Families With Grace

Helping Christian moms create homes filled with grace, love & faith

Teaching children to pray

Age-by-age prayer lessons and activities that really stick

Teaching children to pray isn’t about creating mini-theologians. It’s about giving our kids a lifeline to the God who loves them unconditionally.

Just like the disciples who asked Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1-4), our children need guidance—and we need grace.

Prayer fits into real life: sticky fingers at dinner, late-night homework stress and chaotic car lines. It’s not about perfection; it’s about connection.

And that’s exactly what we are focusing on this week in the free Bible study for moms, “Praying Through the Busy.” Because along with wanting to grow in our own prayer lives, we want to teach our children how to pray.

This post is part of the “Praying Through the Busy” free Bible study. Find all the details:

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Scroll to the bottom of the post for the link to download the free study guide, reflection questions, reading plan, prayer prompts and more for the week.

Preparing your own heart

Just like in everything we do as mamas, starting by preparing our own hearts and spending time in prayer is the first step.

We can’t do it on our own. Well, we can certainly try, but it never goes as well as when we have God’s help!

Even a simple, short prayer like “God, help me teach my kids to pray,” works well. (Scroll to the bottom for a more in-depth prayer.)

As you are teaching children to pray, make sure you are spending your own time talking to God and asking Him for guidance. We want our kiddos to learn to truly connect with their Heavenly Father, not just go through the motions.

Teaching children to pray Pinterest image 11

Early on, for example, my son was often sick. A few months after he was born, his big sister started preschool and brought lots of germs home. We went FOREVER with someone constantly sick.

When my son started praying as a toddler, his prayer always included, “Jesus, help me feel better.”

That’s incredibly sweet, but as time went by, those words just became routine and he said them no matter what — even when he was perfectly healthy.

Even as an adult, I struggle with getting stuck in prayer ruts. So, we want to make sure we are intentionally teaching children to pray with the mindset it is a conversation with God and not just words we repeat.

Real-life prayer roadblocks (and quick fixes!)

Even the most determined mama hits a few speed bumps when teaching children to pray. Let’s tackle some of the biggest ones that pop up for most families at some point.

1. “We don’t have time!”

Between soccer practice, homework and chaotic car lines, prayer can feel like one more thing on the checklist.

Instead of adding a brand-new slot to your schedule, tie prayer to a rhythm you already have—the first bite of dinner, the seat-belt click or lights-out at night.

If the evening is wild, fall back on a two-sentence rule: “Lord, thanks for today. Help us rest well. Amen.” Consistency beats length every time.

Small times of prayer really add up. For example, praying together for just 60 seconds at bedtime will result in an extra 6 hours of family prayer time over the next six months—without adding a single item to your calendar.

2. “Praying out loud feels awkward.”

Kids—and plenty of adults—worry they’ll “say it wrong.” Start first with being honest: “I still get nervous sometimes, but God loves hearing from us.” Your authenticity gives them permission to try.

Start small: try echo prayers (you speak one short line, they repeat it) or a quick “thank-you round” where each person names one thing they’re grateful for.

If words still stick, let them hold something tangible—a favorite photo, a verse card, even a smooth stone—as a quiet reminder that prayer is simply talking to a loving Father. Authenticity always trumps eloquence, and we’ll dive into more hands-on ideas in the sections below.

Another easy way to help children (and adults) with praying out loud is by using prayer prompts. Download a list of free prayer prompts here!

Free prayer prompts for teaching children to pray

(And be sure to check out the prayer prompt, age-specific cards for toddlers through teens in the premium bundle for the week!)

3. Short attention spans and endless screens

Little ones wiggle, and older kids’ phones buzz non-stop. Keep early prayer activities for kids brief—think 30-second bursts instead of 10-minute marathons.

A one-sentence gratitude in the car line or a quick “help me, Jesus” breath prayer before a math test models that talking with God fits into real life. (We’ll dive into specific age-based ideas in a moment.)

Distraction is another good strategy for teaching children to pray, especially when they are little. Try a coloring page to help them hold still and focus.

(Download a free prayer coloring page here!)

A free coloring page to use when teaching children to pray

4. Doubts, questions and eye-rolls

Tweens and teens can spot forced spirituality a mile away. Welcome their questions—God can handle them—and invite input: “What’s one issue you’d like us to pray about this week?”

When they choose the topic, they buy into the process. Remind them prayer isn’t magic words; it’s conversation with a Father who’s big enough for honest doubt.

Prayer lessons for every age: practical strategies

Talking with and teaching children to pray changes with them. The concept remains the same, but the topics shift dramatically from a toddler to a teen.

So, we’re going to break it down into age groups, but you can use any of these ideas for any age if you think they’d work well in your family!

Toddlers and preschoolers: Planting prayer seeds

For toddlers and preschoolers, prayer can be challenging to understand because it is a bit abstract. So, we want to find ways to make it more tangible, understandable and relatable for little ones.

Keeping prayers short (one or two sentences even), simple and fun are the best ways to pray with toddlers and preschoolers.

Object lessons on prayer are a great way to help them grasp the concept. Try some of these ideas:

Make a prayer basket

Fill a small basket with:

  • Picture cards of family members
  • Photos of favorite things
  • A cuddly “prayer bear” (or any soft, stuffed animal)

Introduce the prayer basket to your child as something we’re going to use to thank God. Let them cuddle with their “prayer bear” they only use at prayer time, and have them pull a card out of the basket.

Then help them simply pray and say, “God, thank you for ____________ (whatever is on the card) Amen.”

This is a great way to introduce them to prayer and to the concept that God gives us the good things in our lives.

Make a prayer hand craft reminder

Trace your child’s hand on a piece of paper and then label each finger with the following prayer prompts:

  • Thumb: Family
  • Pointer: Teachers/Leaders
  • Middle finger: People who need help
  • Ring finger: Friends
  • Pinky: Yourself

During prayer time, refer to the page and help your child pray for one thing per topic on each finger.

The prayer might be something like: Dear God, keep mommy and daddy safe. Thank you for my nursery school teacher. Help my friend Elizabeth feel better. Thank you for my friends Elizabeth and Katie. Help me learn to share with my little brother. Amen.

