"The best approach is to spend 30 minutes a day, as a family, reading only from the Bible."
"To make the biggest impact, spend 15 minutes one-on-one with each child, focusing on one verse a week."
"To grow your child’s faith, you just need 5 minutes a day: read a devotional and say a prayer."
"Church community key: make sure they are involved at church if you want to ensure spiritual maturity."
I thought I’d asked a simple enough question as I sought to clarify the best way to grow my child’s faith; yet the countless results and conflicting information left me confused. In speaking with other Christian moms, I know I am not unique. How grateful I am that with a few taps on the keyboard, I have a wealth of resources to help me parent from a biblical worldview. Yet I am not always sure that “the more you know” is best, especially when every sermon, article, or podcast says something different. Christian moms can evaluate conflicting parenting advice by checking the source, comparing it with Scripture, and deciding whether it is helpful for their family’s current season.
Key Points
- Christian moms can feel overwhelmed when parenting podcasts, articles, and sermons offer conflicting advice about raising children in faith.
- Biblical discernment helps parents determine whether advice is trustworthy, aligned with Scripture, and helpful for their family’s season.
- Before following a podcast’s guidance, parents should consider the source, the host’s beliefs, and whether the content contradicts God’s Word.
- Not every good parenting principle is a biblical command, so families can apply wise advice with grace and flexibility.
- Christian parents can listen with confidence, not pressure, remembering that God’s grace is abundant as they pour into the next generation.
Why Do Christian Parents Need Spiritual Discernment?
Christian parents need spiritual discernment because advice that sounds helpful or Christian may still conflict with Scripture, confuse personal preference with biblical instruction, or simply not fit their family. For this article, I will focus on parenting podcasts, though the principles discussed can apply to various forms of information consumption. My oldest daughter is in middle school; her ability to access information has drastically increased. To help her distinguish between fact, opinion, and full-blown misinformation, we walked her through a series of questions she could use to assess the validity of what she’d read.
- What’s the source?
- Does it contradict what Scripture says?
- Is this information helpful or applicable to me?
In my daughter's case, the areas where she is seeking to expand her knowledge center on makeup tips, volleyball tricks, and jewelry making. The stakes are fairly low. However, when we consider whom we listen to as Christian parents and where we get our parenting advice, much more is at stake. We are going to walk through each one of these questions, but before we do, I want to unpack what it means to have spiritual discernment.
What Is Spiritual Discernment?
Spiritual discernment is the Spirit-guided ability to recognize what is true, wise, and consistent with God’s Word. Discernment is the ability to determine truth from falsehood. When we think about spiritual discernment, it's the Holy Spirit helping us clearly identify something that contradicts God’s Word. It’s not always easy to discern fact from fiction; we live in a world where “fake news” is almost impossible to spot. Generative AI tools can produce inaccurate information in language that sounds confident and credible. Scripture warns us that those who will come as false prophets, wolves in sheep's clothing, are aimed at distracting and deceiving God’s people ( Matthew 7:15).
Using discernment is a crucial skill when assessing whether the information we consume is beneficial. Does it align with what the Bible says about how we should parent and teach the next generation? There will be times when the answers are not so black-and-white, and in those cases, it’s even more important to ask God for His help and guidance.
1. Is the Parenting Advice from a Trustworthy Source?
Not all Christian podcasts are created equal; just because it’s in the religion category doesn’t mean that it aligns with Christianity’s view and affirms the Bible is inspired, infallible, and inerrant. Before investing your time and allowing yourself to be introduced to new concepts and ideas that could run counter to your beliefs, do some research. Check out the podcast's information page to see if you can find their statement of faith or a website that lists their beliefs. If you can’t find anything, send them a message. Scroll through the reviews and past shows, look through the descriptions, and see if anything jumps out or would cause you to pause.
Recently, a friend sent me a podcast to listen to. She’d seen the topic and thought I would be interested. I asked if she knew anything about the guest on the show, and she admitted she didn’t; she just saw the ad on her social media and sent it my way. In this case, I knew the woman being interviewed and her views on Scripture, which contradicted my beliefs. Therefore, it wasn’t a show I would listen to. However, let’s say I didn't know anything about her. A quick search of her name and the first article shared that she no longer believed in a hell for non-believers. That would have raised red flags, and while the podcast may not address this particular topic, discernment would guide me away from the content she was sharing.
I don’t blame my friend for simply passing along a post; however, if I hadn’t taken the time to research the source, I could have exposed myself to information that ran counter to the Bible, even though it came from a “Christian leader.”
2. Does the Parenting Advice Contradict Scripture?
This question is a bit trickier, because you have to know what the BIble says to identify when Scripture is contradicted. Like we tell our daughter, if something seems off, it probably is—that’s the Holy Spirit helping you use discernment, so lean in! I want to distinguish between content that blatantly goes against God’s Word versus opinions or preferences.
