Parenting with Longsuffering

The Teachable Woman Podcast

Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry

Episode: Parenting with Longsuffering

Introduction

Welcome back to The Teachable Woman Podcast with Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry — “Teachers of Good Things.” In this heartfelt episode titled “Parenting with Longsuffering,” the Reverends share Biblical wisdom and real-life reflections on what it means to love, guide, and endure with patience as parents. Drawing from the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5, they unpack how godly longsuffering mirrors God’s own patience toward His children, offering encouragement for every parent navigating the beautiful, stretching journey of raising the next generation.

1: The 37:37 Prayer Challenge and God’s Faithfulness

Reverend Owes and Reverend Cherry open by celebrating the growing participation in the 37:37 Prayer Challenge, where believers are committing to daily prayer based on Matthew 6. Reverend Cherry shares a powerful testimony of God’s affirmation through worship — how a simple hymn, “Yes, God Is Real,” reminded her that God is listening and moving. Together, they remind listeners that prayer and obedience invite divine partnership and lasting impact on our families and nation.

2: Parenting Through the Lens of Longsuffering

The conversation transitions into the core theme — Parenting with Longsuffering. Reverend Cherry recalls her husband’s wise definition: “It means to suffer a long time.” Parenting requires endurance — emotionally, financially, and spiritually. From endless practices to sleepless nights, parents are called to reflect God’s patience. The Reverends affirm that though parenting can be exhausting, every sacrifice is worth it, for it shapes souls and glorifies God.

3: God’s Example of Patience Toward Us

Drawing from Israel’s story and God’s enduring grace, the hosts explain that longsuffering reflects God’s own character. Just as the Lord patiently waited for humanity to turn toward Him, parents must practice patience with their children — especially when behavior challenges arise. Reverend Cherry reminds parents that children did not ask to be born; they are God’s heritage. Parenting with longsuffering means recognizing that our children are opportunities to show divine love and grace daily.

4: Balancing Opportunity and Relationship

Reverend Owes encourages parents to reflect on whether their busyness aligns with God’s will for their children. She asks poignant questions: Are we seeking God’s direction before enrolling our children in every activity? Have we traded relationship for routine? Together, they caution against letting worldly pressures overshadow spiritual priorities. True parenting success, they say, lies in nurturing faith, not just filling schedules.

5: The Power of Patience and Kindness

The Reverends turn to 1 Corinthians 13: “Love suffereth long, and is kind.” Longsuffering without kindness is incomplete. Reverend Cherry reminds listeners that attitude matters as much as endurance — children can feel when patience turns sour. Practicing patience requires gentleness in speech, self-control, and listening before reacting. Reverend Owes adds that God often tells parents to be still and hold their peace because He knows what their children are truly facing.

6: Seeing Through Compassionate Eyes

In a deeply moving moment, Reverend Owes shares a personal story about her son being pulled over by police — and the sobering fear that came with it. That experience, she says, taught her that parents don’t always know the battles their children face, especially as young men of color. This moment underscores the importance of patience, empathy, and restraint. As Reverend Cherry reflects, we must “outlast the enemy of judgment and stress,” remembering that love and understanding strengthen our families far more than criticism ever could.

7: Love, Presence, and Prayerful Parenting

The episode closes with a tender reminder that love is expressed through presence. Reverend Owes shares her personal practice of looking her children in the eyes each day — ensuring they feel seen, loved, and secure. Both hosts encourage parents to pray before enrolling children in new programs, to trust God’s “no” when it comes, and to stay vigilant about where and with whom their children spend time. Parenting, they affirm, is a sacred calling to reflect God’s heart.

Summary

In “Parenting with Longsuffering,” Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry offer a refreshing, faith-filled perspective on patience in parenting. Through laughter, storytelling, and biblical truth, they remind parents that longsuffering is not weakness — it is divine strength in action. Whether dealing with toddlers or adult children, this episode encourages parents to mirror God’s patience, show kindness, seek His guidance, and love consistently. Parenting, after all, is ministry — and every moment of endurance is a seed of eternal impact.