Guest Blogger Rose Ann Forte is an international and award-winning best-selling author of The Plans He Has for Me and co-author of Transformed by His Promises (Two 12-Week Devotionals for Breaking Free from Life-Interfering Behaviors Through Faith and Neuroscience). She is also the creator of the Choose Freedom® Program. Rose Ann is a passionate advocate for helping people break free from the psychological slavery of alcohol, substances, and other life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Once caught in her own cycle of secretive drinking, she experienced a life-altering transformation through the power of God’s Word, neuroscience, and a mindset shift rooted in Scripture. Today, she’s dedicated to helping others find that same peace, clarity, and purpose in a way that helps to avoid the stigma that currently persists in the “recovery” space.
Children Are Always Watching
Children don’t just listen to what we say, they absorb what we do. In the small everyday moments, we are shaping their view of God, the world, and themselves. If we want to raise kids rooted in faith, peace, and purpose, it starts by modeling a life transformed by God’s promises.
The Problem: Distracted and Disconnected
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re constantly pulled in a thousand directions, whether it be phones, social media, shopping and other habits that might offer temporary comfort but can also leave lasting damage. These are things that I refer to as life-interfering behaviors and may not seem harmful at first, but over time, they chip away at our peace and presence.
And, our kids notice.
They feel the tension. They sense our anxiety. And without realizing it, we teach them to cope in the same ways we do.
The Hope: We Can Live Differently
Change begins with us. And the beautiful truth is, we are not stuck. Through faith in Jesus and the renewal of our minds (Romans 12:2), we can be transformed and show our children what it means to live free.
Here is a simple, biblical 3-step plan to begin modeling Jesus for your children:
Step 1: Awareness – What Are They Really Seeing?
Take a step back. Ask yourself:
- Do my children see faith in action?
- Do they witness prayer, peace, gratitude, and trust in God….or frustration, fear, and unhealthy escapes?
Start here: be honest and gentle with yourself. We all fall short, but awareness opens the door to change.
Step 2: Mindset – Renew Your Mind, Restore Your Peace
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
When we focus on:
- Gratitude: Our kids learn joy over anxiety.
- Scripture: They see where real wisdom comes from.
- Hope: They know God has a plan for their lives.
This mindset shift brings real spiritual strength. As our thinking changes, our homes shift. Our children experience a faith that’s practical and not just preached.
Step 3: Practice – Let Them See You Choose Faith Daily
Transformation takes repetition.
Let your children see you:
- Take your thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5).
- Practice forgiveness.
- Turn to prayer instead of panic.
- Exhibit peace and joy, despite circumstances.
Your consistent (not perfect) walk becomes their roadmap for life.
Final Encouragement: Leave a Legacy of Truth
You don’t have to be a perfect parent, you just need to be a present one, where walking closely with God becomes the norm in the household. That’s the most powerful gift you can give your children.
“I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.” 3 John 1:4 (NLT)
Let God’s promises transform your mind, your habits, and your home. It starts today, with one intentional step.
If you’re ready to begin modeling a life of peace, purpose, and faith for your children, I invite you to walk with God for 12 weeks through Transformed by His Promises. This daily devotional will guide you step by step to renew your mind, break free from life-interfering behaviors, and create a Christ-centered home where your kids can thrive.
You can discover more resources for living free from life-interfering behaviors or substances at www.ChooseFreedom.today, listen to the Say Goodbye and Imagine! podcast, or explore my other books on at www.choosefreedom.today/books.
* * * * * * * *