If you are listening to a podcast and they say, “Parents, you have no responsibility to teach your kids God’s Word, we know that’s not true. Scripture instructs parents to teach God’s Word and shows the importance of passing faith to the next generation (Deuteronomy 11:19, 2 Timothy 1:5, 2 Timothy 3:15). However, let’s say the hosts state the best way to disciple their children is to spend 30 minutes a day reading the Bible. While this is a good principle, it’s not a command backed by Scripture; it’s their personal belief. Something of this nature shouldn’t cause us to stop listening; we can continue to glean from people whose opinions we don’t agree with. However, we should avoid putting into parenting practice any advice that goes against God’s Word.
3. Is This Parenting Advice Right for My Family?
Paul shares wisdom around this when he says in 1 Corinthians 10:23, “You say, 'I am allowed to do anything '—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial.” A modern-day translation would be, “Opinions are like noses; everyone has one.” When it comes to hearing and applying the advice of Christian podcasters, ask yourself, “Does this advice make sense for me to follow?”
Let’s go back to the example in our previous question. You desire for your children to spend more time in God’s Word, and you are aware of Scripture’s call to “hide God’s Word in your heart so that you may not sin ( Psalm 119: 11). But your kids are 4 and 6, and keeping their undivided attention for more than 2 minutes is an accomplishment. So, for you, in your parenting season, while this good advice is rooted in a biblical principle, the application doesn’t make sense for you and your family. So, take the concept and make it work for your current circumstances. Start small, read for 5 minutes, stop and start when needed; that’s okay! Our hopes as Christian parents are to share the good news that God loves our children so much that He sent Jesus. God’s grace and mercy are abundant, and momma, not just for your children, for you too.
10 Christian Podcasts for Moms and Families
We’ve talked through three questions you can ask to discern whether or not the information shared on a particular parenting podcast is for you. Here are some podcasts from credible Christians who stay true to God’s Word and whose shows are beneficial and encouraging for parents. As with any information, it is still up to you to determine whether the preferences or opinions are for your family.
1. The Happy Home Podcast with Arlene Pellicane
Life Audio Show Description: A happy home doesn't happen by accident, but it can be created with love, intention, and good family habits. If you need encouragement and guidance as a parent and/or spouse, this show is for you! Arlene will help you bridge the gap between your present reality and your ideal family.
Your host, Arlene Pellicane, is a speaker and author of several books, including Making Marriage Easier, Screen Kids, and Parents Rising. She and her husband, James, have been married for more than 27 years and have three children.
Inside this podcast, you’ll meet some of the kindest and smartest experts when it comes to marriage and parenting. Get ready for fun, Biblical insights, and practical conversations that will change your thinking, give you hope, and spark positive change.
2. Christian Parent, Crazy World
Life Audio Show Description: The Christian Parent, Crazy World podcast with Catherine Segars equips moms and dads to be godly parents in a world that often opposes their faith. As a passionate apologist and seasoned communicator, Catherine unpacks the tough cultural issues facing families today, offering insightful, biblically grounded guidance. Each episode helps parents understand the challenges of our times and respond with wisdom, confidence, and grace.
3. The Real Deal with Regan and Abby: Real Christian Conversations on Parenting & Faith
Life Audio Show Description: Welcome to The Real Deal with Regan and Abby: Real Christian Conversations on Parenting & Faith, where hosts Abby Johnson and Regan Long talk all things pertaining to motherhood with authenticity, complete transparency, and a healthy dose of humor. They present topics from a Conservative Christian perspective, ranging from the everyday challenges of raising kids to high-profile issues no one else will touch and current events facing families.
Abby is a pro-life advocate, CEO, bestselling author, and public speaker. Regan is a bestselling author, household blogger, public speaker, and champion of women’s causes. Abby is a mom of 8, and Regan is a mom of 5.
With their platforms combined, towering over a million followers and tens of millions of impressions globally each month, both are on a mission to empower other mothers to be courageous in standing up and having a voice in times of a spiritual battle against our children. Join them and find out you’re not alone on this broken and beautiful journey, giving you the real deal of parenting … completely unfiltered.
4. Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast
Life Audio Show Description: Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast hosted by Christian author Bonnie Gray is dedicated to refreshing your soul with rest and sparking joy, so you can feel God’s love and peace. We'll walk you through scientific, scripture-backed methods of restoring calm, in order to help you stress less, take better care of yourself, and create new rhythms to rest in daily life.
Here are some topics covered in this podcast:
- Feeling Anxious? Cast Your Cares on God Because He Cares For You
- 3 Ways to Break Free from Stress, Worry & Anxiety
- How to Say No to Fear & Yes to God PLUS What's the Difference Between Secular & Biblical Meditation?
- Is It Burnout Or Is God Stretching You? 4 Signs to Know the Difference PLUS 4 Mental Health Benefits of Stories
- 3 Surprising Ways to Stop Overthinking, Improve Your Mood During the Day, & Get the Sleep Your Body Needs
- The Antidote to Stress & Fatigue + The Surprising Causes – Plus Raising Stress-Resilient Kids
5. Bought & Beloved with Kirby Kelly
Life Audio Show Description: Welcome to the Bought + Beloved podcast with Kirby Kelly.
