In today’s fast-paced and anxious world, finding peace as a parent can feel like an uphill battle. Between work, social pressures, and the constant noise of modern life, it’s easy for both parents and teens to lose sight of calm and truth.
In this week’s episode of Parenting Great Kids, I had the joy of speaking with bestselling author and beloved pastor Max Lucado, whose wisdom on faith, mindset, and what he calls “picky thinking” offers powerful tools for parents who want to raise grounded, confident, and faith-filled kids.
Together, we explored how our thoughts shape our families—and how faith gives us the courage to take those thoughts captive, even when the world feels overwhelming.
Picky Thinking: Choosing What to Dwell On
Max introduced a fascinating concept he calls “picky thinking.” With nearly 70,000 thoughts crossing our minds each day, being intentional about which ones we allow to stay is crucial. Max describes it beautifully—like being a “burly barroom bouncer” at the door of your mind, letting in only thoughts that bring truth and peace.
As parents, that means challenging the inner voices of fear and insecurity and replacing them with truth. Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 10
