Episode 1: The Forming Power of Parenthood

SHOW NOTES: https://parentforward.com/theformationalpowerofparenting/

Parenting isn't just about raising kids; it's about being spiritually formed through the mess, beauty, and everyday moments of family life. We explore how shifting our focus from behavior management to spiritual formation can transform both our parenting approach and our own relationship with God.

• Many parents today feel pressure to parent perfectly while maintaining their identity, marriage, and sanity
• We often parent from fear and performance rather than connection
• The key to raising spiritually rooted kids may be allowing ourselves to be spiritually formed
• Parenting for God versus parenting with God represents a crucial mindset shift
• Spiritual formation happens in everyday moments—diaper changes, tantrums, and meltdowns
• Jesus modeled formation through walking slowly, asking questions, and creating space for growth
• Try asking "What is this moment forming in me?" when your child pushes your buttons
• God is present in the messiness of parenting, not just in perfect devotional moments

If today's episode encouraged you, I'd really love to hear from you. You can find me on Instagram at parentforwardpodcast, and let me know what landed with you. And if you haven't yet, would you do me a quick favor? Subscribe, give it a rating or share this episode with a friend who might need a little soul-deep encouragement today.

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