Ep. 277 — Standing in the Gap: A Parent's Prayer for their Prodigal Child with Dr. James Banks

Few things break a Christ-following parent's heart more than watching a daughter walk away from her faith. In a culture where drifting and deconstruction are becoming all too common, it can feel overwhelming to know how to respond. Yet Scripture offers both hope and a blueprint: we serve a God who runs toward prodigals with open arms (Luke 15:20), and prayer is the bridge that can bring wandering hearts home.

In this powerful episode, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay welcomes Dr. James Banks—pastor, author, and devoted encourager of parents walking through prodigal seasons. With deep compassion and practical wisdom, Dr. Banks shares what it means to "stand in the gap" through prayer, how to show unconditional love without compromising truth, and why parents can persevere in hope even when change feels far away.

You'll also hear practical encouragement for spotting early signs of drift, how to guard against despair, and why community and mentorship are lifelines for weary parents. If you've been praying for your prodigal daughter—or longing for strength to keep praying—this conversation will refresh your spirit and remind you that God is always at work, even when we cannot see it.

Discover how persistent prayer doesn't just move prodigals closer to God—it transforms parents in the process.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode:

• Luke 15:20

• Romans 8:26–27

• James 5:16

• Psalm 126:5–6

• Galatians 6:9

Learn more about Dr. James Banks and his ministry at jamesbanks.org.

Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com.

To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org.