(Download a free, premade version of the 5-Finger Prayer Method here.)

Free 5-Finger prayer page to help with teaching children to pray

Make a gratitude jar to celebrate God’s goodness

Daily, drop a bead or marble into a jar for each blessing you and your family name. When the jar is full, plan a special family night.

Elementary kids: Deepening the conversation

As children get older into elementary school, we want to encourage them to go deeper in their prayer lives and connect with God in new ways.

During these years, teaching children to pray is all about helping them truly understand prayer as a conversation with God. Reminding them they can talk to God about anything at any time is important.

When your child asks why we pray “all the time,” read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18—“Rejoice always… pray continually… give thanks in all circumstances.” Then brainstorm quick “pop-up prayers” they can whisper during recess or math class.

Try some of these prayer activities for kids to help them learn to pray:

Start a simple prayer journal

You can make a prayer journal to use as a family or for your children to use on their own. For younger elementary students, a family prayer journal might work best. While older elementary students might enjoy having their own.

You can use a simple notebook or download this free prayer journal page. Keep it simple with three sections: requests, answers and praises.

A prayer journal is a great way for children (and adults!) to track and celebrate God’s responses.

A free prayer journal page great for teaching children to pray

Put up a family prayer board

Use a cheap cork board, wall space or even the side of your refrigerator to make a family prayer board.

Write down prayer requests each day or week on sticky notes or index cards to go on the board. When a prayer is answered, let your children decorate that card with stickers and move it to a different area.

This is a very tangible way for your children to see prayer requests and God at work.

(Download a prayer board page and labels in this week’s premium bundle!)

Make prayer envelopes

A lot like prayer baskets for toddlers and preschoolers, prayer envelopes are a simple and impactful way to help your children remember to pray for others.

You just need two envelopes of whatever size you have. Letter-sized or 5 x 7-inch ones work well.

Label one envelope: “To Pray For” and the other one “Prayed For.” Let your kiddos decorate the envelopes if they want.

Have your children make a list of people in their lives they’d like to pray for: family members, friends, teachers, specific prayer needs, etc. (My kiddos also included pets in theirs!)

Cut the list apart into strips, fold them and put them in the “To Pray For” envelope.

During prayer time, have your child draw a slip of paper from the envelope to pray for and then place it in the “Prayed For” envelope. You can rotate through the slips as many times as you want.

Tweens and teens: Authentic spiritual conversations

Prayer lessons for older kids is all about authenticity. Tweens and teens of can smell forced spirituality a mile away. This phase of teaching children to pray is more about cheering them on from the sidelines.

These ages are also when kid start questioning faith and having doubts more often. It’s a good time to remind them that God is good with difficult questions.

I’ve told my own two kiddos God can stand up to any question we have. If He couldn’t, then He wouldn’t be a God worth serving.

Though this phase of parenting may not look like nightly bedtime prayers, still find times to offer to pray with your children and remind them you are praying for them as well.

To help your tweens and teens grow even more in their prayer lives, try these ideas:

Give them a prayer playlist challenge

Music is powerful. During middle and high school, kids are usually naturally drawn to it.

So challenge your children to create a playlist of their favorite worship music. Encourage them to do some journaling or voice-memo prayers while listening.

Start a global prayer challenge

To help your tweens and teens start thinking about the world outside as a whole, start a global prayer challenge by picking a new country each week or month.

Research the prayer needs in that country together, and then commit to praying for them as a family or individually.

You can also keep this closer to home and do a national prayer challenge. My children are aware of a variety of alarming current events in our country, and we often talk about the importance of praying for such things.

Connect with technology

Use technology to your advantage and start a group text prayer chain in your family. A simple text thread where your kiddos (or you and your husband) can drop a prayer need or praise is a low-pressure way to keep prayer on their minds.

Oftentimes texting something is easier for kids at these ages than saying it.

A shared prayer app can be similar. Shared prayer apps are great for helping you remember prayer needs and also share them with others if you so choose.

(My personal favorite is PrayerMate, which is completely free.)

A mom’s prayer for teaching children to pray

Remember, mama: Prayer isn’t another chore on the family checklist; it’s the lifeline that makes the rest of the list lighter.

Whether you squeeze in a two-sentence car-line prayer or a deep teen conversation at 11 p.m., you’re modeling a faith that flexes with real life—and that example is what sticks long after the sticky fingers are gone.

Let’s conclude with a prayer you can pray right now to help you teach your children to pray:

Dear God, thank you for allowing us to talk with you freely and openly. I ask that you help me in teaching my children to pray and talk with you. Give me creativity in teaching my littles to pray. Help me to have patients when wiggly bodies won’t hold still. Fill me with your words as I give instructions and pray out loud with my family. Father, help me to get out of your way so you can move in my children’s lives. Give me wisdom and discernment to guide them in prayer. Remind me that every simple prayer we pray together plants a seed for a lifetime. Lord, teach my children to hear your voice, love your Word and lean on you in every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Find more tips and Scripture prayers in the free “Praying Through the Busy” Bible study:

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Praying for your children

Covering their lives with God’s truth

As mothers, we are often driven to our knees in prayer for our children. From the moment we learn we’re expecting until long after they’ve grown and left our homes, our hearts are perpetually whispering prayers for their protection, growth and future.

Welcome to week two of our prayer journey! Last week, we focused on praying for our marriages. This week, we’re turning our attention to one of the most powerful gifts we can give our children: consistent, intentional prayer.

Proverbs 22:6 says:

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

Prayer is an essential part of this training—not just the prayers we pray with our children, but also the prayers we pray for them when they aren’t listening.

This post is part of the “Praying Through the Busy” free Bible study. Find all the details:

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Scroll to the bottom of the post for the link to download the free study guide, reflection questions, reading plan, prayer prompts and more for the week.

The Biblical foundation for praying for your children

Throughout Scripture, we see parents who understood the power of prayer in their children’s lives.

