Christian Parent, Crazy World

How do we raise children who stand strong—and even shine—in a culture determined to pull them away from God?
In this special archive series of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine dives deep into one of the most urgent questions facing Christian parents: How can we prepare our kids to stand firm in a “Babylonian” culture bent on swaying their faith?
To answer this, Catherine welcomes DJ Harry , senior pastor of Needham’s Grove Baptist Church in Central North Carolina and cohost of the Better Together podcast. With over two decades of experience in pastoral ministry (and a background in education), DJ Harry brings powerful insights drawn from the biblical life of Daniel—a young man who stood unwaveringly for God while surrounded by pressure and compromise.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
Timeless Lessons from Daniel:
Drawing from the extraordinary story of Daniel and his friends, listeners are invited to reimagine the Book of Daniel as a parenting manual for today. How did teenagers like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego maintain unwavering faith in the heart of Babylon—a culture that tried to erase everything they knew and believed?

You Can’t Choose When or How Your Child Will Be Tested:
As DJ Harry recounts, “We don’t get to set the time or the age when our children are going to be pressured.” Like Daniel’s parents, we rarely know how or when our children’s faith will face its hardest tests, but we can choose how we prepare them now.

The Power of a Well-Rounded Foundation:
Daniel and his peers were chosen because of their well-rounded competence—in wisdom, learning, and character. Catherine Segars and DJ Harry challenge parents to nurture not just spiritual knowledge but also curiosity, learning, and character in their children.

Facing the Reality of “Babylon” Today:
The episode acknowledges the modern pressures—academic, social, and spiritual—that Christian kids face, often at younger ages than ever before. The analogy to ancient Babylon becomes all too relevant.

Where Most of the Crowd Goes Missing:
Listeners are reminded that most of the young men taken to Babylon “became good Babylonian young men,” disappearing into the crowd. Only a faithful few—like Daniel and his friends—stood apart. What made the difference, and how can parents cultivate that difference at home?

Practical Encouragement for Uncertain Times:
Personal anecdotes, including a health scare in DJ Harry 's family, bring home the message that we don’t know what tomorrow holds. Our task as parents is to lay the seeds now—academically, spiritually, emotionally—without presuming on time.

Standout Moment:
DJ Harry reveals, “If I want my children to have the greatest opportunity to have an impact in their Babylon, then part of that preparation is preparing them to lead in culture.”
Why This Matters:
In an age when research shows most church-raised kids drift from faith under cultural pressure, this episode is a wake-up call: intentional, daily spiritual formation and well-rounded preparation matter more than ever.
About the Guest:
DJ Harry is the senior pastor of Needham's Grove Baptist Church in Central North Carolina and co-hosts the Better Together podcast with his wife, Lori. With a background as both a science teacher and pastor, he brings real-world experience to this biblical discussion on parenting.

Parenting Takeaway:
Are you cultivating an environment where your children gain not just faith, but the wisdom, skills, and confidence to stand apart in their generation? What steps can you take this week to intentionally prepare your child’s heart, mind, and character for the challenges ahead?
Connect with DJ Harry :
Website: Dr. Dennis Harry
Don’t miss next week’s powerful conclusion—and a moment so surprising it changed the course of this interview.
EPISODE LINKS:
Better Together Podcast

CatherineSegars.com

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Rest Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Command: How Christian Parents Can Rediscover the Gift of Sabbath in a Nonstop World
Few topics challenge modern Christian families more deeply than how—and why—to actually keep the Sabbath in our culture of relentless busyness and endless to-do lists. Have we missed one of God’s greatest gifts for our homes?
Catherine is joined by Dr. Steven Hall, minister, theologian, and soul-care advocate, to guide parents through the what, why, and—most importantly—the how of Sabbath-keeping for busy families today. With nearly four decades of ministry experience, degrees in biblical studies, pastoral counseling, and spiritual formation, and as the cofounder of Ministry Oasis, Dr. Steven Hall offers a powerful, grace-filled perspective on rest that goes far beyond legalism.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
Sabbath as Trust, Not Legalism: Dr. Hall reveals how practicing Sabbath is less about rule-following and more about radical trust—much like the principle of tithing. "Trust is being able to say, okay. There's a hard stop here for me…I'm going to trust God with all of my unanswered emails, all my unattended bills, and all my unrun errands," shares Dr. Steven Hall 09:03.

