Training Them Wisely - discipling kids

Cultivating Gratitude in Everyday Life
Gratitude doesn’t just make our homes more peaceful. It also shapes the hearts of our children.
In this episode of the Training Them Wisely Podcast, we talk about how thankfulness is more than good manners. It’s a biblical response to who God is and what He has done.
Because the truth is…kids don’t become thankful automatically.Gratitude is something we intentionally disciple.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Why gratitude matters spirituallySimple daily Scripture to anchor thankfulnessPractical, everyday ways to cultivate gratitude in your homeHow to help kids express meaningful thanks to othersUsing conversations and routines to shape thankful heartsTeaching contentment through gratitudeHelping kids live out gratitude at school and beyond
Practical Takeaways:
Pray “thank you” prayers throughout the day
Model gratitude out loud as a parent
Ask intentional gratitude questions at meals or bedtime
Teach kids to thank others with thoughtfulness
Connect gratitude to contentment and joy
Resources to Help You:
Treasured by the King – helping families understand who God is and who we are in Him
Who I Am in Christ Coloring Book – reinforcing biblical identity in a simple, engaging way
Find these and more at:TrainingThemWisely.com
Let’s Stay Connected:
If this episode encouraged you:Follow the podcastLeave a reviewShare with a friend who wants to disciple her children intentionally
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
 

 
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

How do we raise kids that have self-control?
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

 
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

Episode Summary
In this episode, we focus on raising children who reflect the heart of Jesus through humility and service. Serving others is not something reserved for special events or church projects—it is a daily posture shaped through Scripture, modeling, conversations, and intentional discipleship at home.
We explore how children can learn to serve willingly, joyfully, and humbly, beginning in the home and extending into their schools, churches, and communities. This episode encourages moms to see everyday moments as powerful opportunities to cultivate servant-hearted children who love others as Christ loves them.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
Why serving others is central to following Jesus
How humility and service can be taught from an early age
Practical, everyday ways to nurture servant hearts at home
The importance of modeling joyful service as parents
How family conversations reinforce a lifestyle of serving
Simple ideas for serving both inside and outside the home
Encouragement for moms who are faithfully planting seeds
Scripture References
Mark 10:45
Philippians 2:3–4
Key Takeaways
Serving others is an essential part of following Jesus, not an optional activity
Children learn humility and service through daily discipleship, not occasional events
Small acts of service build lasting character over time
Modeling joyful service speaks louder than instruction alone
God uses ordinary, faithful moments to grow Christlike hearts
Resources Mentioned
Fruit of the Spirit Activity Book
Big Bible Words Cards
Family Bible studies and discipleship tools available at TrainingThemWisely.com
Encouragement for Moms
Serving does not need to be big, organized, or impressive to be meaningful. Faithful, everyday acts of love—paired with prayer, Scripture, and example—shape hearts over time. God is at work in the small moments you may never see fully.
If today’s episode encouraged you:
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Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

Episode Summary
As we begin a new year, we’re focusing on something every parent longs to see in their children: genuine, Christ-centered kindness. In this episode, we move beyond surface-level “being nice” and talk about the kind of heart-level kindness that flows from biblical love.
Kindness doesn’t happen by accident. It is cultivated daily through Scripture, discipleship, modeling, prayer, and real conversations in the everyday moments of family life. Join us as we explore how God grows kindness in our children’s hearts and how moms can faithfully nurture that fruit at home.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
Why true kindness starts in the heart, not behavior alone
How biblical love from 1 Corinthians 13 forms the foundation of kindness
Simple, daily ways to disciple children toward kindness
How to use real-life conflicts as heart-shaping discipleship moments
The importance of modeling kindness as parents
Teaching kindness in school, co-op, and peer settings
Encouragement for moms who feel like progress is slow
Scripture References
1 Corinthians 13
Galatians 5:22–23
Key Takeaways
Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit that God grows as children walk with Him
Daily, small moments shape kind hearts more than big events
Scripture, prayer, and modeling work together to form lasting character
Parents are planting seeds, and God is faithful to bring growth
Faithfulness matters more than perfection in the discipleship journey
Resources Mentioned
What the Bible Says About Love Coloring Book
Fruit of the Spirit Activity Book
Multi-age Bible studies and family discipleship tools available at TrainingThemWisely.com
Encouragement for Moms
If kindness doesn’t appear overnight, don’t lose heart. You are shaping hearts day by day through Scripture, conversations, prayer, and example. God is at work in ways you may not yet see.
If today’s episode encouraged you:
Like the podcast
Subscribe so you never miss an episode
Visit TrainingThemWisely.com to find discipleship tools designed to help you build Christ-centered character in your children every day
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