I find so much joy in teaching the Word of God and pouring truth into the world - that is what this podcast is all about! This is more than short social media content - I am writing content like crazy to share with you all about faith and life. I will be answering questions and teaching on topics that matter most to our generation.
And please take a second to subscribe and review this channel to help me share this podcast with more people.
6. Rebuilding Us: Marriage Podcast
Life Audio Show Description: Rebuilding Us is a Christian marriage podcast for couples seeking relatable marriage advice, biblical encouragement, and real hope. With her signature no-nonsense approach, marriage coach and author Dana Che brings truth and grace to the hard conversations couples often avoid—while weaving in just enough humor to make the heavy topics feel a little lighter. Each episode helps couples rebuild trust, improve communication, restore intimacy, heal after infidelity, and reconnect emotionally and spiritually.
Through honest conversations, real-life stories, faith-filled wisdom, and practical relationship tools, Dana offers a clear approach to navigating conflict, betrayal, disappointment, and disconnection—without shame, clichés, or unrealistic expectations.
Whether you are recovering from infidelity, strengthening an already-good marriage, or simply longing for a closer bond, this podcast will help you create a healthier, more connected, Christ-centered relationship.
New episodes are released every Tuesday. Follow Rebuilding Us and begin your journey from conflict to connection.
Let the rebuild begin!
7. Praying Christian Women
Life Audio Show Description: The show that brings Christian women from all backgrounds together as award-winning authors Alana Terry and Jaime Hampton discuss what it means to be a woman of prayer in the 21st century. Whether you’re brand new to the faith or have been a believer for decades, the Praying Christian Women podcast brings you biblical encouragement and inspiration (as well as an abundance of practical tips and easy-to-implement suggestions) to deepen your prayer life.
8. Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms
Life Audio Show Description: Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms is the show that helps moms learn to pray God's Word for their families in the areas you need it most. We believe that prayer is not a last resort. It's our first and best response to the challenges of parenting, a partnership for the hearts of our children that God invites us into. Join author and speaker, Nicolet Bell, in collaboration with other trusted moms and authors, for daily prayers for your family rooted in Scripture. Over the last decade, we've helped thousands of moms make prayer a priority for their families. Our mission is to help you do the same.
9. Your Daily Prayer
Life Audio Show Description: Every morning, the team of women behind iBelieve.com bring you a devotional and prayer to help you start your day in conversation with God. The Bible tells us to bring our prayers and petitions before God and He WILL give us peace! May these daily prayers help you find the words to pray and focus your heart and mind on the love of God today.
10. Your Nightly Prayer
Life Audio Show Description: Your Nightly Scripture — 365-Day Bible Reading Plan for Peaceful Sleep is a calming, Scripture-centered devotional podcast designed to help you end each day with God’s Word. Brought to you by BibleStudyTools.com, this 5-day-a-week Bible reading plan features carefully selected passages from across the Bible, paired with slow, reflective devotionals and gentle evening prayers.
Perfect for bedtime listening, each episode is read at a peaceful pace with natural pauses to create a quiet, meditative experience that helps you rest, reflect, and draw closer to God. From Psalms and Proverbs to the Gospels and beyond, this year-long journey includes special Easter and Christmas readings, guiding you through the story of Scripture with hope, peace, and spiritual renewal.
Be encouraged, not overwhelmed as you listen. Lean into the Holy Spirit when the Holy Spirit speaks to you, and use biblical discernment as you sift through information. Above all, know that God’s grace is abundant and His mercies renew every morning ( Lamentations 3:22-23), not only in our parenting but in all areas of the life of the believer. Keep pouring into the next generation as you share God’s love, mercy, and grace.
Frequently Asked Questions about Christian Parenting Advice
- How can Christian parents evaluate parenting advice?
Christian parents can evaluate advice by investigating its source, comparing its claims with Scripture, and considering whether its application is wise for their particular children and season. - What is the difference between a biblical command and a parenting preference?
A biblical command is clearly rooted in Scripture, while a parenting preference is one possible way to apply a biblical principle. A helpful practice should not be presented as though every Christian family must follow it. - Do Christian families have to use the same discipleship routine?
No. Scripture calls parents to teach their children about God, but families may fulfill that responsibility through different routines based on their children’s ages, needs, and circumstances. - What should I do when Christian parenting experts disagree?
Return to Scripture, pray for wisdom, investigate each source, and distinguish biblical truth from personal application. Parents can learn from someone without adopting every recommendation they make.
For Further Reading
- 6 Best Ways to Model True Discernment for Your Kids
- Raising Spiritually Resilient Children
- Is Gentle Parenting Biblical?
- How to Parent with the Holy Spirit
- What Kind of Moms Are We Supposed to Be?
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Katie Lyke
