Parenting a wayward child

Dustin Garrett was addicted to heroin, nearly took his life in prison, and is now a strong Christian husband and father. Episode 413 of Courageous Parenting.

He shares what he believes his parents could have done better when the early signs of waywardness first appeared — and what his father eventually did that was exactly what he needed, even though he hated it at the time.

You'll hear why tough love becomes necessary once a child is fully in a prodigal season, and how well-meaning help can actually prolong the problem instead of solving it.

Perhaps the most powerful moment in this conversation: the testimony of his grandmother, who kept speaking God's truth over him for years even when no one was listening — and who ended up playing a key role in his eventual return to Jesus. Too many parents let discouragement stop them from pointing their kids to Christ. This episode is a reminder that consistency matters more than results you can see right away.

If you're watching a child drift and aren't sure whether to tighten your grip or let go, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.