August 31, 2025 — Episode #85

Content note: closes with a reference to a real, recent school shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota in which children were killed and injured.

Broadcasting from a Union University campus buzzing with returning students, Jerry and Becky Drace turn to the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:33) to make their point for the week: teenagers are often misunderstood and underestimated by the adults around them, even though they’re frequently capable of far more than given credit for.

The couple shares personal stories of the risks and freedoms their own parents allowed (and, in Becky’s case, didn’t allow) them as teens, and how those experiences shaped their adult confidence and work ethic. They talk through the importance of letting kids attempt things and fail safely, discerning each child’s individual strengths rather than pushing them toward a parent’s preferred path, and staying involved enough to know a teen’s friends, teachers, and influences without becoming intrusive or controlling. Scripture references include 1 Samuel 17 and reflections on the Apostle Peter’s zealous, up-and-down faith. They close with a somber reminder — prompted by a recent school shooting in Minneapolis — to never take for granted the chance to tell your children you love them before they leave the house each day.

Topics discussed:

• 1 Samuel 17 and David’s confrontation with Goliath as a picture of an underestimated teenager
• Letting teens try, fail, and learn without discouragement
• Becky’s own overprotected upbringing and its effects into early adulthood
• Grandparents raising grandchildren
• Discerning and encouraging each child’s individual strengths and interests
• Recognizing healthy versus unhealthy friendships
• The zealous, excitable nature of teenagers and how to channel it
• A recent school shooting as a reminder to cherish time with your children

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