Hannah prayed fervently for a son and then dedicated Samuel to the Lord’s service. (1 Samuel 1:10-11, 27-28)

Job offered sacrifices for his children regularly, just in case they had sinned. (Job 1:4-5)

Abraham prayed God would bless and protect his son Ishmael. (Genesis 17:18-20)

David prayed Solomon would have wisdom, success and devotion to God. (1 Chronicles 22:11-13; Psalm 72)

Mary treasured the prophecies about Jesus and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:19)

And even though Jesus wasn’t a parent, he prayed for believers—including future generations. (John 17:20-21)

So praying for our children is Biblically sound and an important part of parenting.

Why our prayers matter

You might wonder, “If God loves my children even more than I do, why do my prayers for them matter?” The answer is multifaceted.

Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s purposes for our children. When we pray, we begin to see our children as God sees them—not just as our babies, but as individuals created for His purposes.

Prayer invites God’s protection over our children in a world full of danger and negative influences.

Prayer gives us peace when we’re worried about our children. As Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Finally, prayer has generational impact. 2 Timothy 1:5 shows us how faith can be passed down through generations, from grandmother to mother to child.

Praying with purpose: How to cover your children in prayer

Rather than just praying generally for our children to be “blessed” or “happy,” Scripture guides us to pray specifically and purposefully. Here are seven key areas to cover when praying for your children:

1. Pray for their salvation and relationship with God

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

While we cannot force our children to believe, we can pray persistently for their hearts to be drawn to the Lord.

Prayer example:

Lord, I pray that you would draw [child’s name] to yourself. Open their eyes to see your truth and their heart to receive your love. May they come to know you not just as God, but as their personal Savior and friend. I pray that faith would take deep root in their heart according to your promise in Proverbs 22:6. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2. Pray for their protection

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

Psalm 91:11-12 (NIV)

God promises protect us and our children. Try this Scripture-based prayer for your children’s protection:

Prayer example:

Father, according to Your Word in Psalm 91, I ask that You would command Your angels concerning [child’s name]. Guard them physically, emotionally and spiritually. Protect them from harm, from negative influences and from the schemes of the enemy. Keep them safe in all their ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

3. Pray for their character development

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

Psalm 1:1-3 (NIV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

Pray that your children would grow in Godly character—developing the fruit of the Spirit in their lives.

Prayer example:

Holy Spirit, work in [child’s name]’s heart to develop Godly character. May they grow in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Like a tree planted by streams of water, may their life produce fruit that glorifies You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

4. Pray for their future

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

God knows the plans He has for your children. Try this powerful prayer for God’s guidance in their life decisions.

Prayer example:

Lord, You know the plans You have for [child’s name]—plans to prosper them and not to harm them, plans to give them hope and a future. Guide their steps according to Your perfect will. Help them discover the gifts You’ve placed within them and use those gifts for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

5. Pray for their relationships

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

From friendships to future spouses, our children’s relationships will significantly impact their lives. Pray for God’s hand in these connections.

Prayer example:

Father, I pray that you would bring Godly friends into [child’s name]’s life who will encourage them in faith and character. Protect them from harmful relationships. If marriage is in their future, I pray even now for their future spouse—that they would be growing in you and being prepared for a Godly marriage. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

6. Pray for their minds and education

I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength.

Ephesians 1:17-19 (NIV)

Pray for your children’s intellectual development and for protection over their minds.

Prayer example:

God, I pray that you would give [child’s name] a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of you. Bless their education, help them develop a love for learning and guard their mind against deception or confusion. May they take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

7. Pray for their purpose and calling

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

God has created each of our children with a unique purpose. Pray that they would discover and fulfill their God-given calling.

Prayer example:

Lord, you formed [child’s name] with purpose and called them by name. Help them discover the specific plans you have for their life. Give them courage to follow your leading, even when it might be difficult or different from what others expect. May their life bring glory to your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Praying through different seasons of childhood

Each stage of childhood brings unique challenges and opportunities for prayer. Here’s how to focus your prayers during different seasons:

Praying for babies and toddlers

During these formative years, focus on:

  • Physical health and development
  • Formation of secure attachment
  • Early spiritual impressions
  • Protection as they explore their world

Prayer point: Lord, as [child’s name] is developing and growing, I pray that you would form healthy neural pathways and strong physical development. May they feel secure in our love as a reflection of your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Praying for elementary-aged children

As your children enter school and expand their social circles, pray for:

  • Educational foundation
  • Formation of friendships
  • Development of character
  • Protection from negative influences
  • Spiritual curiosity and growth

Prayer point: Father, as [child’s name] spends more time under the influence of teachers and friends, I pray that your truth would be louder than any other voice in their life. Give them discernment beyond their years. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Praying for tweens and teens

The adolescent years bring significant change and challenge. Pray for:

  • Identity rooted in Christ
  • Wisdom in decision-making
  • Purity in thought and action
  • Courage to stand against peer pressure
  • Genuine faith that becomes their own

Prayer point: Holy Spirit, as [child’s name] is forming their identity, help them find it in Christ, not in achievements, appearance or acceptance. Guard their heart and mind during these years of change. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Praying for adult children

Our prayers don’t stop when our children grow up. For adult children, pray for:

  • Continued spiritual growth
  • Wisdom in major life decisions
  • God’s guidance in career and calling
  • Strong Christian marriages if they marry
  • Grace in parenting if they have children

Prayer point: Lord, even as [child’s name] is now making their own decisions, I pray that they would seek your wisdom and follow your guidance. May their adulthood be marked by growing closeness to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Making child-focused prayer a daily habit

Finding time to pray intentionally for our children can be challenging in the busy seasons of motherhood. Here are some practical ways to incorporate meaningful prayer into your daily routine:

Create or print prayer cards

Write each child’s name on an index card along with specific Scriptures and prayer points. Keep these cards in places you’ll see throughout the day—your Bible, bathroom mirror, car dashboard or kitchen window.

These 14 prayers to pray for your children also work well.

Pray during routine moments

Morning wake-up: As you wake each child or see them for the first time in the morning, silently pray Numbers 6:24-26 over them.

The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

Number 6:24-26 (NIV)

School drop-off: As your children exit the car or walk to the bus, pray for God’s protection over their day.

Meal preparation: While preparing food, pray that your children would hunger for God’s Word as in Psalm 1.

Bedtime: As you tuck them in, pray Psalm 91 protection over their sleep.

