Some days, family life feels more like chaos than connection, doesn’t it? There are dishes in the sink, sharp words we wish we could take back, kids who don’t always get along, and moments where we wonder, Is this really what a 'strong family' is supposed to look like?

If you’ve ever felt that tension, this week’s episode of The Love Offering Podcast is especially for you. I’m talking with Jessica Smartt about her new book, Come On Home, and her message is such a relief: your family doesn’t have to be perfect to be strong.

A strong family isn’t built on flawless behavior, matching outfits, or a constantly peaceful home. It’s formed in the ordinary, imperfect moments—apologies after arguments, prayers whispered in the hallway, small traditions that make your people feel seen and safe, and a steady love that says, “You belong here, no matter what.”

If you’ve ever:

• Wished your home felt more like a haven than a battleground
  
  
• Wondered if it’s “too late” to change the culture of your family
  
  
• Carried guilt over what hasn’t gone the way you hoped
  
  

Jessica’s words will encourage you. In our conversation, she shares:

• Thirteen foundational traits that help families grow strong in real life, not ideal life
  
  
• Honest stories from her own family and from other families with all kinds of backgrounds
  
  
• Practical ideas for building a connection between siblings and creating a home your kids want to come back to
  
  
• Hope for breaking unhealthy family patterns and offering your children a new legacy of faith and grace
  
  

What I love most is Jessica’s reminder that God is at work in the middle of the mess. The disappointments, the conflicts, the things you wish you could redo—He can use all of it. Your faithfulness today, even in small ways, can ripple into future generations.

Friend, it’s not too late.
Not too late to start praying more intentionally for your family.
Not too late to repair a strained relationship.
Not too late to create rhythms that make your home gentle, welcoming, and full of grace.

Your family doesn’t need you to be perfect—just present, prayerful, and willing to keep loving.

I hope this episode feels like a warm, “me too,” and a gentle nudge to keep going.

Cheering you on as you build a strong, grace-filled home,

Rachael

Connect with Jessica:

https://jessicasmartt.com/

Read the Show Notes:

https://rachaelkadams.com/writing/

Download Your Free Advent Devotional:

https://rachaelkadams.com/free/

Support the Show: https://rachaelkadams.com/

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