In the middle of Christmas week—when life feels loud, busy, and overwhelming—we pause to talk about the gift our children need most. More than presents, traditions, or picture-perfect moments, our kids need a mom whose life is deeply rooted in Jesus.
In this episode, we address the pressure moms often feel at Christmas and gently redirect our hearts back to what truly matters: walking daily, intentionally, and wholeheartedly with Christ. A mom anchored in God’s Word gives her children a living picture of faith, stability, and the gospel—a gift that lasts far beyond the holiday season.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
Why Christmas often places unrealistic pressure on moms
The lie that a “perfect” Christmas equals faithful parenting
What it truly means to be rooted in Jesus, not just spiritually busy
Why your walk with God matters more than any gift under the tree
A biblical call to meaningful, unhurried time with the Lord
Encouragement for moms in every season—busy, weary, and imperfect
Scripture References
John 15:5 — “Whoever abides in me and I in him… apart from me you can do nothing.”
Ephesians 2:10 — “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…”
Key Takeaways
Your kids don’t need a picture-perfect Christmas—they need to see you walk with God.
Being rooted in Jesus means abiding in Him, not running on spiritual leftovers.
Time with God isn’t about convenience or legalism—it’s about love and devotion.
Faithfulness, not perfection, is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children.
Closing Encouragement
Friend, this Christmas, let go of the pressure to make everything magical. Choose what is eternal. Choose faithfulness. Choose to be a mom rooted deeply in Jesus—because that is the gift your children will carry with them long after the decorations come down.
Listen & Share
If this episode encouraged you, share it with another mom who may need this reminder during the Christmas season.
For more family discipleship resources, visit TrainingThemWisely.com.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

Christmas is filled with lights, traditions, and excitement — but the greatest gift we can give our children is a clear understanding of why Jesus came.
In this episode, we talk through practical, grace-filled ways to teach kids the true story of Christmas — not just the manger scene, but God’s rescue plan from the very beginning. We’ll explore Scripture, simple discipleship rhythms, and encouraging reminders for moms navigating a busy December.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
•Why understanding the purpose of Jesus’ birth changes everything about Christmas
•How Luke 2 and Isaiah 9:6 help kids see that Jesus is the promised Savior
•Simple, age-appropriate ways to teach the Christmas story at home
•How to keep Christ at the center during full December schedules
•Why Christmas discipleship doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful
Scripture Focus:
• Luke 2:6–20 — The birth of Jesus
• Isaiah 9:6 — God’s promise of a coming Savior
Practical Ideas We Share:
•Reading the Christmas story slowly and repeatedly throughout December
•Emphasizing the why behind Jesus’ birth, not just the details
•Using songs and hymns as tools for teaching theology
•Connecting Christmas to the gospel story, from manger to cross to resurrection
•Simple activities that make learning joyful and memorable
Encouragement for Moms:
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect Christmas. Faithful, simple moments of Scripture, prayer, and conversation matter more than any tradition or gift. God uses your consistency, even in small moments, to shape your children’s hearts.
Resources Mentioned:
• Treasured by the King: Names of God & Who I Am in Christ Devotional
• Names of God & Who I Am in Christ Devotional for Kids
• Multi-age Bible Studies (Preschool through Teens)
Find these and more Christmas discipleship resources at TrainingThemWisely.com
Enjoyed This Episode?
•Like this podcast
•Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode
•Share it with another mom this Christmas season
Thanks for joining us as we learn to train them wisely — one faithful moment at a time.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