Establish daily prayer focuses

Assign a different focus area to each day of the week:

  • Monday: Character development
  • Tuesday: Education and mind
  • Wednesday: Friendships and relationships
  • Thursday: Protection and health
  • Friday: Future and purpose
  • Saturday: Specific challenges they’re facing
  • Sunday: Spiritual growth and relationship with God

Join with other moms in prayer

Consider starting or joining a moms’ prayer group where you can pray together for your children. There’s special power in agreeing together in prayer (Matthew 18:19-20).

Also, join the free private Facebook group, Christian Moms with Grace, to not only go deeper in this study but share prayers and praises with other moms.

Create a prayer journal for each child

Document your prayers, Scripture verses and how God answers over time. This becomes a powerful legacy you can give your children when they’re older.

When prayer feels unanswered

Sometimes our most fervent prayers for our children seem to go unanswered.

A child struggles with learning difficulties despite prayers for academic success.

A teenager walks away from faith despite years of spiritual nurturing.

A young adult makes decisions that bring pain and heartache.

In these difficult seasons, remember:

God’s timeline is different from ours. What seems like an unanswered prayer may still be in process. God is working even when we cannot see it.

Free will matters. God doesn’t override our children’s choices, but He continually works to draw them to Himself.

God’s ways are higher than ours. As Isaiah reminds us:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV)

Keep praying. The parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18 encourages us to pray and not give up.

A prayer for your children today

Let’s conclude with a prayer you can pray right now for your children:

Heavenly Father, I come before you today as [names of children]’s mother, acknowledging that these precious ones ultimately belong to you. Thank you for entrusting them to my care for this season.
Lord, according to Psalm 91, I ask that you would command your angels to guard my children in all their ways. Protect them physically, emotionally and spiritually from any harm or danger.
Father, I pray Proverbs 22:6 over their lives—help me to train them in the way they should go, according to Your purposes and their unique design. When they are old, may they not depart from it.
Jesus, I echo your prayer in John 17 for my children—that they would be one with you as you are one with the Father. Draw them into such close relationship with you that nothing in this world could pull them away.
According to Ephesians 1:17-19, I ask that you give them the spirit of wisdom and revelation so that they may know you better. May the eyes of their hearts be enlightened so that they may know the hope to which you have called them.
Lord, just as faith dwelled in Timothy’s family for generations, I pray that a sincere faith would take root in my children’s hearts and grow ever stronger.
May they be like trees planted by streams of water as described in Psalm 1, yielding fruit in season, prospering in all they do for your kingdom.
And Father, I pray the blessing of Numbers 6:24-26 over them: Lord, bless my children and keep them. Make your face shine upon them and be gracious to them. Turn your face toward them and give them peace.
I surrender them to your perfect care and loving plan. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Find more tips and Scripture prayers in the free “Praying Through the Busy” Bible study:

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Book review: “The Message Student Devotional Bible”

A devotional Bible for teens

As a Christian mom, I most want my children to know and have a relationship with God. So from the beginning, I have found ways to make the Bible part of their lives.

It started with illustrated, simple children’s Bibles and has progressed from there. Now at 12 and 15, my son and daughter need something deeper.

Yet, I have learned in my own faith journey that simply reading the Bible to check it off my to-do list isn’t super beneficial. I need to really dig into the Word in order to get the most from it.

This is true for my children as well. As a tween and teen, they need their own way to grow in their faith through personal devotion time. This looks different for each child — and that’s perfectly fine.

My daughter loves her current teen Bible with devotionals, but she’s had it long enough to have gone through them. Finding something fresh and engaging for her is important.

When I heard about “The Message Student Devotional Bible,” I had to check it out.

Affiliate links are used in this post, if you make a qualifying purchase via my link, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. It helps support my blog, so thank you for your support! Read my full disclosure here.

I received a partial copy of “The Message Student Devotional Bible” at no charge in exchange for providing a teen Bible devotional review and social media posts about it. All opinions, however, are completely my own and not influenced by the free copy.

What is a devotional Bible?

Let’s start with talking about what a devotional Bible actually is. There are different options for Bible study and devotionals. One is a stand-alone devotional like this free 7-day “Finding Grace at Home” family devotional.

And the other option is a Bible with devotionals included and interwoven throughout. “The Message Student Devotional Bible” falls into this category.

While it includes the full text of the Bible in The Message translation, it has a devotional every few pages to help students go deeper.

What I love is the devotionals are concise and bite-sized. Just a few sentences long, each devotional is impactful while also fitting in with the time constraints (and attention spans!) of teens. Three reflection questions go along with each devotional.

Having worked with my daughter a couple of years ago on writing a mother-and-daughter shared journal, “Connecting with Grace,” I learned to spot the typical Sunday School-type questions. When I added those in for our journal, she was quick to call me out.

Sunday School is by no means wrong. I’m all for small group meeting to get into the Word! But, teens know these types of questions. They don’t go as deep or get as personal. Today’s teens crave sincerity and honesty more than ever.

The questions in this devotional Bible for students are spot-on with addressing topics and ideas that really matter in daily life without sounding too much like your favorite Sunday School teacher from second grade.

This makes sense because the devotional content comes from a variety of youth ministry professionals who know how to connect well with teens.

Why use The Message version?

In English alone, we have 450 versions of the Bible. That’s a lot! Many folks have their favorite. The Message is one of the more contemporary versions.

In its original text, the Bible was written in words that everyday people could easily understand. It was never meant to be a book that only intellectual scholars can read and understand.

Yet, one of the struggles with early translations is the words, phrases and metaphorical concepts that were easy for the average person to understand years ago are not as understandable today.

The Message Student Devotional Bible Pinterest image 4

Contemporary translations, such as The Message, have been carefully researched and worked on to use modern words and phrases to convey the same message. This makes it easier for people today to understand.

Most teens are relatively new to devotionals and Bible study — just for the sheer fact of their limited age and life experience. Using a translation that makes it even easier for them to understand seems like a great starting point.

How to use “The Message Student Devotional Bible”

Right from the beginning, “The Message Student Devotional Bible” presents the Bible itself takes the main focus over everything else.

“If you skip all the parts we created and read only the Bible stuff, we’ll still be very, very happy about it. That’s first and foremost. Our additional words are not the living Word of God; the Bible is.”