Why Rest Comes First: Many Christians “work, work, work, until we finally collapse,” but as Dr. Hall points out, God designed us to work from rest, not rest from work04:39. The Jewish day begins at sunset, with rest and worship, modeling God’s original rhythms.

Practical Ways to Start: Sabbath needn’t be another item on your checklist. Dr. Hall shares practical, creative approaches for every stage of family life—from “micro-Sabbaths” to trading child care hours with other parents in your community 14:46, 20:10. Even single parents or busy caregivers can carve out sacred time, with the help of honest reflection and support.

Saying “No” for a Higher Yes: Sometimes, honoring the Sabbath means courageously declining soccer games, dance recitals, or church programs that overcrowd your family’s schedule—trusting that what your children need most is a parent who models margin and abiding in Christ 25:21.

Notable Quotes & Moments:
“Sabbath is not about adding one more thing to your to-do list. Sabbath is about removing all the to-do things from your list.” – Dr. Steven Hall 15:21

“Imagine if parents of young children would live and teach Sabbath, their children would catch it—and break the yoke of the cultural pharaoh over their lives.” – Dr. Steven Hall 17:51

Stories of creative Sabbath-keeping, from couple tag-team strategies for parents with little kids, to the real-life example of Susanna Wesley using “micro-Sabbath” moments by simply pulling her apron over her head for prayer 31:06.

About the Guest:
Dr. Steven Hall is associate professor of pastoral ministry at Lee University and cofounder of Ministry Oasis, devoted to the soul health of pastors and ministry leaders.
Ready to trade busyness for blessing?
What could Sabbath look like for your family—if you trusted God enough to stop, even when the world demands more? This episode equips you not only with theological foundations, but also with inspiring ideas and practical steps to lead your home into God’s rhythm of rest.
Ask yourself: What is one step you can take this week to model rest, trust, and delight in God for your children? How might your family—and your legacy—change if you made Sabbath a priority?
Tune in and reclaim the gift of Sabbath for your home!

Resources for Going Deeper
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer Find it on Amazon
A highly recommended book that explores the damaging effects of hurry and the invitation to cultivate Sabbath rhythms for a more grounded, God-centered life.

Rule of Life Podcast Listen Here
A podcast series (early episodes dedicated to Sabbath) that dives deep into the biblical and practical aspects of building habits of rest and renewal.

Ministry Oasis
Explore resources and Sabbath teachings at ministryoasis.com
Dr. Steven Hall offers teaching, encouragement, and practical guidance for soul health and Sabbath keeping.

Catherine Segars’ Christian Parenting Resources
Get free faith-building downloads at catherinesegars.com/resources
Access eBooks, podcast archives, prayers for your kids, and tools to support your journey as a Christian parent.


Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Most Christians would never dream of breaking the Ten Commandments—except, perhaps, one: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” Why has the fourth commandment become the one modern believers feel comfortable ignoring? Is Sabbath rest just an antiquated Old Testament burden—or could restoring it be the antidote our over-stressed homes desperately need?
This week, Catherine welcomes back Dr. Steven Hall, a minister with nearly four decades of experience, associate professor of pastoral ministry at Lee University, and executive director of the Paul L. Walker Center for Pentecostal Preaching. An expert in biblical studies, pastoral counseling, and spiritual formation, Dr. Hall guides listeners through a rejuvenating look at the biblical roots and modern relevance of Sabbath rest.
Key Episode Takeaways:
A Forgotten Commandment
Catherine challenges listeners to reconsider the importance of Sabbath, noting how its neglect is rarely discussed or even recognized—despite its place alongside commandments against murder and adultery (00:37).

