Finding Joy When Your Kids Walk Away: Trusting Jesus Over Outcomes

Parenting is one of the most rewarding yet challenging journeys we can experience. As Christian parents, we often dream of raising children who follow Jesus, make wise choices, and walk closely with God. But what happens when our children choose a different path? How do we find hope and joy when our kids seem far from the faith we love?

In this episode of The Bridge Between Us Podcast, we tackle these difficult questions head-on with guest Mary DeMuth, author of Love, Pray, Listen. Together, we explore how parents can trust Jesus in seasons of uncertainty and heartbreak.

When Outcomes Become Idols

It's natural to want the best for our kids. But sometimes, even good desires can turn into idols. When we say, "I'll be okay if my kids do exactly what I want," we're putting our hope in outcomes, not in Jesus. As Mary DeMuth shares, this is a trap many parents fall into. We want control—but the truth is, we don't have it. God reminds us that our role is to love, guide, and pray, but ultimately, our children have free will.

Finding Joy in Heartbreak

One powerful theme from the conversation is the idea of finding joy even when life doesn't look like we planned. How do you celebrate the goodness of God when your heart is breaking? The answer is in understanding that joy is not based on circumstances—it's rooted in Jesus. Mary DeMuth reminds us that even God, the perfect Father, has children who rebelled. Our pain is something He understands deeply, and that connection can become a source of unexpected joy.

Practical Tools for Grieving Parents

Grief is real, and it's okay to lament. In this episode, you will be encouraged to use the biblical model of lament—pouring out your heart to God, describing your pain, and choosing to praise Him anyway. Writing your prayers, journaling your emotions, and finding a safe person to share with can help release the heavy burden of parenting heartbreak.

Another powerful takeaway is learning to let go of specific outcomes in your prayers. Instead of telling God exactly how to move, Mary DeMuth suggests praying, "Surprise me with how You reach my child." This shift opens the door to trust and helps parents see God's creative work in ways they might have missed.

Love That Transforms

We close the conversation by unpacking 1 Corinthians 13—often quoted at weddings but originally written to a broken church. How can parents apply "love is patient, love is kind" to their parenting, especially with a child who's wandering? Mary offers insights on showing grace, patience, and kindness to our kids, and even to ourselves, on this journey.

Key Takeaways

• Release control: God loves your child more than you do.
• Joy comes from Jesus, not perfect circumstances.
• Lament is a healthy, biblical response to grief.
• Trust God's timing and methods, even when they surprise you.
• Love your child and yourself with grace and patience.

This episode is for every parent longing for hope in a hard season. Whether your child is questioning faith, making different choices, or simply testing boundaries, remember this: you are not alone, and Jesus is walking with you every step of the way.

Resources mentioned:

https://www.marydemuth.com/

Here is your free download of 52 prayers.

Call to Action: If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps more parents discover hope and wisdom for the journey ahead.

Related podcast episodes:

Overcome Grief When It Is Impacting Your Life and Relationships

Help For The Parent Who Has Been Estranged From Their Child