Of course, “The Message Student Devotional Bible” can be used as merely a reading source, but it goes much deeper with guides and plenty of additional content for students.

Each section and each book have a short introduction for context about time, place and author.

Every few pages is a short devotion that gets to the heart of the matter and presents three reflection and life application questions. There are 320 of these throughout the entire Bible and 26 included in the Psalms portion of it alone.

“The Message Student Devotional Bible” is also sprinkled throughout with 30 character studies of key players. Because, the Bible is full of all kinds of interesting people whose stories reflect God’s love played out in their lives.

Another great features of this devotional Bible is the large margins on each page that are perfect for making notes. (Personally, I love a devotional book or Bible with space to write so I don’t have to keep track of the book and a separate notebook.)

Where to get “The Message Student Devotional Bible”

The full version will be released by NavPress in the spring of 2026; however, the Psalms portion is available for purchase right now and is what I received.

You can purchase it around $10 at most book retailers — or you can grab a FREE copy of it here:

If you have a teen, know a teen or work with teens, this is a great resource you don’t want to miss!

Praying for your marriage

Transform your relationship through the power of prayer

Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

In marriage, those three strands represent you, your husband and God—woven together to create something stronger than any of you could be alone.

Yet as moms, we know the reality: between the chaos of raising children, managing households and balancing work and family responsibilities, our marriages often receive whatever energy we have left at the end of the day—which sometimes isn’t much at all.

This week, as we begin our prayer journey together, we’re focusing on one of the most important relationships in your life: your marriage. Praying for your marriage has the power to transform your relationship with your spouse in ways you might never have imagined.

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Scroll to the bottom of the post for the link to download the free study guide, reflection questions, reading plan, prayer prompts and more for the week.

Why pray for your marriage?

Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Maintaining a healthy marriage is a struggle in modern culture, and Christian marriages are not immune. The stresses of parenting, financial pressures and simply navigating life together can strain even the strongest relationships.

Prayer creates a spiritual foundation to help us weather these storms together. When we pray for our marriages, we’re inviting God—the very creator of marriage—to be active in our relationship.

Scripture-based prayers for marriage are a great place to start, like this verse in Philippians:

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.”

Philippians 1:9 (NIV)

Isn’t that exactly what we want in our marriages? Love that continues to grow deeper and richer through the years?

Starting with your heart

The most powerful prayers for your marriage often begin not with requests about your husband, but with an honest look at your own heart. In Psalm 19:14, David prays:

“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

Psalm 19:14 (NIV)

Before we can effectively pray for our marriages, we need to examine our own attitudes, expectations and areas where we might need growth. Here are some heart-centered prayers to consider:

Prayer for a gentle spirit

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

Proverbs 16:1 (NIV)

Lord, help my words be gentle and life-giving in our home. When I’m tired or frustrated, remind me that a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Give me the strength to respond rather than react, especially when tensions are high. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for forgiveness

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)

Father, show me areas where I’m holding onto resentment or keeping score in my marriage. Help me embrace the truth that love covers over a multitude of sins. Give me a heart that is quick to forgive and slow to harbor bitterness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for patience

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”

1 Corinthians 13:4 (NIV)

God, in moments of frustration, help me remember that love is patient. Give me the grace to extend to my husband the same patience you so generously give to me every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Praying for your husband

Once we’ve examined our own hearts, we can turn our prayers toward our husbands. Not with a critical spirit of “fix him, Lord,” but with genuine love and desire for God’s best in his life.

Ephesians 5:25 reminds us that husbands are called to “love [their] wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This is an incredibly high standard—one that requires God’s help to fulfill. Here are some specific ways to pray for your husband:

Prayer for his relationship with God

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”

Psalm 145:18 (NIV)

Lord, draw my husband’s heart closer to you. May he hunger for your Word and seek your presence daily. Help him find his identity and worth in you rather than in his work or achievements. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for his leadership

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

Father, give my husband wisdom as he leads our family. Help him make decisions that honor you. When he feels inadequate or overwhelmed, remind him that your strength is made perfect in weakness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for his work

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

God, bless the work of my husband’s hands. Give him favor in his workplace and integrity in all his dealings. Help him find the right balance between providing for our family and being present with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for his protection

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Lord, protect my husband physically, spiritually and emotionally. Guard his mind from temptation and his heart from discouragement. Surround him with Godly influences that will strengthen his faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Praying together: The ultimate marriage prayer

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

James 1:5 (NIV)

Praying together as a couple takes wisdom and practice. Though it may feel awkward at first, praying together is a great tool for building a God-centered marriage.

Couples who pray together report greater intimacy, better communication and stronger overall relationships.

Here are some practical ways to begin praying together, even if you’ve never done it before:

Start small

Begin with just 1-2 minutes of prayer together before bed. Keep it simple—thank God for one blessing from the day and ask for His help with one concern.

Hold hands

Physical touch during prayer creates both physical and spiritual connection.

Use written prayers

If praying aloud feels uncomfortable, try reading a Psalm together or using the Biblical prayers for a healthy marriage below as a starting point.

Pray specifically

Rather than general prayers like “bless our marriage,” pray about specific situations: an upcoming decision, a challenging parenting issue or a work stress.

Be patient

Remember that developing a prayer habit takes time. If your husband is reluctant, don’t pressure him—simply invite him occasionally and pray that God would make it a natural part of your relationship over time.

When marriage is hard: Prayers for difficult seasons

Genesis 2:18 reminds us that God created marriage because “it is not good for the man to be alone.” Yet even with this divine design, every marriage goes through difficult seasons. During these times, prayer becomes not just important but essential.

If you’re going through a challenging period in your marriage, here are some specific prayers that can help:

Prayer for communication

God, when words fail or hurt, help us find better ways to communicate. Bring understanding where there is confusion and patience where there is frustration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for healing

Lord, you are the great Healer. Where there are wounds in our relationship, bring your healing touch. Help us extend grace to each other as you have extended grace to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for unity

Father, in areas where we disagree, help us remember that we are on the same team. As Colossians 3:14 reminds us, help us “put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for perspective

God, when problems feel overwhelming, help us see them through your eyes. Remind us that this is just one season, and that you are working even when we cannot see it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Practical ways to praying for your marriage a habit

Like any spiritual discipline, praying for your marriage is most effective when it becomes a consistent habit. Here are some practical ways to incorporate marriage prayer into your busy mom life:

Create prayer triggers

Designate certain daily activities as reminders to pray for your marriage. For example, pray for your husband every time you wash dishes or fold his laundry.