Why We Keep Breaking It
According to Dr. Hall, our American hustle-culture and pipeline lifestyle lead us to run on empty—constantly pouring out, never filling up. “Capitalism based on consumerism has no room for rest,” he asserts, explaining why so many parents are exhausted and soul-weary (09:12).

Sabbath: More Than Just a Rule
The conversation reframes Sabbath not as a restrictive law, but as a pre-fall creation principle—woven by God into the fabric of human flourishing (as outlined in Genesis 1 and 2). “Humans were designed to work from rest, not rest from work,” Dr. Hall emphasizes, challenging a work-first, rest-later cultural narrative (25:24).

Awareness Before Obedience
Catherine and Dr. Hall draw parallels to hidden sins, like the anecdote of Alexandra who unknowingly broke biblical commands before learning the truth. The episode encourages parents to move from ignorance to understanding, and to teach their children the same (16:21).

The Sabbath as a Mark of God’s People
Referencing Isaiah 56, Catherine points out how Sabbath-keeping was key to belonging for outsiders—all while remaining a powerful cultural counter-sign today (38:09).

Not Legalism, but Life-Giving Rhythm
Dr. Hall and Catherine reveal how Jesus didn’t abolish the Sabbath, but restored it as a gift for our wellbeing, not a heavy burden (45:25).

A Pandemic of Hurry
Drawing on John Mark Comer and other modern thinkers, the episode exposes the epidemic of “hurry sickness” ravaging our homes and hearts, stealing the very love we’re called to pour out on our families (35:19).

Practical Application Awaits
Look ahead to next week’s episode, where Dr. Hall will unpack “micro-Sabbathing”—real-life strategies for busy parents, caregivers, and those in nontraditional jobs who wrestle with the practicality of setting aside an entire day (46:54).

Notable Quotes:
“Humans were designed to work from rest, not rest from work.” – Dr. Hall
“If the devil can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy... because if he can make you busy, he can make you tired, and when you’re tired, he can make you bad.” – Dr. Hall (23:02)
“The Sabbath was never intended to become another heavy burden. It was designed to lift our burdens.” – Catherine
About the Guest:
Dr. Steven Hall brings decades of ministry experience, academic expertise, and a passion for spiritual formation. He currently teaches at Lee University and leads Ministry Oasis, fostering soul health among Christian leaders and families.
Are you parenting from the overflow of God’s rest, or are you running on spiritual empty? What would it look like for your family to recover the life-giving rhythm of Sabbath this week?
Tune in—and discover how restoring this ancient practice could transform your home, your peace, and your relationship with God for generations.
Episode Links & Resources
Ministry Oasis
Discover more about Dr. Steven Hall’s ministry for the soul health of pastors and Christian leaders at ministryoasis.com

Books Mentioned
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
Find it on Amazon

Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer
Find it on Amazon

Works by Walter Brueggemann, including Sabbath as Resistance
Find it on Amazon

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Pete Scazzero
Find it on Amazon


Catherine’s Free Parenting Resources
Access free ebooks, scripture lists, podcast bundles, and more to equip you for Christian parenting at:
catherinesegars.com/resources
Or contact Catherine directly at: catherine@catherinesegars.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if your family had a mission as clear as any thriving organization? Without intentionality, families don’t drift toward health—they drift toward chaos. In a world pulling parents in a thousand directions, many Christian families find themselves simply reacting, drifting instead of living with God-given purpose. In this must-listen episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine sits down with Derek England, Executive Director of Family ID—a ministry with over 25 years of experience equipping parents to build intentional, value-driven homes.
Why This Episode Matters:
Every family drifts—unless you set your direction on purpose. Few of us stop to ask, “Why has God brought our unique family together?” or, “How do we intentionally pass on our core values?” Catherine and Derek England shine a spotlight on the practical and biblical tools that can transform your family from surviving to thriving.
Guest Highlight:
Derek England is not only leading Family ID but has personally experienced how clarifying family identity can radically alter the trajectory of a home. His heart is for every family—from toddlers to teens—to discover their God-given calling together.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode
Why Family Culture Matters
Catherine reminds us that “families don’t drift toward health—they drift toward chaos.” The foundational strength of your family is the most important ministry, eclipsing even your career and outside achievements.

