From Rules to Relationship: Parenting That Builds Lasting Faith

Motherhood (and fatherhood) has a way of stretching us in ways we never imagined. We want our kids to grow up knowing Jesus—not just behaving well in the moment, but carrying a faith that lasts for a lifetime.

But if we’re honest, many of us fall into the trap of focusing on obedience first. We want them to “listen the first time,” pick up their toys without arguing, or stop rolling their eyes when we give instructions.

And while obedience has its place, here’s the truth: obedience without connection doesn’t last.

Why Obedience Isn’t Enough

A child who obeys only because they’re afraid of punishment—or because they want approval—may comply in the short term but disconnect in the long term.

God doesn’t parent us that way. He pursues our hearts. He wins us with kindness, draws us in with love, and then invites us into obedience out of trust (Romans 2:4, John 14:15).

When our kids feel deeply connected and safe with us, obedience flows out of relationship—not fear.

A Better Way: Heart-Centered Parenting

Instead of asking “How can I get my child to obey me?” a better question is:
“How can I strengthen the connection with my child’s heart so that obedience flows naturally out of trust?”

This is exactly what I teach in Module 1 of the Heart-Centered Parenting Course: Obedience vs. Heart-Connection.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• How to cultivate trust so obedience comes from love, not fear.

• The difference between behavior management and heart discipleship.

• Practical ways to pause in the heat of the moment and choose connection over control.

Want to Get Started for Free?

To help you begin building stronger heart-connection with your kids, I created a free resource:

👉 Download the free Reconciliation & Forgiveness Approach HERE & Join the Waitlist to learn more!

This simple guide will give you quick, practical ways to strengthen your child’s trust and create the kind of relationship where real obedience can grow.

The Next Step

Parenting doesn’t have to feel like a constant battle of wills. When you learn to parent the heart, not just the behavior, your home can shift from tension to trust, from rules to relationship.

If you’re ready to go deeper, I’d love to invite you to join me on the waitlist for the Heart-Centered Parenting Cohort, starting in October. This $47 cohort will give you access to the material, workbook, live video, and a community of like-minded parents who want to raise Kingdom Kids, and are tired from parenting from a place of burnout. This cohort is where you’ll walk step by step through:

1. Obedience vs. Heart-Connection

2. The Reconciliation Model

3. Identity and Healing

Because when you win your child’s heart, you win the opportunity to lead them to Jesus. 💜

Join the Cohort Waitlist HERE to find out more details. 

Check out the FREE Reconciliation and Forgiveness Printable to start connecting with your child's heart today. 

Check out the latest episode of the Family Room Mission Podcast.: From Rules to Relationship.