I'm excited to host Karri J. Iverson on our podcast today. I met her in Ohio at a conference that we were both at when I was looking for a science curriculum for my kids. My twelve year old calls this the "fun science curriculum" which I love hearing him say!
 
themysteryofscience.com
https://www.facebook.com/mysteryofsciencebooks
 
So far we have these subjects for 4-8 grades:
 
The Mystery of Science: Biology
The Mystery of Science: Physics (at the printer)
 
With these to come:
 
The Mystery of Science: Chemistry (coming 2026)
The Mystery of Science: Earth Science (coming 2026)
The Mystery of Science: Astronomy
The Mystery of Science: Health and Nutrition
The Mystery of Science: Botany
The Mystery of Science: Marine Science
The Mystery of Science: Forensics
 
About the book:
Simplify your science teaching with our engaging, biblical curriculum!
 
Developed by a busy, homeschooling mom and science teacher, this unique, open and go curriculum will simplify your lesson and prep time.  Written to emphasize creation, The Mystery of Science provides a solid, biblical foundation in God's intelligent design.  With bold, colorful pictures and lab activities designed to engage your students, they'll be excited to explore science!
Karri J. Iverson has been a major influence on the lives of many children and families for more than 20 years. She graduated from Western Michigan University summa cum laude in elementary education with minors in science/math and English. She has used her diverse education as well as her husband’s knowledge and help to homeschool their 5 children.
In 1999 Karri recognized a growing need for homeschooled students to have further instruction in English and science, so she began a local homeschool tutorial. She taught classes in many subjects and managed several teachers as the group grew to meet the needs of local homeschoolers.
Karri has also taught at other homeschool programs and co-ops and has enjoyed teaching Bible studies at her church. She has given direction and guidance to many parents during their homeschooling journeys and has privately tutored several students throughout their high school years. One of her passions is developing curriculum, which she has done for her own children, local homeschooling groups, the local school district’s summer and extracurricular camps, and private schools.
In addition, she has taught for the Summer Institute for the Gifted and has designed her own science and math curriculum for summer camps. In addition, Karri trains and encourages teachers and evaluates programs to make sure they meet scientific objectives. She also loves helping students learn about their awesome Creator!
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter
License code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D

💬 Episode Summary
Faith isn’t just something we talk about in church—it’s something we live out in car rides, bedtime routines, and unexpected questions from curious little hearts. In this episode, Rene and Rebekah share how to have faith conversations that feel natural—not forced, awkward, or overly scripted, but Spirit-led and deeply meaningful.
If you’ve ever wondered how to talk about Jesus in everyday moments with your kids, this is your invitation to start simple, stay present, and trust that God is in the small stuff.
🧭 What You’ll Hear
Why Scripture calls us to teach our kids about God as we go
How a sunset, rainbow, or hard question can open up spiritual conversations
5 practical ways to weave faith naturally into everyday life
How to respond with grace even when conversations are messy or emotional
The power of listening well, asking open questions, and letting your kids see your own faith journey
✋ 5 Simple Ways to Make Faith Conversations Flow
Use What’s Already HappeningTie God's truth into what you're seeing, hearing, or experiencing—like a rainbow or a movie scene.
Ask Open-Ended QuestionsSpark reflection and dialogue by asking, “What do you think Jesus would do here?”
Share Your Own JourneyBe real about how you trust God—even in worry, sadness, or uncertainty.
Listen More Than You SpeakSometimes the best discipleship happens when you create space for your child to process.
Tie Faith to RhythmsAdd Scripture to your family’s everyday routines—bedtime, mealtime, car rides.
📖 Colossians 3:17 reminds us: “Whatever you do… do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
💛 Encouragement for Moms
You don’t have to have all the right words. You don’t need a theology degree. You just need a heart that’s willing and present.
God multiplies our small steps of obedience—even when the conversation is messy or interrupted by spilled juice and toddler questions.
 
📣 Want More?
💬 If this episode encouraged you, please leave a 5-star review! It helps more moms like you find the show.📚 Explore more resources at trainingthemwisely.com, and grab Rene’s book, Training Them Wisely: Discipling Kids, available on Amazon now.
 
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetterLicense code: QG9F8BI91PJEEH5D