Intentionality Over Drift
Derek England explains how, after years of approaching work with strategy and goals but “taking family one day at a time,” he and his wife attended a Family ID workshop and immediately knew they’d found what was missing. “Once you think it, you can't unthink it.”

Your Family’s God-Given Uniqueness
Not every family is called to the same mission. Discover the importance of answering the question: “Who are we?” Hear how Family ID helps thousands of families articulate their unique identity, purpose, and direction—with tools that actually shape daily life.

The 16 Family Types
Using research and decades of experience, Family ID has identified 16 different family cultures—from “harmonious” (like the elephant: connected and relational) to “focused” (passionate, intentional, persistent). Find out how an online, totally free assessment can help you discover yours.

Living Out Core Values
Hear how Derek England’s family intentionally chooses and lives by five core values such as “radically protective of quality time” and “unwavering integrity.”

Learn why having just a handful of clearly-stated values provides a shared language and an anchor for decision-making—even for young kids.

Practical Tools You Can Use Today
Family ID offers bite-sized videos and workbooks to walk you through creating your own family identity, mission, and values—accessible online, easy to do in short sittings, and free from cost barriers.

The Family ID process includes resources to ensure every voice—including your kids’—is heard as you clarify and celebrate your unique family strengths.

Notable Quotes & Moments
“When you know who you are, you’ll know what to do.” – Derek England

“Our family didn’t start with us, and it won’t end with our kids.” – Derek England

“Where there is a lack of vision, the people perish… Where there’s a lack of vision for your family, it won’t thrive.” – Catherine

Anecdotes That Hit Home
Catherine shares how her daughter discovered a laser-focus and passion in Civil Air Patrol after struggling with direction—a real-life testimony to the power of clarifying vision.

Families are reminded that it’s never too late, quoting: “The best time to plant a tree is ten years ago. The second best time is today.”

Why This Conversation Is Essential for Christian Parents
In an era of fractured schedules and constant distractions, this episode equips parents to reclaim the sacred calling of the family—to be the primary place of discipleship, love, and generational impact. Whether your home feels harmonious, focused, or a work in progress, you’ll come away with both hope and practical tools to lead your family with vision and unity.
About the Guest:
Derek England serves as Executive Director of Family ID, a ministry devoted to helping families worldwide build intentional and faith-filled homes. With over two decades of expertise—and his own journey transformed through the Family ID process—he’s passionate about helping parents move from reaction to intentionality.
Are you ready to answer: “Who are we?”
Visit family-id.com to take the free family identity assessment and begin building your family mission today.
Your Call To Action:
How would your family change if you decided today to live with intention? Why not gather for dinner this week and ask, “Who are we—really?” Take the Family ID assessment together and start a new chapter of purpose-driven parenting.
Don’t drift—build! Your family is worth it.
Resources/Links
Family ID – Free Family Identity Assessment & Master Class
Discover your unique family type, core values, and intentional strategies to build a faith-filled home using the Family ID online assessment and resources.

