources to those supporting exceptional children with neurological conditions? That project can be found at thebrainpossible.com, and you can learn more about the foundation at whoiscarter.org. Or you can visit either on Instagram. We have personally worked with this organization and truly appreciate their mission and the support they offer. I encourage you to visit their websites to learn more and please, pass the info on to a friend or family member who might benefit from their various services. Last week’s podcast was done in a different format and I am pleased to slow down this week, as well, and read more scripture with you, reflecting on the goodness and qualities of Christ as we continue to prepare our heart and mind to celebrate Jesus this holiday. I pray we continue maturing in new ways and never return to our previous way of daily living as we let the holiness of the season linger and abide in our spirit. Each day is meant to be a new experience that draws us nearer to the Lord, allowing Him to extract more out of us, so that those cleaned areas in our life will be filled by Jesus. As we hear God’s words, I pray that the scriptures will help us consciously stretch ourselves farther, allowing for His holy eternal perspective to rule us daily. Because of Jesus, we can hear the words of God and experience joy, peace, hope, and true love. Without Jesus, there would be no light in this world. God’s love is explained through His One and Only Son. May the delight God sees and shows in His son, with whom He is well-pleased, permeate our hearts as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus and may His light embrace and mold us anew as we absorb the words into our spirit. May each day in the next year, and those to come, be a celebration of Jesus. As we allow Him to work within us and grow our love and obedience for Him, rejoicing in Who He is, and following Him, allowing Him to flow through us becomes a joy we cannot release. Jesus isn’t our Savior. He becomes our everything, as we breathe Him in and exhale His fragrance to the world around us. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.” What good, pleasing, and perfect plans God has for each of us, His children! His desire is for us to be transformed by renewing our minds through Him. As followers of Jesus, we are called to conform not to this world, but to Christ. It is then that we will joyfully allow ourselves to be living sacrifices for Him daily as we follow His will and ways and discover God’s new and joyous life for us. James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” God calls us to remain unpolluted by the world by following Him closely and caring for what He does. As we allow Christ access to our mind and heart, we begin to follow His ethical and moral order instead of the value system of this world. True faith carries us to the Father’s heart as we desire and lovingly value and care for what He does. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." God judges by faith and character, not outward appearance. Only He can accurately judge us because He sees straight into our heart and motives. We must do all we can to improve our inward self so that we fill God with joy when He looks upon us. Psalm 37:23-24 says, “The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.” Oh, to give God joy by delighting in Him! If we desire God to protect our steps, it is imperative that we trust and follow Him, then pursue His ways by doing His will with joy. Seek Him before stepping out and heed His warnings and advice. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” God deeply desires to counsel us with His infinite wisdom. His words and Holy Spirit show us the absolute best ways to live and navigate life in this world. Humbly allow Him to instruct and teach with His abiding love and counsel, rather than learning through discipline or heartache from following your own path. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” God has blessed us with life! He wants us to enjoy it and make plans. However, our Father wants us to remember that He has specifically created each of us and placed us here with a beautiful purpose that God wants to complete through us. We must allow Him to direct our heart and mind as we cling to Him in a personal relationship that seeks to know and follow Him more closely daily. Psalm 33:4-5 says, “For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.” God can be trusted all the time and His words are upright and true. People are unreliable, God is not. Our Heavenly Father never changes His character or words, and His promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. Proverbs 2:1-6 says, “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” We can each access wisdom is one of two ways. Either we have a God-given gift to be used for glorifying and honoring Him and others or we humbly desire and seek it from Him. Wisdom is just the beginning of understanding God’s ways and living in them. After wisdom, we can receive insight and understanding through a close relationship and His word. As we cling to God and consistently request His wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, He will allow us pieces of Him through the gifts. What a reward to be gifted in such areas as the Lord carries! How far we are from Him, yet our access to Him is eternal and living inside us through the Holy Spirit. John 17:1-26 says, “When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son that the Son may glorify You, since You have given Him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I glorified You on earth, having accomplished the work that You gave Me to do. And now, Father, glorify Me in Your own presence with the glory that I had with You before the world existed. “I have manifested Your name to the people whom You gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Now they know that everything that You have given Me is from You. For I have given them the words that You gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. All mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Your name, which You have given Me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. As you sent Me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You have sent Me. The glory that You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one even as We are one, I in them and You in Me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that You sent Me and loved them even as You loved Me. Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, may be with Me where I am, to see My glory that You have given Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, even though the world does not know You, I know You, and these know that You have sent Me. I made known to them Your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which You have loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” Such beautiful words from Jesus through this passage are the focal point of the Bible and history! How exciting that we have them within our grasp to access and absorb. In John 17, the entire first chapter is compiled of Jesus praying. Through His prayerful words, we hear that the world we live in is a fierce and godless battleground beneath Satan’s power that is at odds with those of us who follow Jesus. Satan and his forces are out to destroy us, but here we see Jesus’s concern as He prays for His disciples and us, His followers. Jesus prayed for our safety, and for God to set us apart so that we can be made pure and holy through Him. In this passage of loving prayer, Jesus clearly shows us again how to obtain eternal life. Through Him. An eternal life with God is given through a personal relationship with Jesus. By admitting our sin and turning away from it, then seeking forgiveness and relationship with Jesus, we obtain the gift of the Holy Spirit within us to guide and mature us daily. Although it is beyond our comprehension, Jesus was one with God before He came to live on this earth as a man. Now, in this passage, we see Jesus as His earthly mission is almost complete, and His sovereignty is shown in His word as He asks God to restore Him to His original place of honor and authority with Him. These beautiful words are packed with so much truth and guidance. We see Jesus yearning for God to protect the disciples and we also see Him pray for us, the believers now living. So much of the world follows Satan’s plans and visions, and Jesus pleads for God to protect us and sanctify us by God’s word of truth. Jesus did not ask God to take us out of the world, but to use us here. We are each supposed to be salt and light, not avoiding relationships with non-Christians, and not succumbing to the ways of the world, either. Knowing that Jesus prayed for us and that the Holy Spirit still intercedes for us, should strengthen our faith and determination to be in God’s word to arm us with what we need and to protect us as we wrestle with the powers threatening to swallow us daily. Jesus has already had the victory and we have all we need to remain in the battle, allowing God to fight for us. Jesus has made the Father known. He has shown us the clear path to Him and has prayed in advance for the care we will need to encounter life in this fallen world. Make unity with Christ and fellow believers a natural extension of your walk with Christ so that the world will see His glory and light through us. This Christmas season I want to list some glorious reminders that are backed by scripture in the Bible. I won’t read each reference now, but they will be listed in the transcripts of this episode on my website at terrihitt.com. Remember, when you belong to Jesus, your true identity is finally found. Because of Jesus: We are justified (declared not guilty of sin). Romans 3:24 No condemnation will await us. Romans 8:1 We become free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2 We are sanctified and made acceptable in Jesus. 1 Corinthians 1:2 We become righteous and holy in Christ 1 Corinthians 1:30 We will be made alive at the resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:22 We become a new creation! 2 Corinthians 5:17 We receive God’s righteousness. 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are one in Christ with other believers. Galatians 3:28 We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Jesus Ephesians 1:3 We are holy and blameless; covered by God’s love. Ephesians 1:4 We are adopted as God’s children. Ephesians 1:5, 6 Our sins are removed; we are forgiven. Ephesians 1:7 We are brought under the headship of Jesus Ephesians 1:10, 11 We are marked as belonging to God by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 1:13 We have been raised up to sit with Christ in glory. Ephesians 2:6 We are God’s work of art. Ephesians 2:10 We have been brought near to God. Ephesians 2:13 We share in the promise of Christ. Ephesians 3:6 We can come into God’s presence with freedom and confidence Ephesians 3:12 We become members of Christ’s body, the church. Ephesians 5:29, 30 We have been given fullness in Christ Colossians 2:10 We are set free from our sinful nature Colossians 2:11 We will have eternal glory. 2 Timothy 2:10 Jesus is a precious gift we are allowed to choose whether or not we will receive. It is by God’s glorious grace that we are saved. We are His beautiful workmanship and are created to do good works, which God has prepared for us in advance. If God considers us a piece of preciously crafted workmanship, we can believe that we are of extremely high value. Choose to live with His opinion of you stamped in your mind and remember to cling to the promise of eternity with Him. Allow Him to work through you to bring as many people into His glorious kingdom as possible. Dear Jesus, how we love You, but our love is nothing compared to what You have for us. Thank you for Your merciful work on the cross and within us. We praise You and offer our humble gratitude. Please continue to cleanse and renew us daily, Lord, moment by moment. Show us Your face, Your heart, Your mind, and Your hands so that we are certain of the example You set for us to follow. Help us to complete the purpose You have set for us and may we do it with Your humble compassion, wisdom, love, and obedience. May we seek You in a deeper way this holiday season and let that love, awe, wonder, and respect remain embedded within us in a new and more meaningful way as we head into the new year. Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice for us. May we honor You with the way we live. You are so good. In Your precious and holy name we pray. I deeply desire to allow God to cultivate a strong community of women through the work He has given me. I pray you will be better equipped to live with an eternal perspective and encouraged to influence children for Jesus. Future episodes and resources will be geared toward the important duty we have as parents and grandparents to guide and guard children for Jesus. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to my new website at terrihitt.com, where you can access all the podcasts housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional free resources that are added to regularly. Thank you for listening. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find for new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 048 Preparing for Christ Part 2 Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #048 – Preparing for Christ – Part 2 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. As it is the end of the year, many worthy organizations are looking for end of year support, and I want to take a moment again today to mention one of my favorite local charities in Kansas City, the “Who Is Carter Foundation.” Did you know that they have established a worldwide project to provide support, treatment options, and resources to those supporting exceptional children with neurological conditions? That project can be found at thebrainpossible.com, and you can learn more about the foundation at whoiscarter.org. Or you can visit either on Instagram. We have personally worked with this organization and truly appreciate their mission and the support they offer. I encourage you to visit their websites to learn more and please, pass the info on to a friend or family member who might benefit from their various services. Last week’s podcast was done in a different format and I am pleased to slow down this week, as well, and read more scripture with you, reflecting on the goodness and qualities of Christ as we continue to prepare our heart and mind to celebrate Jesus this holiday. I pray we continue maturing in new ways and never return to our previous way of daily living as we let the holiness of the season linger and abide in our spirit. Each day is meant to be a new experience that draws us nearer to the Lord, allowing Him to extract more out of us, so that those cleaned areas in our life will be filled by Jesus. As we hear God’s words, I pray that the scriptures will help us consciously stretch ourselves farther, allowing for His holy eternal perspective to rule us daily. Because of Jesus, we can hear the words of God and experience joy, peace, hope, and true love. Without Jesus, there would be no light in this world. God’s love is explained through His One and Only Son. May the delight God sees and shows in His son, with whom He is well-pleased, permeate our hearts as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus and may His light embrace and mold us anew as we absorb the words into our spirit. May each day in the next year, and those to come, be a celebration of Jesus. As we allow Him to work within us and grow our love and obedience for Him, rejoicing in Who He is, and following Him, allowing Him to flow through us becomes a joy we cannot release. Jesus isn’t our Savior. He becomes our everything, as we breathe Him in and exhale His fragrance to the world around us. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.” What good, pleasing, and perfect plans God has for each of us, His children! His desire is for us to be transformed by renewing our minds through Him. As followers of Jesus, we are called to conform not to this world, but to Christ. It is then that we will joyfully allow ourselves to be living sacrifices for Him daily as we follow His will and ways and discover God’s new and joyous life for us. James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” God calls us to remain unpolluted by the world by following Him closely and caring for what He does. As we allow Christ access to our mind and heart, we begin to follow His ethical and moral order instead of the value system of this world. True faith carries us to the Father’s heart as we desire and lovingly value and care for what He does. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." God judges by faith and character, not outward appearance. Only He can accurately judge us because He sees straight into our heart and motives. We must do all we can to improve our inward self so that we fill God with joy when He looks upon us. Psalm 37:23-24 says, “The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.” Oh, to give God joy by delighting in Him! If we desire God to protect our steps, it is imperative that we trust and follow Him, then pursue His ways by doing His will with joy. Seek Him before stepping out and heed His warnings and advice. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” God deeply desires to counsel us with His infinite wisdom. His words and Holy Spirit show us the absolute best ways to live and navigate life in this world. Humbly allow Him to instruct and teach with His abiding love and counsel, rather than learning through discipline or heartache from following your own path. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” God has blessed us with life! He wants us to enjoy it and make plans. However, our Father wants us to remember that He has specifically created each of us and placed us here with a beautiful purpose that God wants to complete through us. We must allow Him to direct our heart and mind as we cling to Him in a personal relationship that seeks to know and follow Him more closely daily. Psalm 33:4-5 says, “For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.” God can be trusted all the time and His words are upright and true. People are unreliable, God is not. Our Heavenly Father never changes His character or words, and His promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. Proverbs 2:1-6 says, “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” We can each access wisdom is one of two ways. Either we have a God-given gift to be used for glorifying and honoring Him and others or we humbly desire and seek it from Him. Wisdom is just the beginning of understanding God’s ways and living in them. After wisdom, we can receive insight and understanding through a close relationship and His word. As we cling to God and consistently request His wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, He will allow us pieces of Him through the gifts. What a reward to be gifted in such areas as the Lord carries! How far we are from Him, yet our access to Him is eternal and living inside us through the Holy Spirit. John 17:1-26 says, “When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son that the Son may glorify You, since You have given Him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I glorified You on earth, having accomplished the work that You gave Me to do. And now, Father, glorify Me in Your own presence with the glory that I had with You before the world existed. “I have manifested Your name to the people whom You gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Now they know that everything that You have given Me is from You. For I have given them the words that You gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. All mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Your name, which You have given Me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. As you sent Me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You have sent Me. The glory that You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one even as We are one, I in them and You in Me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that You sent Me and loved them even as You loved Me. Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, may be with Me where I am, to see My glory that You have given Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, even though the world does not know You, I know You, and these know that You have sent Me. I made known to them Your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which You have loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” Such beautiful words from Jesus through this passage are the focal point of the Bible and history! How exciting that we have them within our grasp to access and absorb. In John 17, the entire first chapter is compiled of Jesus praying. Through His prayerful words, we hear that the world we live in is a fierce and godless battleground beneath Satan’s power that is at odds with those of us who follow Jesus. Satan and his forces are out to destroy us, but here we see Jesus’s concern as He prays for His disciples and us, His followers. Jesus prayed for our safety, and for God to set us apart so that we can be made pure and holy through Him. In this passage of loving prayer, Jesus clearly shows us again how to obtain eternal life. Through Him. An eternal life with God is given through a personal relationship with Jesus. By admitting our sin and turning away from it, then seeking forgiveness and relationship with Jesus, we obtain the gift of the Holy Spirit within us to guide and mature us daily. Although it is beyond our comprehension, Jesus was one with God before He came to live on this earth as a man. Now, in this passage, we see Jesus as His earthly mission is almost complete, and His sovereignty is shown in His word as He asks God to restore Him to His original place of honor and authority with Him. These beautiful words are packed with so much truth and guidance. We see Jesus yearning for God to protect the disciples and we also see Him pray for us, the believers now living. So much of the world follows Satan’s plans and visions, and Jesus pleads for God to protect us and sanctify us by God’s word of truth. Jesus did not ask God to take us out of the world, but to use us here. We are each supposed to be salt and light, not avoiding relationships with non-Christians, and not succumbing to the ways of the world, either. Knowing that Jesus prayed for us and that the Holy Spirit still intercedes for us, should strengthen our faith and determination to be in God’s word to arm us with what we need and to protect us as we wrestle with the powers threatening to swallow us daily. Jesus has already had the victory and we have all we need to remain in the battle, allowing God to fight for us. Jesus has made the Father known. He has shown us the clear path to Him and has prayed in advance for the care we will need to encounter life in this fallen world. Make unity with Christ and fellow believers a natural extension of your walk with Christ so that the world will see His glory and light through us. This Christmas season I want to list some glorious reminders that are backed by scripture in the Bible. I won’t read each reference now, but they will be listed in the transcripts of this episode on my website at terrihitt.com. Remember, when you belong to Jesus, your true identity is finally found. Because of Jesus: We are justified (declared not guilty of sin). Romans 3:24 No condemnation will await us. Romans 8:1 We become free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2 We are sanctified and made acceptable in Jesus. 1 Corinthians 1:2 We become righteous and holy in Christ 1 Corinthians 1:30 We will be made alive at the resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:22 We become a new creation! 2 Corinthians 5:17 We receive God’s righteousness. 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are one in Christ with other believers. Galatians 3:28 We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Jesus Ephesians 1:3 We are holy and blameless; covered by God’s love. Ephesians 1:4 We are adopted as God’s children. Ephesians 1:5, 6 Our sins are removed; we are forgiven. Ephesians 1:7 We are brought under the headship of Jesus Ephesians 1:10, 11 We are marked as belonging to God by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 1:13 We have been raised up to sit with Christ in glory. Ephesians 2:6 We are God’s work of art. Ephesians 2:10 We have been brought near to God. Ephesians 2:13 We share in the promise of Christ. Ephesians 3:6 We can come into God’s presence with freedom and confidence Ephesians 3:12 We become members of Christ’s body, the church. Ephesians 5:29, 30 We have been given fullness in Christ Colossians 2:10 We are set free from our sinful nature Colossians 2:11 We will have eternal glory. 2 Timothy 2:10 Jesus is a precious gift we are allowed to choose whether or not we will receive. It is by God’s glorious grace that we are saved. We are His beautiful workmanship and are created to do good works, which God has prepared for us in advance. If God considers us a piece of preciously crafted workmanship, we can believe that we are of extremely high value. Choose to live with His opinion of you stamped in your mind and remember to cling to the promise of eternity with Him. Allow Him to work through you to bring as many people into His glorious kingdom as possible. Dear Jesus, how we love You, but our love is nothing compared to what You have for us. Thank you for Your merciful work on the cross and within us. We praise You and offer our humble gratitude. Please continue to cleanse and renew us daily, Lord, moment by moment. Show us Your face, Your heart, Your mind, and Your hands so that we are certain of the example You set for us to follow. Help us to complete the purpose You have set for us and may we do it with Your humble compassion, wisdom, love, and obedience. May we seek You in a deeper way this holiday season and let that love, awe, wonder, and respect remain embedded within us in a new and more meaningful way as we head into the new year. Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice for us. May we honor You with the way we live. You are so good. In Your precious and holy name we pray. I deeply desire to allow God to cultivate a strong community of women through the work He has given me. I pray you will be better equipped to live with an eternal perspective and encouraged to influence children for Jesus. Future episodes and resources will be geared toward the important duty we have as parents and grandparents to guide and guard children for Jesus. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to my new website at terrihitt.com, where you can access all the podcasts housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional free resources that are added to regularly. Thank you for listening. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find for new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #076 – Direct Your Focus Last week I shared that my family is experiencing a difficult season. How I detest times like this, yet appreciate them at the same time. Why? Because I have lived long enough to know that the hardest times have stretched me beyond where I would cause my feet to travel. Jesus has carried me through the worst and the best moments in my life. While it would be amazing to live a perfectly happy life with no difficulties, the honest truth of this fallen world is that we are all alike. We will never find perfection. Life will continue to deliver painful blows. We are blessed when we recognize and remember that God already goes before us. Deuteronomy 1:30-31 says, “The Lord your God, who goes before you, will fight for you, just as you saw Him do for you in Egypt and in the wilderness, where the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way by which you traveled until you reached this place.” Oh, how I love the Lord! His ways are timeless! He is good. Intentionally place your full trust in Him. Direct your gaze Upward in every moment of life; not just when you think you need Him. I saw a Facebook post this week that reminds me of this truth. A mother was sending her child off to begin her life of “adulthood” and her heart is feeling multiple emotions! Understandably so. But the words that caught my attention were when she said that she prayed she had prepared her child enough for this world and that she guessed it was in God’s hands now. I am not singling out or judging what this mom spoke from her heart. Yet, as a follower of Christ who deeply desires to live in ways that honor God moment by moment and to always direct others to Jesus, I want to point out the fact that we must shift our thought process. Every moment of our life should already be in God’s hands. We should strive to grow so close to Him that our heart and mind are attuned to what the Father is calling us to submit to and release to Him moment by moment. We must seek to humble ourselves and submit to the Spirit within us, purposely allowing Christ to reign in our hearts and minds to eradicate self, more and more. How do we do this? The methods of a strong and maturing relationship with God through Jesus are basic. The difficulty comes in intentionally pursuing Him with a passionate mix of trust, hope, love, and faith that comes from seeking Him despite feelings and desires that get in the way and blind us to His truths. For example, if we feel far from God, or that He has abandoned us, that means we must draw nearer to Him. James 4:8 says, “Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” Never rely on feelings or thoughts, emotions or desires to direct your walk with Jesus. Psalm 73:28 says, “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.” Good Father, It is the prayer of my heart that every unpleasant moment or hardship I experience on this earth will do nothing but draw me ever nearer to You. I pray that is the same for each listener and for our loved ones. May we inhale the Spirit with every difficulty and exhale Jesus for all to experience and capture the delight and joy of the Lord. For You are good, despite our circumstances and pain, feelings or emotions. Help us to remember to draw near to You so that You will draw nearer to us. May we always be mindful that You are always a step ahead, providing the means for us to thrive in this world if we only place our constant hope and trust in You. In Your precious name we pray and plead. Amen. As I continue to rest in the Lord through this season, I want to mention a few of the past “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast episodes you may find helpful. Where are you right now? Are you ready to: Submit Your Heart? Episode 1 – Heart Conditions Protect Your Thoughts? Episode 2 – Protecting Our thoughts Strive for Obedience? Episode 3 – Obedience Prepare your child or grandchild to live for Him? Episode 7 – Equipping Children Submit emotions? Episode 38 – Who Master’s My Emotions As I continue to rest in the Spirit within and know that He has good plans for me and my family that will not harm us, but will bring us ever closer to Him, I will continue to encourage and equip you to find your rest in and through Jesus, as well. May our spirits ever long for Him and marvel at the ways He provides all we need, especially as we submit each moment into His capable hands. We don’t have to understand or agree with His ways, but we must purposely know Him so that we will willingly trust Him. Thank you, Jesus, for all You are and allow. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 076 Direct Your Focus Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #076 – Direct Your Focus Last week I shared that my family is experiencing a difficult season. How I detest times like this, yet appreciate them at the same time. Why? Because I have lived long enough to know that the hardest times have stretched me beyond where I would cause my feet to travel. Jesus has carried me through the worst and the best moments in my life. While it would be amazing to live a perfectly happy life with no difficulties, the honest truth of this fallen world is that we are all alike. We will never find perfection. Life will continue to deliver painful blows. We are blessed when we recognize and remember that God already goes before us. Deuteronomy 1:30-31 says, “The Lord your God, who goes before you, will fight for you, just as you saw Him do for you in Egypt and in the wilderness, where the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way by which you traveled until you reached this place.” Oh, how I love the Lord! His ways are timeless! He is good. Intentionally place your full trust in Him. Direct your gaze Upward in every moment of life; not just when you think you need Him. I saw a Facebook post this week that reminds me of this truth. A mother was sending her child off to begin her life of “adulthood” and her heart is feeling multiple emotions! Understandably so. But the words that caught my attention were when she said that she prayed she had prepared her child enough for this world and that she guessed it was in God’s hands now. I am not singling out or judging what this mom spoke from her heart. Yet, as a follower of Christ who deeply desires to live in ways that honor God moment by moment and to always direct others to Jesus, I want to point out the fact that we must shift our thought process. Every moment of our life should already be in God’s hands. We should strive to grow so close to Him that our heart and mind are attuned to what the Father is calling us to submit to and release to Him moment by moment. We must seek to humble ourselves and submit to the Spirit within us, purposely allowing Christ to reign in our hearts and minds to eradicate self, more and more. How do we do this? The methods of a strong and maturing relationship with God through Jesus are basic. The difficulty comes in intentionally pursuing Him with a passionate mix of trust, hope, love, and faith that comes from seeking Him despite feelings and desires that get in the way and blind us to His truths. For example, if we feel far from God, or that He has abandoned us, that means we must draw nearer to Him. James 4:8 says, “Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” Never rely on feelings or thoughts, emotions or desires to direct your walk with Jesus. Psalm 73:28 says, “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.” Good Father, It is the prayer of my heart that every unpleasant moment or hardship I experience on this earth will do nothing but draw me ever nearer to You. I pray that is the same for each listener and for our loved ones. May we inhale the Spirit with every difficulty and exhale Jesus for all to experience and capture the delight and joy of the Lord. For You are good, despite our circumstances and pain, feelings or emotions. Help us to remember to draw near to You so that You will draw nearer to us. May we always be mindful that You are always a step ahead, providing the means for us to thrive in this world if we only place our constant hope and trust in You. In Your precious name we pray and plead. Amen. As I continue to rest in the Lord through this season, I want to mention a few of the past “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast episodes you may find helpful. Where are you right now? Are you ready to: Submit Your Heart? Episode 1 – Heart Conditions Protect Your Thoughts? Episode 2 – Protecting Our thoughts Strive for Obedience? Episode 3 – Obedience Prepare your child or grandchild to live for Him? Episode 7 – Equipping Children Submit emotions? Episode 38 – Who Master’s My Emotions As I continue to rest in the Spirit within and know that He has good plans for me and my family that will not harm us, but will bring us ever closer to Him, I will continue to encourage and equip you to find your rest in and through Jesus, as well. May our spirits ever long for Him and marvel at the ways He provides all we need, especially as we submit each moment into His capable hands. We don’t have to understand or agree with His ways, but we must purposely know Him so that we will willingly trust Him. Thank you, Jesus, for all You are and allow. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 122 - Do You Know How to Play With Your Kids? Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 122 – Do You Know How to Play With Your Kids? Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode that raises an important question…Do you Know How to Play With Your Kids? My Grandma Smith had the greatest ability to make me laugh. I remember going to her house was a treat I looked forward to. I always knew she’d do something funny or sit on the floor and tickle me. She simply acted like a kid while still maintaining authority. I always felt safe and loved with her. I often think of Grandma when I play with my kids. I have to ask…have you played today? One of the perks of being a mom is recognizing and cherishing the ability to keep childlike qualities – or rediscover the inner child alive in our heart. As for me, I’ve never lost the ability to intertwine the little girl still living inside with the adult me. Maybe it’s because God created me with a strong imagination, but I also like to think that I just enjoy connection. Like Grandma seemed to with me. After parenting two sets of children over two generations, I’ve had an extended period of playtime. In fact, my siblings were five and six years younger than me, and I had a lot of experience playing with my sister before I ever became a mom at the age of eighteen. Numerous memories are easily brought to mind when I think back over the years I’ve enjoyed playing with kids. When my first child, my daughter Jaime was almost two, I was at a local park with her and two children I cared for at the time. With three children under two years old, I had to be creative in the way I kept them all together and entertained. On that particular day in the park, we mastered the slide over and over. The kids were gleeful as I had them lined up in front of me, each securing their little arms around the waist of the child in front of them. My legs were wrapped around everyone as we slid towards the bottom. When my first set of kids were growing up, I remember playing baseball with my son. Now I have to state that I’m one of the most athletically-challenged people in the world. Athleticism is not a gift God chose for me. So when I say I played baseball, please know that it shows the depth of love I have for my boy. It also shows his patience with me. I remember times of throwing pitches for Brandon to practice hitting, then switching places and letting him practice pitching to me. That was a sacrifice! I’ve never been able to catch any ball, whether it be small like a baseball or a large kickball. Instead of spreading my arms out to gracefully receive the ball, I usually duck my head and scream. But guess what? Playing ball with my son was such a joy. In fact, he’s the only person who can throw a pitch I can hit. Somehow, he knew exactly how to throw that ball in a way I trusted and could connect with. I hope he felt as special as I did in those moments. There were also other play times with my kids using typical childhood toys, as well as playing dress-up, Play Doh, drawing or coloring, dancing, and acting. What are some of the ways you play with your children? Or your grandchildren? My youngest daughter and I still have a date for play time daily. It’s what she looks forward to most each day. When I keep my word to place her above anything else during the time we spend together, joy radiates from her eyes and movements. If you are actively pursuing play as a way to teach and connect, I applaud you. Then I say, “keep on.” When we enjoy playing with our children, we understand that we are building connection that can’t be created any other way. The benefits of playing with our children are high. As I stated earlier, not only do we experience a deeper bonding and attachment experience, but our children receive benefits such as a wider vocabulary, patience, trust, resilience, strengthened social skills, and higher cognitive development. Despite the love of electronics in this day and age, I say ditch those and find other ways to play such as the following: Toys – From the earliest of time with your child, you can play with toys together. I’m also going to place books and music in this category, and for every age group. Lullabies and Christian music are especially sweet. Books are a means of making time together special Sitting together as you read lends a special closeness and connection from an early age, plus reaps many of the benefits I spoke of earlier. Reading to your child often and regularly also helps them to be better prepared and more eager to read to you as time progresses. Letting yourself simply have fun with baby toys and age-appropriate toys with your child will expand creativity for you both. Physical Play – While building relationship and connection, you’re also building muscles, coordination, and strength. Outdoor Play – This can include physical play, as well as walks and nature studies. These activities allow both parent and child to experience fresh air, sunshine, appreciation, curiosity, imagination, and time together. Pretend Play – Even more imagination abounds with pretend play, which also builds curiosity, connection, and joy. Enjoy yourself. Let yourself be whatever age your child is. Or let yourself become an imaginary friend, creature, or whatever the situation calls for. Simply have fun. Through play, children learn, reduce stress, build connection with you, release fears, and work out problems. Through this process, parents are often alerted to thoughts and interests they may not have been made aware of yet. As my daughter and I play, I can tell things she’s concerned about or thinking. I also see how she responds to those thoughts or feelings through the way she has characters respond and react. Children are wired to play. So were you once. In fact, I bet you still are, even if you don’t realize it. When kids are able to play in early years, essential neural pathways are created that impact future learning. When kids experience sensory rich play and creative exploration, their time spent playing with you becomes more than recreation, and should be recognized as an investment in a critical piece of childhood development. For a more joyful childhood and future adult life, invest in playtime with your children. Mind, body, and spirit are transformed through such a simple act. If you think you don’t have time, I say you can’t afford to neglect making the time. If you’re not used to playing, let me list a few suggestions you might enjoy. Hearing them might spur your mind to come up with even more. Reading is very important at any age. Reading together, even when your kids are older is a fabulous bonding experience. As a homeschool mom, this is one of my favorite tips. Even when my girls were teens we read together. We still do daily when we sit to read the Bible together. Walking is also an easy activity to enjoy together. My middle daughter and I enjoy this activity year round. We’re outside together unless the weather makes it impossible. Through this simple act, we share so many stories and plans. We share our heart, give and hear advice, and simply enjoy one another. Our laughter is so full we’re often doubled over, barely able to walk, and that incredible connection strengthens our bond. You can also observe nature with your children. This activity is an easy way to begin conversations and talk about the Lord as you observe His creation, the seasons, or the weather. If you’re looking for more age-based suggestions, I’ll list a few. Again, this is a short list to get you thinking about what might be enjoyed together in your home. Six months – Recite short rhymes, prayers, condensed Bible stories, sing, play Peek-A-Boo, Pat-A-Cake, find your ears, nose, etc. Cover toys with a cloth or blanket and uncover to find. Nine months – Play imitation and “find it” games Twelve months – Fill containers or play instruments (anything from a pot and lid to an empty paper towel roll can become an instrument or you may invest in age appropriate instruments. Eighteen months – Memory games with music, cards, or toys. Sorting or matching games are also fun. Two to Three years – Music with movement, silly dances, Follow the Leader, Dress-up, Dolls, Play Doh Four to Seven Years – Simon Says, Climbing activities (yes, you can climb, too), Parks, play house, dolls, or ball. Eight to Twelve Years – Puzzles, mazes, word finds, crossword puzzles, strategy games, physical games Thirteen to Seventeen – Musical Instruments, Dancing, Acting, Sports All of these are activities that you can do with your child, not just watch them participate. Throughout the lifetime of your child, play is one of the best investments you can make for both of you. Skills, mental and emotional health, and connection are shaped grown, and maintained through this remarkably simple activity. You know your children. Find what they enjoy and jump in with them. Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for Your mighty presence in this world, our lives, and in our heart through the Holy Spirit alive in us. We need Your guidance and leadership. Help us to shine You. Help us to connect with our children in ways that merge the beautiful interests and talents You crafted into them and all You have purposed within us. Help us enjoy the youthfulness, imagination, and love You have placed within us. Let us recognize all the gifts You have in store for us as we invest in time with You and our family. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with professionals who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #007 – Equipping Children Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The topic close to my heart today is one that is deeply personal. More importantly, it’s special to God. This episode is about children and those who influence them. Although I realize I’m not the only mother in the world who has raised two separate families, I know it’s definitely not the norm. Some people consider us crazy; some admire us and lift us to reside on a pedestal of benevolence. Honestly, we are neither of those. The fact is that two of our children were brought to us biologically. Two of them were brought to us through adoption. Just as women achieve pregnancy and deliver babies through different ways, our family was built by two methods and stretched over a longer period of time than most. It’s honestly that simple. Yet, I still consider my family a miracle and our story one that only God can author. But then, that’s true of all of us. The most urgent desire I have in my heart after raising one set of children and now raising the next, is the absolute necessity of bringing our children up to know, love, and respect the Lord and helping other mothers to understand that importance. To raise our children to love and honor Jesus and to desire to grow their own relationship with Him is the best gift we can give them and the most important job we have. I have found that those of us who claim to be Christians usually want to raise Christian children. But the truth is that many of us depend on the church to raise our child to know God and don’t take active steps at home to nurture the relationship we have with the Lord, let alone foster the growth of our children in Him. Many of us have also been deceived into thinking that once our child accepts Christ as Savior that we don’t have to be as concerned about our child. Both are dangerously blinding us with deceit straight from Satan. How do I know this happens? It happened to me as a young, naive new Christian mother. I had good intentions, but lacked the wisdom I needed to grow and sufficiently nurture my own walk, let alone the heart journey of my children. Our walk was not the straight path I wish it would have been, although I honestly loved the Lord. I’ve also heard stories from others who have similar testimonies to share. Many children from Christian families attend church functions anywhere from one to five hours per week. Families may go to Sunday school and church on Sunday mornings, then either go back to church Sunday night or attend a church function on Wednesday evening, but in our active and fast-paced world, fewer children attend that often. Many churches have stopped Sunday evening services and many children have school or personal activities on Wednesday evenings. Even if children were attending activities at the church at all of the mentioned times, simply being at the church does not make them a growing Christian. You absolutely cannot nurture and sustain a close relationship with Christ on a few hours a week. A true relationship with God starts through a personal relationship with Christ and continues to grow and thrive in the home. It must be nurtured throughout each day. Children learn best when they see a beautiful and godly relationship with Jesus modeled daily in every action, reaction, and interaction they see their parents make. Even our mistakes can draw them nearer to God as they see the ways grace-filled and influenced parents handle living in this broken world. Unless we purposely fix our minds on living with eternal perspective, this world, our pride and lusts, and Satan will distract us with anything to pull us away from Christ. John 10:10 warns, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” When I became a Christian, I foolishly believed that my life would automatically be different, but just as everything else in life, that’s actually when the real work began. I had to learn about releasing my life to the One I now professed to follow. In the meantime, my children were maturing quickly and I missed opportunities to nurture them in and through Jesus the way I should have. It is vitally important to me to teach mothers the importance of maturing your fellowship with Jesus so that He will naturally be breathed into the lives of your precious children from the very beginning. You will never regret it. Seeking the Lord and growing our relationship with Jesus should be as much a part of our existence as breathing. Just as we awaken each day with a craving for food and drink, our mind should instinctively desire Him and automatically draw to fellowship with Him throughout each day. I think of the hymn, “He Lives,” by Alan Jackson. Here are a few of the words. “He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives. He lives within my heart.” We are meant to walk and talk with Jesus through an internal dialogue that beautifully draws us nearer to Him. Jesus knows my innermost thoughts. He knows yours. He intimately cares about everything concerning me and concerning you. No matter where you are in your faith journey, if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, the Holy Spirit is living within you to guide and move you to a deeper walk with Him. We create distance in our relationship with Jesus just as we do with people in our lives. If we don’t welcome Him and nurture the relationship, it will fade. Jesus won’t leave us, but we can drift away from Him. To grow and sustain our Christian walk, we have to be intentional and not let distractions take the place of commitment, just like with every relationship in our life. Now let’s think about God’s word. When we read the Bible, we clearly see people who were determined to direct their own lives while making unwise choices that drew them away from God. Let’s use the very first example of shattered lives in the Bible as we discuss how cleverly the serpent (Satan) tricked Eve. It’s so easy for us to look back at her and think of Eve as foolish. She (and Adam) clearly understood the instructions God had given them. But we also allow subtleties to distract us from living fully in relationship with Jesus daily. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, He desires us to allow Him to sit as the Master of our life. It’s easy to say we believe in God and want Him to guide us. It’s harder to actually accept and allow Jesus to transform our life, giving Him direct access to our thoughts, emotions, speech, actions, and attitude. In other words, we are to release everything in our life to Him. In the beginning, Adam and Eve lived in intimate communion with God. He fulfilled their every need, giving them good and perfect gifts. They had peace of mind and deep joy. Gratitude filled their lives. They did not live with hazy minds tinged by lies or twisted truths - until they disobeyed. Then, they became estranged from God and the intimate bond they shared was severed. 2 Corinthians 11:3 states, “But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” We make the same foolish choices day after day. Either we follow our fleshly and selfish desires or we allow Satan to move in and destroy the good and perfect plans God has established for those of us who love Him. James 1:12-17 is a longer passage, but bear with me as I read the important truths contained. “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” We must not allow anything we think we desire in this world to undermine our growth in Christ. Distractions will always be around us. There is absolutely nothing here on this earth that will ever compare with the beauty of committing to the most important relationship we will ever have and in sharing and teaching Him to our children. The best way we can tell whether we are allowing Jesus to work in and change our hearts is by His promise. Once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit as He takes permanent residence within us as a guarantee of security that we are His. We not only believe His word and promise, but we also begin to see changes in the way we live. Our minds, thoughts, actions, and attitudes begin changing and evolving daily. We die to sin and the grip it once held over us. Of course, we will still be tempted, but the way we face temptation begins to change. Because of Christ, nothing should have a permanent grip on us. Temptation is common to all men, even Jesus, but just as the Lord never sinned, He also provides us a way out of temptation. Temptation alone is not a sin, but succumbing to it is. A true, maturing Christian will hear the voice of Jesus daily, instead of looking for ways to get away with sin. A devoted Christian will also follow the path Jesus sets by example, not just doing whatever activity seems entertaining at the time. As we grow in Christ, as we read His word, we crave more of it. We believe His truths and intentionally find ways to implement His instructions and guidelines in our lives. We desire following Jesus and when we fall into sin or make mistakes, we genuinely repent with a sorrowful heart that yearns for restoration and forgiveness. John 10:7-10 says, “Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Jesus is our door for eternal life. We are the sheep. He is the shepherd. In Biblical times, the sheep pen had one opening for sheep to enter. The shepherd would herd his flock into the enclosed pen and then actually lie down in the entry so that nothing could get in and the sheep could not get out. Jesus protects us in the same way. When we are His, we are saved from death. We live in intimate communion with Jesus, and are provided with perfect nourishment for our soul. Why is all of this so important when talking about raising children? Because if we are truly committed to seeing our children flourish in their relationship with Jesus, we have to be so in love with Him that He seeps from our soul and spirit. We don’t want to teach our children about Jesus; we want to model a love and relationship so strong that they know Him because they see Him daily through us. We want to be the magnet that draws our children straight to the heart of Jesus. Without our own thriving personal relationship with Him, that will not happen. Let’s stop and consider a few things absolutely vital to our walk with Christ. I believe we should all ask ourselves the following questions. 1. What do I believe about eternity? What I believe directly impacts the life of my precious children. What do I believe? How do I know my belief is true? 2. Am I living my belief? The time I have on this earth is nothing in comparison to eternity. James 4:14 says, “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” I do not know what the next second will bring, let alone the next day. I have to take responsibility for what I believe. The time is now. 3. Do I surrender to Jesus daily so that my child will, too? Am I modeling my beliefs? Do I consider my beliefs important enough to make the sacrifice to die to myself daily and allow Christ full access? 4. What do I believe about the eternity of my children? Do my children know Christ yet? 5. Am I doing everything I possibly can to secure the eternity of my children? Do my children see my love for Jesus daily? Do they hear my prayers? Do we pray together? Do I teach them to rely on God? Do they see me read my Bible? Do we also read the Bible together? Do they see me walk the way God instructs in His word? Do they see me repent and change when I fail? Do I apologize to them (or others) when I do wrong? Do I discuss Jesus with my children? Do I walk and talk with Jesus each day and guide my children to do the same? Do I bring Him naturally into conversations so they see my relationship is real and natural? Just as many people take time to contemplate life goals at the beginning of each year, we must reflect on our walk with Christ daily. Life is not simply about us; it should be a reflection of Christ that spreads out to all we connect with, especially our children. They were not given to us as a burden to raise to adulthood, but as a blessing that God considers a heritage. Our children actually belong to God. They are an inheritance from and for Him. We are caretakers for the Lord. While we have His children in our possession, we must make the most of every moment as we prayerfully guide them to know and love the One they will answer to for eternity. If we are not intentionally living with an eternal perspective as we pursue life and parenting, we are making the choice to raise children of and for the world. We need to live set apart from what this world gives and seek what will truly satisfy the souls of our children. We have to purposely allow God to work through us to intimately know and understand each of our children. We must desire and allow Him to provide what they need to live a life that shines for Him without standing in His way. We must permit God access to our hearts and minds in order for Him to grow us and mold us into the parents our children require so they may be uniquely set apart in this world. True Christian-centered parenting looks and feels unique because we believe, understand, and respect that His children are created in His image for Him. We live to honor Him with those He has lovingly and perfectly entrusted to us. What pleasure we will share with God when we are blessed to proclaim 3 John 1:4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” What does living and raising our children to be “set-apart” look like? We should exist in this world as an active member in it, but not reflect the values of this world. Our beliefs and actions should mirror what God instructs in His word. It also means loving our neighbor as ourselves. We don’t judge or criticize those who do not seem to be following God’s truths as He instructs, but we don’t have to condone their beliefs or actions, either. It is possible to lovingly disagree and treat the person with grace and kindness. We need to see each other through the loving eyes of God. As we strive to live in ways that honor God and display Him to our children, the choices we make are critical. We have to honestly assess whether the selections we make daily and the way we spend our precious time respect the guidelines and values God wants us to live by. We should be a mirror for our children to see Jesus clearly, through what and who we are, and do. Luke 18:16 warns us clearly, “But Jesus called to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Do not make selfish, ignorant, or naïve choices that will ultimately impede your child’s walk and eternal future with God. Checking the atmosphere of our home is mandatory when we desire to live lives pleasing to God and reflect Him to our children and others around us. It is difficult to control and eradicate some of our unwise choices and habits all at once, but starting with drawing attention to and possibly correcting one at a time will ensure that we are drawing nearer to the life God desires for us and our family. Here are some questions to begin with. 1. Does my speech reflect the way I would speak to God if He were sitting with me? He is, by the way. I just can’t see Him. James 3:10-11 says, “from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?” 2. Do my actions represent the way Jesus would handle the joys and distresses of this life? 3. Are my activities pleasing to God? 4. Do my friends share my desire to know and please God more deeply? Are they reflecting Him in their lives, as well? 5. Does the way I dress reflect a modest and godly woman secure in the love my Father has for me? 6. Do I have to hide my occupation or is it a worthy use of my time to provide for my family? 7. Does the music I listen to enable my speech and values to be worthy of what God desires for me? Does it enable my speech and actions to stand against what God word requires of me as I grow my walk with Him? Should I be embarrassed for God to hear me sing the lyrics? 8. Does the entertainment I pay to see or participate in glorify God? Does the entertainment in my home show my children how important God is in our lives? 9. Do the books and magazines I read reflect the values and language God desires? Do the messages they lead me to believe stand against scripture? 10. Do the podcasts I listen to reflect values God desires me to learn and possess? 11. Do I spend more time in God’s Holy word than I do on social media? Do I intentionally spend time with my children to teach them to love God and learn His word? Proverbs 24:3 teaches, “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established.” It can be painful to go through this checklist. Life in this world does anything but guide us into the Father’s arms. We will never live a perfect life on earth, but we can strive to live as closely to the way God calls us as possible. We always have more ways we can purposely erase the influences of all this life leads us to believe we need. Strive to lean more closely into God’s beautiful desires for us instead. John 15:9-11 promises, “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” Psalm 90:12 instructs, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” As we grow more Christlike, we desire Him even more. People begin to see the Lord through us and are drawn to become more like Him themselves. As we experience sweet fellowship with Jesus and savor the joy we receive when our children walk closely with Him, the attraction to the distractions in this world fade. Matthew 13:44 explains it well; “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” May we all live with the joy, hope, and peace that only Jesus can provide and give our children the treasure of the kingdom of heaven so they can live a lifetime of sweet closeness with their Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you so much for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 007 Equipping Children Listen to Episode Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #007 – Equipping Children Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The topic close to my heart today is one that is deeply personal. More importantly, it’s special to God. This episode is about children and those who influence them. Although I realize I’m not the only mother in the world who has raised two separate families, I know it’s definitely not the norm. Some people consider us crazy; some admire us and lift us to reside on a pedestal of benevolence. Honestly, we are neither of those. The fact is that two of our children were brought to us biologically. Two of them were brought to us through adoption. Just as women achieve pregnancy and deliver babies through different ways, our family was built by two methods and stretched over a longer period of time than most. It’s honestly that simple. Yet, I still consider my family a miracle and our story one that only God can author. But then, that’s true of all of us. The most urgent desire I have in my heart after raising one set of children and now raising the next, is the absolute necessity of bringing our children up to know, love, and respect the Lord and helping other mothers to understand that importance. To raise our children to love and honor Jesus and to desire to grow their own relationship with Him is the best gift we can give them and the most important job we have. I have found that those of us who claim to be Christians usually want to raise Christian children. But the truth is that many of us depend on the church to raise our child to know God and don’t take active steps at home to nurture the relationship we have with the Lord, let alone foster the growth of our children in Him. Many of us have also been deceived into thinking that once our child accepts Christ as Savior that we don’t have to be as concerned about our child. Both are dangerously blinding us with deceit straight from Satan. How do I know this happens? It happened to me as a young, naive new Christian mother. I had good intentions, but lacked the wisdom I needed to grow and sufficiently nurture my own walk, let alone the heart journey of my children. Our walk was not the straight path I wish it would have been, although I honestly loved the Lord. I’ve also heard stories from others who have similar testimonies to share. Many children from Christian families attend church functions anywhere from one to five hours per week. Families may go to Sunday school and church on Sunday mornings, then either go back to church Sunday night or attend a church function on Wednesday evening, but in our active and fast-paced world, fewer children attend that often. Many churches have stopped Sunday evening services and many children have school or personal activities on Wednesday evenings. Even if children were attending activities at the church at all of the mentioned times, simply being at the church does not make them a growing Christian. You absolutely cannot nurture and sustain a close relationship with Christ on a few hours a week. A true relationship with God starts through a personal relationship with Christ and continues to grow and thrive in the home. It must be nurtured throughout each day. Children learn best when they see a beautiful and godly relationship with Jesus modeled daily in every action, reaction, and interaction they see their parents make. Even our mistakes can draw them nearer to God as they see the ways grace-filled and influenced parents handle living in this broken world. Unless we purposely fix our minds on living with eternal perspective, this world, our pride and lusts, and Satan will distract us with anything to pull us away from Christ. John 10:10 warns, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” When I became a Christian, I foolishly believed that my life would automatically be different, but just as everything else in life, that’s actually when the real work began. I had to learn about releasing my life to the One I now professed to follow. In the meantime, my children were maturing quickly and I missed opportunities to nurture them in and through Jesus the way I should have. It is vitally important to me to teach mothers the importance of maturing your fellowship with Jesus so that He will naturally be breathed into the lives of your precious children from the very beginning. You will never regret it. Seeking the Lord and growing our relationship with Jesus should be as much a part of our existence as breathing. Just as we awaken each day with a craving for food and drink, our mind should instinctively desire Him and automatically draw to fellowship with Him throughout each day. I think of the hymn, “He Lives,” by Alan Jackson. Here are a few of the words. “He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives. He lives within my heart.” We are meant to walk and talk with Jesus through an internal dialogue that beautifully draws us nearer to Him. Jesus knows my innermost thoughts. He knows yours. He intimately cares about everything concerning me and concerning you. No matter where you are in your faith journey, if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, the Holy Spirit is living within you to guide and move you to a deeper walk with Him. We create distance in our relationship with Jesus just as we do with people in our lives. If we don’t welcome Him and nurture the relationship, it will fade. Jesus won’t leave us, but we can drift away from Him. To grow and sustain our Christian walk, we have to be intentional and not let distractions take the place of commitment, just like with every relationship in our life. Now let’s think about God’s word. When we read the Bible, we clearly see people who were determined to direct their own lives while making unwise choices that drew them away from God. Let’s use the very first example of shattered lives in the Bible as we discuss how cleverly the serpent (Satan) tricked Eve. It’s so easy for us to look back at her and think of Eve as foolish. She (and Adam) clearly understood the instructions God had given them. But we also allow subtleties to distract us from living fully in relationship with Jesus daily. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, He desires us to allow Him to sit as the Master of our life. It’s easy to say we believe in God and want Him to guide us. It’s harder to actually accept and allow Jesus to transform our life, giving Him direct access to our thoughts, emotions, speech, actions, and attitude. In other words, we are to release everything in our life to Him. In the beginning, Adam and Eve lived in intimate communion with God. He fulfilled their every need, giving them good and perfect gifts. They had peace of mind and deep joy. Gratitude filled their lives. They did not live with hazy minds tinged by lies or twisted truths - until they disobeyed. Then, they became estranged from God and the intimate bond they shared was severed. 2 Corinthians 11:3 states, “But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” We make the same foolish choices day after day. Either we follow our fleshly and selfish desires or we allow Satan to move in and destroy the good and perfect plans God has established for those of us who love Him. James 1:12-17 is a longer passage, but bear with me as I read the important truths contained. “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” We must not allow anything we think we desire in this world to undermine our growth in Christ. Distractions will always be around us. There is absolutely nothing here on this earth that will ever compare with the beauty of committing to the most important relationship we will ever have and in sharing and teaching Him to our children. The best way we can tell whether we are allowing Jesus to work in and change our hearts is by His promise. Once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit as He takes permanent residence within us as a guarantee of security that we are His. We not only believe His word and promise, but we also begin to see changes in the way we live. Our minds, thoughts, actions, and attitudes begin changing and evolving daily. We die to sin and the grip it once held over us. Of course, we will still be tempted, but the way we face temptation begins to change. Because of Christ, nothing should have a permanent grip on us. Temptation is common to all men, even Jesus, but just as the Lord never sinned, He also provides us a way out of temptation. Temptation alone is not a sin, but succumbing to it is. A true, maturing Christian will hear the voice of Jesus daily, instead of looking for ways to get away with sin. A devoted Christian will also follow the path Jesus sets by example, not just doing whatever activity seems entertaining at the time. As we grow in Christ, as we read His word, we crave more of it. We believe His truths and intentionally find ways to implement His instructions and guidelines in our lives. We desire following Jesus and when we fall into sin or make mistakes, we genuinely repent with a sorrowful heart that yearns for restoration and forgiveness. John 10:7-10 says, “Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Jesus is our door for eternal life. We are the sheep. He is the shepherd. In Biblical times, the sheep pen had one opening for sheep to enter. The shepherd would herd his flock into the enclosed pen and then actually lie down in the entry so that nothing could get in and the sheep could not get out. Jesus protects us in the same way. When we are His, we are saved from death. We live in intimate communion with Jesus, and are provided with perfect nourishment for our soul. Why is all of this so important when talking about raising children? Because if we are truly committed to seeing our children flourish in their relationship with Jesus, we have to be so in love with Him that He seeps from our soul and spirit. We don’t want to teach our children about Jesus; we want to model a love and relationship so strong that they know Him because they see Him daily through us. We want to be the magnet that draws our children straight to the heart of Jesus. Without our own thriving personal relationship with Him, that will not happen. Let’s stop and consider a few things absolutely vital to our walk with Christ. I believe we should all ask ourselves the following questions. 1. What do I believe about eternity? What I believe directly impacts the life of my precious children. What do I believe? How do I know my belief is true? 2. Am I living my belief? The time I have on this earth is nothing in comparison to eternity. James 4:14 says, “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” I do not know what the next second will bring, let alone the next day. I have to take responsibility for what I believe. The time is now. 3. Do I surrender to Jesus daily so that my child will, too? Am I modeling my beliefs? Do I consider my beliefs important enough to make the sacrifice to die to myself daily and allow Christ full access? 4. What do I believe about the eternity of my children? Do my children know Christ yet? 5. Am I doing everything I possibly can to secure the eternity of my children? Do my children see my love for Jesus daily? Do they hear my prayers? Do we pray together? Do I teach them to rely on God? Do they see me read my Bible? Do we also read the Bible together? Do they see me walk the way God instructs in His word? Do they see me repent and change when I fail? Do I apologize to them (or others) when I do wrong? Do I discuss Jesus with my children? Do I walk and talk with Jesus each day and guide my children to do the same? Do I bring Him naturally into conversations so they see my relationship is real and natural? Just as many people take time to contemplate life goals at the beginning of each year, we must reflect on our walk with Christ daily. Life is not simply about us; it should be a reflection of Christ that spreads out to all we connect with, especially our children. They were not given to us as a burden to raise to adulthood, but as a blessing that God considers a heritage. Our children actually belong to God. They are an inheritance from and for Him. We are caretakers for the Lord. While we have His children in our possession, we must make the most of every moment as we prayerfully guide them to know and love the One they will answer to for eternity. If we are not intentionally living with an eternal perspective as we pursue life and parenting, we are making the choice to raise children of and for the world. We need to live set apart from what this world gives and seek what will truly satisfy the souls of our children. We have to purposely allow God to work through us to intimately know and understand each of our children. We must desire and allow Him to provide what they need to live a life that shines for Him without standing in His way. We must permit God access to our hearts and minds in order for Him to grow us and mold us into the parents our children require so they may be uniquely set apart in this world. True Christian-centered parenting looks and feels unique because we believe, understand, and respect that His children are created in His image for Him. We live to honor Him with those He has lovingly and perfectly entrusted to us. What pleasure we will share with God when we are blessed to proclaim 3 John 1:4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” What does living and raising our children to be “set-apart” look like? We should exist in this world as an active member in it, but not reflect the values of this world. Our beliefs and actions should mirror what God instructs in His word. It also means loving our neighbor as ourselves. We don’t judge or criticize those who do not seem to be following God’s truths as He instructs, but we don’t have to condone their beliefs or actions, either. It is possible to lovingly disagree and treat the person with grace and kindness. We need to see each other through the loving eyes of God. As we strive to live in ways that honor God and display Him to our children, the choices we make are critical. We have to honestly assess whether the selections we make daily and the way we spend our precious time respect the guidelines and values God wants us to live by. We should be a mirror for our children to see Jesus clearly, through what and who we are, and do. Luke 18:16 warns us clearly, “But Jesus called to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Do not make selfish, ignorant, or naïve choices that will ultimately impede your child’s walk and eternal future with God. Checking the atmosphere of our home is mandatory when we desire to live lives pleasing to God and reflect Him to our children and others around us. It is difficult to control and eradicate some of our unwise choices and habits all at once, but starting with drawing attention to and possibly correcting one at a time will ensure that we are drawing nearer to the life God desires for us and our family. Here are some questions to begin with. 1. Does my speech reflect the way I would speak to God if He were sitting with me? He is, by the way. I just can’t see Him. James 3:10-11 says, “from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?” 2. Do my actions represent the way Jesus would handle the joys and distresses of this life? 3. Are my activities pleasing to God? 4. Do my friends share my desire to know and please God more deeply? Are they reflecting Him in their lives, as well? 5. Does the way I dress reflect a modest and godly woman secure in the love my Father has for me? 6. Do I have to hide my occupation or is it a worthy use of my time to provide for my family? 7. Does the music I listen to enable my speech and values to be worthy of what God desires for me? Does it enable my speech and actions to stand against what God word requires of me as I grow my walk with Him? Should I be embarrassed for God to hear me sing the lyrics? 8. Does the entertainment I pay to see or participate in glorify God? Does the entertainment in my home show my children how important God is in our lives? 9. Do the books and magazines I read reflect the values and language God desires? Do the messages they lead me to believe stand against scripture? 10. Do the podcasts I listen to reflect values God desires me to learn and possess? 11. Do I spend more time in God’s Holy word than I do on social media? Do I intentionally spend time with my children to teach them to love God and learn His word? Proverbs 24:3 teaches, “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established.” It can be painful to go through this checklist. Life in this world does anything but guide us into the Father’s arms. We will never live a perfect life on earth, but we can strive to live as closely to the way God calls us as possible. We always have more ways we can purposely erase the influences of all this life leads us to believe we need. Strive to lean more closely into God’s beautiful desires for us instead. John 15:9-11 promises, “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” Psalm 90:12 instructs, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” As we grow more Christlike, we desire Him even more. People begin to see the Lord through us and are drawn to become more like Him themselves. As we experience sweet fellowship with Jesus and savor the joy we receive when our children walk closely with Him, the attraction to the distractions in this world fade. Matthew 13:44 explains it well; “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” May we all live with the joy, hope, and peace that only Jesus can provide and give our children the treasure of the kingdom of heaven so they can live a lifetime of sweet closeness with their Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you so much for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast - Episode 087 - Confident Parenting through God's Strength Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 087 – Confident Parenting through God’s Strength Thank you for taking time to share your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children. When you see mothers who’ve raised children who love and follow the Lord do you ever wonder if they have some special secret? Maybe they were just born privileged. Or do you think their faith must be stronger than yours? I can easily remember being a young mother with little confidence and no knowledge of the Lord. How I’ve changed. Or better yet, how I have been changed. All because of my relationship with Jesus. It’s true that the older I’ve become, the more introspective I am. That says a lot, because I’ve always been a deep thinker. What is most important to me, and something I try not to take for granted, is that because I am now a follower of Christ, my thoughts are more on Him and less on self. My confidence comes from Him , not others, my thoughts, feelings, emotions, or past experiences. This is the kind of confidence I desire every woman, every mother to carry with strength and assurance that only comes through a growing walk with Jesus. Titus 2:3-6 speaks to what presses on my heart and where He has led me. The verses say, “Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. ” These verses clearly instruct mature believers in the ways we must encourage and help younger believers. By being lovingly mentored in godly words and lifestyles, younger generations of followers of Christ will learn how to live for Him and continue to pass Christlike living and fellowship to the next generation. The next generation starts with your children. The next generation can confidently be raised for the Lord if you submit to and trust Him to guide and guard you and your family. Because of Christ, I receive such joy by watching my children grow in wisdom of the Lord. I’m thankful for the walk they have with Christ, especially the relationship my daughters have at their young age. I can’t take credit for the work God has done, and continues to do in their hearts, but I have been purposed in making Him known to them. But it hasn’t always been my main goal. When I parented my first two I came to know Jesus later and it took time for me to be properly submitted to Him and discipled for Him. Mothers, as you intentionally mature your relationship with Jesus, you become the set-apart woman He intends for you to be. You are able to show Jesus to those in your sphere of influence, and that includes your husband and children. When you do so, you are deciding to live in humble obedience and love for God. Think of how important your decision is for your children and family. As you mature your personal walk with Christ, you are able to better showcase His works within you. The Bible tells us that when the Holy Spirit lives inside believers, we receive His fruits of the Spirit. Joy is one of the characteristics we receive. I receive such joy in working with younger mothers and equipping them in their walk with Jesus and showing them how to make Him known to their children. What a beautiful gift that we receive those fruits of the Spirit in so many ways and can help others rest in and follow Jesus. If you are a believing parent, God is relying on you to complete the holy assignment of parenting for Him. I shared the verses from Titus 2 at the beginning of this podcast, because we are not able to complete the instructions given without the power of Christ alive within us. Without submitting to the Holy Spirit’s promptings and guidance within, you and I are unable to live or parent for Christ. Do you take notice of how many miraculous ways your life has changed since you became a follower of Christ? One of those is gaining a new identity. As you accept and build your new identity in Christ, you are rebuilding a lifetime of beliefs, desires, and learned habits in the truth of God and what He says about you as a woman. Also, in what He says about you as a mother. You can’t parent godly children without submitting to the Holy Spirit inside you. The absolute best day in your life as a believer in Christ should be the day you humbly submit your life to Him. While filled with many emotions and feelings in that moment, you probably wondered what the rest of your life would be like with Jesus at your side. However, one of the best revelations or lessons a follower of Christ can realize is that Jesus does not ever belong by your side . The Lord of All, Prince of Peace, Author and Perfecter of our Faith, and the Alpha and Omega holds out His strong and capable hands, ready for you to rest in His arms . This means He isn’t behind or beside you, but should be the One carrying and sustaining you through every disturbance, disruption, and delight. One of the most basic, but challenging questions in the personal life of a believer is this: I have chosen to trust Jesus for eternity, but am I trusting Him for every moment? Are you trusting God to show you how to raise the children He has entrusted to you? I believe that if we examine the story shared about Peter in Matthew 14, we learn valuable insight. Matthew 14:22-33 says, “Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God .” What a decision Peter made! He chose to step out of the boat and into the choppy, stormy waters to walk toward Jesus. While His eyes and mind were centered on Jesus, Peter actually walked on the water! When his focus slipped away from Christ and fell to self and surroundings, Peter experienced fear, panic, and difficulties. Jesus had not moved. Christ had not changed. Jesus remained centered on Peter and ready to care for him. Peter’s mind moved away from Jesus and he began to sink. Your focus determines faith or fear . Is your parenting style focused on Self or Savior ? While it is easy to blame Peter and belittle his faith, he was willing to be the one who walked toward Jesus. Peter was willing to leave the other disciples, leave what he knew, and venture alone into the turbulent waters toward Jesus. The other men remained unchanged and unmoving inside the boat while Peter took the risk of trusting Christ. Consider these 4 questions: Why did the others remain in the boat? Why didn’t they step out in faith with Peter? Why is it so difficult to keep mind, heart, and focus on Christ? Why do people struggle to trust God through occasions and stages of life? There are actually multiple reasons. Let’s look at what the most common causes are and how we can turn to Scripture to combat them. 1. Trust – It can be difficult to trust or believe in what we cannot see. But Scripture gives clear instructions. God’s Word is inerrant; it is trustworthy. The Holy Word offers hope and assurance. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen .” John 20:29 says, “Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed .” Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” In what ways are you not trusting God in your life? How does that translate in your parenting? 2. Worry/Anxiety – It’s easy to imagine what might happen and allow our thoughts to spiral out of control with anxiety or worry. God offers a far better way. Romans 12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God .” Matthew 19:26 says, “But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible .” Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand .” 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you .” Matthew 6:31-34 says, “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble .” You have a choice. Release worry by releasing control to God or hold onto worry and let it drain your faith and energy. Which do you want to model for your children? 3. Control – We don’t want to relinquish our perceived control. Have you learned yet that control is an illusion? No one has control. No matter how perfect you may try to be or how hard you work, you will never have complete or lasting control. How much easier it is to realize God’s authority and submit to Him. Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ” Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God .” Psalm 138:8 says, “The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of Your hands .” What areas of your life do you still grasp too tightly to release to God? How can you let go so that you can teach your children to rely on God? 4. Doubt – When things don’t go the way we desire or think they should or if we begin to wonder why there is hardship and evil in the world, doubt can creep in. Hebrew 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen .” James 1:6 says, “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind .” Matthew 6:30 says, “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith ?” Where has God worked in your life to show you that He is present? Do you still doubt? What can you do to ensure that your children believe with a heart and mind that will never stray from believing in and following the Lord? 5. Sinfulness – I also like to call this selfishness. When we don’t want to give up sin, we are choosing self over Christ. We’re also choosing self over those we love or are in our life. Personal sin always affects those who love us, especially your spouse or children. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body .” 1 John 1:8 says, “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us .” Romans 7:22-23 says, “For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members .” Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you .” What areas of your life are selfish? Where are you not releasing sin? How can you ask God to carry you and carve a new heart and mindset that releases self and chooses the Savior? How do you plan to model that lifestyle for your children? 6. Arrogance/Pride – Pride rears up in each of us through different ways. Whether it be entitlement, perfectionism, bragging, when we think we’re superior to someone, deserve something more than another, or should be before another, the root of each thought ties back to arrogance or pride. Isaiah 2:12 says, “For the LORD of hosts has a day against all that is proud and lofty, against all that is lifted up—and it shall be brought low .” James 4:6 says, “But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble .” James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you .” Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves .” Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 16:5 says, “Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished .” It’s so humbling just to read the verses God has given us about humility. How will you teach your children to be humble before the Lord and others? How will you model that fort hem? 7. Unworthiness – As a believer in Christ, you have been bought with a price. The life of Jesus was exchanged so you could begin to understand your great worth to God. Isaiah 43:18 says, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old .” Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope .” Psalm 56:8 says, “Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll — are they not in Your record ?” Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well .” Matthew 6:26 says, “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they ?” Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them .” How will you teach your children their worthiness and identity through Christ? It starts when you realize your confidence in who you are through Him. 8. Fear – When fear creeps in, it is because you have taken your mind and eyes off of God and centered them on self or surroundings. Every time I have felt fear even begin to touch me I stop and focus on Jesus (and in my mind I actually picture blinders on my face that force my vision upwards on God). As I rest in His presence and pray to Him about the situation I am fearing, He takes the burden and calms any fears. It is said that God leaves the message “Do not fear” 365 times in the Bible. I'm not sure whether that is an accurate count, but I trust that the Lord gives us the command for daily use because He knows our thoughts can easily be distracted. He knows how easily we move from His sovereign holiness and perfect provision and protection. Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 94:19 says, “When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.” Psalm 115:11 says, “You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield.” Psalm 118:6 says, “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me ?” Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble .” John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid .” Do you want your child to live with fear or faith? Show them the example they need to grasp the hope and peace that is in Christ. Help them find faith that carries them past fear while they are young. 9. Faith – Perhaps your belief doesn’t feel real or big enough. Maybe difficult times in the past, unanswered prayers, or present hardships cause you to feel like God has forsaken you or that He isn’t real. Each of the points we discussed can arguably return back to the thought of faith that is too little. But remember, God’s Word tells us all we need is a faith the size of a mustard seed. Tend to that seed so it will mature and be rooted in God’s truth, then let it grow and mature through Christ. Romans 5:3-5 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us .” James 1:2-4 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing .” Romans 8:18 says, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us .” You know how easy it can be to allow self or situations to distract you and move your eyes off Christ. Being aware of this offers opportunity to purposely prepare to be ahead of your next season of trials. Intentionally living in ways that set you up to trust God gives assurance that your focus will not be easily swayed in this moment or tomorrow. How can you live in ways that set you up to live and parent with eternal perspective? How will you teach your children to trust God for each day, as well as for eternity? Let’s look at 7 ways: 1. Know Jesus through a personal relationship. 2. Read and study God’s word together. 3. Prayer – speak to God and listen for God and pray with your children. 4. Pursue close relationship with God daily. Seek Him in all the minute happenings and large events. 5. Ask God to transform your life. 6. Use everyday moments to make God known to your children. Inhale and exhale Him with love and clarity. 7. Take your thoughts captive for Christ and see the difference He makes to a surrendered soul. If you look at the transcript from this episode after listening, you’ll be able to read the Scriptures referenced and refer to the questions I asked throughout this episode. Look back at them and ponder the following questions to help you grow in relationship with and confidence in the Lord in your personal and parenting life. 1. What does this verse promise? 2. What does this verse command? 3. Where do I need to apply this in my life and in the way I parent? Dear Heavenly Father, How great You are! You are so far above us, yet remain within us through Jesus. Thank you for all you have given us and still desire to provide for us. Help us to be the women You call us to be. Help us to be the mothers you have designed us to become. Please help our children to follow Jesus and clearly show Him to the next generation. May it be that no generation after us shall stray from you because we raise our children in Your wisdom and goodness. Thank you for giving us Your Son and Your holy Word as a guide and a shield. We ask these things in the precious name of Christ. Amen. If you’re a working mom inside or outside the home and need an easy way to begin teaching your babies, toddlers, or preschoolers about Jesus, send me an email at info@terrihitt.com . I’m currently working on a devotional to bring your children to the feet of Jesus early. Let me know you’re interested, and I’ll let you know how to receive a copy. Also, you may have heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective often in this podcast. Why do I share it so often? I know the program works. Through 6 weeks of one-on-one and group coaching, along with Scripturally-based materials I provide, you will complete 8 steps that include the following: Seek God First, Establish Identity, Teach Truth, A Set-Apart Woman, Parent Set-Apart Kids, Arm for Battle, Relationships, and Training. What you learn and solidify in your personal life will directly affect the way you serve God and parent for Him. It will help you construct godly confidence and esteem through Christ in your children. If you’re ready to invest in the future of your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I seriously want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. If you’ve decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child and you desire to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, the Set-Apart Collective, will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective is open now. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to chat about details. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #153 – Change from a Good to Godly Woman and Mother Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. Goodness! I can’t believe school has started once again and the gorgeous days of summer will soon be moving out, ushering in crisper, cooler air. This time of year always makes me a little sad. I long for summer to last indefinitely. Since nothing lasts forever, seasons are a beautiful reminder of why we need to live with eternal perspective. Have you had days, weeks, or years of life that you want to last forever? Or maybe right now you feel the opposite. Do you wonder how much longer you have to endure the season you are experiencing? Change can be good. Especially when we aren’t aware that we are not living in ways that God desires for us. Change can become the catalyst that moves us to be in sync with the next transformation God has for us. I distinctly remember a time I’m glad I moved away from. There was a period in my life when I wanted to make sure I was a good person. A good woman. A good wife. A good daughter. A good mother. As my relationship with Jesus matured, I understood that limiting myself to “good” was “ungodly.” God calls believers to a much higher standard than good. Good isn’t good enough for God. It’s true that in the beginning when God created, He exclaimed that what He made was good. However, God is proclaiming His creations are good, not that we individually or collectively are. What I mean is that what God created is by His intelligent and perfect design. Anything He makes is good. Yet, in this sinful, fallen world, it didn’t take long for God’s creations to choose sin. Without Christ indwelling us, we continue to move farther from God. Without the Holy Spirit within us, there is no perfection or godliness. In fact, we are unable to claim the status of “good,” let alone “godly.” So how do you and I move from desiring a good life to building godly lives? Only through Christ. Once believers see our need for God, we begin to realize the need for His perfect Son, Jesus to pay the price for our sin. Once we realize the need for a Savior, and accept the free gift Jesus offers, we are able to live with His Holy Spirit within us. We are no longer bound to the world and the sinful temptations. Through relationship with Him, the Holy Word, and prayerful conversations with God, we can experience a shift from good to godly. That is, if we are seeking Him and a humble, obedient, close connection daily. What we desire must be held up to a mirror, so to speak, as we look at how our desires are reflected against what God calls for us in His holy Word. My heart fills with joy when I remember the time between when my first set of children were raised and before my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt a sweet baby from China. Before we knew our daughter was waiting for us, I was experiencing deeper growth in my spiritual walk with Christ. Slowly by slowly, I allowed God greater access to me. I wish I could profess to be one of those people who surrender fully in the moment they accept Christ, but the truth is that each of us have varying degrees of surrender throughout our lifetime. We never reach that finish line in this life. We are so very far beneath God, and so far from Him, that our lifetime should be focused on pursuing deeper relationship with Him and continuing to surrender self. As my relationship with Jesus deepened and widened, I thought back to when my husband and I had raised our first two children. I was not a Christian when my first two were born. Although I came to follow Jesus when they were young, I wasn’t well discipled. I wasted so many years thinking I was “good” and not striving to be godly. Would you like to know my deepest regret? Although my children always heard about Jesus, and knew I loved and followed Him, I did not know to intentionally disciple them. I didn’t yet understand that the Christian walk is a beautiful relationship between God and man. I didn’t understand the command in Deuteronomy 6:5-9, which says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” I assumed that what I was doing to teach my children about Jesus was enough. In reality, they were learning my limited faith, and since I was not growing as well as I should have been, they were only able to mimic a portion of my faith and not being discipled well to chase Christ for themselves. As my husband and I grew our walk with Jesus, we knew with certainty that God was calling us to travel to China to bring home the baby God had waiting to be ours. Before we went, we prayed together daily for the girl she would grow to be. Our heart desired that she be a light for Jesus, that she pursue Him with a pure heart, and that she would be an inspiration for others to follow Him. I remember the days I worked backwards, formulating a plan to raise her with very high goals. Ten years later when we returned to China to bring home our last child, the “master plan” for raising our girls for Christ had been practiced, and our youngest enabled us to continue the course with another beautiful soul to nourish for Jesus. Although there are so many important details I’m not including here, this story is so important to me, because our second step into parenting with a new generation of children was very intentional. My mind and heart was fixed, anchored on Christ through all obstacles. My husband and I committed to stand on that firm foundation. When deep waters swirled around us, when tragedy and troubles plagued our home, we tightened our grip on that three-fold cord that kept God in the center of all. No matter what happened, we remained committed to raising our girls and influencing our grown son and grandson for Christ. Just as I began this podcast almost four years ago through an act of obedience when I knew God was whispering to me to begin one, I know He is now calling me to end this show. I’ve waited through the summer months to ensure I knew for sure what He was calling, but I recently came to realize that waiting any longer to make sure my choice is good, or what God is calling when I know the peace I have in my heart to end the podcast is actually a form of disobedience. Even if I never intended it to be. So what is next? My heart sings with joy when I encourage and equip busy mothers to move past guilt, anxiety, frustration, or the variety of other emotions this world presses upon us. God has greatly pressed upon my heart the need for me, as an older mother, to wrap my arm around you and help you move from these emotions or feelings to a place of peace. I want to encourage and equip mothers to create close connection with Christ and her children and raise kids who chase Christ over culture. Mothers and grandmothers too, it is time to rise and raise children who know and honor God. The effects of this culture have run rampant for too long. How long will mothers sit back and watch as children follow peers over parents or Christ? It doesn’t matter how good a parent you want to be or are. God calls you and I to be holy, godly mothers. There is nothing greater we can do than fix our heart and mind above and focus on the methods given by God to raise children for Him. I invite you to follow my other podcast, Purposed Parent/Connected Child. I urge you to please leave a review and rate the show so that others may find it. If we don’t purposely lead our children to Christ, the world will sway them away. It starts with you and me. Our life must be so focused on living godly lives through Christ that our children clearly see Him through us and desire Him for themselves. It's time to stop the attachment our children have with peers and teach them the way to attachment with Christ. It starts with the parent. That means you and me. I have so much to share in future Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes. A new season begins very soon. I pray you will be moved from a good to godly woman and mother as you listen to the episodes. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are holy. You alone are greater than the good we desire. Move us from good to godly in the ways You know we need. Help us to be more and more pleasing to You each moment. May our heart and mind be in sync with Your desires for us as we move ever nearer to You. Father, I thank you for Your Word, Your perfect guidance. May we understand You better and please You more as we read and act in obedience to it. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast for the last several years. This podcast has brought me and my family even closer to God and each other. I have witnessed our faith and obedience multiply because of this show. I truly hope that it has affected you in ways that move you to the woman God intended for you to be. As much as I loved this podcast, I feel in my spirit that God is calling me to end this chapter of obedience to Him, and I know that makes me available and humbly ready to serve in the new ways He calls. I hope you look for the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and share it with friends and family so that we can be the generation that returns our children to godly lifestyles and desires. I pray that Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and what you have heard on past episodes of Live With Eternal Perspective draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Thank you so much for your past support. I pray that even if you are no longer a parent of a child growing up in your home, you will find resources in Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes that will strengthen your attachment to your grown child or grandchildren and draw you ever nearer to God. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 153 - Change From a Good to Godly Woman and Mother Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #153 – Change from a Good to Godly Woman and Mother Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. Goodness! I can’t believe school has started once again and the gorgeous days of summer will soon be moving out, ushering in crisper, cooler air. This time of year always makes me a little sad. I long for summer to last indefinitely. Since nothing lasts forever, seasons are a beautiful reminder of why we need to live with eternal perspective. Have you had days, weeks, or years of life that you want to last forever? Or maybe right now you feel the opposite. Do you wonder how much longer you have to endure the season you are experiencing? Change can be good. Especially when we aren’t aware that we are not living in ways that God desires for us. Change can become the catalyst that moves us to be in sync with the next transformation God has for us. I distinctly remember a time I’m glad I moved away from. There was a period in my life when I wanted to make sure I was a good person. A good woman. A good wife. A good daughter. A good mother. As my relationship with Jesus matured, I understood that limiting myself to “good” was “ungodly.” God calls believers to a much higher standard than good. Good isn’t good enough for God. It’s true that in the beginning when God created, He exclaimed that what He made was good. However, God is proclaiming His creations are good, not that we individually or collectively are. What I mean is that what God created is by His intelligent and perfect design. Anything He makes is good. Yet, in this sinful, fallen world, it didn’t take long for God’s creations to choose sin. Without Christ indwelling us, we continue to move farther from God. Without the Holy Spirit within us, there is no perfection or godliness. In fact, we are unable to claim the status of “good,” let alone “godly.” So how do you and I move from desiring a good life to building godly lives? Only through Christ. Once believers see our need for God, we begin to realize the need for His perfect Son, Jesus to pay the price for our sin. Once we realize the need for a Savior, and accept the free gift Jesus offers, we are able to live with His Holy Spirit within us. We are no longer bound to the world and the sinful temptations. Through relationship with Him, the Holy Word, and prayerful conversations with God, we can experience a shift from good to godly. That is, if we are seeking Him and a humble, obedient, close connection daily. What we desire must be held up to a mirror, so to speak, as we look at how our desires are reflected against what God calls for us in His holy Word. My heart fills with joy when I remember the time between when my first set of children were raised and before my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt a sweet baby from China. Before we knew our daughter was waiting for us, I was experiencing deeper growth in my spiritual walk with Christ. Slowly by slowly, I allowed God greater access to me. I wish I could profess to be one of those people who surrender fully in the moment they accept Christ, but the truth is that each of us have varying degrees of surrender throughout our lifetime. We never reach that finish line in this life. We are so very far beneath God, and so far from Him, that our lifetime should be focused on pursuing deeper relationship with Him and continuing to surrender self. As my relationship with Jesus deepened and widened, I thought back to when my husband and I had raised our first two children. I was not a Christian when my first two were born. Although I came to follow Jesus when they were young, I wasn’t well discipled. I wasted so many years thinking I was “good” and not striving to be godly. Would you like to know my deepest regret? Although my children always heard about Jesus, and knew I loved and followed Him, I did not know to intentionally disciple them. I didn’t yet understand that the Christian walk is a beautiful relationship between God and man. I didn’t understand the command in Deuteronomy 6:5-9, which says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” I assumed that what I was doing to teach my children about Jesus was enough. In reality, they were learning my limited faith, and since I was not growing as well as I should have been, they were only able to mimic a portion of my faith and not being discipled well to chase Christ for themselves. As my husband and I grew our walk with Jesus, we knew with certainty that God was calling us to travel to China to bring home the baby God had waiting to be ours. Before we went, we prayed together daily for the girl she would grow to be. Our heart desired that she be a light for Jesus, that she pursue Him with a pure heart, and that she would be an inspiration for others to follow Him. I remember the days I worked backwards, formulating a plan to raise her with very high goals. Ten years later when we returned to China to bring home our last child, the “master plan” for raising our girls for Christ had been practiced, and our youngest enabled us to continue the course with another beautiful soul to nourish for Jesus. Although there are so many important details I’m not including here, this story is so important to me, because our second step into parenting with a new generation of children was very intentional. My mind and heart was fixed, anchored on Christ through all obstacles. My husband and I committed to stand on that firm foundation. When deep waters swirled around us, when tragedy and troubles plagued our home, we tightened our grip on that three-fold cord that kept God in the center of all. No matter what happened, we remained committed to raising our girls and influencing our grown son and grandson for Christ. Just as I began this podcast almost four years ago through an act of obedience when I knew God was whispering to me to begin one, I know He is now calling me to end this show. I’ve waited through the summer months to ensure I knew for sure what He was calling, but I recently came to realize that waiting any longer to make sure my choice is good, or what God is calling when I know the peace I have in my heart to end the podcast is actually a form of disobedience. Even if I never intended it to be. So what is next? My heart sings with joy when I encourage and equip busy mothers to move past guilt, anxiety, frustration, or the variety of other emotions this world presses upon us. God has greatly pressed upon my heart the need for me, as an older mother, to wrap my arm around you and help you move from these emotions or feelings to a place of peace. I want to encourage and equip mothers to create close connection with Christ and her children and raise kids who chase Christ over culture. Mothers and grandmothers too, it is time to rise and raise children who know and honor God. The effects of this culture have run rampant for too long. How long will mothers sit back and watch as children follow peers over parents or Christ? It doesn’t matter how good a parent you want to be or are. God calls you and I to be holy, godly mothers. There is nothing greater we can do than fix our heart and mind above and focus on the methods given by God to raise children for Him. I invite you to follow my other podcast, Purposed Parent/Connected Child. I urge you to please leave a review and rate the show so that others may find it. If we don’t purposely lead our children to Christ, the world will sway them away. It starts with you and me. Our life must be so focused on living godly lives through Christ that our children clearly see Him through us and desire Him for themselves. It's time to stop the attachment our children have with peers and teach them the way to attachment with Christ. It starts with the parent. That means you and me. I have so much to share in future Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes. A new season begins very soon. I pray you will be moved from a good to godly woman and mother as you listen to the episodes. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are holy. You alone are greater than the good we desire. Move us from good to godly in the ways You know we need. Help us to be more and more pleasing to You each moment. May our heart and mind be in sync with Your desires for us as we move ever nearer to You. Father, I thank you for Your Word, Your perfect guidance. May we understand You better and please You more as we read and act in obedience to it. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast for the last several years. This podcast has brought me and my family even closer to God and each other. I have witnessed our faith and obedience multiply because of this show. I truly hope that it has affected you in ways that move you to the woman God intended for you to be. As much as I loved this podcast, I feel in my spirit that God is calling me to end this chapter of obedience to Him, and I know that makes me available and humbly ready to serve in the new ways He calls. I hope you look for the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and share it with friends and family so that we can be the generation that returns our children to godly lifestyles and desires. I pray that Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and what you have heard on past episodes of Live With Eternal Perspective draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Thank you so much for your past support. I pray that even if you are no longer a parent of a child growing up in your home, you will find resources in Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes that will strengthen your attachment to your grown child or grandchildren and draw you ever nearer to God.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #129 – Don’t Let Lies Keep You From Living in the Fullness of Christ Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. After high school, most of the kids I studied with headed off to college. Although my parents and I never formulated a plan for my continued education, my father always told me he desired me to become a lawyer. Being an attorney was not a profession I would enjoy at all! I wanted to be the next big journalist and interviewer – like Barbara Walters. I could envision myself interviewing everyone – from famous to infamous, especially those no one knew publicly, but were greatly loved by family and friends and influential or impactful in the world. Everyone has a history with intimate stories to tell that inspire and bond most of us together. Despite backgrounds or history, I like to think most of us are more alike than different. I wanted to explore and share those stories. During my senior year of high school, I did complete some advanced classes, which would have given me high school and college dual credit. Nowadays, families plan and prepare for university years in advance. Back then, my family and I didn’t know how to plan in advance, and we voiced no thoughts about where I would attend college or how I would pay to obtain a degree. When I discovered I was pregnant that summer, the news changed the direction of my life. No longer did I daydream about ivy league schools or how I’d amaze every Language Arts professor there with my prolific prose that would surely bring rave reviews and awards. Instead, I was faced with telling my parents they would soon be grandparents and I was terrified to share the news I could barely comprehend. I was about to be a mother. Before I told them, my steady boyfriend and I decided that since we were already planning to get married in the future, we would just do it sooner. Surprisingly, his parents were very supportive, which made it easier to gather the courage to tell my parents and begin to stand up for what I wanted. In the end, my husband and I hurried to marry before I started showing. He had turned 18 just a month and a half before we were married. I was 17 years old. Although I did not yet know Christ as my Savior, and I was not raised with discussions about the reasons a girl should wait to have sex after marriage, I felt a tremendous amount of guilt. I praise God that my husband and I truly loved each other, although at the time I wasn’t really sure what true and lasting love between a man and a woman was. Looking back on those early years of our marriage, I can now see ways I wish I would have been able to remove myself from the burden of guilt, but I didn’t know how without Christ. It wasn’t that I thought about my sin every day. In fact, I was usually happy. I loved my husband and our baby girl when she arrived. Yet, I didn’t live a peace that passes understanding and only comes through relationship with Jesus. As I think back on those years, I can easily remember the emotions and guilt I carried, thinking I wasn’t as good as those who graduated from college or those who remained sexually pure until after marriage. Happiness isn’t the same as deep and lasting joy. I wonder how much joy I cheated myself out of. What did I miss by allowing lingering thoughts far from what God would have me thinking? Are you missing out on a special life Christ has for you? After I found new life through submission to Jesus and a new life through relationship with Him, I was able to let go of guilt. Now I strive to walk with Him moment by moment. He is present to guide and guard and to protect and provide my every need. He is ready to do exactly the same for you as you are covered by His sacrifice and grace. Philippians 4:6-8 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Through Jesus, we can live with freedom from sin and guilt. Because of Christ, we can know and believe the truth, but how do we escape our past and stop living in the bondage of guilt from sin? I believe there are several feelings that cause us to miss out on the life we could experience through God. Please remember that feelings are important. God allowed us the capacity to feel emotions and thoughts. However, we don’t have to stay stuck in them. It’s important to look at the definition of the word “feelings” to allow us to move past remaining in our emotions. The word “feelings” is described as sentiments, attitude, and opinion or an emotional perception. Keep that definition in mind when you allow words to flow through your mind or define you or your life, so you can process and destroy those feelings that keep you from living in the fullness Christ intends. Let’s expose some of the “fears” feelings can craft within you: 1. Fear of inadequacy 2. Fear of failure 3. Fear of trust 4. Fear of disappointment 5. Fear of comparison 6. Fear of judgement 7. Fear of separation 8. Fear of hope 9. Fear of positivity God’s holy Scripture reveals truth to us that is often contrary to what we feel. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” When we live by feelings, emotions, experiences, and comparisons, we rely on self. It’s similar to the Old Testament practice of keeping laws and traditions or relying on ceremonies. But those formalities pointed the way to Christ. They expose our need for Him. Because of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within believers, freedom from sin and guilt is provided freely. When we trust in Jesus, the burden of pleasing Him is removed. The inevitable guilt is gone. We will always fall short of perfection, but by trusting our lives to Jesus, we find that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Christ enables us to look to Him and be renewed each moment. Ephesians 3:14-21 says, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Let’s examine the difference in our life before and after Christ. In our life before Christ we are: 1. Against God 2. Dead in sin 3. World and flesh followers 4. Under bondage to Satan 5. Victims of our thoughts and feelings In our life after Christ, He lives within us, and we are: 1. God’s child 2. Reborn through Christ 3. Following Jesus’s truths 4. Freed through Jesus 5. Living in fullness and freedom The fullness of God can only be known through Christ. Through Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within us, we are complete. God love reaches within every corner and crevice of our being. His love and forgiveness is deep and wide, immersing within where we think He won’t look or could love and extending far beyond us. It is high and low, reaching above and below what we deserve, expect, or imagine. As we live for Him daily, reliant on Him, we are transformed moment by moment. Scripture, faith, prayers, and obedience keep us connected to the Holy Spirit who fills every need we carry and allows us to experience freedom and fullness. Commit to believe, follow, and claim the Lord Jesus. Every single moment. Galatians 5:1says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” 1 Peter 2:16 says, “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” Dear Heavenly Father, Your steadfast love surrounds and abounds within us. We welcome You and the Holy Spirit to cover and complete us. According to Your promises, we have hope and peace in the fullness of life that comes from You. Help us keep Your laws and obey Your truths and purpose for us because we live fully within the freedom only found through You. Help us to delight in Your commands and meditate on Your statutes because we adore time in Your presence. Enable us to let go of bondage of sin or guilt and rely on You to pull us from the depth of self-reliance and into Your sacrificial love and presence. Help us to believe and build a life on Your truths. May Your word not be contrary to what we believe because our mind and heart are fixed on You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Additional episodes may be heard at terrihitt.com, but the podcast is also a part of the Spark Media Network. Now the podcast may also be found on the Edifi app, where you can find thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed this podcast on Apple Podcasts yet? If you haven’t, would you please consider doing so? When you review the podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Have you listened to my second podcast, “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” yet? I hope you will listen to this new podcast, especially if you are raising children or influencing grandchildren. Please follow and share both of my podcasts with friends or family who would like to choose Christ over culture and be a parent (or be a grandparent) who connects with eternal purpose. Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 129 - Don't Let Lies Keep You From Living in the Fullness of Christ Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #129 – Don’t Let Lies Keep You From Living in the Fullness of Christ Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. After high school, most of the kids I studied with headed off to college. Although my parents and I never formulated a plan for my continued education, my father always told me he desired me to become a lawyer. Being an attorney was not a profession I would enjoy at all! I wanted to be the next big journalist and interviewer – like Barbara Walters. I could envision myself interviewing everyone – from famous to infamous, especially those no one knew publicly, but were greatly loved by family and friends and influential or impactful in the world. Everyone has a history with intimate stories to tell that inspire and bond most of us together. Despite backgrounds or history, I like to think most of us are more alike than different. I wanted to explore and share those stories. During my senior year of high school, I did complete some advanced classes, which would have given me high school and college dual credit. Nowadays, families plan and prepare for university years in advance. Back then, my family and I didn’t know how to plan in advance, and we voiced no thoughts about where I would attend college or how I would pay to obtain a degree. When I discovered I was pregnant that summer, the news changed the direction of my life. No longer did I daydream about ivy league schools or how I’d amaze every Language Arts professor there with my prolific prose that would surely bring rave reviews and awards. Instead, I was faced with telling my parents they would soon be grandparents and I was terrified to share the news I could barely comprehend. I was about to be a mother. Before I told them, my steady boyfriend and I decided that since we were already planning to get married in the future, we would just do it sooner. Surprisingly, his parents were very supportive, which made it easier to gather the courage to tell my parents and begin to stand up for what I wanted. In the end, my husband and I hurried to marry before I started showing. He had turned 18 just a month and a half before we were married. I was 17 years old. Although I did not yet know Christ as my Savior, and I was not raised with discussions about the reasons a girl should wait to have sex after marriage, I felt a tremendous amount of guilt. I praise God that my husband and I truly loved each other, although at the time I wasn’t really sure what true and lasting love between a man and a woman was. Looking back on those early years of our marriage, I can now see ways I wish I would have been able to remove myself from the burden of guilt, but I didn’t know how without Christ. It wasn’t that I thought about my sin every day. In fact, I was usually happy. I loved my husband and our baby girl when she arrived. Yet, I didn’t live a peace that passes understanding and only comes through relationship with Jesus. As I think back on those years, I can easily remember the emotions and guilt I carried, thinking I wasn’t as good as those who graduated from college or those who remained sexually pure until after marriage. Happiness isn’t the same as deep and lasting joy. I wonder how much joy I cheated myself out of. What did I miss by allowing lingering thoughts far from what God would have me thinking? Are you missing out on a special life Christ has for you? After I found new life through submission to Jesus and a new life through relationship with Him, I was able to let go of guilt. Now I strive to walk with Him moment by moment. He is present to guide and guard and to protect and provide my every need. He is ready to do exactly the same for you as you are covered by His sacrifice and grace. Philippians 4:6-8 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Through Jesus, we can live with freedom from sin and guilt. Because of Christ, we can know and believe the truth, but how do we escape our past and stop living in the bondage of guilt from sin? I believe there are several feelings that cause us to miss out on the life we could experience through God. Please remember that feelings are important. God allowed us the capacity to feel emotions and thoughts. However, we don’t have to stay stuck in them. It’s important to look at the definition of the word “feelings” to allow us to move past remaining in our emotions. The word “feelings” is described as sentiments, attitude, and opinion or an emotional perception. Keep that definition in mind when you allow words to flow through your mind or define you or your life, so you can process and destroy those feelings that keep you from living in the fullness Christ intends. Let’s expose some of the “fears” feelings can craft within you: 1. Fear of inadequacy 2. Fear of failure 3. Fear of trust 4. Fear of disappointment 5. Fear of comparison 6. Fear of judgement 7. Fear of separation 8. Fear of hope 9. Fear of positivity God’s holy Scripture reveals truth to us that is often contrary to what we feel. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” When we live by feelings, emotions, experiences, and comparisons, we rely on self. It’s similar to the Old Testament practice of keeping laws and traditions or relying on ceremonies. But those formalities pointed the way to Christ. They expose our need for Him. Because of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within believers, freedom from sin and guilt is provided freely. When we trust in Jesus, the burden of pleasing Him is removed. The inevitable guilt is gone. We will always fall short of perfection, but by trusting our lives to Jesus, we find that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Christ enables us to look to Him and be renewed each moment. Ephesians 3:14-21 says, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Let’s examine the difference in our life before and after Christ. In our life before Christ we are: 1. Against God 2. Dead in sin 3. World and flesh followers 4. Under bondage to Satan 5. Victims of our thoughts and feelings In our life after Christ, He lives within us, and we are: 1. God’s child 2. Reborn through Christ 3. Following Jesus’s truths 4. Freed through Jesus 5. Living in fullness and freedom The fullness of God can only be known through Christ. Through Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within us, we are complete. God love reaches within every corner and crevice of our being. His love and forgiveness is deep and wide, immersing within where we think He won’t look or could love and extending far beyond us. It is high and low, reaching above and below what we deserve, expect, or imagine. As we live for Him daily, reliant on Him, we are transformed moment by moment. Scripture, faith, prayers, and obedience keep us connected to the Holy Spirit who fills every need we carry and allows us to experience freedom and fullness. Commit to believe, follow, and claim the Lord Jesus. Every single moment. Galatians 5:1says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” 1 Peter 2:16 says, “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” Dear Heavenly Father, Your steadfast love surrounds and abounds within us. We welcome You and the Holy Spirit to cover and complete us. According to Your promises, we have hope and peace in the fullness of life that comes from You. Help us keep Your laws and obey Your truths and purpose for us because we live fully within the freedom only found through You. Help us to delight in Your commands and meditate on Your statutes because we adore time in Your presence. Enable us to let go of bondage of sin or guilt and rely on You to pull us from the depth of self-reliance and into Your sacrificial love and presence. Help us to believe and build a life on Your truths. May Your word not be contrary to what we believe because our mind and heart are fixed on You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Additional episodes may be heard at terrihitt.com, but the podcast is also a part of the Spark Media Network. Now the podcast may also be found on the Edifi app, where you can find thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed this podcast on Apple Podcasts yet? If you haven’t, would you please consider doing so? When you review the podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Have you listened to my second podcast, “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” yet? I hope you will listen to this new podcast, especially if you are raising children or influencing grandchildren. Please follow and share both of my podcasts with friends or family who would like to choose Christ over culture and be a parent (or be a grandparent) who connects with eternal purpose. Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #077 – Easing Heartache Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Matthew 5:4 says, “Blessed are those mourning, for they will be comforted.” June 18th and June 21st were beyond difficult days in our family. Grief hit our home and the impact was hard. Before I married a dog-loving man I never would have imagined the depth of relationship a person could have with a household pet. My parents never allowed us to have an inside dog as I was growing up, and an outside dog, although still cared for, is certainly not the same as a loving furry family member who knows everything about you, follows you everywhere inside the house, and adores you despite whether you're made-up or in need of a bath. Your schedule is known and if you deviate in any way, they may offer a question with a slight tilt of their head, but all-in-all, accept the change as long as you are still with them and they have the honor of remaining in your presence. Since marrying a man who has always had to have a pet in our house, I have slowly become accustomed to an ever-present dog. While we have had absolutely amazing pets over the years, and some that took a giant piece of my heart with them after they passed, I have never been as affected by the death of a pet as I was last month. On June 18th we lost Max, our ten year old, exquisitely handsome Golden Retriever. While Max truly loved every family member deeply, he was the first family dog that chose me as his favorite. He was a mama's boy to the core. Whenever I petted him, he purred his favor and satisfaction like a cat and slapped me with his clumsy giant paws, proving his devotion as he tagged me as his. Max followed me everywhere, becoming my four-legged shadow who was always up in an instant and ready to go whenever and wherever I was headed. Max often carried a football around the house. Never mind that he could not catch! Whatever we tossed his way would land awkwardly on the floor beside or behind our boy, but rarely in his mouth. He was my baby, my friend, my warm cuddle-buddy, and my blessing, for time with him always brought a smile and warmth to my heart. On June 21st, a few days after losing Max, we lost his sister, our thirteen year old Miniature Schnauzer, Misty. Just as Max loved everyone, but chose one favorite to shadow, Misty loved each of us well, yet claimed my husband as her special family member. We used to laugh at the adoration in her eyes whenever she looked at him. We called Misty our "little girl," because she always seemed to envy Marissa as they grew up together. It seemed she wanted to be a person, not a canine, and the depth of desire and love in her eyes for all of us seemed to confirm our thoughts. Misty loved music and whenever we would sing to her, she would stop whatever she was doing and come to sit in front of us so that we would continue a special personal concert designed for her. Our "little girl" also grew up attending family worship and prayer time with us, and she and Marissa used to race each other for a seat next to me when they were younger. In her mature years, Misty still came to school with us and almost never missed Bible or prayer time. My youngest, Brooklyn loved feeding and brushing the dogs and spending quiet time with them as she slept near both of them. Marissa and I loved the way Misty always raced upstairs when she knew I was headed to Marissa's room to do something with her. Misty knew she would get to sit with us and receive a special time of cuddles and hugs that Max would never know about. After losing Max, we spent three days trying to save Misty, gently feeding her baby food from our fingertips, gently wrapping cool washcloths on her paws in an attempt to reduce her fever, and carrying her outside to enjoy the breezy sunshine weather when she could no longer walk. I never imagined we would lose both of our precious babies within days of each other. The emergency veterinarian told us it was a rarity to have a family come in with two critically ill dogs at the same time. We aren't sure what happened. Suddenly both of our furry family members became very sick. Misty had declined the previous summer and after we urgently prayed for a miracle for her health last year, we received one. Misty had seemed healthier, stronger, and going on regular walks with Marissa daily. Just days after Max suddenly got sick, she did as well. Our regular vet could not figure out what was going on and referred us to the emergency clinic. Without hospitalizing both of them and spending what could amount to ten thousand dollars for the next few days (on top of what we had already spent), neither of our babies was going to make it. In the end, the vets believed that Max's kidneys had failed and Misty had underlying cancer, perhaps in her pancreas. At least they lived without symptoms until the very end, and even then, neither of them complained. As we tried to nurse both of them ourselves, praying for improvement, they loved and trusted us with their usual tenderness. love, and compassion. I will never find animals quite like them this side of heaven, where I pray I meet with them again. God amazes me that He crafted these sweet babies, knowing they would be ours, and instilling just what I needed, we each needed, in both of them. Pure love, gentleness, acceptance, and peace emanated from them with ease, reminding me daily of what the Father desires from each of us. Without them, I also think of the Father's gentle spirit when He created them and it allows me to grieve with hope that I will see them in eternity. Although animals do not have a soul that can choose to accept Christ as their Savior, and nothing biblically proves that animals will be in heaven, I pray that because Adam and Eve were stewards over animals in the beginning, that God will allow the beautiful four-legged family members we loved to have a final resting place with Him for eternity. Grief is tricky, but also a beautiful mechanism of the love that God must have for us. For if I, a mere sinful human, can love with an intensity that allows me to deeply miss the animals I called a part of my family, imagine the extreme and passionate love God holds for each of us, His creation made with a purpose. As we said goodbye to our beloved pets, I told the emergency vet that I had lost a daughter and many close family members, and that loss was a million times worse, yet the pain of losing my precious pets was still extremely painful. I carry the sweet memories made with them very close, thinking of their precious faces often throughout each day. I feel emptiness in my schedule because they are not here to make me laugh, sing, play hide and seek, or marvel at the way they join every activity with excitement and love simply because we are there with them. The way we each are to rejoice in our time spent with the Lord. It’s okay to take life slower for as long as I need to and I should not feel guilty because I am grieving pets. If you are not a dog or pet lover, I understand. I honestly thought that I wouldn’t want any more pets after these were gone. I failed to understand the depth of the devotion I had for them. Although I am admittedly not a puppy person, it’s like having a newborn in the house, and that means a lot of work. Yet, I truly and deeply loved our dogs. They perfectly fit into each day and situation, even with quirky habits that made them even more a part of the family. Losing pets also proves that pain is pain. Loss is loss. Who understands the depth? Jesus. Remember John 11:35? “Jesus wept.” I remember the first days after losing my daughter. The depth of anguish was chasm-sized, relentless, and I had to force myself to breathe through the crushing pain weighing on my chest. I didn't want to cry in front of others because it felt too personal and I also wasn't sure that I could stop the tears. I wanted to grieve in my own way, plus I didn’t want to upset my four year old daughter or leave her burdened with a mother who couldn’t care for her. So I grieved in private times and allowed God to offer the peace only He can. But the years of loss after her, filled with many others I loved, have made me ultra-tender to grief. Also knowing that I have a young daughter who could experience decline at any time, and seeing the losses of so many parents I know who have children with similar conditions has marked my spirit in a way that has left me more vulnerable to grief. I've cried or thought of them daily since my sweet, furry companions have been gone and I feel like they must have felt when they used to lay on the floor, with underbellies exposed. But I don't care. God offers me peace and calm when I ask, just like with the losses before. He is ever-present and I feel Him near. He tells me that He holds my tears and each one is recorded. He understands as no one else can. What is gone had been a gift from Him and the preciousness is a reminder of each loved one I have been with, yet lost, and those I still hold and treasure. Any or all of them could be gone in an instant; another reminder that living with eternal perspective is the only way to fully live in this world. About two weeks before Max got sick, I remember hearing a voice in my spirit one day that concerned me. It said, "Max will be attacked." Just as my Heavenly Father sent me a warning twenty-four hours before I lost my first child, I think God must have sent me a sign to trust Him again. He always watches over us in ways unique to each of us, and for the purposes He intends. I am glad He prepared me in this way. Losing both of our beloved and precious furry family members at once was truly very difficult. I feel like our culture sometimes dismisses the loss of pets as insignificant, but we the ties and bonds we have with our pets can be as strong and intense as some we have with humans. Our pets trust us implicitly, they love unconditionally, and spend almost every moment with us. The loss of their presence leaves a giant hole in our daily routines and lifestyle, as well as our ability to laugh and love in the same way we previously experienced. Yet, it makes everything sweeter still. One of the gifts of God is the ability to continue to peel away layer after layer of humanity and heal that exposed area with not new flesh, but the ability to hold and feel life more like He does and how He desires – with our mind and heart set for Him. Eccesiastes 1:14 says, “I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Love trumps possessions or power. In the Bible, even Solomon’s special wisdom granted by God did not provide meaning that satisfied his soul. God continues to burden my heart with an ache that nothing in this world can satisfy. I truly desire for everyone to know Him and the peace that God alone brings us through a maturing relationship with Christ. My heart yearns for each of us to make time to rest in Him. Change your schedule. Slow your life. Make time to not only read the word, but digest it. Ponder God’s words and ways. Apply His teachings, promises, and love to your life and those around you. Do not harbor bitterness or anger, jealousy or hatred, unforgiveness or sadness. Truly examine your heart and lay it before God so that He can heal the areas you need. Even when we already feel those areas have been released to Him, God and His words have mighty power that is living and active. Just as Hebrews 4:12 says, “Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Cling ever tighter to Jesus, beginning now. Although I don’t enjoy the hurts of this world, God never fails to be the steadiness that is exactly what I need and He draws me ever nearer through all that occurs. May it always be so, and true for each one of us. Father God, may we allow You to examine our thoughts and heart. We need You so much more than we know. Despite heartache and difficulty in this world, we become closer to You when we allow troubles and disappointment to draw us ever nearer. The only way we can do that is to be building a relationship with You consistently as one lays a firm foundation on solid ground so that we are ready before the storm hits. Thank you for being calm, peace, and steadiness that our minds can grasp, yet also so much more that we can only begin to fathom through the hope and trust You leave us in Jesus. You are all we need, dear Father. Thank you. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 077 - Easing Heartache Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #077 – Easing Heartache Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Matthew 5:4 says, “Blessed are those mourning, for they will be comforted.” June 18th and June 21st were beyond difficult days in our family. Grief hit our home and the impact was hard. Before I married a dog-loving man I never would have imagined the depth of relationship a person could have with a household pet. My parents never allowed us to have an inside dog as I was growing up, and an outside dog, although still cared for, is certainly not the same as a loving furry family member who knows everything about you, follows you everywhere inside the house, and adores you despite whether you're made-up or in need of a bath. Your schedule is known and if you deviate in any way, they may offer a question with a slight tilt of their head, but all-in-all, accept the change as long as you are still with them and they have the honor of remaining in your presence. Since marrying a man who has always had to have a pet in our house, I have slowly become accustomed to an ever-present dog. While we have had absolutely amazing pets over the years, and some that took a giant piece of my heart with them after they passed, I have never been as affected by the death of a pet as I was last month. On June 18th we lost Max, our ten year old, exquisitely handsome Golden Retriever. While Max truly loved every family member deeply, he was the first family dog that chose me as his favorite. He was a mama's boy to the core. Whenever I petted him, he purred his favor and satisfaction like a cat and slapped me with his clumsy giant paws, proving his devotion as he tagged me as his. Max followed me everywhere, becoming my four-legged shadow who was always up in an instant and ready to go whenever and wherever I was headed. Max often carried a football around the house. Never mind that he could not catch! Whatever we tossed his way would land awkwardly on the floor beside or behind our boy, but rarely in his mouth. He was my baby, my friend, my warm cuddle-buddy, and my blessing, for time with him always brought a smile and warmth to my heart. On June 21st, a few days after losing Max, we lost his sister, our thirteen year old Miniature Schnauzer, Misty. Just as Max loved everyone, but chose one favorite to shadow, Misty loved each of us well, yet claimed my husband as her special family member. We used to laugh at the adoration in her eyes whenever she looked at him. We called Misty our "little girl," because she always seemed to envy Marissa as they grew up together. It seemed she wanted to be a person, not a canine, and the depth of desire and love in her eyes for all of us seemed to confirm our thoughts. Misty loved music and whenever we would sing to her, she would stop whatever she was doing and come to sit in front of us so that we would continue a special personal concert designed for her. Our "little girl" also grew up attending family worship and prayer time with us, and she and Marissa used to race each other for a seat next to me when they were younger. In her mature years, Misty still came to school with us and almost never missed Bible or prayer time. My youngest, Brooklyn loved feeding and brushing the dogs and spending quiet time with them as she slept near both of them. Marissa and I loved the way Misty always raced upstairs when she knew I was headed to Marissa's room to do something with her. Misty knew she would get to sit with us and receive a special time of cuddles and hugs that Max would never know about. After losing Max, we spent three days trying to save Misty, gently feeding her baby food from our fingertips, gently wrapping cool washcloths on her paws in an attempt to reduce her fever, and carrying her outside to enjoy the breezy sunshine weather when she could no longer walk. I never imagined we would lose both of our precious babies within days of each other. The emergency veterinarian told us it was a rarity to have a family come in with two critically ill dogs at the same time. We aren't sure what happened. Suddenly both of our furry family members became very sick. Misty had declined the previous summer and after we urgently prayed for a miracle for her health last year, we received one. Misty had seemed healthier, stronger, and going on regular walks with Marissa daily. Just days after Max suddenly got sick, she did as well. Our regular vet could not figure out what was going on and referred us to the emergency clinic. Without hospitalizing both of them and spending what could amount to ten thousand dollars for the next few days (on top of what we had already spent), neither of our babies was going to make it. In the end, the vets believed that Max's kidneys had failed and Misty had underlying cancer, perhaps in her pancreas. At least they lived without symptoms until the very end, and even then, neither of them complained. As we tried to nurse both of them ourselves, praying for improvement, they loved and trusted us with their usual tenderness. love, and compassion. I will never find animals quite like them this side of heaven, where I pray I meet with them again. God amazes me that He crafted these sweet babies, knowing they would be ours, and instilling just what I needed, we each needed, in both of them. Pure love, gentleness, acceptance, and peace emanated from them with ease, reminding me daily of what the Father desires from each of us. Without them, I also think of the Father's gentle spirit when He created them and it allows me to grieve with hope that I will see them in eternity. Although animals do not have a soul that can choose to accept Christ as their Savior, and nothing biblically proves that animals will be in heaven, I pray that because Adam and Eve were stewards over animals in the beginning, that God will allow the beautiful four-legged family members we loved to have a final resting place with Him for eternity. Grief is tricky, but also a beautiful mechanism of the love that God must have for us. For if I, a mere sinful human, can love with an intensity that allows me to deeply miss the animals I called a part of my family, imagine the extreme and passionate love God holds for each of us, His creation made with a purpose. As we said goodbye to our beloved pets, I told the emergency vet that I had lost a daughter and many close family members, and that loss was a million times worse, yet the pain of losing my precious pets was still extremely painful. I carry the sweet memories made with them very close, thinking of their precious faces often throughout each day. I feel emptiness in my schedule because they are not here to make me laugh, sing, play hide and seek, or marvel at the way they join every activity with excitement and love simply because we are there with them. The way we each are to rejoice in our time spent with the Lord. It’s okay to take life slower for as long as I need to and I should not feel guilty because I am grieving pets. If you are not a dog or pet lover, I understand. I honestly thought that I wouldn’t want any more pets after these were gone. I failed to understand the depth of the devotion I had for them. Although I am admittedly not a puppy person, it’s like having a newborn in the house, and that means a lot of work. Yet, I truly and deeply loved our dogs. They perfectly fit into each day and situation, even with quirky habits that made them even more a part of the family. Losing pets also proves that pain is pain. Loss is loss. Who understands the depth? Jesus. Remember John 11:35? “Jesus wept.” I remember the first days after losing my daughter. The depth of anguish was chasm-sized, relentless, and I had to force myself to breathe through the crushing pain weighing on my chest. I didn't want to cry in front of others because it felt too personal and I also wasn't sure that I could stop the tears. I wanted to grieve in my own way, plus I didn’t want to upset my four year old daughter or leave her burdened with a mother who couldn’t care for her. So I grieved in private times and allowed God to offer the peace only He can. But the years of loss after her, filled with many others I loved, have made me ultra-tender to grief. Also knowing that I have a young daughter who could experience decline at any time, and seeing the losses of so many parents I know who have children with similar conditions has marked my spirit in a way that has left me more vulnerable to grief. I've cried or thought of them daily since my sweet, furry companions have been gone and I feel like they must have felt when they used to lay on the floor, with underbellies exposed. But I don't care. God offers me peace and calm when I ask, just like with the losses before. He is ever-present and I feel Him near. He tells me that He holds my tears and each one is recorded. He understands as no one else can. What is gone had been a gift from Him and the preciousness is a reminder of each loved one I have been with, yet lost, and those I still hold and treasure. Any or all of them could be gone in an instant; another reminder that living with eternal perspective is the only way to fully live in this world. About two weeks before Max got sick, I remember hearing a voice in my spirit one day that concerned me. It said, "Max will be attacked." Just as my Heavenly Father sent me a warning twenty-four hours before I lost my first child, I think God must have sent me a sign to trust Him again. He always watches over us in ways unique to each of us, and for the purposes He intends. I am glad He prepared me in this way. Losing both of our beloved and precious furry family members at once was truly very difficult. I feel like our culture sometimes dismisses the loss of pets as insignificant, but we the ties and bonds we have with our pets can be as strong and intense as some we have with humans. Our pets trust us implicitly, they love unconditionally, and spend almost every moment with us. The loss of their presence leaves a giant hole in our daily routines and lifestyle, as well as our ability to laugh and love in the same way we previously experienced. Yet, it makes everything sweeter still. One of the gifts of God is the ability to continue to peel away layer after layer of humanity and heal that exposed area with not new flesh, but the ability to hold and feel life more like He does and how He desires – with our mind and heart set for Him. Eccesiastes 1:14 says, “I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Love trumps possessions or power. In the Bible, even Solomon’s special wisdom granted by God did not provide meaning that satisfied his soul. God continues to burden my heart with an ache that nothing in this world can satisfy. I truly desire for everyone to know Him and the peace that God alone brings us through a maturing relationship with Christ. My heart yearns for each of us to make time to rest in Him. Change your schedule. Slow your life. Make time to not only read the word, but digest it. Ponder God’s words and ways. Apply His teachings, promises, and love to your life and those around you. Do not harbor bitterness or anger, jealousy or hatred, unforgiveness or sadness. Truly examine your heart and lay it before God so that He can heal the areas you need. Even when we already feel those areas have been released to Him, God and His words have mighty power that is living and active. Just as Hebrews 4:12 says, “Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Cling ever tighter to Jesus, beginning now. Although I don’t enjoy the hurts of this world, God never fails to be the steadiness that is exactly what I need and He draws me ever nearer through all that occurs. May it always be so, and true for each one of us. Father God, may we allow You to examine our thoughts and heart. We need You so much more than we know. Despite heartache and difficulty in this world, we become closer to You when we allow troubles and disappointment to draw us ever nearer. The only way we can do that is to be building a relationship with You consistently as one lays a firm foundation on solid ground so that we are ready before the storm hits. Thank you for being calm, peace, and steadiness that our minds can grasp, yet also so much more that we can only begin to fathom through the hope and trust You leave us in Jesus. You are all we need, dear Father. Thank you. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

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< Back Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode 031 - How to Lay Groundwork for Your Child to Build a Life of Faith Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #031 – How to Lay Groundwork for Your Child to Build a Life of Faith Thank you for listening to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast. My prayer is that you and I will parent with purpose and confidently connect with Christ and our children moment by moment. Reading with my daughters has always been a joy for me. I remember the very first night my middle daughter, Marissa came home to us when she was ten months old. After about 36 hours of traveling, my husband, our precious new baby, and I were exhausted. When we finally arrived home from the airport, we felt dirty, hungry, and ready to clean up, unpack, and get to bed. Instead, we needed to acclimate our sweet baby to a new home. While in China, she had finally accepted us and adjusted to the hotel we were staying in, right before we had to whisk her off to another new place. There was no way she could comprehend that this was the end to her journey. She was finally home. I remember carrying her around the house, taking her into every room, showing her new surroundings. I kept my voice soft and gentle, and while carrying her close to me, I swayed her, rocked her, and fed her, but nothing soothed her. I finally paid attention to the thought that continued to press into my mind. “Read to her.” Before we had left for China, I had prepared her room, so I went to the rocking chair we purchased for her nursery, sat down, and picked up “The “Story of Jesus” book we had received at one of our baby showers from the small table next to the chair. I honestly didn’t think my ten month old would appreciate a book. Certainly she wasn’t old enough to be soothed by me reading to her, especially since she was just getting used to me and the sound of my voice. Nevertheless, I followed the still, small command in my mind and began reading as I held her in my lap. Instantly, tears stopped flowing and her cries ceased. “The Story of Jesus” worked what felt like a miracle that night, just like Jesus Himself has done for so long. What miracles do we overlook daily ? What signs and wonders are still shown today? Study the life and miracles of Jesus in Scripture so that you are growing in your walk with Him moment by moment. Learn to seek the deeper meanings of the miracles He performed. Remember that He still performs miracles today. John 20:30-31 says, “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name .” Share the wonder and miracles of Christ with your children. The book of John is a wonderful place to begin filling your child with curiosity and amazement at the power and life of Christ. John 2:11 says, “What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which He revealed his glory; and His disciples believed in Him .” The word “sign” in this verse was used by John because he was referring to displays of magnificent authority and glory executed by Jesus . Through faith , those present were able to witness divine events in the midst of ordinary days . Jesus, however, did not use these miracles to show His power or self. The signs carried a significance beyond the acts Jesus performed; they laid holy evidence of sacred power and majesty . The Book of John, Chapter 2 shares eight particular signs that showcase and give glory to the significance of Christ. Signs & Significance = Jesus is/has : John 2:1-12 - Jesus turns water into wine proving He is The Source of Life John 4:46-54 - Jesus heals a nobleman’s son - proving He is Master over distance John 5:1-17 - Jesus heals a lame man at the pool of Bethesda proving He is Master over Time John 6:1-14 - Jesus feeds 5,000 proving He is The Bread of Life John 6:15-21 - Jesus walks on water and stills a storm proving He is Master over Nature John 9:1-41 - Jesus heals a man who was blind from birth - proving He is The Light of the World John 11:17-45 - Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead - proving He has Power over Death John 21:6 - Jesus causes an abundant fish catch proving He is Master over Animals When taught about Jesus, children cannot resist the miraculous feats of Jesus. Their minds are open and ready to learn of Jesus and to accept the groundwork of a strong and lasting faith. As you read these stories, present them in age-appropriate ways. Pay attention to the interests and characteristics of your child or children. Consider how they learn. There are so many options for teaching about Christ in fun, exciting, and serious ways. You can choose to draw stories on a white or chalk board, or on paper, you may use felt pieces, dolls, or costumes, or you can simply read from the Bible and discuss study notes together. Children are filled with wonder. They easily grow a desire for Christ and an understanding of His holy power and meaning in their life. Enable them to begin viewing Him as the Authority and one who cares for them in every way. Laying the groundwork for our children to build a life of faith consists of many small, intentional acts of eternal perspective. If you think back to my story at the beginning of this podcast, the reaction my baby had to hearing “The Story of Jesus” led me to begin reading many books to her right away. Enjoying reading and stories together has always been a delightful time of bonding, imagination, and dreams. Marissa began going to the library before she was a year old and the outing was always something she seemed to look forward to. Beyond strong literature with beautiful illustrations, however, she was exposed to Bible stories from that first night home. It was such a gift to see her calmed by the book I read to her that first night. I recognized that my Heavenly Father was at work, already constructing the foundation for a lifetime of faith for my child if I would remain faithful to Him in mentoring and discipling her. It's never too early to expose our children to Bible stories and truths that will grow their interest and knowledge of Christ. Children easily see miraculous signs. They are awed by the amazing acts of Jesus. This is the groundwork parents can use to train children to look deeper into Who Jesus is and to construct faith based on the significance of His signs and wonders. The stories of Jesus will draw them in and allow them to pay attention to the man who will change everything about their life and identity if they welcome Him. Matthew 19:14 says, “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these .” It’s never too late to honor the Lord in the way you mentor Him to your child . Expectant mothers have the beautiful gift of preparing their heart and deepening their personal walk with Jesus before her precious baby arrives. How beautiful it is to look into the future and imagine what life God would desire for your baby. I suggest expectant mothers prayerfully compose a list of the attributes God would desire your baby to have. Write down where you see your child in a year, five years, ten years, as a teen, and when they graduate from high school. Locate Scripture to write prayers to guide the development of your child in godly ways. Seek God’s plans and follow His promptings. Mothers of newborns have the blessing of singing or speaking God’s Word over their children. Reading Scripture to your baby is a wonderful way to introduce them to the Bible. They will grow up with reverence for the Word and know where to find answers to life situations if they are accustomed to hearing His Word and seeing you study Scripture. The same applies to toddlers and preschoolers. You can also enjoy Bible devotionals together. Short times of study and prayer together become a staple in the lifestyle your child expects and deserves. As your child matures, continue to pray with them and ask them to pray with you. Seek God together when they have questions or problems. Help them acquire the habit of always seeking their Heavenly Father in all situations. There are so many ways to make Him known. Nature walks, Bible studies, life situations, as well as the trials and tragedies in this world are all moments you can share with your child. As you naturally invite God into every moment of life, your child will do the same. Discipling a child from birth is a blessed way to enjoy a life of joy together. What if you came to know Christ later in life? What if you did not grow your Christian faith until your children were older? While you are breathing on this earth, it’s never too late to mature and deepen your personal walk with Jesus and mentor your child to do the same. If your child is a teen without Christ or even an adult, allow them to see the changes Christ makes in your life. Remember that every action and reaction you make, the words you speak, the attitude you carry is a reflection on the God you follow. As you grow in Him, the changes you make visible will greatly impact those around you when you give the Lord glory and credit. Our children, no matter the age, are precious to God. They matter to Him because He created them with intention and for a purpose. The greatest gift He offered each of us was His own Son and He deeply desires that we make Him known to our children. Dear Heavenly Father, there truly is none like You. That You have such a love for us, despite what we feel for You is astounding. That You allow us to influence the children You personally crafted with intention and for great purposes is a miracle I never forget. Please help us to remember the price Jesus paid to allow us to come to You now and for eternity. Help us to see our children with Your eyes full of love, mercy, and grace. Help us to desire to raise them as You call us to. Help us to mentor You in ways only possible as we cling to You and allow Your mighty hands to carry us. May our children have great faith and desire for You. May they find You now and cultivate close relationship with You on purpose. Help us to please You as we parent. Thank you for Your beautiful gifts. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast. This and my “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast may be found at terrihitt.com, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? Did you know that when you review my podcasts on Apple, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcasts online so that more people are allowed to find and hear them. Will you please take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway them away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Parent and Connect With Eternal Perspective. Previous Next

< Back Godly Motherhood Podcast Episode 137 - How to Parent Kids to Be IN the World, But Not OF It Welcome to Godly Motherhood Podcast – Episode 137 – How to Parent Kids to Be IN the World, But Not OF It Welcome to the Godly Motherhood podcast. If you’re a mom, you can’t parent in your strength. The Good News is that you aren’t supposed to. On this podcast I’ll mentor how to rest and abide in the Father’s arms. Through Him, you’ll be carried - and capable of raising each unique child entrusted to your care as you teach them to chase Christ over culture moment by moment. This is Episode 137 – How to Parent Kids to Be IN the World, But Not OF It Before we start, I want to share that my new book deals with the topic we’re discussing on this episode. In my book, “The Good Mom Trap: Break the Lie That Good Parenting Creates Godly Kids” I share Biblical truths, personal stories, and what I’ve learned about raising kids to follow the Way instead of the world - to help you avoid traps. The book releases December 2, 2025. To be among the first to hear updates and hear the latest news and updates, visit https://www.terrihitt.com/book Now on with this episode. Just last week, Christian influencer, podcaster, and activist Charlie Kirk was murdered. While Heaven rejoices, many in this world grieve and weep. I keep thinking of Charlie’s precious children and wife, and the tremendous loss they face. But the world has also suffered a great loss. While not as intimate a loss as those who personally knew and loved him face, we have lost a man of courage and conviction. It grieves my heart to hear slanderous comments about Charlie and the work he did. I’ve seen countless quotes by him twisted and taken out of context. So, if you’re hearing to lies swarming on social media, go listen to his full recordings. There are videos being passed that have been edited or shortened to cause division, and I’ve never heard Charlie make the horrible remarks people are sharing at this time. You must make your own decision about this man, whom I’ve only heard use his life to bring people together, not tear them apart. Who based his beliefs off God’s Word, and used his time to bring others to know the words and principles of God - and use them well in daily life. While I didn’t know Charlie personally, I respected his ability to invite anyone to debate, encouraging civil discussion with wisdom – even with those who often spewed hatred. Charlie remained calm, pointing others to God’s truths, Word and commands. Charlie had a crucial ability to think critically. This is a non-negotiable necessity not being taught in schools or even in many homes nowadays, and it is the first step in preparing children to be IN the world, but not OF it. Every Christian parent should intentionally raise children to carry the ability to think critically – and biblically. We must mentor how strong conviction in God’s truths. We must raise our kids to have deep desire to know God and pursue Him through a relationship with Jesus. To work to make Him known to the world. To know and understand the Word and point others to it. One of the most important qualities Charlie Kirk had was to pursue knowledge and use biblical, critical thinking to ascertain whether that knowledge matched Scripture. If you’re a Christian mom worried about secular culture, don’t focus on shielding your kids FROM the world . Equip them to shine the light and truth of Christ IN it. But the question moms carry is “how?” How do we raise kids to honor God in a world far from what He commands? The last quality I mentioned Charlie carrying is one of the top priorities parents must carry and teach as they raise kids to stand against culture and for Christ. If you aren’t using biblical, critical thinking yourself - and mentoring to your children how to use it, you’re already behind. Unless you and your children can easily understand and verbalize why they believe what they do, they’re likely to become a victim of indoctrination, be easily swayed by peers, teachers, society, or be swayed to follow any sort of “religion” (in quotation marks) the world offers. It is IMPERATIVE to know WHY we stand - for WHO we stand for. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 says, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” These words must be taken seriously. When I looked at the instructions in these words from God, I took a good look at how I was parenting. Although I professed to love the Lord, and I called Jesus my Savior, I realized how I fell short of digesting the urgency of God’s commands when I raised my first set of kids. How about you? Are you consistently parenting the way these verses command? Your love for God, your desire to honor and obey Him must be evident in your actions, reactions, words, and desires. Your fears, your praises. In the way you teach your children of Jesus and how to follow Him. To place Him first. So many parents believe they’re doing a good job because they go to church each week and they tell their kids to read their Bible. They talk about being a Christian family, but how is that faith being exhibited in the home? In society? At work? At school? Do actions, desires, words, and reactions match how Scripture calls? Is Scripture studied enough to know? Many people think they follow Jesus, but what they believe and the way they live and vote are actually in opposition to what God’s Word says. Many Christians take the Bible to the other extreme and shut off contact with anyone who does anything the Bible calls sin. Listen to this passage from John 8. “but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him, and He sat down and taught them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” This they said to test Him, that they might have some charge to bring against Him. Jesus bent down and wrote with His finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask Him, He stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more He bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” How powerful this verse is! Jesus boldly stayed true to Scripture. He knew each person dealt with personal sins. However, He didn’t choose to stay away. He shared Truth and Life. Yet, He didn’t condone the sins. He was in their midst, yet commanded them to go and sin no more. In modern day context, this could be adultery or homosexuality, as two examples. Society, with hearts not seeking and following Scripture fails to see sin in front of them. However, Jesus would assert that both are sins God hates. He would share God’s truths and commands, yet tell them to go and sin no more. He wouldn’t accept and agree. He would call out the sin, love them, yet not condone what they did. He wouldn’t accept the lifestyle into policy or persuade others it was the way God made them. Or make excuses. Your kids need to hear you speak the truths of Scripture – and witness you live the commands of God. Deuteronomy 4:9 also carries clear instructions on how to please and honor our Heavenly Father and raise the children He entrusted to us. This verse says, “Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children’s children .” Remember God’s Truths and commands as found in Scripture. Cling to them as guidance for your soul and life. For your parenting. Again, putting Him first. How well are you doing that? How well are you mentoring and guiding your children in this command? How are you exhibiting your identity in Jesus as Savior? Each one of us must secure identity in God through Jesus. We must live in complete assurance of WHOSE we are - and let everything that pours from us flow through His eternal lens. Use the way God has provided for you, strengthened you, carried you. Use everything that’s wrapped up in your relationship with God this far. Remember how He has provided, where you have faltered, and how God has carried you. Use your trials, your failures, your triumphs in ways that strengthen and mature your relationship (with God and your kids) and the foundation you’re laying for your children and the house of faith they are building. Of course, be age appropriate. Weave God effortlessly into your days and nights. He is present. Don’t hit your kids over the head with rules and regulations, but with gentle love and grace, with discipleship born from love and understanding of God’s Word, and adherence to His commands. Don’t neglect discipline. Use it to disciple for Him. Continue your growth moment by moment, so they will, too. Inhale Christ so you exhale Him with ease and clarity. 1 John 4:13 says, “By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit .” Scripture tells us the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. The more you study His Word, the better you live and teach the Word. The more you soak His Word into your being, the way you act and react is transformed, the way you seek the Father’s wisdom in how to parent for Him is refined, and the way you hear His instructions is clarified. He fills you with the strength and stamina you need to parent His children for His ways, and not the world. Matt. 10:28 says, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell .” There is nothing on this earth that is worth giving more attention than God or family. Learn to treat your family the way God desires you to treat them. Being the best friend of your children, giving them too many material goods, or depriving them so you don’t spoil them are ways that we over or under-indulge. As you deepen your knowledge and understanding of God’s Word and practice abiding in His capable arms, as you capture a mindset like Christ, you parent kids who are in the world, but not of it. Kids who seek Him first and are thankful for what they have. Your kids must live in the world. Teach them to BE and STAY secure and strong in the Word. Parent with godly confidence to instill godly confidence in your kids. This comes from purposely studying God’s character, will, and ways. Purposely consider and PLAN what you want the end of your life and the life of your children to look like, or you won’t receive godly results. You must intentionally reflect on what God would desire for your children. Seek His discernment , knowledge , wisdom , and understanding on how to parent the children He has entrusted to your care. He created them with a purpose and purposely entrusted them to you at this time. In order to raise kids who are IN the world, but not OF it, YOU have to be a set-apart woman. First you must understand what the term, set-apart means. The basic definition is “to do something that makes someone, or oneself, noticeable, remarkable, or distinct in comparison to someone or something else.” That means distinctively different or set-apart from this world we live in. Set-apart also means to be sanctified . In simple form, it means something or someone is sanctified when it’s used for the purpose God intends. So, when you live according to the purpose or design God intended for your life, you’re sanctified. More clearly defined, that means when you’re pursuing and following Jesus - and His ways and will . The Greek word translated “sanctification” means holiness . This means that when we’re sanctified, we’re made holy. As believers and followers of Jesus, we know that He is the one sanctifying us. God calls us to know Him, to become more like Him, to become holy, as He is holy and He allows us to be transformed by Him and through Him by our relationship with Jesus. Obviously, we never reach the holiness of God, but through the transforming sacrifice and sanctification of Jesus, we can become more Christ-like moment by moment. Then you are able to make Christ known to your children. To equip your children to be set-apart. To be sanctified. The deeper you pursue , know , and follow Jesus, the more He is shown to your children. The first Jesus your children see is the Jesus they see within you. Your children will desire whatever is appealing to them. Make a life lived with Jesus appealing. Your relationship with God through a maturing and deepening walk with Jesus matters very much. Since you desire your children to know and grow in Jesus, you must raise them to be set-apart, to be what God intended for them. This can only be accomplished with intentional parenting reliant on the holy power and direction of Christ within you. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God .” The New Living Translation version makes understanding the importance of this verse for a set-apart life much easier. The NLT version translates the same verse this way, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect .” To be a set-apart parent raising a set-apart child, you must purpose to think and live differently . You can’t seek, mimic, or prioritize the behavior, customs, or culture of this world. You must purpose to allow , and invite God to transform you into a new woman, a new parent, moment by moment, day by day. Over and over again with a humble, submissive heart and spirit. You have to be present in the day to day, making hard choices about friends, limits, gaming, television - and the list goes on. For example, one of the top complaints I hear from moms is how their pre-teen and teen girls dress. We must lay a foundation for our girls to desire modest dressing. In fact, if this is an area, you struggle with, I recommend sending me a message at info@terrihitt.com In my Set-Apart Collective Program, we discuss issues just like this one. Remember, your strength, discernment, and guidance for parenting will be found through the sanctification of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within you. His power exists to live a set-apart life and be a set-apart parent. His will within you changes the way you think , what you crave , what you believe , and how you react . Through His life-changing, set-apart power, you are able to raise children who will be set-apart and sanctified for Him. Kids who live a power testimony of His love and grace. Also, use Scripture to guide your prayer life. Here are 4 verses crafted into Scriptural prayers. Use Bible verses to submit to - and invite the powerful presence of God to reside within you as you prayerfully live and parent. Galatians 5:16 - Heavenly Father, my great and glorious God, Your Word instructs me to walk by the Spirit, and I won’t gratify the desires of the flesh. How I need Your power. Equip me, Father. Carry me so that you reside strongly within me. Keep me from shifting to the left or the right. Keep me in Your perfect will and strength to shine you in ways that draw my children and spouse to You. Ephesians 2:10 – Precious Heavenly Father, You say I am your masterpiece. You assure me that I am created anew in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah! Enable me to do the good things You planned for me long ago. May my life influence and instruct my children in all of Your ways, not the world. Galatians 2:20 – Precious Father, I know that my old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. May all I do bring glory and honor to You and teach my children to desire and follow You. 1 Peter 2:9 – Merciful Heavenly Father, You assure me through Your Word that I am chose n. Carry me, enable me to intentionally and bravely show others Your goodness because You have called me out of the darkness and into Your wonderful light. May my life truly reflect You in all I am and do. May my children do the same. Show me how to make You clearly known to them in ways they cannot resist. Rest in His power. Parent in His power. Your walk with Jesus matters . The way you love Him and present Him to your watching children reflects the way you feel about Him, the way you trust Him. Your set-apart walk affects the way you present Jesus daily. With the power of Christ working within you, your child will begin to shine the light of Christ and live a life set-apart from others in ways that are pleasing to God and your heart. 3 John 1:4 says, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” I don’t strive to have what society considers “typical children” or “typical teens.” I would feel I failed God if I heard those words spoken to me. My heart would be shattered. Don’t settle for what this culture cheapens. Life is meant to be so much better than what this broken world offers or tempts us with. Your child, our children deserve what God purposed them to be, do, and have. Their calling is higher than this unstable and sinful world can give. Here are five basic steps to help you build a lifestyle that sets your children up to follow the Way, instead of the world. 1. Show Jesus – Your joyful relationship with Jesus, the way you seek and follow Him with obedience and love will attract your child. The level of depth and maturity in your walk with Jesus will guide your life as it influences your child’s. As you read God’s word, share His word with your children through reading the Bible and discussing it together, and make it applicable to life situations, your child begins to assimilate the mind and desires of God. 1 Peter 1:16 says, “For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy .” 2. Make Time – Make time to be with the Father alone and with your family. Be attuned to your child, each precious and unique child you have been gifted. Be present. Put down your phone. Stop working. Delay chores. Look them in the eyes. Wrap your arms around them often. Love them in their language. Do your children need to be invited into your space or are they always welcome? Do they know it? Psalm 127:3 says, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.” Even teens who act like they only want to be with friends cherish a close relationship with parents. It’s never to late to mend and strengthen yours. 3. Tame your Tongue and Tone – Does joy or aggravation shine from you? Does your child see love in your eyes and actions? Are you a constant complainer? Or do your days radiate gratitude? 2 Corinthians 7:1 says, “Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.” 4. Be Consistent – In character, relationship, parenting, integrity, and pursuit of Jesus. Let them see your loving pursuit of Jesus and the ways He continues to mature you and transform you. Humbly give God the glory. Romans 12:1 says, “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind He will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.” 5. Stay Involved – Guide, don’t hover. Allow maturity at proper times. Don’t hold on too long, but don’t push too fast. Know friends and set examples for the type of friends to connect with and the type of friend to be. Make godly life and parenting choices and guide your children to put God first when making decisions, not as a chore, but because they love and honor Him and desire to please their Heavenly Father. Set Jesus as the example for both of you to follow. John 17:15-18 says, “I’m not asking You to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by Your truth; teach them Your word, which is truth. Just as You sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world .” In order to raise set-apart children who are in the world, but are not worldly , you must set that as a priority to achieve. Before work, school, or any other obligation or desire you carry. You must be the example of Christ your children see. A set-apart parent grows depth of love for and maturity in the Lord and seeks to pass that legacy and blessing to their children and grandchildren. If your children are already grown, you continue in maturing your Christian walk and relationship with God through Jesus. Breathe Him in and breathe Him out. Once you’re living a set-apart life, it becomes your family lifestyle. Again, if your child is older or already a teen or adult, remain steadfast in your pursuit of Christ and in living a godly life that reflects Jesus and gives honor and glory to the changes He is making in your life daily. Remain prayerful and consistent. James 5:16b says, “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results .” Christ’s work within you will attract your child to Him. His ongoing transformation of your life will help your children to see their need for a Savior who transforms and mends relationships. Only the sanctifying power of Jesus will transform the desires and life of your child as he or she turns and submits to Him. With anxiety and depression in kids and teens at an all-time high, this next verse should give assurance. Isaiah 54:13 says, “All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.” Remember, your conviction and connection to God’s Word will affect your children, young or older, day by day. You cannot lead your children to the Way unless YOU live the Word. Equipping your kids to be IN the world, but not OF it begins with YOUR walk with Christ. May this be your prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, gracious and glorious God, equip me to follow Your example. Enable me to walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us. Extract any hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Help there be no obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving and praise. Don’t let me partner with darkness, as I am now a light for You. May I live as a child of light in goodness, righteousness and truth, and what pleases You. May I be very careful how I live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Take away foolishness that takes me from Your good and perfect will. Help me be filled with Your Spirit, always giving You thanks for everything. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. I have a free resource you’ll find helpful as you navigate your daily routine as a mom. If you’re ready to become the godly mother God entrusts you to be for Him and His children, you’ll love my free “Good to Godly: A 31-Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms.” Visit terrihitt.com to receive this resource. Time is short. Leave a legacy that lasts into eternity. Unless you’re purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. Focus on eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 108 - Your Home is the Key to Safeguarding Your Children Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 108 – Your Home is the Key to Safeguarding Your Children Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. You’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode about how your home is the key to safeguarding your children… Home is supposed to be a safe place. Comfortable. Loving. Kind. Christlike. When my youngest came home to be with us at the age of nine, she had no idea what was in store for her. Fear was all she felt when we brought her home to the United States from China. Life was uncomfortable. Our sweet girl wondered what would happen next. Now, praise God! Each night when we say prayers together, she consistently thanks God for one thing first. Night after night she begins her prayers like this, “Dear God. Thank you for my family.” Every single night. Every single prayer. Home. A place that should be a refuge. A place children should lovingly learn about Jesus from godly parents who mentor Christ intentionally with grace, joy, and patience. Yet, parents are human. Life isn’t perfect. Days flash by. Schedules get changed. Emergencies arise. Still, in the midst of tragedies, trials, or triumphs, one thing parents should provide for their children is a home that safeguards . Children deserve to be raised in a home where parents pursue relationship with Jesus and making Christ known to their children. A home that gives them joy, hope, and truth. Meaning God’s truths as written in His Word, the Bible. In fact, God commands parents to take this approach in parenting. He even instructs us in how to accomplish this monumental task. I know you probably already know which passage I’m going to refer to, because I say this often, but one of my favorite verses related to parenting is Deuteronomy 6:5-9 . “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates .” God is very clear in His instructions to parents. There should be no doubt as to how we are to raise the children He has entrusted to us. His children are purposely in our care. If you profess to know and love Jesus, how can you not seek and offer God’s truths? Too many parents are good as by the world’s standards. We must stop being good! We must become godly parents who seek and shine Jesus and the truths of God for our children. If we do not, we risk our children falling for the deceits of this world and losing eternity with God. It’s a sobering fact . More and more kids are turning away from relationship with God. They see a walk with God as religion, not as relationship with Jesus Christ. One of the latest statistics I saw mentioned that about thirty percent of high schoolers reject religion. What if they were never taught to follow religion, but instead, were taught how to develop a close and abiding relationship with Jesus from the youngest possible age? What would that percentage become? I definitely think it would be lower. We must obediently pursue the Lord with love and honor and equip our children to do the same because of a growing love for God, not an obligation they see no need to follow. Be intentional. Every moment counts for eternity. In order to create a home that safeguards your children, there are several actions you must prioritize. 1. Relationship with God through Jesus. Ideally, you and your husband are equally yoked. If not, prayerfully pursue God’s Word and pray for your husband. Show Christ in your personal life. Your words, desires, actions, and reactions must be submitted to Christ. A lasting relationship with Jesus ideally begins in a home where both parents love, honor, and obey God. 2. Build a strong home/family unit . Love , biblical teachings with grace , patience , and joy are cornerstones to building a home that is safe and peaceful. When your child feels safe and loved by you, and they see Christ in you, they are more apt to seek, follow, and obey Him. 3. Godly love . When you know and trust Jesus, when you invite Him to transform your life, you are a magnet of godly love that will also transform the life of your child as you show Christlikeness in your desires, words, actions, and reactions. 4. Communication/Connection . When you create a home that fosters connection and communication, your child feels safe. They feel seen. Heard. Appreciated. Loved. When they feel close to you, as they see you purposely pursue Jesus with passion, they will seek Him, too. 5. Discipleship – not punishment . We will never have perfect kids or families. We are each imperfect adults raising imperfect children. Your kids are kids. Just as you made mistakes, they will. Guide and guard them – direct them to Jesus, and show Christ in your life. Remember that discipline should be discipleship , not punishment. It is critical to parent the heart, not seek to simply eradicate the behavior . 6. Godly mentorship (in actions – not just words). Remember that you are seeking to disciple God’s children who simply reside in your care. As you deepen your walk with Jesus, you are better equipped to mentor how your children can do the same. They see and know more about you than you might think. Little eyes and ears watch and hear. Show them Jesus as they examine you . 7. God’s Word . The way to know the Lord in intimate relationship is through His Word. Help your child see you study it and be in the Word with them. Not because you have to, but because you crave it. The only way for you to develop a taste for God’s Word is to read it. Do it whether or not you want to. Do it whether you feel you have time. Keep doing it. You can make time to read or listen each day. 8. Prayer . How gracious God is to give us a lifeline straight to Him. Use it often and regularly . Teach your children to do the same. Pray Scriptures, pray Scripture-based prayers, pray for yourself, your children, your spouse, those in authority. The list can be endless. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the opportunity to pray, pray for what you know is in alignment with God’s desires. Ask God for guidance in what else He desires you to pray for. If you’d like deeper discussion and training on prayer, you may listen to Purposed Parent Connected Child episodes. Simply go to terrihitt.com/podcasts and click on Purposed Parent Connected Child. Type prayers in the search bar and you can choose between about five episodes on this topic. You may also visit the website and click on Live With Eternal Perspective. Do the same by typing prayer in the search bar and you will see several choices about prayer. 9. Forgiveness . A home filled with the love and joy of Christ follows His model. Forgiveness. As you craft and deepen your walk with God through relationship with Jesus and grow your identity in Christ, you will live with mercy and forgiveness. Teach those characteristics to your children and extend them to your spouse and family. You safeguard your children when you teach them the act of obedience through forgiveness. The nine steps I mentioned are tips to begin building a foundation for Christ that also safeguards your home and children. Begin with these basics. Send me a message if you’d like to hear additional ways in future episodes. A godly home is a gift and blessing you will never regret building for your children. Your home will become one they will return to, one in which they will be able to find close relationship with Jesus and connection with you. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are to give us Your Son and all the keys to Your heart. Thank you for the truths You teach us, the commands you give us, and the love you shower upon us. You are truly SO good. Work within us to enable us to create homes that lead our families to You. Help our children to be safe, loved, and brought to you because we are diligent to grow our walk with You and show You in ways that delight Your heart. Make our home a place that safeguards the children You have entrusted to us. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Because your home is key to safeguarding your children, I want to share a sweet and innocent company that has the same mission to safeguard the hearts and minds of children - Melane & Co. This shop was created by my middle daughter, who is the artist behind the watercolor creations available. Are you disgusted with book illustrations that honor darkness, not light? Have you ever taken your child to a gathering or been in the home of another person who has art hanging on the walls that simply isn’t God-honoring? Whether you’re looking through magazines, visiting a gallery, or a friend’s home, your kids have probably been exposed to artwork that you just wish they hadn’t seen. Has this happened to you? If it hasn’t yet, it probably will. But your home can be a place of refuge. Remember, under God’s command, you are responsible for safeguarding the heart and home of your children. If you’re looking for home décor that your child can grow up with and that won’t cause a flush to spread across your faces, Melane & Co. has gentle, beautiful watercolor prints, cards, and custom floral or pet paintings that bring joy and delight to young and old. Raising children is challenging. Don’t let artwork be another stumbling block. I invite you to visit Melane & Co. at www.melaneandco.com for a variety of pieces to bring a smile to your faces and walls. You’ll find fine quality watercolor cards you can use for gifts to family, friends, or teachers. If your home has a furry family member or two, you’ll also see a way to include them in your décor. A custom portrait of your pet is a timeless way to remember the joy they give so effortlessly daily. Any way you can honor God in your home with classic pieces that are sweet to the eyes and soul help you mentor Christ in beautiful ways. Visit Melane & Co. today. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 093 - Why Good Isn't Enough for God Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 093 – Why Good Isn’t Enough for God Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. I can’t believe most schools are already back in session! When that happens, it feels like summer is over. Ahh. It breaks my heart. This time of year is certainly the most challenging for me. No other season holds my heart quite like summer. Even though I don’t find the heat and humidity easy to handle anymore, I’m always disappointed when summer days move out and are replaced with crisper, cooler air. Although I realize I’m in the minority, I desire summer days to make up most of the year. Since we know nothing lasts forever, seasons are a beautiful reminder of why we must live with eternal perspective . Have you had days, weeks, or years of life that you want to last forever? Or maybe right now you feel the opposite. Do you wonder how much longer you have to endure the season you’re experiencing? Everyone knows change can be good. Change can become the catalyst that moves us to be in sync with the next transformation God has for us. I distinctly remember a time I’m glad I experienced a shift in thoughts and actions. There was a period in my life when I wanted to make sure I was a good person. A good woman. A good wife. A good daughter. A good mother. As my relationship with Jesus matured, I understood that limiting myself to “good” was “ungodly.” God calls believers to a much higher standard than good. Good isn’t good enough for God. It’s true that in the beginning when God created, He exclaimed that what He made was good. However, God proclaimed His creations to be good, not that we individually or collectively are. What I mean is that what God created is by His intelligent and perfect design. Of course, anything He makes is good. Yet, in this sinful, fallen world, it didn’t take long for God’s creations to choose what appeared to be good – when it reality it was sin . Without Christ indwelling us, we continue to move farther from God. We shift farther away from what God defines as good . What the Creator of heaven and earth calls good must actually be godly . Without the Holy Spirit within us, there is no perfection or godliness. In fact, we are unable to claim the status of “good,” let alone “godly.” So how do you and I move away from desiring a good life to building a godly life ? Only through Christ . Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God .” Once we realize our need for God, we begin to understand the need for His perfect Son, Jesus to pay the price for our sin. Once we realize our need for a Savior , and accept the free gift Jesus offers, we are able to live with His Holy Spirit within us. We are no longer bound to the world and sinful temptations. Through relationship with Christ, the Holy Word, and prayerful conversations with God, we can experience a shift from good to godly . That is, if we are intentionally seeking Him in a humble, obedient, close connection moment by moment. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast .” Every world religion, except Christianity, teaches that eternal life comes through good works of some sort. As the verse I shared from Ephesians shows, salvation is a gift from God extended through His son, Jesus Christ. When we ponder the question of how to move from good to godly, we must assess who or what defines godliness . Only the Creator of all things can define what is good or godly. God’s standard is holy . Godliness , not goodness is His desire . He is the One who sets the definition. He set the price of eternal life. He is the One who extends salvation, allowing each of us a choice. Our motives and what we desire must be held up to a mirror, so to speak, as we look at how our goals are reflected against what God calls for us in His holy Word. We must take what we call good and measure it to see if it may be called holy . Until we reconcile with what God sees as godliness , not goodness, we continue to fall short of what He calls. My heart fills with joy when I remember when my first set of children were raised and before my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt a sweet baby from China. We didn’t know yet that we had a baby daughter waiting for us. At that time, I was experiencing much deeper growth in my spiritual walk with Christ. Slowly by slowly, I had allowed God greater access to me. I wish I could profess to be one of those people who surrender fully in the moment they accept Christ, but the truth is that each of us have varying degrees of surrender throughout our lifetime. We never reach that finish line in this life. We are so very far beneath God, so far from Him, that our lifetime must be focused on pursuing deeper relationship with Him and continuing to surrender self. As my relationship with Jesus deepened and widened, I thought back to when my husband and I had raised our first two children. I was not a Christian when my first two were born. Although I came to follow Jesus when they were young, I wasn’t well discipled. I wasted so many years trying to make “good” choices, but not striving to be godly . Would you like to know my deepest regret? Although my children always heard about Jesus, and knew I loved and followed Him, I did not know to intentionally disciple them moment by moment in the everyday process of life. I didn’t yet understand that the Christian walk is a beautiful relationship between God and man. I didn’t understand the command in Deuteronomy 6:5-9 , which says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” I assumed that what I was doing to teach my children about Jesus was enough. In reality, they were learning my limited faith, since I was not growing as well as I should have been. Since they weren’t being discipled well, they modeled a portion of my faith instead of chasing Christ and forming a growing personal walk with Him. How are you pursuing Christ? Is He directing every aspect of your parenting – whether your children are young or grown? The story I share about raising my first set of children is common. Be sure it doesn’t become the story you give your children. As my husband and I grew our walk with Jesus, we knew with certainty that God was calling us to travel to China to bring home the baby girl He had waiting to be ours. Before we went, we prayed together daily for the girl she would grow to be. Our heart desired that she be a light for Jesus, that she pursue Him with a pure heart, and that she would be an inspiration for others to follow Him. We asked God specifically for that result. I remember the days I worked backwards to formulate a plan to raise her with very godly goals. Ten years later when we returned to China to bring home our last child, the “master plan” for raising our girls for Christ had been practiced, and our youngest enabled us to continue the course with another beautiful soul to nourish for Jesus. Although there are so many important details I’m not including here, this story is so important to me, because our second step into parenting with a new generation of children was very intentional. My mind and heart were anchored on Christ through all obstacles. My husband and I committed to stand on that firm foundation. When deep waters swirled around us, when tragedy and troubles plagued our home, we tightened our grip on that three-fold cord that kept God in the center of all. No matter what happened, we remained committed to raising our girls and influencing our grown son and grandson for Christ. Each of us must continue to examine our lives, seeking more of Him and less of self. We must make Him known to our children in ways that cause them to pursue godliness over goodness . We must knit together that close relationship with us and Jesus. A relationship that enables them to pursue with eagerness a life that makes godly over good choices because they love and respect God and want to honor Him . It doesn’t matter how good a parent you want to be or are. God calls you and me to be holy, godly mothers. There is nothing greater we can do than fix our heart and mind above. Focus on the methods given by God to raise children for Him. If we don’t purposely lead our children to Christ, the world will sway them away. We must be focused on living godly lives through Christ so our children clearly see Him through us and desire Him for themselves. We must deepen our connection with our children through Christ and enable them to seek His approval over ours or peers. Remember, your child’s deep connection with Christ begins with your personal walk with Jesus. God’s holy, perfect Word tells us that we don’t earn grace through works or anything we do on our own. Our children must also be taught this truth. They must see us live with joyful expectation of pleasing God and growing our walk with Christ moment by moment. They must be shown how to do so. They must see how to make godly life choices instead of what society calls good. We know good isn’t enough for God. We can’t reach His heart through good works or thoughts. Set your children up for a lifetime walk with God through Jesus by the way you mentor Him with godliness and truth. Think of the end of your life, the end of your children’s lives. What will they look like? How are you going to get there? Is the route you’re taking a good one? Or are you living and leading a godly life for your children to follow to the Father’s feet? Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are holy. You alone are greater than the good we desire. Move us from good to godly in the ways You know we need. Help us to be more and more pleasing to You each moment. May our heart and mind be in sync with Your desires for us as we move ever nearer to You. Father, I thank you for Your Word, Your perfect guidance. May we understand You better and please You more as we read and act in obedience to it. May we stop trying for good and strive to be godly. May we end each day more Christlike than the one before as we remember the words Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” May His godliness influence every act and decision we make and the way we mentor You to our children. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. Supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. Send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a no obligation, strategic 15 minute call to chat about your needs to see if the program is a right fit for you. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. Because you’re a podcast listener, let me know if you’re ready to invest in the future of your children. If you tell me you heard about the special price I offer on this podcast, I will give you a big discount because I want you to experience results. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Also, if you appreciated this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a few minutes and makes a big difference in whether people are able to find the podcast. Also, you and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so please choose a friend to recommend the show to. Imagine the changes we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #096 – Open Hearts for Orphans – Interview with Lisa Murphy Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Last week I began a series of conversations to bring awareness to National Adoption Month and the miracle of adoption. When we adopted from China, several people asked why. Not only were they inquiring as to why we were adopting after we had already raised two children, but they also wanted to understand why we were not adopting from the United States. Some people asked why we were going all the way to China for our baby. Our answer is honest and quite easy. We went where God called us to go. We never considered adopting, let alone traveling to a foreign country to do so until God changed our hearts and let us know His plan. What a glorious life we have lived because of heeding His call and stepping forward in obedience. My guest today is Lisa Murphy, a wife of 29 years to her husband, Jim, and mother to five unexpected and beautiful children through adoption - four living on earth and one residing in Heaven. Lisa is the Founder and CEO of Open Hearts For Orphans Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created to care for orphaned and abandoned children around the world through medical intervention, meeting basic needs, and providing their "Say Yes" adoption grants to families in the process. Open Hearts For Orphans especially believes that children belong in loving families and to date has issued over seventy adoption grants to families adopting children with special needs from fifteen different countries. Lisa’s adoption story began when she embraced the unexpected grace of our Heavenly Father who crafts desires and dreams within us during our creation. He weaves lives and stories together in beautiful ways that prove His existence, love, and provision for us. I pray you will see Him at work as you listen to Lisa’s tragic, yet hope-filled story and see how God used tragedy and hardship to bring awareness, love, provision, and change for orphans because our Great God cares for what society may consider “the least of these.” Life is never just about us alone; it is about each person God created in His image with a love so deep and wide that He offered the greatest sacrifice of His son, Jesus. God uses our lives, as well, for bigger purposes than we can imagine. Stepping out in faith to follow where He directs brings blessings for so many more than just ourselves and crafts a portrait of devotion and pure, holy love that is more beautiful than any piece of art we will see this side of heaven. ----------------------------------------------------INTERVIEW------------------------------------------------ Isn’t God wise to protect us from knowing our future? What fears and insecurities we are guarded from simply because He asks us to trust Him, to join Him on the journey of crafting a life that allows His sturdy, strong arms to carry us. His mighty works are evident in Lisa’s life as God crafted her family together in the ways He desires and that give Him joy. He knew the deepest desires of Lisa’s spirit, hopes that were not even realized by her yet, would be touched through His unexpected plans. For more information about Open Hearts for Orphans, please visit their website, Facebook page, Instagram, and YouTube channel. You may reach Lisa at openheartsfororphansorg@gmail.com. Lisa’s book, With An Open Heart their family's personal account of love, loss, and unexpected blessings is a deeply moving, true story that lovingly chronicles her family's shockingly short, yet profoundly powerful experience with their son Daniel and his zest for life. All royalties for Lisa's memoir are directed to Open Hearts for Orphans. Father God, we humbly bow before You. You are the Great I Am, the Beginning and the End, and our Great Provider. Father, we thank You for Your gracious, lavish love. Thank you for the ways You carry us, and for the multitude of things You do that we never notice or realize. Thank You for the plans You crafted for us before we were even born. Heavenly Father, You are good, Your plans are good. Even when we do not understand them or see them, we trust in You. Our hope is in You. Help us to see and desire You more clearly, more intimately each day. In the precious name of Jesus we humbly pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 096 - Open Hearts for Orphans - Interview with Lisa Murphy Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #096 – Open Hearts for Orphans – Interview with Lisa Murphy Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Last week I began a series of conversations to bring awareness to National Adoption Month and the miracle of adoption. When we adopted from China, several people asked why. Not only were they inquiring as to why we were adopting after we had already raised two children, but they also wanted to understand why we were not adopting from the United States. Some people asked why we were going all the way to China for our baby. Our answer is honest and quite easy. We went where God called us to go. We never considered adopting, let alone traveling to a foreign country to do so until God changed our hearts and let us know His plan. What a glorious life we have lived because of heeding His call and stepping forward in obedience. My guest today is Lisa Murphy, a wife of 29 years to her husband, Jim, and mother to five unexpected and beautiful children through adoption - four living on earth and one residing in Heaven. Lisa is the Founder and CEO of Open Hearts For Orphans Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created to care for orphaned and abandoned children around the world through medical intervention, meeting basic needs, and providing their "Say Yes" adoption grants to families in the process. Open Hearts For Orphans especially believes that children belong in loving families and to date has issued over seventy adoption grants to families adopting children with special needs from fifteen different countries. Lisa’s adoption story began when she embraced the unexpected grace of our Heavenly Father who crafts desires and dreams within us during our creation. He weaves lives and stories together in beautiful ways that prove His existence, love, and provision for us. I pray you will see Him at work as you listen to Lisa’s tragic, yet hope-filled story and see how God used tragedy and hardship to bring awareness, love, provision, and change for orphans because our Great God cares for what society may consider “the least of these.” Life is never just about us alone; it is about each person God created in His image with a love so deep and wide that He offered the greatest sacrifice of His son, Jesus. God uses our lives, as well, for bigger purposes than we can imagine. Stepping out in faith to follow where He directs brings blessings for so many more than just ourselves and crafts a portrait of devotion and pure, holy love that is more beautiful than any piece of art we will see this side of heaven. ----------------------------------------------------INTERVIEW------------------------------------------------ Isn’t God wise to protect us from knowing our future? What fears and insecurities we are guarded from simply because He asks us to trust Him, to join Him on the journey of crafting a life that allows His sturdy, strong arms to carry us. His mighty works are evident in Lisa’s life as God crafted her family together in the ways He desires and that give Him joy. He knew the deepest desires of Lisa’s spirit, hopes that were not even realized by her yet, would be touched through His unexpected plans. For more information about Open Hearts for Orphans, please visit their website, Facebook page, Instagram, and YouTube channel. You may reach Lisa at openheartsfororphansorg@gmail.com . Lisa’s book, With An Open Heart their family's personal account of love, loss, and unexpected blessings is a deeply moving, true story that lovingly chronicles her family's shockingly short, yet profoundly powerful experience with their son Daniel and his zest for life. All royalties for Lisa's memoir are directed to Open Hearts for Orphans. Father God, we humbly bow before You. You are the Great I Am, the Beginning and the End, and our Great Provider. Father, we thank You for Your gracious, lavish love. Thank you for the ways You carry us, and for the multitude of things You do that we never notice or realize. Thank You for the plans You crafted for us before we were even born. Heavenly Father, You are good, Your plans are good. Even when we do not understand them or see them, we trust in You. Our hope is in You. Help us to see and desire You more clearly, more intimately each day. In the precious name of Jesus we humbly pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. https://openheartsfororphans.org/ https://www.facebook.com/openheartsfororphans https://www.instagram.com/openheartsfororphansorg/ https://www.amazon.com/Open-Heart-Revised-unexpected-blessings/dp/151707536X/ref=sr_1_15?crid=MKVZNEFQ5GTZ&keywords=lisa+murphy+books&qid=1637244467&sprefix=lisa+murphy%2Caps%2C193&sr=8-15

Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #003 - Obedience Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. So many topics are swirling in my mind, vying for attention, trying to be the one we are going to focus on. I don’t know whether it’s because obedience is one of my favorite themes and life goals, but I keep returning to humility, submissiveness, and respect for God. I deeply treasure how I have watched those qualities grow in my children. My youngest daughter lived without even hearing the name of Jesus for most of her life. We adopted her when she was 9 years old, then consistently began filling her empty spiritual reservoir with love and reverence for Jesus. Seeing us live out our beliefs and hearing us speak and teach of Jesus ultimately led her to accept Him as her Savior this past summer. My daughters, Brooklyn and Marissa truly enjoy our daily Bible studies together. I see God working in and changing each of us steadily as we continue committing part of our days to Him. One of the most rewarding parts for me is knowing that the girls don’t limit their spiritual development to one portion of the day. They understand that their relationship with Jesus is their responsibility. In order to grow and mature their walk, they must commit to the Heavenly Father individually, by making private and quiet time with God a personal priority and communication with God through prayer, an active and on-going conversation each day. When I promised God that I would raise each of them to know, love, and honor Him, I knew it was a solemn choice and a task I was completely unable to manage on my own. This is my second time raising a family, and although I was not a bad mother the first time, I did not have the spiritual maturity I have since developed. I married my husband soon after we graduated from high school. I was 17 years old. He was 18. I was not a Christian. I loved God, but never knew the story of Jesus. We had our first baby, a daughter, when I was 18. Our second child, a son, was born when I was 21. I accepted Christ as my Savior a few months before I turned 22. I could not have loved either of our children any more than I did, yet I was not the Christian mother I wish I had been because I did not know Jesus or have the spiritual relationship with the Lord to have done so at that time. Although I raised them to know and love the Lord to the best of the ability I had at that time, I am a different mother now. I have intentionally matured as a woman and in my walk with Christ. I receive such joy from teaching the girls about Jesus and in continuing to mentor my grown son. By the time my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt in our early forties, we had a much stronger walk with Jesus and knew with a certainty that raising our child for Him would be a priority. It was such a treasure to know that God was entrusting us to begin a second family. We wanted to please Him with the spiritual choices we made and practiced. Despite a few people telling us we were too old to start another family, and that we should keep working and saving for retirement, we kept our hearts and minds focused on the Lord and His desire and directive for us. When we brought home our ten month old baby girl from China, my heart was awakened to the power of obedience despite circumstances, and the delight that follows it. Psalm 47:1 says it best, “Clap your hands, all you nations; and shout to God with cries of joy.” Blindly stepping out in obedience brought undiluted and absolutely precious joy. It was the first time I knew for certain that God had called me to fully trust and submit to His will with a plan I had never dreamed of. Allowing God to orchestrate a new direction and provide in absolutely every way deepened my faith and ability to understand God’s heart. My Heavenly Father began showing me the desires He had created in me. Simply hearing and trusting Him, then obeying at any cost, changed my life. It transformed each member of our family in personal ways. When God was gracious enough to ask us to adopt again ten years later, we brought home our 9 year old daughter. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” The words are so true. With such pure blessing coming from obedience, what makes it so hard for Christians to obey? Is it fear? Or is it the fact that we have free will and think we will make time for what God asks later? Maybe we don’t want what God requires and think we know better? I think often we step on the fast-paced treadmill of life and allow ourselves to be pushed along, falsely pacified by the thought that we have tomorrow. We don’t recognize the blindness of our eyes and hearts, or the subtle deceit we invite into our life by placing God behind us instead of before us. How many gifts and blessings do we miss or lose because we don’t step out in obedience? Only God knows. How do we train ourselves to experience lives of submission that are pleasing to God? Jesus is the answer. Although the Bible doesn’t tell us much about Jesus as a child, we do gain important insight about obedience in Luke 2. When Jesus was just 12 years old, He went to Jerusalem with His parents for the Feast of the Passover. When the family left to return home, however, Jesus stayed behind without His family knowing. It was three days before His parents returned and found Him at the temple, sitting in the midst of teachers. The Son of God was absorbed in listening to them and in asking questions of His own. All who heard Him were astounded at His answers and understanding. Yet Jesus’ mother could not understand why her son had committed this act of disobedience against them. They had anxiously searched for Him. When Mary asked Jesus why He had done this to them, Jesus calmly asked her, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” These words of Jesus prove that He knew His identity as the Son of God. How incredibly challenging, it must have been for Mary to raise God’s divine son! The next verse, however, clearly shows that Jesus submitted to His earthly parents when He left Jerusalem to return to Nazareth with His family. God in human flesh respected the call to yield to earthly parents, as instructed in the Ten Commandments through Exodus 20:12a. “Honor your father and mother.” Submission takes concentrated effort, as well as love and reverence for the Heavenly Father. Jesus first made the decision to remain in Jerusalem to learn of God and to submit to His Heavenly Father, but then acknowledged that obedience to His earthly parents was imperative. Returning to Nazareth was what God required Jesus to do. Obedience brought Jesus to earth and He remained submissive to God in every way during His years of human life. He modeled submission so that we see the importance of obedience. Every request God made of Jesus was humbly and obediently followed, even to the point of death on a cross, so that every single one of us has the ability to approach God for eternal life through Him. Jesus knew death was imminent, as well as the excruciating separation from His Heavenly Father, yet He remained faithful to obey His call. The respect and humility Jesus exhibited for us also demonstrates how godly obedience, in God’s timing, extracts fullness of joy. When it does, it is not only for the benefit of one, but usually for many. Simple obedience leads to living life with an eternal perspective that is pleasing to God and offers a promise of blessing to those who follow Him through it, as Jesus said in Luke 11:8. ‘He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”’ Jesus possessed a heart fully yielded to God and He demonstrated how we can, too. As believers, we experience both our flesh, and the power of Jesus, within us. It is our option to choose which one to follow. Matthew 26:41 warns, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Jesus devoted His life to studying the word of God, looking to His Father for guidance, living with a humble and submissive heart, and obeying God’s calls regardless of the outcome for Himself. He aligned Himself with God and did not suffer from distractions of a world He was only traveling through. His heart was fixed above and His hands and feet followed. He desired to do the work purposed for Him. How do we live the same way? How do we walk like Jesus without fear? By studying and clinging to the teachings of Jesus. Start by looking Up to the Lord and placing Him first. So often, believers are paralyzed because it is hard to step into the unknown. Fear should be a warning to us that we are looking to self. Fear does not come from God, unless it is a healthy reaction to danger. When I feel fear, I immediately step back and assess what I am doing. If the underlying belief and motivation driving my action or desire can stand against scripture without shame, and I have counseled God about what I am considering, I turn the fear into fuel that births obedience. If God has placed a thought in me that will honor or glorify Him and fear is present, I know the father of lies is attempting to keep me from following the Father of Light and Truth. As believers, we have the power of the Holy Spirit living within us. I don’t value or believe present day quotes that challenge us to “be strong” or that “we can do it.” These are meaningless and distracting words strung together that give Satan glee each time we mutter them to ourselves or each other. Why would a believer desire to stand on our own limited ability? With Jesus within us, we have unlimited strength and power ever present. He waits for us to lean on Him, to ask Him to carry us. Through the strength and wisdom of the Holy Spirit, combined with God’s Holy word, the Bible, and the valuable access we have to God through prayer, we are armed for any battle. Once we have accepted Jesus as our Savior and are living with the intent of growing closer to Christ, we are already taking steps of obedience. The Holy Spirit within us enables us to believe and to live for Jesus, yet we still have the choice as to whether we will yield and allow Christ to be the ruler of our heart and life each moment. As we draw nearer to Him, He draws nearer to us. Our spirit and heart are open and ready to accept our humble position at God’s feet and our heart is pliable to acknowledge the power of God and His sovereignty. Will we submit? As we grow in the Lord, our thoughts and actions better match the desires He created for us. A request from God becomes a catalyst to blessing through our submissiveness. My obedience demonstrates to God that my heart trusts and desires His will. When we view obedience through an eternal perspective, we see that humble obedience affects our life, the lives of others around us, and even the lives of strangers. In contrast, so does disobedience. Just like ripple effects of a pebble on water, our decision to obey or disobey God can bless or cripple the spiritual walk and relationships of others. Obedience blesses; disobedience curses. Our present, as well as future is altered by our daily choices. What will our spouse, children, grandchildren, neighbors, co-workers, family members, etc. reap from our actions? Or what will they have to contend with? In what ways have we enabled them to live a life full of blessings? Or have we set them up for a life stunted by condemnation? Obedience can be easy. Most often, it requires sacrifice. It always demands a humble and submissive heart. It took me years of following Christ to finally absorb at a deep level that yielding to His desires brings the sweetest fruit. The God of the Universe created me with intimate needs and desires combined with gifts He placed inside me for specific reasons that only He understands. I have discovered that as I follow where He leads, joy and peace capture my spirit. I don’t have to know where the road leads. I just have to follow His direction. Instead of looking ahead or behind, my greatest blessings are found in looking straight Up to the only One who knows where my heart truly desires to go and where He can use me for the good of His kingdom. One of the beautiful blessings about obedience is in knowing that it looks different for every one of us. To obey Jesus means that we willingly and lovingly submit to His authority and will for our life. It means that we look forward to seeing where our life will lead and what beautiful and uniquely created desires He will draw from us. Most often, we never even knew they were in our heart because He opens our eyes and hearts to delighting in Him and loving others more than ourselves. Thank you for listening to this episode of the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 003 Obedience Listen to Episode Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #003 - Obedience Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. So many topics are swirling in my mind, vying for attention, trying to be the one we are going to focus on. I don’t know whether it’s because obedience is one of my favorite themes and life goals, but I keep returning to humility, submissiveness, and respect for God. I deeply treasure how I have watched those qualities grow in my children. My youngest daughter lived without even hearing the name of Jesus for most of her life. We adopted her when she was 9 years old, then consistently began filling her empty spiritual reservoir with love and reverence for Jesus. Seeing us live out our beliefs and hearing us speak and teach of Jesus ultimately led her to accept Him as her Savior this past summer. My daughters, Brooklyn and Marissa truly enjoy our daily Bible studies together. I see God working in and changing each of us steadily as we continue committing part of our days to Him. One of the most rewarding parts for me is knowing that the girls don’t limit their spiritual development to one portion of the day. They understand that their relationship with Jesus is their responsibility. In order to grow and mature their walk, they must commit to the Heavenly Father individually, by making private and quiet time with God a personal priority and communication with God through prayer, an active and on-going conversation each day. When I promised God that I would raise each of them to know, love, and honor Him, I knew it was a solemn choice and a task I was completely unable to manage on my own. This is my second time raising a family, and although I was not a bad mother the first time, I did not have the spiritual maturity I have since developed. I married my husband soon after we graduated from high school. I was 17 years old. He was 18. I was not a Christian. I loved God, but never knew the story of Jesus. We had our first baby, a daughter, when I was 18. Our second child, a son, was born when I was 21. I accepted Christ as my Savior a few months before I turned 22. I could not have loved either of our children any more than I did, yet I was not the Christian mother I wish I had been because I did not know Jesus or have the spiritual relationship with the Lord to have done so at that time. Although I raised them to know and love the Lord to the best of the ability I had at that time, I am a different mother now. I have intentionally matured as a woman and in my walk with Christ. I receive such joy from teaching the girls about Jesus and in continuing to mentor my grown son. By the time my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt in our early forties, we had a much stronger walk with Jesus and knew with a certainty that raising our child for Him would be a priority. It was such a treasure to know that God was entrusting us to begin a second family. We wanted to please Him with the spiritual choices we made and practiced. Despite a few people telling us we were too old to start another family, and that we should keep working and saving for retirement, we kept our hearts and minds focused on the Lord and His desire and directive for us. When we brought home our ten month old baby girl from China, my heart was awakened to the power of obedience despite circumstances, and the delight that follows it. Psalm 47:1 says it best, “Clap your hands, all you nations; and shout to God with cries of joy.” Blindly stepping out in obedience brought undiluted and absolutely precious joy. It was the first time I knew for certain that God had called me to fully trust and submit to His will with a plan I had never dreamed of. Allowing God to orchestrate a new direction and provide in absolutely every way deepened my faith and ability to understand God’s heart. My Heavenly Father began showing me the desires He had created in me. Simply hearing and trusting Him, then obeying at any cost, changed my life. It transformed each member of our family in personal ways. When God was gracious enough to ask us to adopt again ten years later, we brought home our 9 year old daughter. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” The words are so true. With such pure blessing coming from obedience, what makes it so hard for Christians to obey? Is it fear? Or is it the fact that we have free will and think we will make time for what God asks later? Maybe we don’t want what God requires and think we know better? I think often we step on the fast-paced treadmill of life and allow ourselves to be pushed along, falsely pacified by the thought that we have tomorrow. We don’t recognize the blindness of our eyes and hearts, or the subtle deceit we invite into our life by placing God behind us instead of before us. How many gifts and blessings do we miss or lose because we don’t step out in obedience? Only God knows. How do we train ourselves to experience lives of submission that are pleasing to God? Jesus is the answer. Although the Bible doesn’t tell us much about Jesus as a child, we do gain important insight about obedience in Luke 2. When Jesus was just 12 years old, He went to Jerusalem with His parents for the Feast of the Passover. When the family left to return home, however, Jesus stayed behind without His family knowing. It was three days before His parents returned and found Him at the temple, sitting in the midst of teachers. The Son of God was absorbed in listening to them and in asking questions of His own. All who heard Him were astounded at His answers and understanding. Yet Jesus’ mother could not understand why her son had committed this act of disobedience against them. They had anxiously searched for Him. When Mary asked Jesus why He had done this to them, Jesus calmly asked her, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” These words of Jesus prove that He knew His identity as the Son of God. How incredibly challenging, it must have been for Mary to raise God’s divine son! The next verse, however, clearly shows that Jesus submitted to His earthly parents when He left Jerusalem to return to Nazareth with His family. God in human flesh respected the call to yield to earthly parents, as instructed in the Ten Commandments through Exodus 20:12a. “Honor your father and mother.” Submission takes concentrated effort, as well as love and reverence for the Heavenly Father. Jesus first made the decision to remain in Jerusalem to learn of God and to submit to His Heavenly Father, but then acknowledged that obedience to His earthly parents was imperative. Returning to Nazareth was what God required Jesus to do. Obedience brought Jesus to earth and He remained submissive to God in every way during His years of human life. He modeled submission so that we see the importance of obedience. Every request God made of Jesus was humbly and obediently followed, even to the point of death on a cross, so that every single one of us has the ability to approach God for eternal life through Him. Jesus knew death was imminent, as well as the excruciating separation from His Heavenly Father, yet He remained faithful to obey His call. The respect and humility Jesus exhibited for us also demonstrates how godly obedience, in God’s timing, extracts fullness of joy. When it does, it is not only for the benefit of one, but usually for many. Simple obedience leads to living life with an eternal perspective that is pleasing to God and offers a promise of blessing to those who follow Him through it, as Jesus said in Luke 11:8. ‘He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”’ Jesus possessed a heart fully yielded to God and He demonstrated how we can, too. As believers, we experience both our flesh, and the power of Jesus, within us. It is our option to choose which one to follow. Matthew 26:41 warns, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Jesus devoted His life to studying the word of God, looking to His Father for guidance, living with a humble and submissive heart, and obeying God’s calls regardless of the outcome for Himself. He aligned Himself with God and did not suffer from distractions of a world He was only traveling through. His heart was fixed above and His hands and feet followed. He desired to do the work purposed for Him. How do we live the same way? How do we walk like Jesus without fear? By studying and clinging to the teachings of Jesus. Start by looking Up to the Lord and placing Him first. So often, believers are paralyzed because it is hard to step into the unknown. Fear should be a warning to us that we are looking to self. Fear does not come from God, unless it is a healthy reaction to danger. When I feel fear, I immediately step back and assess what I am doing. If the underlying belief and motivation driving my action or desire can stand against scripture without shame, and I have counseled God about what I am considering, I turn the fear into fuel that births obedience. If God has placed a thought in me that will honor or glorify Him and fear is present, I know the father of lies is attempting to keep me from following the Father of Light and Truth. As believers, we have the power of the Holy Spirit living within us. I don’t value or believe present day quotes that challenge us to “be strong” or that “we can do it.” These are meaningless and distracting words strung together that give Satan glee each time we mutter them to ourselves or each other. Why would a believer desire to stand on our own limited ability? With Jesus within us, we have unlimited strength and power ever present. He waits for us to lean on Him, to ask Him to carry us. Through the strength and wisdom of the Holy Spirit, combined with God’s Holy word, the Bible, and the valuable access we have to God through prayer, we are armed for any battle. Once we have accepted Jesus as our Savior and are living with the intent of growing closer to Christ, we are already taking steps of obedience. The Holy Spirit within us enables us to believe and to live for Jesus, yet we still have the choice as to whether we will yield and allow Christ to be the ruler of our heart and life each moment. As we draw nearer to Him, He draws nearer to us. Our spirit and heart are open and ready to accept our humble position at God’s feet and our heart is pliable to acknowledge the power of God and His sovereignty. Will we submit? As we grow in the Lord, our thoughts and actions better match the desires He created for us. A request from God becomes a catalyst to blessing through our submissiveness. My obedience demonstrates to God that my heart trusts and desires His will. When we view obedience through an eternal perspective, we see that humble obedience affects our life, the lives of others around us, and even the lives of strangers. In contrast, so does disobedience. Just like ripple effects of a pebble on water, our decision to obey or disobey God can bless or cripple the spiritual walk and relationships of others. Obedience blesses; disobedience curses. Our present, as well as future is altered by our daily choices. What will our spouse, children, grandchildren, neighbors, co-workers, family members, etc. reap from our actions? Or what will they have to contend with? In what ways have we enabled them to live a life full of blessings? Or have we set them up for a life stunted by condemnation? Obedience can be easy. Most often, it requires sacrifice. It always demands a humble and submissive heart. It took me years of following Christ to finally absorb at a deep level that yielding to His desires brings the sweetest fruit. The God of the Universe created me with intimate needs and desires combined with gifts He placed inside me for specific reasons that only He understands. I have discovered that as I follow where He leads, joy and peace capture my spirit. I don’t have to know where the road leads. I just have to follow His direction. Instead of looking ahead or behind, my greatest blessings are found in looking straight Up to the only One who knows where my heart truly desires to go and where He can use me for the good of His kingdom. One of the beautiful blessings about obedience is in knowing that it looks different for every one of us. To obey Jesus means that we willingly and lovingly submit to His authority and will for our life. It means that we look forward to seeing where our life will lead and what beautiful and uniquely created desires He will draw from us. Most often, we never even knew they were in our heart because He opens our eyes and hearts to delighting in Him and loving others more than ourselves. Thank you for listening to this episode of the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #031 – An Illuminated Life Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. As I work on this podcast, I am in awe of the work and blessings God has shined in my life over the last two weeks. Our family has had some challenges. But God carried us through every one of them. Does that mean we are now free of hardships or obstacles? Certainly not. But each time God graces us with provisions for one of them, we are strengthened and reminded of His ever-present goodness in our life, whether we recognize it at the time or not. Last night I spent time just sitting at God’s feet. As I reflected over events of the day, I thanked Him for several opportunities that proved He was with me, and with my family. I had encountered a few opportunities where I could have easily grown frustrated or fearful over the last 24 hours, but God never let my mind travel there. He brought quick resolutions to my every need. I was so thankful for all of it that I simply had to sit and be with Him, thanking and praising Him. Mostly, I just wanted to be in His presence. Do you make time to rest in Him and simply sit at His feet? The year 2020 has been filled with challenges for everyone. We have been provided countless moments to fall in front of the Lord. I don’t know anyone who has not been affected by events taking place this year. Regardless of where your opinion sits on the multitude of issues we have seen, the truth stands that it has been a year for each of us to evaluate ourselves and where we stand with God. Our relationship with Jesus reveals and affects everything about us. How have the 2020 changes affected your faith? How have the changes and events affected your mental state? Your health? Your temperament? Your work? Your lifestyle? The way you treat your family? The way you treat others? The way you let others affect you? I’ve seen so much anger, frustration, bitterness, and misunderstandings on social media. Why? I believe it is because everything goes back to the condition of our hearts. When we don’t know Jesus, we can’t show Jesus. When we do know Him, however, the responsibility is high. We must be the light that flickers into the spirit of those around us in a very dark world. That light is not lit by our power, but by the omnipotence of the Holy Spirit living inside us. Jesus inside our flesh. We must slow down and rest in Him before reacting to the chaos of this world. Luke 8:16-18 says, “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.” Do you know what one of the best lessons I have learned from facing an obstacle was? Besides watching God work, that is. It has been being able to share with others what He has done in my life and helping them to rest in Him. One of favorite things to do is share God stories. Because the Holy Spirit is alive inside of me, the light of Jesus should illuminate everything about me. Because of my weak and sinful flesh, I do not always shine Him the way that I should, but each moment I endeavor to let Him have His will over me. All of us can, and should, be doing better. If Jesus is alive inside us, we need to allow Him to spread through everything we do and are. It is our duty to allow Him to radiate His light through us and reach others. Our joy through Him should be made public, not be hidden in any way. We should attract others to Him because of the peaceful radiance they feel and see emanating through us. We must seek to use the opportunities we receive to rest in God’s arms or lay at His feet as the foundation for serving Him well and bring others to Him because of them. Simply doing for God is not what I mean. We must allow Him to react within us and guide our fears, passions, needs, desires, and actions. If we do not apply what He has provided to and for us as a way to spread Him to others who do not know Him, or to those who need encouragement and reminders of His strength and provision, we have shoved the light under the bed or placed a cover over it. When we utilize the spiritual muscles God is growing in us to lift those around us up to Him, we become stronger in our own faith. Just like exercising, our faith can grow weak and out of shape when we do not remember to allow God to penetrate every area of us and work to mature our trust and faith in Him daily. As we allow Christ to work in us, we develop a mind and spirit that links to His. We understand and appreciate even more of what Jesus is, and has done, for us. He enables us to mature a deeper fellowship with Him and gives us boldness in sharing Him with others. In contrast, when we do not allow Him to work in us and we do not seek a growing relationship, our communication weakens, similar to an unused muscle left to atrophy. I believe this has been the year to make certain we boldly stand for Christ, allowing His light to shine in proper and authentic ways. If others seek to tear us down, criticize, or complain, we must pray for them. When we hear others criticize our president, for example, regardless of what our opinion of him is, we should pray for Him and the person speaking poorly of him. I was extremely saddened this week when I saw on social media that when the President Trump lost his brother, people tweeted that the wrong Trump died. When did our country turn so boldly evil and hateful? God has authorized specific people to be in power. His word clearly instructs us in Romans 13:1-2 to “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” When the light exists in us and is powered by the One true light source by our faithful and true relationship with Jesus, there is no room or excuse for darkness. We must repent as individuals and as a nation, lay at His feet, soaking in His love, light, strength, and guidance to continue moving through a world increasingly corrupt. We are not without hope. We just have to claim His and believe it, then move boldly forward in it without excuse or relying on our feeble strength. Are you ready? What are the best ways to move forward shining His light in the way He desires? 1. Know Jesus as Savior. 2. Read God’s word. 3. Seek Him and deepen your walk and relationship with Him. 4. Ask God to illuminate your mind with His truths. 5. Pray to God for your relationship with Him to be healthy and pure. 6. Pray for others, especially those who hurt you and anger you. 7. Repeat each step – every day. Each one of us, myself included must truly stop and make time for what is important. Merciful Heavenly Father, please help us. Remind us daily to look Up to You. For You are the One we must rely on. Everything in this world that we believe to be important will fade away and You will be left standing on the throne we bow to. God, let us feel the urgency and act on it by allowing You to direct and carry us through each moment in ways that shine and reflect Your love, strength, truth, and compassion. Let our hearts and minds suffer for what pains You and recognize and move in the ways You uniquely call us to, allowing You to act through us, giving us the words and abilities needed. Lord, our time here is short. Help us remember that and truly live each day with an eternal perspective that drives us to You and brings others with us. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Right now, because this podcast is new, listeners can’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. You can help them find it by leaving a quick review and rating for the show and by sharing about the podcast on social media or word of mouth. Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 031 An Illuminated Life Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #031 – An Illuminated Life Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. As I work on this podcast, I am in awe of the work and blessings God has shined in my life over the last two weeks. Our family has had some challenges. But God carried us through every one of them. Does that mean we are now free of hardships or obstacles? Certainly not. But each time God graces us with provisions for one of them, we are strengthened and reminded of His ever-present goodness in our life, whether we recognize it at the time or not. Last night I spent time just sitting at God’s feet. As I reflected over events of the day, I thanked Him for several opportunities that proved He was with me, and with my family. I had encountered a few opportunities where I could have easily grown frustrated or fearful over the last 24 hours, but God never let my mind travel there. He brought quick resolutions to my every need. I was so thankful for all of it that I simply had to sit and be with Him, thanking and praising Him. Mostly, I just wanted to be in His presence. Do you make time to rest in Him and simply sit at His feet? The year 2020 has been filled with challenges for everyone. We have been provided countless moments to fall in front of the Lord. I don’t know anyone who has not been affected by events taking place this year. Regardless of where your opinion sits on the multitude of issues we have seen, the truth stands that it has been a year for each of us to evaluate ourselves and where we stand with God. Our relationship with Jesus reveals and affects everything about us. How have the 2020 changes affected your faith? How have the changes and events affected your mental state? Your health? Your temperament? Your work? Your lifestyle? The way you treat your family? The way you treat others? The way you let others affect you? I’ve seen so much anger, frustration, bitterness, and misunderstandings on social media. Why? I believe it is because everything goes back to the condition of our hearts. When we don’t know Jesus, we can’t show Jesus. When we do know Him, however, the responsibility is high. We must be the light that flickers into the spirit of those around us in a very dark world. That light is not lit by our power, but by the omnipotence of the Holy Spirit living inside us. Jesus inside our flesh. We must slow down and rest in Him before reacting to the chaos of this world. Luke 8:16-18 says, “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.” Do you know what one of the best lessons I have learned from facing an obstacle was? Besides watching God work, that is. It has been being able to share with others what He has done in my life and helping them to rest in Him. One of favorite things to do is share God stories. Because the Holy Spirit is alive inside of me, the light of Jesus should illuminate everything about me. Because of my weak and sinful flesh, I do not always shine Him the way that I should, but each moment I endeavor to let Him have His will over me. All of us can, and should, be doing better. If Jesus is alive inside us, we need to allow Him to spread through everything we do and are. It is our duty to allow Him to radiate His light through us and reach others. Our joy through Him should be made public, not be hidden in any way. We should attract others to Him because of the peaceful radiance they feel and see emanating through us. We must seek to use the opportunities we receive to rest in God’s arms or lay at His feet as the foundation for serving Him well and bring others to Him because of them. Simply doing for God is not what I mean. We must allow Him to react within us and guide our fears, passions, needs, desires, and actions. If we do not apply what He has provided to and for us as a way to spread Him to others who do not know Him, or to those who need encouragement and reminders of His strength and provision, we have shoved the light under the bed or placed a cover over it. When we utilize the spiritual muscles God is growing in us to lift those around us up to Him, we become stronger in our own faith. Just like exercising, our faith can grow weak and out of shape when we do not remember to allow God to penetrate every area of us and work to mature our trust and faith in Him daily. As we allow Christ to work in us, we develop a mind and spirit that links to His. We understand and appreciate even more of what Jesus is, and has done, for us. He enables us to mature a deeper fellowship with Him and gives us boldness in sharing Him with others. In contrast, when we do not allow Him to work in us and we do not seek a growing relationship, our communication weakens, similar to an unused muscle left to atrophy. I believe this has been the year to make certain we boldly stand for Christ, allowing His light to shine in proper and authentic ways. If others seek to tear us down, criticize, or complain, we must pray for them. When we hear others criticize our president, for example, regardless of what our opinion of him is, we should pray for Him and the person speaking poorly of him. I was extremely saddened this week when I saw on social media that when the President Trump lost his brother, people tweeted that the wrong Trump died. When did our country turn so boldly evil and hateful? God has authorized specific people to be in power. His word clearly instructs us in Romans 13:1-2 to “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” When the light exists in us and is powered by the One true light source by our faithful and true relationship with Jesus, there is no room or excuse for darkness. We must repent as individuals and as a nation, lay at His feet, soaking in His love, light, strength, and guidance to continue moving through a world increasingly corrupt. We are not without hope. We just have to claim His and believe it, then move boldly forward in it without excuse or relying on our feeble strength. Are you ready? What are the best ways to move forward shining His light in the way He desires? 1. Know Jesus as Savior. 2. Read God’s word. 3. Seek Him and deepen your walk and relationship with Him. 4. Ask God to illuminate your mind with His truths. 5. Pray to God for your relationship with Him to be healthy and pure. 6. Pray for others, especially those who hurt you and anger you. 7. Repeat each step – every day. Each one of us, myself included must truly stop and make time for what is important. Merciful Heavenly Father, please help us. Remind us daily to look Up to You. For You are the One we must rely on. Everything in this world that we believe to be important will fade away and You will be left standing on the throne we bow to. God, let us feel the urgency and act on it by allowing You to direct and carry us through each moment in ways that shine and reflect Your love, strength, truth, and compassion. Let our hearts and minds suffer for what pains You and recognize and move in the ways You uniquely call us to, allowing You to act through us, giving us the words and abilities needed. Lord, our time here is short. Help us remember that and truly live each day with an eternal perspective that drives us to You and brings others with us. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Right now, because this podcast is new, listeners can’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. You can help them find it by leaving a quick review and rating for the show and by sharing about the podcast on social media or word of mouth. Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #039 – Family With A Mission Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. I’m so happy to bring this episode to you today. Before I get to the real news in the podcast, though, I want to share what I believe to be very exciting news! My website is about to launch! If you visit terrihitt.com today, you go ahead and enter your name and email address so that you will be notified when the site is fully launched. At that time you will be able to receive some beautiful and helpful free resources to encourage and equip you to walk in a more mature relationship with God. The best part? You also easy get access to my blog and past podcasts through the website and more resources and material will continue to be added. I am truly thrilled to be able to begin presenting material that I believe God prompted me to write that I pray will speak to your heart as it has mine. Time spent with God is never wasted. Now, back to the episode. Today, I have something a little different to discuss. I think I’ve shared before how much I love to listen to podcasts. Long before God called me to begin the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast, I was already listening to a variety of others when I got ready in the mornings or cleaned house. Quite a few months ago, I was listening to the Building A StoryBrand podcast, and was inspired by one of the business episodes I listened to, to create a personal set of Core Christian Family Values, as well as Vision and Mission statements. During the time we were stuck at home during Covid isolation in March or April, my family and I sat together and brain-stormed about what we wanted our statements to be. The idea is to use them to help us move more closely together, in unison, to the goal that we feel Jesus has set for us as a family unit. I want to mention that our family has made very intentional steps to make Jesus known in our home and to mentor our daughters to know Him. While our girls each have a personal relationship with Jesus, it is our goal to enable them to continue growing and deepening their walk with God through Jesus and to establish strong faith that shines and follows where God leads them in life. However, we are always looking for ways to make not only their walk stronger, but the faith and walk of our entire family, including our extended members, such as my son and grandson. With this end goal as my deepest desire, I often ponder new ways to establish eternal and permanent steps to walk more closely with our Heavenly Father in very constructive ways. Just like a business model will institute core values, as well as a vision and mission statement, families can greatly benefit from the guidance this set of tools provides. I believe Christian families who deeply desire to pattern an eternal lifestyle for their children and home will benefit enormously from this small step. What gets super exciting for me is the reason for them. Listen to this. The vision statement describes what the organization will look like in the future. A mission statement, on the other hand, describes what an organization does, and for whom. Did you catch that? When I thought about it, I was really fired up! How greatly these tools can be used to guide and grow families together in the same, eternal direction! If the vision statement describes what the family will look like in the future, it offers us an opportunity to establish exactly who and how we want to be for Jesus. How amazing! Of course, we will have a greater chance of pleasing God with this clear plan in the front of our mind and heart. It serves as a guiding compass straight north to the heart of our Father. Next, is the mission statement. It is used to establish what the family does and for whom, and we know that there is no greater “whom” than the Great I AM! Also shaped at the same time were the core values that completed the statements we created. Core values are what support the vision, shape the culture and reflect what our family values. Our core values also educate others outside our home, those we come into contact with during the course of different days, showing what our family holds dear. The core values also help to clarify the identity of our family, hopefully brightly shining Christ and our desire to be more like Him. We also chose to add a key verse that we each agree sets the heart and tone for our family, as well as for each of us, as individuals. We chose to call our completed project, “Hitt Family Principles.” Of course, you can choose your own name, and some may select to call theirs a creed or something similar. I prefer “principles” because the meaning of the word speaks to my heart. The definition of the word principles means “an accepted or professed rule of action or conduct, a person of good moral principles, a fundamental, primary, or general law or truth from which others are derived.” I felt this definition perfectly explained what we are trying to put together to ensure that we live for God in the highest ways we can. Although there are many ways families could use this exercise, I will share what we did. Please feel free to change things to suit the style and needs of your family. While the wording of our mission and vision statements could have been reworked or edited to sound better, I am pleased to present them now as statements the four of us crafted together. How important that is! The words reflect the heart and desires we want to craft together in our journey through life. I was truly filled with joy to do this activity together and to peek inside the hearts of my husband and children while we worked. These are the principles our family came up with. Core Value: We strive to live with eternal perspective through Jesus. Vision Statement: To love, trust, honor, and obey Jesus and grow in faith through Him. Mission Statement: Our family strives to honor God, intentionally pursue God, and show love and respect to Him, and others, while remaining obedient to Him. Key Verse: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5 When a family has worked together to set core values, a vision and mission statement, and a key verse that signifies a command or promise from God that sets the tone for you as individuals and a unit, it becomes a permanent guide to check your heart and actions against. No matter how old your children get, if you are a family that works to grow in the Lord together, you will face challenges and opportunities with wisdom and strength, wearing the armor of God as protection against the storms of life. There is nothing more important than setting a firm foundation for our children and family. Creating a clear set of family principles together is one step in forming an atmosphere of love, worship, and reverence for God in your home. The set of principles you create will be a template on which decisions will be made that determine the direction of your family, keep individual goals aligned with what is pleasing to God, and for evaluation and improvement of individual journeys with the Lord. Ecclesiastes 6:12 says, “For who knows what is good for man while he lives the few days of his vain life, which he passes like a shadow? For who can tell man what will be after him under the sun?” None of us know the number of our days. Every moment we use to praise God with our family and instruct our children and grandchildren to know, love, honor, and obey the Lord is like depositing gold in a treasure chest. There is nothing better we can devote our time to. I’d love to share a few verses that speak to the importance of focusing our intentions and actions in eternal ways. James 4:14 says, “Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” Psalm 39:5 says, “You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.” Psalm 144:4 says, “Man is like a breath; His days are like a passing shadow.” 1 Peter 1:7 says, “That the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Father God, only You know the number of our days. Help us to make each one we have count as blessings to You, bringing us nearer to Your heart and purpose for us. We thank you for the relationship You crave with each one of us. Help us focus on knowing and loving You more and modeling the joy You place inside us for others to be attracted to You. Give us Your fullness of joy as we seek and abide in You. Help us grow our families in the way You desire and let us mentor and protect the gentle spirit you place in our children so that they long for and follow You above all else. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them and take time to leave a quick rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 039 Family With A Mission Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #039 – Family With A Mission Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. I’m so happy to bring this episode to you today. Before I get to the real news in the podcast, though, I want to share what I believe to be very exciting news! My website is about to launch! If you visit terrihitt.com today, you go ahead and enter your name and email address so that you will be notified when the site is fully launched. At that time you will be able to receive some beautiful and helpful free resources to encourage and equip you to walk in a more mature relationship with God. The best part? You also easy get access to my blog and past podcasts through the website and more resources and material will continue to be added. I am truly thrilled to be able to begin presenting material that I believe God prompted me to write that I pray will speak to your heart as it has mine. Time spent with God is never wasted. Now, back to the episode. Today, I have something a little different to discuss. I think I’ve shared before how much I love to listen to podcasts. Long before God called me to begin the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast, I was already listening to a variety of others when I got ready in the mornings or cleaned house. Quite a few months ago, I was listening to the Building A StoryBrand podcast, and was inspired by one of the business episodes I listened to, to create a personal set of Core Christian Family Values, as well as Vision and Mission statements. During the time we were stuck at home during Covid isolation in March or April, my family and I sat together and brain-stormed about what we wanted our statements to be. The idea is to use them to help us move more closely together, in unison, to the goal that we feel Jesus has set for us as a family unit. I want to mention that our family has made very intentional steps to make Jesus known in our home and to mentor our daughters to know Him. While our girls each have a personal relationship with Jesus, it is our goal to enable them to continue growing and deepening their walk with God through Jesus and to establish strong faith that shines and follows where God leads them in life. However, we are always looking for ways to make not only their walk stronger, but the faith and walk of our entire family, including our extended members, such as my son and grandson. With this end goal as my deepest desire, I often ponder new ways to establish eternal and permanent steps to walk more closely with our Heavenly Father in very constructive ways. Just like a business model will institute core values, as well as a vision and mission statement, families can greatly benefit from the guidance this set of tools provides. I believe Christian families who deeply desire to pattern an eternal lifestyle for their children and home will benefit enormously from this small step. What gets super exciting for me is the reason for them. Listen to this. The vision statement describes what the organization will look like in the future. A mission statement, on the other hand, describes what an organization does, and for whom. Did you catch that? When I thought about it, I was really fired up! How greatly these tools can be used to guide and grow families together in the same, eternal direction! If the vision statement describes what the family will look like in the future, it offers us an opportunity to establish exactly who and how we want to be for Jesus. How amazing! Of course, we will have a greater chance of pleasing God with this clear plan in the front of our mind and heart. It serves as a guiding compass straight north to the heart of our Father. Next, is the mission statement. It is used to establish what the family does and for whom, and we know that there is no greater “whom” than the Great I AM! Also shaped at the same time were the core values that completed the statements we created. Core values are what support the vision, shape the culture and reflect what our family values. Our core values also educate others outside our home, those we come into contact with during the course of different days, showing what our family holds dear. The core values also help to clarify the identity of our family, hopefully brightly shining Christ and our desire to be more like Him. We also chose to add a key verse that we each agree sets the heart and tone for our family, as well as for each of us, as individuals. We chose to call our completed project, “Hitt Family Principles.” Of course, you can choose your own name, and some may select to call theirs a creed or something similar. I prefer “principles” because the meaning of the word speaks to my heart. The definition of the word principles means “an accepted or professed rule of action or conduct, a person of good moral principles, a fundamental, primary, or general law or truth from which others are derived.” I felt this definition perfectly explained what we are trying to put together to ensure that we live for God in the highest ways we can. Although there are many ways families could use this exercise, I will share what we did. Please feel free to change things to suit the style and needs of your family. While the wording of our mission and vision statements could have been reworked or edited to sound better, I am pleased to present them now as statements the four of us crafted together. How important that is! The words reflect the heart and desires we want to craft together in our journey through life. I was truly filled with joy to do this activity together and to peek inside the hearts of my husband and children while we worked. These are the principles our family came up with. Core Value: We strive to live with eternal perspective through Jesus. Vision Statement: To love, trust, honor, and obey Jesus and grow in faith through Him. Mission Statement: Our family strives to honor God, intentionally pursue God, and show love and respect to Him, and others, while remaining obedient to Him. Key Verse: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5 When a family has worked together to set core values, a vision and mission statement, and a key verse that signifies a command or promise from God that sets the tone for you as individuals and a unit, it becomes a permanent guide to check your heart and actions against. No matter how old your children get, if you are a family that works to grow in the Lord together, you will face challenges and opportunities with wisdom and strength, wearing the armor of God as protection against the storms of life. There is nothing more important than setting a firm foundation for our children and family. Creating a clear set of family principles together is one step in forming an atmosphere of love, worship, and reverence for God in your home. The set of principles you create will be a template on which decisions will be made that determine the direction of your family, keep individual goals aligned with what is pleasing to God, and for evaluation and improvement of individual journeys with the Lord. Ecclesiastes 6:12 says, “For who knows what is good for man while he lives the few days of his vain life, which he passes like a shadow? For who can tell man what will be after him under the sun?” None of us know the number of our days. Every moment we use to praise God with our family and instruct our children and grandchildren to know, love, honor, and obey the Lord is like depositing gold in a treasure chest. There is nothing better we can devote our time to. I’d love to share a few verses that speak to the importance of focusing our intentions and actions in eternal ways. James 4:14 says, “Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” Psalm 39:5 says, “You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.” Psalm 144:4 says, “Man is like a breath; His days are like a passing shadow.” 1 Peter 1:7 says, “That the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Father God, only You know the number of our days. Help us to make each one we have count as blessings to You, bringing us nearer to Your heart and purpose for us. We thank you for the relationship You crave with each one of us. Help us focus on knowing and loving You more and modeling the joy You place inside us for others to be attracted to You. Give us Your fullness of joy as we seek and abide in You. Help us grow our families in the way You desire and let us mentor and protect the gentle spirit you place in our children so that they long for and follow You above all else. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them and take time to leave a quick rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 090 - How Christ Can Help You and Your Children Discover True Identity Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 090 – How Christ Can Help You and Your Children Discover True Identity Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. Today I’m sharing an older episode from my previous podcast, Live With Eternal Perspective. Because this episode is a hit with the ladies in my Set-Apart Collective when we study identity, I thought it would be beneficial to share it on the Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast. Here’s the episode: At a recent family gathering, I listened to my adult son share childhood recollections with my younger daughters and grandson. It was a pleasure to hear how he remembered events and what his opinions were. I’ve always been fascinated by how people can live the same experiences and have such different emotions and memories. Listening to his recollections and thoughts allowed me to know him in a new way and appreciate the unique ways God wired him to view and participate in life. So, we’re going to start with memories. Let’s relax and think back. Do you remember something about your childhood that was always a pleasure to do? I don’t mean something you had to do. Did you have an interest that stirred you, motivated you, or set you apart from others? A passion? Was there a gift or calling you had to pursue because it seemed to complete you? What about your child? Is there something she does that is a type of identity marker? When my middle daughter was young, there were two things anyone who knew her would mention if they spoke of her. Dance and painting. Those who know my youngest daughter well would say designing and building with Legos. My oldest daughter had such wit and a quick sense of humor. I am a believer that it is a privilege and responsibility for parents to observe the inclinations and interests our children have. There is a connection between youth and exploration into what we are naturally drawn to. Observant parents will pay attention to these clues, along with the personality of their child. Through prayer and connection to them, we should find joy in assisting them to find what brings light to their spirit and could also be a source of income in the future, as well as an offering they can use to honor God with what He has bestowed to them. My adult son uses skills God gave him to be able to listen well, read body language, and connect with people as he serves them in sales. My youngest daughter crafts intricate designs and constructs buildings and cities with Legos and also has an amazing ability to streamline processes. My middle daughter is gifted visually and artistically with graphic design and through the use of paper, paint, and a brush, brings light and joyful artwork to others. She sees the world through the eyes of an artist and everything is more beautiful because of her vision. One of the biggest parenting joys I have is seeing and recognizing the passions, interests, and abilities God has crafted into each one of my children. Do you find it easier to observe and understand the God-gifted abilities your children possess, but perhaps not what you have yourself? I know it is more challenging for me. Although I always understood what I enjoyed and where I found peace and motivation, I was never able to comfortably or confidently acknowledge that I might have a talent in writing. To be very raw, I still don’t see a great ability, but I am leaning on the trust I have in God and the stirrings He places in my heart to accomplish through Him. I trust God will equip me to humbly follow where He leads to write simply and honestly about Him. What many people find challenging is to balance finding gifts or passions and connecting those talents and interests to enable them to fully express and use them for God. Even more important than finding and using the gifts God has given is learning to see ourselves as God views us and to understand how to navigate life in this world as He desires and calls us to . God wants us to learn the Truths He says about us. His desire is that we mature our walk with Him through deep relationship with Christ. As we build our esteem and life around who He says we are and what we can do through Him we discover godly identity. Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well .” If you don’t know who you are through Christ, you can’t model to your children where to find their identity. Instead, they will likely search and chase the culture and influences of this world. They’ll establish their identity based on who or what they see and hear the loudest. These days, by the time children are in middle school, and often grade school, many deal with suicide rates, nude photos, chat with dangerous strangers who attract and lead them away, and many have been exposed to pornography. These are topics we never want to hear associated with any person, let alone children. When a child (just like an adult), does not have a moral compass built on Christ, he is much more prone to seek whatever this world or his tell him . He will never find satisfaction or live with joy, hope, or peace. Matthew 6:33-34 says, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own .” You must have a true and maturing relationship with God through Jesus in order to recognize the need for your child to have the same. Psalm 63:1 says, “O God, You are my God; I earnestly search for You. My soul thirsts for You; my whole body longs for You in this parched and weary land where there is no water .” We were created for beautiful fellowship and communion with God . Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end .” God created us to desire Him . When we don’t seek Him, our spirit is never satisfied. Our beloved children have the same need for God created in them . If you do not intentionally nurture and instruct your children in a healthy and growing relationship with Christ, they will subconsciously absorb and become what others in this world show and tell - to value and believe. They will also likely find unhealthy ways to cope with stresses and disappointments in life. On the other hand, children who are raised in healthy, God-filled environments at home contain more joy and contentment, and are more optimistic, encouraging, resilient, and flexible. They are also less likely to be promiscuous, use drugs or alcohol, or be lured into or tempted by unsafe encounters, and are closer to parents and family than the average child. Your children, when raised to honor and follow Jesus in a thriving relationship, are also more likely to have wise self-control, habits, and behaviors. They are also more likely to seek godly wisdom over worldly advice. A growing concern today is the sexual orientation of children. Our educational system, as well as books, movies, television shows, music, and celebrities, push a godless agenda of choice and change on our innocent and naïve children. When we raise our children to know, respect, and understand God’s sovereignty, values, and truths, they will understand their God-given sexual identity and carry a sacred view of life - while maintaining respectful tolerance for family and community, even those who carry differing opinions. Children patterning life after Jesus do not look down on others who disagree and can have a conversation without harsh accusations or anger. Instead, they show empathy and respect while allowing others to make personal choices. However, children raised to know God’s views and values respectfully ask God to guide their choices so that He is the one they please and honor. Children who concentrate on growing a relationship with God through Jesus have a deeper respect for authority, are more likely to uphold truthfulness and integrity, dress modestly, respect self, and learn to view set-backs or hardships as opportunities to grow closer to God. They also establish and reinforce healthy and thriving coping behaviors or life skills. It is essential that you build your personal relationship with Jesus moment by moment. When He is important to you, when you delight in Him, His teachings, and your walk with Him, your child will also begin to place importance on relationship with Christ. Once you are growing our faith journey in genuine and fruitful ways, how do you encourage and enable your child to build their identity in Christ? There are multiple ways, but I will list 13 easy methods to begin with. 1. Let your child see you build relationship , not watch you follow a religion . Connections are built through authenticity, joy , and commitment . 2. Share why you hold certain beliefs. Back up your faith with God’s word and stories of His faithfulness. 3. Look for, and point out God, in simple moments of life. Include Him in all you are and do. Nature walks, Bible stories, and tying Him to life events are all easy ways to begin. 4. Develop routines and traditions that guide the entire family to the Lord. Our family made a Family Vision and Mission Statement. You can listen the Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast episode 039 “Family With A Mission,” to hear more about it. It’s also a portion of my Set-Apart Collective. 5. Create your own Family Mission Statement together. Listen to the input of your child and incorporate it into the statement. 6. Read the Bible and pray together daily. I don’t mean rote prayers that you check off your list at the end of the day, but develop relationship with each other and God through prayer together. 7. Let your children see you read your Bible during personal time, as well. Encourage them to do the same. 8. Pray for your children alone, but also in front of them. Encourage them to pray for you, too. 9. Show your children how you look to God in times of trouble so that they will do the same. 10. Let your children see you praise God in good times, too. 11. Teach them (by example) how to serve and honor God. Let them come with you when you serve (where appropriate) and let them choose places to serve so that you can work together. 12. Spend time with your children doing their love language. Work with the schedule of your family to create moments your child will remember. When they are attached and feel close to you, they will be more willing to desire a relationship with God. You will also be able to guide them more easily, because they will let you be privy to thoughts and feelings since you have a strong relationship they trust. Your opinions and guidance will be more important than that of peers. 13. Listen to your child. When you share a close relationship, they will be more likely to entrust questions, fears, joys, and doubts about God with you so that you can help them navigate faith, pray specifically, and help them flourish. Two verses from Proverbs give great hope for parents. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” Proverbs 29:17 says, “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire .” We cannot guarantee that our children will choose to follow Jesus, but we can ensure that we give them sincere, natural, positive, and faith-filled truths, experiences, and biblical scriptures to make Jesus known and to guide them straight to His feet. Godly character and integrity can be imparted to them through consistent, purposeful mentorship when we personally know, love, and strive to honor the Lord with our children. Then we prayerfully and consistently pursue Jesus in these ways over and over each day. Through easy and difficult times, through tears and smiles, we inhale Christ and exhale Him in beautiful ways moment by moment. Then we prayerfully and obediently trust God to do the work in their hearts. 1 Peter 5:2-3 says, “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock .” What a purposed privilege to parent children for God. Lamentations 3:22-23 says, “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” Remember, God did not allow you to parent His unique child because He knows you are fully equipped. God demands and desires that you trust in Him and allow Him to lead and equip you in every aspect of your parenting journey. Be on your knees daily with mind and heart turned to His every lead. God knows and understands everything about you and your child. He is the only one who can guide you in the ways you should go. He is fully equipped and able to handle every need that you, or your children, have. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ” One of my favorite parental instruction passages is Deuteronomy 6:6-9 , which says, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates .” God makes the holy importance of purposeful parenting for Him very clear. Psalm 78:1-7 says, “My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old— things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, His power, and the wonders He has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which He commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget His deeds but would keep His commands .” Jesus speaks the instruction so clearly in Matthew 19:14 . “But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven .” Likewise, Mark 9:42 says, “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.” Our glorious Father God, we need You so desperately. Thank you for Your guidance, love, and instruction. Parenting is the greatest and hardest joy You bestow on us. May we be more worthy of Your great gift because of our steadfast pursuit of You and our obedience to You. Help us understand Your desires and see the blessing of our children with Your loving eyes. Enable us to seek and find You in deeper ways daily and show us how to reach each child with Your heart and truths. May our children please and delight You, Father. May they find their identity through and in You. Keep them close and in Your perfect care. Give them Your wisdom and desires. May they be equipped and eager to show You, so that Your truths and commands will be known to, and followed by, future generations. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. I hope you enjoyed this episode from Live With Eternal Perspective. This is a sample portion of the coaching you receive in the Set-Apart Collective. Have you heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast? Do you wonder why I share it so often? It’s simply because I know the program works. If you’re ready to invest in the future of your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I deeply want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. Send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a no obligation, strategic 15 minute call to chat about your needs to see if the program is a right fit for you. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make your matter for eternity. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the changes we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 074 - Teach Your Children to Test What They Are Taught Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 074 - Teach Your Children to Test What They Are Taught Just this morning I was reading an article about critical thinking in the body of the church. At first the ideas and information seemed valid and accurate. However, I quickly found myself surprised by a slight wording shift in the tone as ideas and information began to sound “off.” I read a little more with my mind intently paying attention. I no longer skimmed the words, but sought to identify whether God’s words and wisdom were being revealed. The longer I read the more I detected the shift away from God’s truth. Instead, a worldly perspective opposite of God’s was exposed. Next, I checked the credentials of the author and found that they supported teachings I have not heard through Bible study or prayer. Thankful that God made the carefully cloaked deceit clear to me, I stopped reading the article. This is an example of the importance of knowing biblical truth. As parents, our careful scrutiny through biblical wisdom and understanding is the only way we can expect to properly present God’s truths to our watching children. It is the way we can have the ability to guide and guard their biblical critical thinking. If you aren’t actively studying God’s Word and intentionally teaching the truths of Christ to enable your children to develop critical thinking skills that pursue His godliness, the world will sway your children away from His truths. Every area of life is affected by whether you and your child have the ability to critically think through the biblical truths and lens of God. Is every area of life truly affected? What do you think? Consider the various areas in which believers should live in alignment with God’s truths. I’ll read through some and as you hear them, think about the validity of my statement. Would eternity be affected if you or your child didn’t have the ability to critically think through a biblical worldview with each topic? Bible Knowledge Family Lifestyle Desires Worship Gratitude Decisions Mindset Marriage Parenthood Deepening walk with God through relationship with Jesus Bible Study Understanding Bible Truths Understanding Bible stories Understanding current worldviews through a biblical lens Conversations/Questions/Personal Reflection Service Prayer Life Integration of faith and studies in school Mentor of Christ As we list these areas of life, do you see how each one carries the need to think with godly, critical, and biblical wisdom? Without this skill, you and your child may slowly conform to the pattern of this world before you realize the change. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will .” In a world where society promotes self-interests above all else and encourages doing “what feels good” and “living your own truth,” it is imperative that our children have intimate knowledge of God’s Word and the ability to center His wisdom as the foundation on which they measure and assess cultural messaging and personal feelings or emotions. As parents, we must also possess this ability and live with a biblical worldview daily for our children to witness and be taught with intention. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 says, “But test everything; hold fast what is good .” Without relation through Christ and the knowledge and understanding of God’s Holy Word, you and your children cannot critically think with the expectation that a biblically wise result will occur. As you navigate this world, hold fast to what is good , as stated in God’s Word. This will allow you to learn and grow in His knowledge, wisdom, and insight as you navigate this culture so opposite to our Heavenly Father’s truths. Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding .” Are you wondering how you can ensure your children develop biblical critical thinking skills? I believe it is first wise to consider that we and our children must realize people won’t stop to think critically with an eternal perspective worldview if we haven’t purposely trained our heart and mind in that manner. Proper biblical instruction and relationship with God through Jesus are the first steps to take in order to ensure that the Holy Spirit is alive within to bring needed discernment for higher level, godly critical thinking. It's also important to note that living a life devoted to slowing down instead of rushing is important. When we are rushed or forced to make fast decisions, we usually move with what is easiest or may react on impulse to save time. Also, teach your children that when something doesn’t make sense, or if they are confused or fearful, it is a signal that they must make time to pray, seek God’s wisdom through His Word, and speak with someone they trust to lead with godly advice. It’s also very important to test guidance with biblical discernment before you or your children allow the influence of another. Watch to see if their actions and words align with not only what they say they believe, but more importantly, what God’s Word says and calls. Matthew 24:4 – “And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray .” Help your children build the framework for establishing biblical critical thinking by teaching them to compare everything heard, seen, or taught against the Bible. Is the source of information godly? Is the source credible – not just through worldly expectations, but God’s? Is the source of information experienced in the Word of God and His truths? What is the motive and perspective of the source? Is the information the opinion of the source or is it fact backed by Scripture and/or biblical values? 1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world .” Most of what our children read and learn in school, see on television, hear in music, advertisements, and through peers or social media is worldly opinion clothed as fact. These man-made values often contain liberal, cultural doctrine woven throughout to make them enticing. Sometimes they may even carry a tiny bit of truth as defined by God, just to cause enough confusion in the mind of your child and they view it as fact. Just as Satan twisted God’s truth to Eve in the garden. Overall, public institutions don’t teach critical thinking, but instead push children through like they’re on an assembly line without allowing or encouraging the ability to think critically (and certainly not biblically). Students are graduating without absorbing and processing information through a biblical lens that produces godly discernment. Children and young adults are unable to differentiate between fact, fallacy, or opinion. Without aware parents who set the priority for their children to grasp the ability to think biblically and critically, students become adults living and processing life through flawed, worldly views. Public schools, as well as some private institutions, like to teach children to memorize or repeat facts learned through the instructor or read in a classroom textbook. Homework and drills enforce the ideas and trap the student to live a life of moving from one subject to another without needed time to absorb material and build a framework for critical thinking. Proverbs 14 :15 says, “The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.” Make a goal to teach your children how to think, not what to think. Especially when it comes to their relationship with Christ. Unless your children are taught to stand on the firm foundation of Jesus as the support on which to mature their walk with God, they will not learn the process of claiming faith through Christ and experience true freedom to live a holy life. As you live and mentor God’s truths to your children, and teach them the privilege of applying biblical critical reasoning, you enable them to mature their walk with Christ. You help them find the ability to critically think through a biblical lens, and grant them the privilege of navigating this fallen world with grace and hope bound through eternal perspective. Teach your children to use the mind God created for them to process material with reflective thinking that allows biblical consideration. This will lead to beliefs, actions, and reactions pleasing to Him. Remember, your child must be taught the ability to critically scrutinize ideals instead of passively accepting everything learned at pure face value. What takes residence in the heart has already lived in the mind. Make sure your children learn the truths of God and use them to assess what seems to be truth in this world. This will be a great motivator and protector of their beliefs and actions. John 8:32 says, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free .” Your child must be enabled and made aware to use the mind God created for His good, to draw upon, and reflect His wisdom when receiving information, identifying problems, analyzing ideas, creating solutions, and making connections. Your child will be empowered to use biblical discernment in complex and everyday challenges and not be swayed by peers, social media, cultural beliefs and practices, or fleshly desires. When identity and perspective are formed through the biblical, truth-filled lens of God your child is equipped to navigate this world with joy, peace, and a desire to discover what is good, pure, and true. He will be equipped and encouraged to live in a confusing world which sways him to accept the opposite of God’s desires. He’ll be far less likely to succumb to deceitful and harmful enticements. He shouldn’t be tempted to believe anything just because it’s popular and will use the mind God gave him to assess and extract God’s truths and teachings before making decisions. Firmly set in biblical truths and desires, your child will navigate life in this world with his heart and vision cast on eternity because he was taught to think critically and biblically. Dear Heavenly Father, Your mind is so far above our own. That we can critically think with even a small portion of Your wisdom, knowledge, and understanding is a gift beyond measure. Please help us to know You so intimately through study of your Word, prayer, and close fellowship with You that we raise children who seek and serve You through an eternal lens. Father, protect them and provide the critical thinking skills with a biblically based mindset that will honor and please You. May they walk in obedience to You because they have a love and respect borne from relationship through Christ. May they look at this world with appreciation for all You have given them, but yearn for eternal life with You. May their decisions and actions reflect biblical truths and values from You and show their desire for and knowledge of You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. If you enjoyed this episode and would like more information on how to teach critical thinking, I want to let you know that Purposed Parent/Connect Child Podcast Episode #23, “Teach Your Child Biblical Critical Thinking” is a practical source for godly information on this topic. Supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. I believe godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. Have you decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child? Would you like to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, not to repair a relationship? In the Set-Apart Collective, you will deepen your walk with Christ, learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective wait list is open now. The first group of women is currently growing together. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Introduction Episode #000 Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast. I’m Terri and you are listening to my Introductory Episode #000. I cannot believe I actually just said those words! Aren’t the things God calls us to do often very surprising and above our ability? At least I find that to be true in my life and this is definitely one of those times. Thank you for spending part of your day with me by listening to my first podcast episode. Sharing God stories and talking about Jesus are two of my favorite things to do with others. If you’re like me, and we were face-to-face, we would probably sip hot teas in a cute coffee shop while time slipped away unnoticed. One of my greatest joys and blessings is sharing what God has done in my life, hearing what He has done in yours, and also encouraging others to deepen their walk with Him. I truly believe part of my calling is to encourage, educate, and equip women to lead intentional lives by embracing an eternal perspective. Today I’ll talk more about what that means to me and why I started this podcast about it. By the way, it feels a little challenging to be the only person talking on this podcast, because I want the authenticity behind what I say to be recognized. I pray you’ll hear my heart behind the words and connect with the love I have for Jesus, and more importantly, the love He has for you. Being able to share ways that He has changed my life and promising you that He can change yours, too is a joy for me. I’ll be the main person sharing on this podcast, but I do also plan to have guests from time to time. One of the most important experiences I want to share today is how the deepest pain in my life so far became a catalyst for me to live intentionally and with eternal perspective. I know we’re supposed to live with our minds fixed on Jesus and eternity, and as a believer, I know that this world is just a passage for me. I am not meant to stay in this temporary dwelling. So let me back up a bit to before everything changed. Although I already understood that truth, and tried to keep it foremost in my heart, I didn’t in the way that I do now. It wasn’t that I blatantly disregarded God’s word. It’s just that life happens and it’s simple to move right along with all the demands and distractions we allow. Of course, sometimes I would stop and ponder the words written in Hebrews 13:14, “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come,” or the verse in Matthew 6:19-21 that states, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Each time I reflected on those verses, it would bring me a step closer to trying to live the way God calls us to. Don’t you appreciate the way God intimately works in each of us? He knows us so well! He loves us so deeply. Despite ourselves, He cares for us. It’s not that I was living a lifestyle that excluded God. I loved Him and was working to grow my faith walk and relationship daily. I was blessed with nice things I was grateful for, but they weren’t excessive. I didn’t try to store up extravagant treasures, but I know deep down I took too much for granted, even life itself, and sometimes I felt entitled to what I had. Take health insurance, for example. When the premiums kept rising, I complained that I wasn’t getting the benefits I used to, instead of rejoicing that I still had insurance. In His goodness, God is able to use events to guide us to Him in even deeper ways. I hadn’t kept eternity in the forefront of my mind and actions. Even though I attempted to, the active thought of me as an alien or stranger in this world was not embedded into my brain daily until I received a mindset shift when my oldest daughter died. Then, my perception of this world was altered. This world was no longer my home. During that immensely painful season of deep loss, God "lifted the veil" and showed me His face. My precious relationship with Jesus was elevated to an altar of faith. As I experienced this loss with Him, I continued growing and developing holier bonds of understanding and trust. My comfort was endless as He never left my side. As long as I continued to hold tightly to Him, not relying on support from others, or inside myself for strength, Jesus went above and beyond what I knew to expect because His care was deeply personal. No one else perfectly understood what I endured, except for Him. He didn’t just walk through each day with me; He cradled and carried me. I’m not saying a bereaving person should not allow others to help them, but simply that Jesus alone knew what I needed in each moment. When my precious daughter passed, God set me free from life on this earth. This place is no longer my home. My spirit now feels what my head thought it understood. I live with one foot on earth to do as He instructs, and one foot in heaven. I delight in being here with my beloved family. Yet, I know that I must listen intently to what God calls me to. He must work His purposes through me. Eternal perspective is beautifully multi-faceted, it’s not just a lifestyle directive we read about in the Bible and think we interpret and attempt to live. God touched the depths of my heart in new ways that my eyes couldn't see and my ears could not hear previously. Every moment, even when I make mistakes, is a miraculous opportunity to live in a way that moves me, and others, to a deeper relationship with Jesus. I am not guaranteed another second of life. Living with eternal perspective is truly in the forefront of my mind and intentions. I am no longer deceived. Everything that happens to me is viewed through an eternal perspective that also affects everyone around me. After my beloved daughter died, I received extreme comfort in knowing that she was with Jesus. This drove home the impact of including others in my eternal viewpoint. Before my daughter died, when I pondered the definition of eternal perspective, I knew not to store treasures on earth, but to look heavenward. I understood that I was to share the gospel. Those commands are basics in Christianity. What makes it different for me now is that I also keep in the forefront of my mind just how my actions and words can affect the eternal life of another person. Every reaction and word I speak has eternal repercussions for someone else. Of course, I knew it before, but now that God has shifted His wisdom in my heart and renewed my mind, I see more clearly just how easily our own emotions and histories can cloud human reactions. I now purposely attempt to give each emotion and reaction to God before responding or speaking to others. Living with this different viewpoint makes it so much easier to sincerely care more deeply about how everything I do can be shaped to better impact the life of another for Christ. As I raise my younger children, I see clearly how what I do becomes who they are. I knew it before, but Jesus continues to drive the point home to me even more. Here’s a story that may better illustrate what I mean. One day we were on our way home from speech therapy with my youngest daughter. It was hours past lunch time and I was hungry. We had another appointment in a couple of hours and all I could think about was getting food in the girls and me before we had to head out again. I decided to stop at a Subway restaurant on the way home. Because of allergies, I can’t eat it, but the girls love it. I hoped we could run in, get the food, take it home, and I would fix myself something while they ate. The only potential flaw with this solution was that Subway can be SO sloooow. Of course, when we pulled into the parking lot and looked through the window, we could see customers already in line. Another car pulled in beside us. I told my teen to get out quickly and get inside before the other people got in line before us. My plan was for her to run in to get the food while I waited in the car with our youngest. After I spoke, I noticed she started moving a little slower than before. “Hurry,” I reminded her as my stomach growled. “Mom,” she said as she looked at me with disappointment and irritation in her eyes and voice. “Don’t you think they’re hungry, too? What if they need to get in line first?” “We’re in a hurry,” I told her, although the sting of conviction was already pricking my spirit. “Please move faster.” Just short of an eye roll, my daughter got out of the car and entered the restaurant behind the group of people from the car next to us. As I feared, we waited about twenty minutes for her to get back to the car as my lunch time was rapidly dwindling away. Before I backed out of the parking spot, I made sure to address the sting in my pride.”You were right that I was being selfish. I’m hungry and I wanted to eat before we have to leave for our next appointment. You have your food now, but I still have to get home and eat mine before it’s time to leave. I was putting myself first,” I admitted. Although I wanted her to listen to and respect what I instructed her to do, I knew that there was a bigger lesson - an eternal one - at stake. God wants us to follow Him and put others before ourselves. Philippians 2:3 instructs, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” God wants absolutely everything I do to reflect the highest level of living for Him. Every single moment offers me an opportunity to allow Him to flow through me. It is not easy. As you can see, I make mistakes. My heart is seen by God, however, and He knows that I desire showing Him to all and that I need Him to continue humbling, stretching, and molding me to become who He desires. There is no pleasure in remaining me. True joy abides when He is allowed to reside in and restore what He created. Eternal perspective living applies to absolutely everything I do. Every decision, comment, and action becomes part of a chain of events impacting myself and others around me, especially those I love. Sometimes, when I am tired or rushed, I might feel an urge to hurry things, but I hear Jesus speak to my soul. He reminds me to slow down. The moment at hand becomes a snapshot of the life album of the person I am dealing with. My reaction and attitude have the ability to affect them beyond what I can see, becoming part of their eternity. I’m honestly the worst with strangers when I get this way, especially people I cannot understand well on the telephone and I have been on an endless loop of transfers with no one able to help me when dealing with health issues for my daughter. I also have a hard time when someone offends or harms one of my children. God has worked on, and will continue working with me in these areas. Although I am far from perfect, He reminds me that I represent Him, and that the simple ways I respond can add up to complex negative or positive outcomes. How different would our world be if we lived according to God’s principles and consistently allowed others to become more important than ourselves? I am not a Bible scholar, but I am in love with God’s words and teachings. I’m fascinated that He took the trouble of preparing a life manual for us, sent straight from Him, and full of everything we need to live for Him, learn from Him, and be prepared to meet Him face-to-face one day. There is so much to learn, but I delight in sitting at the feet of Jesus. I consider myself a girl in love with Him. It’s true that I’m technically a married woman, a mother of four, and a grandma to one, but I consider myself a girl in my faith walk, because I want to maintain the childlike faith Jesus calls us to embrace in Matthew 18:3-4. “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Another scripture, 1 Corinthians 14:20, tells us, “Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.” We are called to become mature in spiritual knowledge and understanding, yet remain naive regarding evil. Adults often confuse the two. We become knowledgeable about sins of the world, and focus our attention on things that aren’t really important in our relationship with eternity. We neglect living in reverence for God, and postpone deepening our walk with Him. We lack the trust to rely on Him to provide for us. Think about the opposite way children approach life. They trust the one who cares for them, even when they shouldn’t. They want to spend time with those they care about and lavish love on the ones who adore them, the way we must intentionally be with Jesus and others. One thing I must ask myself daily is whether my actions match what my heart believes. Do others see Jesus through me? What about you. Can others see what you believe? Before my daughter died, I thought the worst thing that could ever happen to me would be to lose a child. Now I know that the most devastating thing would be to lose Jesus. He has taken me through my biggest fear and proven Himself faithful. Thankfully, His word promises me that no one can pluck me from His hand. I will never lose Jesus. When Jesus lived on this earth, His desire was to glorify God. He modeled that for me to follow. He modeled that for you to follow. Are we representing Christ in the way He should be shown? The hardest challenges and excruciating pains in our life can drive us deeper into the arms of Jesus or give us an excuse to run away from Him. In order to truly live with eternal perspective, we must view eternity through a new lens. Eternity is multi-dimensional; affecting everything we are and do. While we have a limited amount of time on earth to know, love, and show Jesus, we will spend the remainder of our timeless existence in the presence of the Lord, if we are believers. That means we must submit to God’s plan for our life – and His plan for others. We must glorify and honor Jesus in all that we do. We must look beyond ourselves to Jesus and abide in His view of others. We must focus on discipleship of ourselves and others. We must place Jesus on the throne of our affections and thoughts. When our mind is fixed on things above, seeking Jesus and drawing nearer to Him, our heart organically develops to be more like His. Our life reflects the change. We are allowing Him to truly abide in us and transform us. Sometimes the transformation is easy; sometimes it is agonizing. It is always worth the investment – for self, others, and Him. Let me list some important questions that I think help us to put eternity into an easier focus for us. Let’s ask ourselves the following: What do I believe about the promise Jesus gives me regarding eternity? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? What do I believe about the potential Jesus says I have to affect His kingdom? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? What do I believe about the possibilities (the gifts) Jesus created in me? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? What do I believe about the value Jesus places on me as His beloved child? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? Do I know and have I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? How we measure our belief will become our result – both here and for eternity. Imagine groggily lifting yourself from bed fifteen minutes later than normal one morning with all the “to-do” list of items already rolling through your mind. You can barely take another step because you’ve been so behind with all the activities and expectations of life, and you just can’t get enough sleep. As you walk from the bedroom to the kitchen, you see Jesus sitting at your kitchen table, waiting to visit with just you. Are you panic-stricken? Or do you feel peace? Do you begin apologizing for the mess in your house? Are you giving excuses as to why you don’t have enough time to keep it as clean as you’d like to and start telling Him everything that you’ve had to do? Maybe you ask Him why He didn’t add about ten more hours to each day; or better yet, another day to each week. Or do you simply sit with Him? Are you able to abide in the presence of your Savior? Are you willing to let go of the expectations you place on yourself and allow Him to restore your mindset and spirit? Often, we don’t know Jesus because we say that we don’t have time, deceiving ourselves that in order to grow in Him, we must be involved in several group Bible studies, be at every church function, take lessons on how to interpret our spiritual gifts, read every good book about faith and Jesus, and keep a spiritual journal. The list can be endless. We make knowing and loving Jesus a task. Love for our Savior should fuel our actions in simple and direct ways. Sit with Bible in hand and read His teachings and the wisdom of God. Pray. Listen for God. Connect with other believers. See where the Heavenly Father leads you next. Jesus simply desires our heart in genuine worship and relationship. Luke 10:38-42 illustrates two sisters who love Jesus. One is consumed with doing what she thinks is important, instead of simply being in His presence. After complaining to Jesus about the actions of her sister, Jesus gently rebukes her. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” Live to be more engaged with Jesus than engaged for Him. Make time to be at His feet and listen for His direction. Soak up His presence. Thank you for listening to this first Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 000 Introduction Listen to Episode Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Introduction Episode #000 Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast. I’m Terri and you are listening to my Introductory Episode #000. I cannot believe I actually just said those words! Aren’t the things God calls us to do often very surprising and above our ability? At least I find that to be true in my life and this is definitely one of those times. Thank you for spending part of your day with me by listening to my first podcast episode. Sharing God stories and talking about Jesus are two of my favorite things to do with others. If you’re like me, and we were face-to-face, we would probably sip hot teas in a cute coffee shop while time slipped away unnoticed. One of my greatest joys and blessings is sharing what God has done in my life, hearing what He has done in yours, and also encouraging others to deepen their walk with Him. I truly believe part of my calling is to encourage, educate, and equip women to lead intentional lives by embracing an eternal perspective. Today I’ll talk more about what that means to me and why I started this podcast about it. By the way, it feels a little challenging to be the only person talking on this podcast, because I want the authenticity behind what I say to be recognized. I pray you’ll hear my heart behind the words and connect with the love I have for Jesus, and more importantly, the love He has for you. Being able to share ways that He has changed my life and promising you that He can change yours, too is a joy for me. I’ll be the main person sharing on this podcast, but I do also plan to have guests from time to time. One of the most important experiences I want to share today is how the deepest pain in my life so far became a catalyst for me to live intentionally and with eternal perspective. I know we’re supposed to live with our minds fixed on Jesus and eternity, and as a believer, I know that this world is just a passage for me. I am not meant to stay in this temporary dwelling. So let me back up a bit to before everything changed. Although I already understood that truth, and tried to keep it foremost in my heart, I didn’t in the way that I do now. It wasn’t that I blatantly disregarded God’s word. It’s just that life happens and it’s simple to move right along with all the demands and distractions we allow. Of course, sometimes I would stop and ponder the words written in Hebrews 13:14, “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come,” or the verse in Matthew 6:19-21 that states, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Each time I reflected on those verses, it would bring me a step closer to trying to live the way God calls us to. Don’t you appreciate the way God intimately works in each of us? He knows us so well! He loves us so deeply. Despite ourselves, He cares for us. It’s not that I was living a lifestyle that excluded God. I loved Him and was working to grow my faith walk and relationship daily. I was blessed with nice things I was grateful for, but they weren’t excessive. I didn’t try to store up extravagant treasures, but I know deep down I took too much for granted, even life itself, and sometimes I felt entitled to what I had. Take health insurance, for example. When the premiums kept rising, I complained that I wasn’t getting the benefits I used to, instead of rejoicing that I still had insurance. In His goodness, God is able to use events to guide us to Him in even deeper ways. I hadn’t kept eternity in the forefront of my mind and actions. Even though I attempted to, the active thought of me as an alien or stranger in this world was not embedded into my brain daily until I received a mindset shift when my oldest daughter died. Then, my perception of this world was altered. This world was no longer my home. During that immensely painful season of deep loss, God "lifted the veil" and showed me His face. My precious relationship with Jesus was elevated to an altar of faith. As I experienced this loss with Him, I continued growing and developing holier bonds of understanding and trust. My comfort was endless as He never left my side. As long as I continued to hold tightly to Him, not relying on support from others, or inside myself for strength, Jesus went above and beyond what I knew to expect because His care was deeply personal. No one else perfectly understood what I endured, except for Him. He didn’t just walk through each day with me; He cradled and carried me. I’m not saying a bereaving person should not allow others to help them, but simply that Jesus alone knew what I needed in each moment. When my precious daughter passed, God set me free from life on this earth. This place is no longer my home. My spirit now feels what my head thought it understood. I live with one foot on earth to do as He instructs, and one foot in heaven. I delight in being here with my beloved family. Yet, I know that I must listen intently to what God calls me to. He must work His purposes through me. Eternal perspective is beautifully multi-faceted, it’s not just a lifestyle directive we read about in the Bible and think we interpret and attempt to live. God touched the depths of my heart in new ways that my eyes couldn't see and my ears could not hear previously. Every moment, even when I make mistakes, is a miraculous opportunity to live in a way that moves me, and others, to a deeper relationship with Jesus. I am not guaranteed another second of life. Living with eternal perspective is truly in the forefront of my mind and intentions. I am no longer deceived. Everything that happens to me is viewed through an eternal perspective that also affects everyone around me. After my beloved daughter died, I received extreme comfort in knowing that she was with Jesus. This drove home the impact of including others in my eternal viewpoint. Before my daughter died, when I pondered the definition of eternal perspective, I knew not to store treasures on earth, but to look heavenward. I understood that I was to share the gospel. Those commands are basics in Christianity. What makes it different for me now is that I also keep in the forefront of my mind just how my actions and words can affect the eternal life of another person. Every reaction and word I speak has eternal repercussions for someone else. Of course, I knew it before, but now that God has shifted His wisdom in my heart and renewed my mind, I see more clearly just how easily our own emotions and histories can cloud human reactions. I now purposely attempt to give each emotion and reaction to God before responding or speaking to others. Living with this different viewpoint makes it so much easier to sincerely care more deeply about how everything I do can be shaped to better impact the life of another for Christ. As I raise my younger children, I see clearly how what I do becomes who they are. I knew it before, but Jesus continues to drive the point home to me even more. Here’s a story that may better illustrate what I mean. One day we were on our way home from speech therapy with my youngest daughter. It was hours past lunch time and I was hungry. We had another appointment in a couple of hours and all I could think about was getting food in the girls and me before we had to head out again. I decided to stop at a Subway restaurant on the way home. Because of allergies, I can’t eat it, but the girls love it. I hoped we could run in, get the food, take it home, and I would fix myself something while they ate. The only potential flaw with this solution was that Subway can be SO sloooow. Of course, when we pulled into the parking lot and looked through the window, we could see customers already in line. Another car pulled in beside us. I told my teen to get out quickly and get inside before the other people got in line before us. My plan was for her to run in to get the food while I waited in the car with our youngest. After I spoke, I noticed she started moving a little slower than before. “Hurry,” I reminded her as my stomach growled. “Mom,” she said as she looked at me with disappointment and irritation in her eyes and voice. “Don’t you think they’re hungry, too? What if they need to get in line first?” “We’re in a hurry,” I told her, although the sting of conviction was already pricking my spirit. “Please move faster.” Just short of an eye roll, my daughter got out of the car and entered the restaurant behind the group of people from the car next to us. As I feared, we waited about twenty minutes for her to get back to the car as my lunch time was rapidly dwindling away. Before I backed out of the parking spot, I made sure to address the sting in my pride.”You were right that I was being selfish. I’m hungry and I wanted to eat before we have to leave for our next appointment. You have your food now, but I still have to get home and eat mine before it’s time to leave. I was putting myself first,” I admitted. Although I wanted her to listen to and respect what I instructed her to do, I knew that there was a bigger lesson - an eternal one - at stake. God wants us to follow Him and put others before ourselves. Philippians 2:3 instructs, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” God wants absolutely everything I do to reflect the highest level of living for Him. Every single moment offers me an opportunity to allow Him to flow through me. It is not easy. As you can see, I make mistakes. My heart is seen by God, however, and He knows that I desire showing Him to all and that I need Him to continue humbling, stretching, and molding me to become who He desires. There is no pleasure in remaining me. True joy abides when He is allowed to reside in and restore what He created. Eternal perspective living applies to absolutely everything I do. Every decision, comment, and action becomes part of a chain of events impacting myself and others around me, especially those I love. Sometimes, when I am tired or rushed, I might feel an urge to hurry things, but I hear Jesus speak to my soul. He reminds me to slow down. The moment at hand becomes a snapshot of the life album of the person I am dealing with. My reaction and attitude have the ability to affect them beyond what I can see, becoming part of their eternity. I’m honestly the worst with strangers when I get this way, especially people I cannot understand well on the telephone and I have been on an endless loop of transfers with no one able to help me when dealing with health issues for my daughter. I also have a hard time when someone offends or harms one of my children. God has worked on, and will continue working with me in these areas. Although I am far from perfect, He reminds me that I represent Him, and that the simple ways I respond can add up to complex negative or positive outcomes. How different would our world be if we lived according to God’s principles and consistently allowed others to become more important than ourselves? I am not a Bible scholar, but I am in love with God’s words and teachings. I’m fascinated that He took the trouble of preparing a life manual for us, sent straight from Him, and full of everything we need to live for Him, learn from Him, and be prepared to meet Him face-to-face one day. There is so much to learn, but I delight in sitting at the feet of Jesus. I consider myself a girl in love with Him. It’s true that I’m technically a married woman, a mother of four, and a grandma to one, but I consider myself a girl in my faith walk, because I want to maintain the childlike faith Jesus calls us to embrace in Matthew 18:3-4. “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Another scripture, 1 Corinthians 14:20, tells us, “Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.” We are called to become mature in spiritual knowledge and understanding, yet remain naive regarding evil. Adults often confuse the two. We become knowledgeable about sins of the world, and focus our attention on things that aren’t really important in our relationship with eternity. We neglect living in reverence for God, and postpone deepening our walk with Him. We lack the trust to rely on Him to provide for us. Think about the opposite way children approach life. They trust the one who cares for them, even when they shouldn’t. They want to spend time with those they care about and lavish love on the ones who adore them, the way we must intentionally be with Jesus and others. One thing I must ask myself daily is whether my actions match what my heart believes. Do others see Jesus through me? What about you. Can others see what you believe? Before my daughter died, I thought the worst thing that could ever happen to me would be to lose a child. Now I know that the most devastating thing would be to lose Jesus. He has taken me through my biggest fear and proven Himself faithful. Thankfully, His word promises me that no one can pluck me from His hand. I will never lose Jesus. When Jesus lived on this earth, His desire was to glorify God. He modeled that for me to follow. He modeled that for you to follow. Are we representing Christ in the way He should be shown? The hardest challenges and excruciating pains in our life can drive us deeper into the arms of Jesus or give us an excuse to run away from Him. In order to truly live with eternal perspective, we must view eternity through a new lens. Eternity is multi-dimensional; affecting everything we are and do. While we have a limited amount of time on earth to know, love, and show Jesus, we will spend the remainder of our timeless existence in the presence of the Lord, if we are believers. That means we must submit to God’s plan for our life – and His plan for others. We must glorify and honor Jesus in all that we do. We must look beyond ourselves to Jesus and abide in His view of others. We must focus on discipleship of ourselves and others. We must place Jesus on the throne of our affections and thoughts. When our mind is fixed on things above, seeking Jesus and drawing nearer to Him, our heart organically develops to be more like His. Our life reflects the change. We are allowing Him to truly abide in us and transform us. Sometimes the transformation is easy; sometimes it is agonizing. It is always worth the investment – for self, others, and Him. Let me list some important questions that I think help us to put eternity into an easier focus for us. Let’s ask ourselves the following: What do I believe about the promise Jesus gives me regarding eternity? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? What do I believe about the potential Jesus says I have to affect His kingdom? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? What do I believe about the possibilities (the gifts) Jesus created in me? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? What do I believe about the value Jesus places on me as His beloved child? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? Do I know and have I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior? Do my actions reflect my beliefs? How we measure our belief will become our result – both here and for eternity. Imagine groggily lifting yourself from bed fifteen minutes later than normal one morning with all the “to-do” list of items already rolling through your mind. You can barely take another step because you’ve been so behind with all the activities and expectations of life, and you just can’t get enough sleep. As you walk from the bedroom to the kitchen, you see Jesus sitting at your kitchen table, waiting to visit with just you. Are you panic-stricken? Or do you feel peace? Do you begin apologizing for the mess in your house? Are you giving excuses as to why you don’t have enough time to keep it as clean as you’d like to and start telling Him everything that you’ve had to do? Maybe you ask Him why He didn’t add about ten more hours to each day; or better yet, another day to each week. Or do you simply sit with Him? Are you able to abide in the presence of your Savior? Are you willing to let go of the expectations you place on yourself and allow Him to restore your mindset and spirit? Often, we don’t know Jesus because we say that we don’t have time, deceiving ourselves that in order to grow in Him, we must be involved in several group Bible studies, be at every church function, take lessons on how to interpret our spiritual gifts, read every good book about faith and Jesus, and keep a spiritual journal. The list can be endless. We make knowing and loving Jesus a task. Love for our Savior should fuel our actions in simple and direct ways. Sit with Bible in hand and read His teachings and the wisdom of God. Pray. Listen for God. Connect with other believers. See where the Heavenly Father leads you next. Jesus simply desires our heart in genuine worship and relationship. Luke 10:38-42 illustrates two sisters who love Jesus. One is consumed with doing what she thinks is important, instead of simply being in His presence. After complaining to Jesus about the actions of her sister, Jesus gently rebukes her. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” Live to be more engaged with Jesus than engaged for Him. Make time to be at His feet and listen for His direction. Soak up His presence. Thank you for listening to this first Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #144 – Life Lessons Through my Dog Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. Job 12:7-10 says, “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Last week our Golden Retriever had surgery. Because of this, he isn't allowed to jump, run, or be very active for about 10 days. Of course, he doesn't understand why he's suddenly restricted from doing everything he is accustomed to doing. In fact, not only has he lost these expected privileges, but he's also made to wear a humiliating bodysuit so he can't lick or scratch himself in the surgical area! Since my dog actually acts more like a cat sometimes, (and loves to jump up to the highest positions he can lay in), some of his favorite places are blocked off with bean bags and chairs. As I watched him eyeing one of his usual lounging areas, I could see displeasure reflected in his eyes when he could not get to it. Resigned, he walked over to a small bean bag on the floor and curled himself into a tight ball to fit. His reactions remind me how humans usually react. We often take much for granted, assuming we have the right to continue the same patterns, habits, and expectations. When something changes or we feel it has been taken away, we don't understand and sometimes get angry, frustrated, disappointed, or stressed. Although my dog was disappointed, he resigned himself to finding another spot. Even though he didn't understand why I wasn't letting him continue routine events, he didn't cry or fuss. He simply found another solution to what bothered him, still trusting that he would be loved and cared for. If only humans could react the same way. Each day brings such blessings. What we have isn't guaranteed for another moment. Living with eternal perspective means so much more than thinking we will be in Heaven one day if we know Christ. Living with our eyes, mind, and heart focused above is a constant, humble lifestyle. Seeing the simplicity of life through the eyes of an animal God allows us to care for is a reminder of how much excess we have. How much we assume and expect. I hope that as life changes, we can embrace the losses as much as we grab the gifts we recognize. Losses stretch us beyond what we imagine we can endure, allowing us the opportunity to reach a new level of understanding our Lord...if we allow ourselves to focus on Him instead of our desires. As disappointments, failures, mistakes, regrets, or hardships tug at your confidence or emotions, don’t allow them to affect your relationship with Christ. Instead, let them draw you nearer to Him. Seek God for how you can allow His transformation to flow through you because of what happened or is happening to you. As much as we love answers, as much as we want pain or hardship to cease, we must learn to follow Him and allow His work to penetrate where we need it. Think of how gracious God is to provide us with insight, reassurances, and wisdom through His creation. Not only does He teach and influence us through animals, but all of what He has made. Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” Dear Heavenly Father, Your Word tells us that the heavens declare Your glory and the skies proclaim the work of Your hands. You teach us that day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. Help us to see Your glory revealed through creation. Help us to recognize the beauty and majesty of Your hands. Help us to learn the lessons You sometimes present so simply if we only open our eyes and heart. Help us to study Your Word so we know and recognize You in all the beautiful ways You reveal Yourself to us with a holy and unsurpassed love. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. This summer I am working on a very special women and mother collective. You can visit terrihitt.com to learn more or send me a message at info@terrihitt.com. During the summer months, as I work on this special assignment I believe God is calling me to, I will have some shorter podcasts and may replay some treasured episodes from time to time. It is my prayer that you will find time to rest in the Lord as you listen and mature your walk with Him. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. You can find this and other transcripts online at terrihitt.com. Remember that both of my podcasts are available on the website. You can also find them on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts are also found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 144 - Life Lessons Through my Dog Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #144 – Life Lessons Through my Dog Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. Job 12:7-10 says, “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Last week our Golden Retriever had surgery. Because of this, he isn't allowed to jump, run, or be very active for about 10 days. Of course, he doesn't understand why he's suddenly restricted from doing everything he is accustomed to doing. In fact, not only has he lost these expected privileges, but he's also made to wear a humiliating bodysuit so he can't lick or scratch himself in the surgical area! Since my dog actually acts more like a cat sometimes, (and loves to jump up to the highest positions he can lay in), some of his favorite places are blocked off with bean bags and chairs. As I watched him eyeing one of his usual lounging areas, I could see displeasure reflected in his eyes when he could not get to it. Resigned, he walked over to a small bean bag on the floor and curled himself into a tight ball to fit. His reactions remind me how humans usually react. We often take much for granted, assuming we have the right to continue the same patterns, habits, and expectations. When something changes or we feel it has been taken away, we don't understand and sometimes get angry, frustrated, disappointed, or stressed. Although my dog was disappointed, he resigned himself to finding another spot. Even though he didn't understand why I wasn't letting him continue routine events, he didn't cry or fuss. He simply found another solution to what bothered him, still trusting that he would be loved and cared for. If only humans could react the same way. Each day brings such blessings. What we have isn't guaranteed for another moment. Living with eternal perspective means so much more than thinking we will be in Heaven one day if we know Christ. Living with our eyes, mind, and heart focused above is a constant, humble lifestyle. Seeing the simplicity of life through the eyes of an animal God allows us to care for is a reminder of how much excess we have. How much we assume and expect. I hope that as life changes, we can embrace the losses as much as we grab the gifts we recognize. Losses stretch us beyond what we imagine we can endure, allowing us the opportunity to reach a new level of understanding our Lord...if we allow ourselves to focus on Him instead of our desires. As disappointments, failures, mistakes, regrets, or hardships tug at your confidence or emotions, don’t allow them to affect your relationship with Christ. Instead, let them draw you nearer to Him. Seek God for how you can allow His transformation to flow through you because of what happened or is happening to you. As much as we love answers, as much as we want pain or hardship to cease, we must learn to follow Him and allow His work to penetrate where we need it. Think of how gracious God is to provide us with insight, reassurances, and wisdom through His creation. Not only does He teach and influence us through animals, but all of what He has made. Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” Dear Heavenly Father, Your Word tells us that the heavens declare Your glory and the skies proclaim the work of Your hands. You teach us that day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. Help us to see Your glory revealed through creation. Help us to recognize the beauty and majesty of Your hands. Help us to learn the lessons You sometimes present so simply if we only open our eyes and heart. Help us to study Your Word so we know and recognize You in all the beautiful ways You reveal Yourself to us with a holy and unsurpassed love. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. This summer I am working on a very special women and mother collective. You can visit terrihitt.com to learn more or send me a message at info@terrihitt.com . During the summer months, as I work on this special assignment I believe God is calling me to, I will have some shorter podcasts and may replay some treasured episodes from time to time. It is my prayer that you will find time to rest in the Lord as you listen and mature your walk with Him. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. You can find this and other transcripts online at terrihitt.com. Remember that both of my podcasts are available on the website. You can also find them on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts are also found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Godly Motherhood Podcast - Episode 136 - Losing Myself in Motherhood Welcome to the Godly Motherhood podcast. If you’re a mom, you can’t parent in your strength. You aren’t supposed to. On this podcast I’ll encourage you to rest and abide in the Father’s arms. Through Him, you’ll be carried - and capable of raising each unique child entrusted to your care as you teach them to chase Christ over culture moment by moment. Before we start this episode, I want to invite you to be “FOUND.” If you feel like you’re losing yourself in motherhood or marriage, you need help combating anxiety, burnout, or guilt, or you need to find your sense of purpose, email me at info@terrihitt.com and mention the word, “FOUND.” You CAN move past surviving and get to thriving. When was the last time you thought or said these words: “I feel lost.” “I feel like I’m moving through quicksand trying to keep up with everything.” “I feel like I’m slowly dying.” “How is everyone else thriving while I’m barely surviving?” If you’ve ever carried these thoughts (or something close), you’re not alone. I’ve heard moms share them several times. These isolating words are actually phrases that bind many women together. Each one silently feels like she’s the only one experiencing a less than perfect attitude or living less than perfect days. Please know you’re not alone. You don’t have to feel like you are – and you don’t have to stay where you are. Women tend to ruminate. Feel deeply. We spend hours and energy at work – guilty because we’re not at home. Then when we are home, we obsess about work. We feel the pressure to work hours like we did before we became a parent - coupled with the expectation to remain a nurturing wife and mother. Meanwhile, we have huge responsibilities keeping our mind occupied like it’s still at work. Even when we stay home with the kids, the pressure for perfection persists. But we smile and say everything’s fine while wondering how to get things to change. Let’s admit it. The emotional demands of motherhood can drain the strongest of women. It’s not only the responsibilities we face; it’s the fact that we continue to take more on while in the midst of wondering how we’re going to get what we’re already committed to accomplished. That’s when feelings of anger, resentment, sadness, or depression can overtake any joy we thought we’d experience, even if all we ever wanted to do was become a mother. When you’re feeling unappreciated or unseen, daily responsibilities turn joy you thought you’d feel into overwhelm you can’t escape. Right along with emotional demands, the mental demands of work, relationships, and home, such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, and everything motherhood entails, can make a woman feel she’s losing her identity. That’s when women begin to define themselves by one of the many responsibilities she carries, such as mom, wife, employee, caregiver, etc. The deeper her identity is shaped by this role, all other expectations become more challenging. Now feeling trapped in the identity most used, needed, or pressed on her, she begins to feel isolated. Withdrawn. A shell of herself. A pressure to excel in all roles becomes more of a pain than a pleasure, and there’s no balance or fulfillment in any role. It’s now even harder to justify making time to just…be. To breath. To learn, grow, or enjoy this journey called life. Once her mental and emotional capacity is at red-alert, ready to blow the top, she drops physically. Sick, fatigued, and lifeless, nothing brings joy except the thought of fleeing from it all. Feeling like she’s drowning in anxiety, she wonders when the next pressure will burn out the tiny flame that is supposed to be flickering inside. She just wants to escape to rest and recuperate, but the demands keep hitting until she barely survives each moment, let alone hours to the next day. Worried that she can’t survive financially if she quits her job, or fearful that she can’t ask her husband for help where she needs it, because she’ll be judged or feel inadequate, resentment toward her spouse and self - take root. Spiritually, she’s a mess. While her heart once loved Jesus beyond all else, she now wonders if He feels as ashamed of her as she does herself. She wonders why the Lord hasn’t swooped in to rescue her. Thoughts like, “Isn’t it the woman’s job to ‘do it all’” circulate in her mind until they control her actions and reactions. She craves the perfect home everyone on Instagram seems to have. But her furniture is covered in months of dust and she can’t remember the last time she changed her bed sheets. Is it possible to craft a routine that enables her to do it all? Could she just get one secret that would help her organize a little bit better or get faster at the chores piling up? If only she had support, She wishes she he wouldn’t feel inept if she asked for relief. Afraid to tell her friends how she feels, she smiles and acts like everything’s perfect, while weeping inside and feeling more lonely than before. Her husband used to gaze at her with pride, but now it feels like his eyes reflect disappointment. Or is that what she’s seeing shining from her own gaze? When she stays home with the kids, boredom and repetition rule the day, and when she works outside the home, time becomes an enemy that sucks her soul along with moments while she waits to get back home. If any of these situations is you…there is hope. Relief. I don’t want you to live in overwhelm when you can have joy. That’s why I offered the program at the start of this episode. I know it will help you see there is a lifeline. For now, you know where I’m going to send you. To your knees. To the Father. Though the remedies sound elementary or repetitious, hear me out. Reading the Word regularly, even when you truly are in a season where you don’t have time will change your perspective. Most of the time, we simply don’t want to read the Word enough to devote ourselves to MAKE time to do so. Even ten minutes. We think we’ll get to it later. We think ten minutes won’t make a difference so we wait until we have more time…but that day never comes. If you’re really in a spot where you’re challenged to read, maybe you’re caring for elderly parents and babies, or you have other obligations that make including Bible reading challenging, listen to the Word. Pull it up on your phone. Then continue looking for times to sit down to read. Anything is doable on the hardest and most challenging of schedules IF you value the end-result enough. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart .” No matter what conditions you face, what pain you’ve lived, what fears you face, God is able. He’s able to remove the difficulties and He’s able to carry you through them. The old saying, “God won’t give you more than you can manage” is a lie. He will give you more. Way more. You’d better believe there’s a grand purpose for allowing it in your life and at this time. You aren’t enough to manage what comes your way, but He is. The truth is that God won’t give you more than He can manage. He wants you to come to Him with everything. He wants you operating in His strength, not trying to manage on your own. He is present. He is sovereign. He is in control. He will allow whatever it takes to bring those who belong to Him closer and more Christlike each moment. Remember, whatever season you’re facing is not going to last forever. Even when it seems like it. Even when it feels like a nightmare. I don’t know where you are or what you’re facing. But God does. Invite Him to carry you. Release self to Him. Take the first step of committing to read the Word regularly. Pray for God to open your eyes, heart, and mind to what He is saying. Study Bible notes and look for ways to apply whatever you read in your life. I’ve discovered newfound inspiration from reading Nehemiah. I’m amazed at how powerful Scripture is. Just like the Bible tells us. You can read a verse or passage at various times in your life and have it finally make sense just when you need it. Or you can read it over and over and find new meaning that brings your faith clearer and deeper – and wider. More rooted. Ask God to change your heart and mind where you need it. Instead of simply praying that God change others or change a situation, ask Him to transform your mind, heart, and spirit into what He desires for your good and His glory. It won’t always be easy. His answers may not be easy. But they may be easy. Do it anyway. Then rest and abide in His arms. His care. His control. His Word promises that He has better for you than you can imagine for yourself. Ephesians 3:20 says, “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think .” As you invite God to work in You, taking thoughts captive for Christ, begin to look at where you can change your circumstances. Pray for wisdom, insight, and discernment. You might have to shift priorities. Look for any that can be shifted. Rearranged. Stopped for a while - or let go of for good. Prioritize and create boundaries. People will take as much as you give. You must prioritize God, family, and self. The rest can be added or subtracted as needed. In the Christian space people talk often about guarding your heart. You must also practice guarding your walk with God and ensure that you do the same for your family. Delegate. Swallow pride and ask for help. It doesn’t mean you failed. It doesn’t mean you can’t do as much as someone else. It means you’re aware of the fact that you don’t have to. Ask God to show you what needs to be done to keep you in alignment with His good and perfect plans to give you and your family a hope and a future. To give you good and show His glory. One of the most challenging truths to remember when we’re faced with hardships is that our thoughts and feelings aren’t always accurate. It’s crucial (even when we think we can’t do it) to be in God’s Word. Only the Lord and His truths can renew your mind and refresh your soul. Your thoughts cannot be His thoughts. Your ways cannot be His ways. Unless you are immersed in maturing relationship with God through Jesus, the Word, and prayer. The only way to discern whether your thoughts, feelings, and emotions are accurate is whether they align with God’s truths as proven in Scripture. Share all your thoughts, feelings, and emotions with God. Let your spouse know you need help. Sometimes hope and help are just beyond our fingers, but we’re too prideful, afraid, or feel guilty to reach out for it. None of those emotions are from God. He offers the relief, comfort, and help we need in the ways that are individually perfect for us and that bring us to Him in deeper communion. Please let God’s truth rule your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Never give up hope. Keep looking Up. You don’t have to lose yourself as a wife, mother, or in any other role in your life…unless it’s in the Father’s arms. He is waiting to carry you. Dear Heavenly Father, You are the Great I Am, the Maker of Heaven and Earth, the One who created us. You know us intimately and love us beyond measure. Father forgive us for thoughts that can rage inside us as we go from day to day. So often we fear the world more than the Way and we get caught up in comparison, doubt, or get too busy to seek You. Forgive us. Guide us back to the path You have for us. One that won’t harm us, but will fill us with the joys of our hearts. Only You know the way to our heart and deepest desires because You created us with purpose. Help us be the set-apart women You created us to be. Help us have joy, not overwhelm, laughter and love, instead of anxiety. Reach us where we need You most. Help us see You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. In Jesus’s precious, holy name we pray. Amen. If you’re experiencing any of the feelings you heard on this episode, don’t wait another moment. Continue prayerfully seeking God through Scripture and prayer. Find a mentor to guide you with godly methods and truths that will lead you to the Source of freedom you deserve. I also have a free resource you’ll find helpful as you navigate your daily routine as a mom. If you’re ready to become the godly mother God entrusts you to be for Him and His children, you’ll love my free “Good to Godly: A 31-Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms.” Visit terrihitt.com to receive this resource. Time is short. Leave a legacy that lasts into eternity. Unless you’re purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. Focus on eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next