From friendships to marriage, all relationships require intentional work, clear communication, and a whole lot of grace. But let’s face it: mother-daughter relationships are notoriously difficult. Why do mother-daughter relationships have a bad reputation, and what can we do to ease the tension, get along, and love each other in a life-giving way?

Blythe Daniel and her mother, Dr. Helen McIntosh, joined me for a deep dive into the topic of mother-daughter relationships. Blythe and Dr. Helen know first-hand what the common pain points are for moms and daughters, and together they wrote the book, “Mended: Restoring The Hearts of Mothers and Daughters”, based on their experiences of learning to approach their relationship with love and humility.

Sometimes it’s overwhelming to think about all the ways you and your mom or daughter disagree. Blythe and Dr. Helen offer valuable insight into the questions to ask, how to ask them, and what it takes to make space for voicing opinions or clearing the air. One of the great take-aways from this conversation– Start with the end in mind. When you are intentional to engage in meaningful relationships, it’s not about one topic or argument; it’s about growing closer and making things better than they are right now. It takes vulnerability and humility to apologize, ask for forgiveness, and treat our loved ones with respect.

Remember it’s never too late to begin to invest in relationships that matter. Speak the thoughts that are hiding inside of you and choose to replace pride with humility. Sometimes pursuing real connectivity with your mom or daughter will be tough! You must be willing to admit failure or ask, “What do you need from me today?” when you least feel like asking that question. Know that God uniquely designed you to be the person that you are and to be born in your family of origin — no matter how messy those relationships might be. No matter where you are in the relationship with your mom or daughter or anyone else for that matter, it is never too late to go to God for restoration in your own heart and to fulfill your calling to be the repairer of the breach.

Highlights from Today’s Episode:

  • Asking powerful questions
  • Tackling the emotional teenage years
  • Avoiding “over-loving” adult daughters
  • Setting healthy boundaries in relationships

Resources from today’s show 

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Other Stuff to Check Out

Let’s Talk!

  1. Is there a conversation you need to revisit with your mom or daughter? How can you do that with humility?
  2. Do you need to ask forgiveness or admit failure in your relationship? Pray about it, then do it!
  3. What boundary do you need to set with your mom or daughter?

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