Catherine Segars’ Free Resources for Christian Parents
Access devotionals, scripture lists, articles, and tools to help you thrive as a Christian parent in today’s world.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Who Gets to Define the Next Generation? Gen Z Finds Its Voice—and Its Anchor—in Christ
Is Gen Z lost in the noise of culture, media, and politics—or are they quietly forging a radical new path of faith? In this powerful episode, Catherine sits down with high school senior and gifted poet Charis Shoemaker to explore how today’s young Christians are wrestling with identity, truth, and calling in an ever-fractured world. If you wonder what the next generation truly believes, and how Christian parents can encourage their kids to pursue God in the midst of cultural chaos, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss.
About Our Guest:
Charis Shoemaker is no ordinary teenager. A state award-winning actress, an eloquent poet, and—most importantly—a passionate follower of Christ, she represents a new wave of young believers speaking up for authentic faith. Charis’ original poem, “They Say,” recently brought a packed house to their feet at her homeschool graduation, voicing the hopes and struggles of a generation determined to follow Christ—no matter the cost.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
Gen Z Under the Microscope
Listen as Charis shares firsthand what it’s like to grow up constantly defined—often unfairly—by societal labels, politics, and the relentless barrage of social media. In an era of fractured opinions, what do young people really hear about who or what they’re supposed to be?

The Power of Godly Influence
Charis opens up about her own journey, including profound family challenges and the steady faith of her mother, a night-shift nurse who made time for Scripture and prayer no matter how hard life got. Her story testifies to the quiet resilience that shapes faith behind the scenes.

A Poetic Anthem for Gen Z
Hear Charis' captivating poem, “They Say,” in full. Her words challenge generational stereotypes and culture’s attempts to define identity—while serving as an anthem for those who choose to be defined not by people, but by the voice of God.
“If my life is to revolve around opinions, I would much rather they come from a God who is preeminent than a people who are insignificant... I would much rather they be words spoken by the Word who became flesh for me.” – Charis Shoemaker, 19:15

Dealing with Church Hurt and Pain
Charis recounts personal battles—including abuse and disappointment with the Church—and how those wounds could have derailed her faith. Yet, she found hope, healing, and her truest identity in Jesus. Parents will find wisdom here for helping kids process pain with grace rather than anger or withdrawal.

Who Gets to Define Us?
The conversation zeroes in on the theme of authority, urging listeners to ask tough questions: Is our identity determined by culture, by the Church, by ourselves—or solely by God, the Creator who names us and calls us His own?

Hope Rising in Gen Z
Contrary to stereotypes, Charis reveals that a growing number of her peers are returning to church and hungry for real, unfiltered truth. She challenges parents not to underestimate Gen Z's capacity—and desire—for deep faith, and encourages both generations to risk bold, loving conversations about what matters most.
“There’s a generation coming up after you that wants truth…Be there for us. Give us that thing to hold on to.” – Charis Shoemaker, 53:38

Why This Matters:
In a season when so much is said about the failures and fears of the next generation, this episode highlights a surprising undercurrent: Gen Z isn’t just walking away—they’re wrestling, seeking, and often returning to the God who defines them. Catherine and Charis Shoemaker’s honest exchange offers hope to every parent praying for their child’s faith journey.
Memorable Moments:
The story of Charis Shoemaker's friend whose final words were simply, “Trust Jesus”—a moving reminder of the enduring legacy of authentic faith (35:33).

An inspiring encounter with a peer who worships “mother earth” and how open conversation sows seeds of truth and friendship (52:53).

The recognition that every generation faces labels, but the only voice that matters is God’s.

Modern Application:
Christian parents, take heart! The next generation is listening, watching, and longing for truth—especially from you. Your example, prayers, and honest conversations matter more than ever. As you foster their search for identity, remember: God alone must anchor our children in a world desperate to define them.
Call to Action:
How are you helping your children—or the young people in your life—listen to God’s voice above all others? This week, try having an open conversation about identity and faith at home. Share your own story, and invite them to share theirs—uncut, unfiltered, and real.
Resources Mentioned:
“Gay Girl, Good God” by Jackie Hill Perry

The Narrow Road (song by Reagan James Boone)

Let us know: How are you equipping your family to anchor their identity in Christ, not in what “they say”? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media, or email your parenting questions for future episodes!
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