Use visual reminders

Keep a small photo of the two of you in your Bible or on your nightstand as a prayer prompt.

Set aside sacred time

Even five minutes of focused prayer for your marriage each day can make a difference. Consider setting an alarm on your phone to remind you.

Keep a marriage prayer journal

Write down specific prayers for your marriage and date them. Leave space to record how God answers these prayers over time.

Pray Scripture

Choose one verse about love or marriage each week (like those in our reading plan) and pray that specific verse over your relationship daily.

Remember: Prayer changes you first

“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

Psalm 19:14 (NIV)

As you embark on this journey of praying for your marriage, remember that often the first person God changes through prayer is you. You may begin praying for changes in your husband or relationship, but don’t be surprised when God begins to transform your own heart, expectations and attitudes.

As you pray, God shapes not just your words but the very meditations of your heart.

A prayer for your marriage today

Let’s end with a prayer you can pray right now for your marriage:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of marriage and for my husband. Thank you for bringing us together and for your presence in our relationship. Lord, I lift my marriage to you today. Strengthen our bond, deepen our love and help us to reflect your love to each other and our children. Show me how to love and respect my husband in ways that honor you. Where there are hurts, bring healing. Where there is distance, bring closeness. Where there is misunderstanding, bring clarity. Help us to be quick to forgive and slow to anger. Remind us daily that our marriage is not just about our happiness but about our holiness—about becoming more like you through the journey of loving each other. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Find all the related posts, videos and resources for the “Praying Through the Busy” Bible study by clicking the image below:

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Free prayer Bible study for moms

Praying through the busy: Simple steps for moms to deepen faith and family bonds

Have you ever found yourself whispering desperate prayers while hiding in the bathroom for just three minutes of peace?

Or perhaps you’ve offered silent pleas for patience while your toddler has their third meltdown of the morning?

As moms, our prayer lives often look different than we imagined they would. Between the endless laundry, school projects and bedtime routines, finding uninterrupted time with God can seem impossible.

But what if I told you that prayer doesn’t have to be another item on your to-do list? What if connecting with God could become the very foundation that helps you navigate the beautiful chaos of motherhood?

Introducing our FREE study: Praying Through the Busy

“Praying Through the Busy” – a free 31-day prayer Bible study and reading plan designed specifically for busy mamas like you.

Prayer isn’t just something we do; it’s a lifeline that connects us to the source of all strength, wisdom and peace. And as mothers, we need that connection more than ever.

Throughout this month-long journey, we’ll explore what Scripture teaches about prayer and discover practical ways to incorporate meaningful prayer into our daily lives – even in the midst of sippy cups, soccer practice and sleepless nights.

What to Expect Each Week

Our study is divided into four powerful focus areas:

Week 1: Praying for Your Marriage

Discover how prayer can transform your relationship with your spouse and create a foundation of spiritual intimacy in your home.

Week 2: Praying for Your Children

Learn to cover your children in powerful, Scripture-based prayers that will impact their lives today and for generations to come.

Week 3: Teaching Your Children to Pray

Explore practical ways to nurture a love for prayer in your children’s hearts and establish meaningful family prayer routines.

Week 4: Praying for Yourself

Embrace the truth that caring for your own spiritual health isn’t selfish – it’s essential for being the mom God has called you to be.

Each day includes a Scripture reading, a brief prayer prompt and a simple action step to help you apply what you’re learning. Our weekly reflection questions will deepen your understanding and help you grow in your prayer journey.

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Finding time to pray in the midst of motherhood

I know. You’re probably asking yourself how you’re going to find time to pray when you don’t even have time to complete a full thought.

Let me be the first to assure you: God understands your season of life. He created motherhood, and He knows exactly what your days look like.

Prayer doesn’t require an hour of uninterrupted silence (though wouldn’t that be nice sometimes?). Instead, it can be woven into the fabric of your everyday moments:

  • Morning Moments: Keep your Bible or a prayer journal by your bed and spend just five minutes reading and praying before your feet (or theirs!) hit the floor.
  • Kitchen Prayers: Turn meal prep into prayer time by praying for specific family members while you cook.
  • Laundry Liturgies: Use folding laundry as a prompt to pray for the person whose clothes you’re folding.
  • Car Line Conversations: Use school pickup lines or sports practice waits to have quiet conversations with God.
  • Nighttime Whispers: End your day with a simple prayer of gratitude, even if it’s as you’re falling asleep.
  • Make Hygiene Habits: When you’re in the shower or brushing your teeth, these can be great times to remember to pray because you aren’t as likely to be interrupted.

God hears every prayer, whether it’s a day-long conversation or a desperate “Help me, Lord” in the grocery store when your toddler is having a meltdown and your teenager just texted asking for a last-minute project supply.

The power of praying Scripture

One of the most transformative prayer practices we’ll explore this month is praying God’s Word back to Him. When we use Scripture as the foundation for our prayers, several amazing things happen:

1. We align our hearts with God’s will. When we pray Scripture, we’re praying God’s perfect will back to Him.

2. We find words when we have none. On those days when you’re too exhausted or overwhelmed to form your own prayers, Scripture provides the words.

3. We build our faith. Praying God’s promises reminds us of His faithfulness and builds our confidence in His character.

4. We teach our children the power of God’s Word. When they hear us praying Scripture, they learn that the Bible is living and active.

Throughout our study, I’ll share simple ways to incorporate Scripture into your prayers for your marriage, your children and yourself.

You don’t have to be a prayer warrior to join

Can I let you in on a secret? I haven’t always had a consistent prayer life.

There have been seasons when my prayers were little more than desperate “Help me, God” moments scattered throughout the day.

But God has shown me that He meets us exactly where we are. He doesn’t expect perfect prayers or flowery language. He simply wants our hearts.

