Want to Be a More Patient, Peaceful Mom? Stop Trying So Hard - with Ava Pennington

Ever feel like you're trying so hard to be more patient, more joyful, more loving... and you just keep failing?

In this conversation with Ava Pennington (author of "Flourish"), we're talking about the fruit of the Spirit, but not in the way you learned it in Sunday School. Because here's the thing: you can't force spiritual fruit by trying harder.

Ava explains why love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control aren't items on your to-do list. They're the natural result of surrendering to the Holy Spirit moment by moment.

We talk about the difference between striving and surrendering, why God's definition of these fruits might be different than yours (wait until you hear what she says about kindness!), and how to actually cooperate with what the Holy Spirit is already doing in your life.

This episode is for you if:
• You're exhausted from trying harder to be a better Christian.
• You keep failing at patience, peace, or self-control and feel defeated.
• You want to teach your kids about spiritual fruit without it becoming legalistic.
• You struggle with anxiety, impatience, or lack of joy.
• You're ready to stop striving and start surrendering.

Ava gives practical guidance on identifying which fruit you're struggling with most, recognizing the temptations and distractions that work against it, and learning to surrender in the moment instead of white-knuckling your way through.

Plus, we tackle how to model these fruits for your kids in a way that's authentic and grace-filled.

If you're tired of the try-harder message, this conversation is for you.

📖 RESOURCE MENTIONED:
Ava's book: "Flourish: Grace-Centered Practices to Protect and Grow a Fruitful Life in Christ" https://amzn.to/3YkWoMF (affiliate)

🔗 CONNECT WITH AVA:
Website: https://AvaPennington.com/