This study isn’t about becoming a “super-spiritual mom” who prays for hours daily. It’s about connecting with the God who loves you and learning to include Him in every aspect of your life.

Join this life-changing journey

Let’s embark on this prayer journey together. Each week will include for free:

  • A Bible reading plan with one to three verses per day tailored to busy moms
  • Weekly mini challenges to apply what you’re learning
  • Short, daily prayer prompts to keep you connected to God
  • Engaging blog posts and weekly videos to explore each week’s theme in greater depth

With this study, I’m also offering a premium version that includes everything in the free version plus:

  • Everything in the free version—available in one convenient downloadable format
  • Longer devotions offering deeper insights and reflections
  • Detailed prayer prompts tailored to strengthen your marriage, nurture your children and support your personal growth
  • Printable journal pages for personal reflection and gratitude
  • Inspiring Scripture and prayer cards to carry with you or share with loved ones
  • Practical weekly life application guides to help you integrate prayer into your daily routines

This enhanced edition is perfect for moms looking to deepen their connection with God and explore powerful, Scripture-based prayers for themselves and their families.

Make sure to visit this page to find the links to everything. I can’t wait to go on this journey together!

Join our private Facebook group

And to get even more from the study, make sure you check out and join the private Facebook group, Christian Moms with Grace.

Throughout the month of May 2025, we’ll be having discussions related to this study and a Zoom call to bring it all together.

Find more information on the "Praying Through the Busy" free prayer Bible study for moms

Find all of our free Bible studies for moms here!

A truth every stressed and overwhelmed mom needs to hear

How to find peace in Jesus when you’re worn out

“’I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’”

John 16:33 (NIV)

Sometimes we have phases in life that feel like we’re playing “Whack-a-Mole.” You know, that carnival game where you have to keep “whacking” moles as they pop up – and they keep popping up.

Life gets like that sometimes. Maybe oftentimes, really. One problem is barely resolved before another one pops up.

Occasionally, multiple moles pop up all at once. It gets overwhelming. The car breaks down. The dishwasher leaks. The whole family gets a stomach bug. An unexpected bill arrives in the mail.

The list goes on. We have trouble in this world. It seems as if nothing is ever easy, doesn’t it?

But, this verse reminds us of a truth we can cling to for hope when we are busy whacking one mole/problem after another: Jesus has the victory.

He died on the cross for our sins. He loves us beyond compare.

In the end, we’ll be with Him and all of our troubles will fade away. That is something to put our hope and faith in today!

Prayer:

Dear God, life is hard and full of trouble. I thank you and praise you that you have overcome the world. Remind me that you are in control. Fill me with the hope and assurance that you are always with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

John 16:33
A prayer for moms who are stressed and overwhelmed

Are you trying to fix everything?

A devotional for moms who struggle to surrender control

“So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’”

Hebrews 13:6 (NIV)

Preschoolers tend to go through a phase of wanting to help with everything. For example, when my kiddos were that age and I was baking something, they usually wanted to help.

But, if I’m honest, their “help” usually was less than helpful. It made the task longer and messier.

Sometimes I think I do that with God. I see a situation or problem and act like a preschooler, “I’ll help!”

Then I make a bigger mess and the process takes longer than intended. I’m thankful God has way more patience that I do.

I’m also thankful that when He is our helper, He is truly helpful. In fact, He is the best helper. Not only does He love us so completely but He knows the future and knows what we need, even when it’s different from what we want.

All too often we forget that. We try to be like a preschooler and insist on doing things our way. We want to be independent and solve problems.

Just like my kids would often find in our baking endeavors, however, we need someone in charge who sees the big picture and can help us get through it.

If I left my preschool children in charge of baking on their own, it wouldn’t have turned out well. With my help, we created all sorts of yummy from homemade granola to delectable brownies.

Let’s take a step back and remember to let God help us rather than us try to help Him. Then we can enjoy the delicious fruit of our labor in full.

Prayer:

Dear God, please forgive me for trying to take matters into my own hands instead of trusting you. I ask that you help me in every part of my life. Open my eyes to see where I’m trying to hold onto control and help me give control to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Hebrews 13:6
A prayer to give God control

Finding peace in every stage of motherhood

God’s presence through baby giggles to teen talks

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV)

You know how when you are exhausted with a newborn or toddler and someone looks at you and says something like, “You’re going to miss this”? That always made me want to smack them. (And the Holy Spirit kept me in check to just give them a wry smile instead of a wallop.)

But – and it pains me to say this – this sentiment is pretty true. I do miss some parts of motherhood to babies and toddlers. I miss the version of themselves that my kids were back then even while enjoying the version of themselves they are right now.

However, I don’t miss everything. I remember the struggles and exhaustion. I’m OK with letting those slip into the past.

Through every single phase of motherhood, I have had moments of pure enjoyment and moments of pure stress. Yet in all times and every way, God has also been right there with me.

I remember talking to Him and pleading for help to get my baby boy to sleep because I was so utterly exhausted I couldn’t go on. I also remember praising Him for that same baby boy giving me his first smiles.

Sometimes in the fray of motherhood, it can be hard to see and feel the peace of God. In fact, sometimes we long for literal peace.

I do know, however, that one day I’ll miss this phase of parenthood just like I sometimes miss the others that have come before. Our children and parenting them is constantly changing.

Our Heavenly Father, though, is constantly faithful and true. In the midst of whatever phase we find ourselves in right now, we can trust He is with us.

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to see you in the phase of motherhood I’m in right now. Give me presence of mind to really soak in and be present in this stage of my children’s lives. Fill me with your peace when I get overwhelmed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2 Thessalonians 3:16
A prayer for overwhelmed moms

Trusting God in the chaos of mom life

God provides—even in the middle of meal plans, laundry piles, and to-do lists

“’Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?’”

Matthew 6:25-27 (NIV)

Something I didn’t expect in motherhood and that no one warned me about ahead of time was how much my life would revolve around food and clothes.

It started in pregnancy as I paid attention to what I should and shouldn’t eat. I also had to figure out what clothes were going to work for my changing body.

Then when my children arrived, I had to figure out food and clothing for them. Food and clothes have remained constant even now my children are older.

Meals need to be made, groceries need to be bought, laundry needs to be done, clothes that are too small need to be purged, clothes that fit for the coming season need to be bought. And on the list goes!

I know life is more than this as a mother. There are so many other facets of motherhood I never expected and have knocked me off my feet – in positive ways.

The way I can look at my teenager daughter and get a glimpse of her toddler self. Or the way my son smiles at me just when I need it most.

These are some of what keep me going in motherhood. I don’t need to focus on all the to-dos and worry about all of it. I just need to learn to relax in God as a mom, as a woman, as a person.

I can trust that He will take care of us and do a much better job than I could ever do on my own.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for providing for me. I can get so caught up in the worries and struggles of life that I often miss seeing the good parts. Take my stress and fears. Open my eyes to see more of you and your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Matthew 6:26-27
A prayer for peace in the chaos

House cleaning tips for moms (with a FREE deep cleaning challenge)

A real look at cleaning with kids at home

If you’d have told me a decade ago that I’d write about house cleaning tips, I’d have laughed in your face.

Back then, I had a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old, and I was struggling to keep up with the bare minimum.

These days, those babies are now in middle and high school. Through the years, I’ve learned a few things that work from my mom and from my own experiences.

(Find the link for the free 4-week deep cleaning challenge at the bottom of the post.)

Affiliate links are used in this post, if you make a qualifying purchase via my link, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. It helps support my blog, so thank you for your support! Read my full disclosure here.

Why a clean house is more peaceful

When my house is a mess, I feel guilty. And when I feel guilty, I get grumpy.

And when I get grumpy, I’m more inclined to snap at my family for small things.

The other option is jumping into a pit of self-pity and sadness that I’m not better at cleaning my house.

I feel more pressure than my husband to keep our house clean and more embarrassment when it isn’t. I interpret our messy house as my own personal failure.

You’d think that would make me an excellent housekeeper. But it doesn’t.

House cleaning quote about the pressure of keeping a clean house that moms feel

Instead of doing something about it, many times I just beat myself up. I have had literally years at a time where I couldn’t do better for a variety of reasons and still berated myself over it.

However, I have learned some things through the years, and I’m going to share them with you in case you aren’t one of those rare folks who love to clean.

I don’t offer a detailed cleaning plan. I’ve tried those, and they stress me out and make me feel worse about all that I’m NOT doing. Instead, I’m offering real-life tips that have helped my family. 

Most of these are inspired by my mom who not only is an excellent housekeeper but truly enjoys cleaning. (I know. It’s weird to me, too!)

Employ the ABC method: Always Be Cleaning

One of my best tips is ABC: Always Be Cleaning. That might sound like a nightmare to you, because it certainly would have to the me of a couple years ago. But, hear me out.

My mom’s strategy is to clean as she goes so there isn’t a big mess to deal with later. It sounds simple, and it really is.

I do things like wipe down my kitchen sink after washing dishes (which takes an extra 60 seconds at most).

Deal with the mail immediately after bringing it in so it doesn’t end up on the countertop for days.

I wipe down the bathroom counter after I finish getting ready. Most of the time, I just use my wet washcloth from washing my face.

I pull up the covers on my bed as soon as I get up, so the bed is mostly made.

I’ve learned a lot of these tasks take a short amount of time. Seriously in 30 seconds, I can do a quick wipe of my bathroom countertop. I can unload the dishwasher in less than 5 minutes.

Keep cleaning supplies handy

If you’re going to always be cleaning, then you need cleaning supplies where you use them.

When we moved into a two-story house a few years ago, I knew myself and knew I’d either forget to bring cleaning supplies up or down the stairs or find it easy to procrastinate if they weren’t in easy reach.

So I buy enough for each location. Each bathroom has disinfecting wipes and toilet bowl cleaner. I do share glass cleaner between them.

The kitchen sink has disinfecting wipes and vinegar. I buy smaller bottles of vinegar, so I have separate vinegar bottles for upstairs.

I know this doesn’t sound ground-breaking to many people, perhaps. But it has made a difference for me.

For example, earlier this week I realized that I hadn’t yet cleaned the half bathroom downstairs and needed to. On my stop by there before going to pick up the kids from school, I cleaned the toilet in a minute. Later I wiped down the sink.

And those are the biggest areas that need weekly cleaning in there, so it worked well. If the supplies were even just around the corner in the pantry (a few steps away!), I know I wouldn’t have done that. And, quite honestly, I probably STILL wouldn’t have done it even now a couple of days later.

Cleaning isn’t all or nothing

Previously I’ve had the idea that if I can’t clean everything then I don’t even want to start.

However, I have been timing myself on doing tasks and realize that in a few minutes, I can accomplish a lot. And the things that need cleaned most don’t take all that long.

I can spend five minutes cleaning my bathroom and feel much better afterward. Yes, it still needs to be deep cleaned and floors mopped and such, but every little step counts.

Finding hours to devote to any one task is difficult. Being able to physically spend hours cleaning my house is basically impossible nowadays.

I’ve changed my mindset from doing it all or nothing to doing what I can when I can. Now I almost see it as a challenge to see how much I can get done in a set amount of time like 15 minutes.

And I’ve been shocked at how much I really CAN do quickly. (I also find more motivation to clean or straighten up if I have a time limit. I can endure cleaning for 5 to 30 minutes!)

Embrace the right cleaning products 

Sometimes it’s about working smarter and not harder. From my mom, I learned vinegar can power through hard water spots and build-up anywhere. It’s a cheap and easy solution to cleaning things!

In my years of having a smooth-top stove, I’ve learned the absolute best cleaner for getting cooked in spots off is a mixture of baking soda and water. The grit in the baking soda, helps gently remove things.

I make a bit of a paste of with it and get to work. It works better than stovetop cleaners.

Another favorite cleaning product of mine is Dawn Power Spray. It’s great for messy pans and also for pretreating laundry. I’ve had spots on clothes coming out of the dryer, Dawn Power Spray-ed them, and they came clean.

And for very specific messes, I’ve found solutions as well. If you need to get Silly Putty or slime out of fabric, rubbing alcohol will help it come out with minimal scrubbing effort needed.

If you have blood in fabric, dab some hydrogen peroxide (undiluted) onto the spot, let it fizz, then wash like usual and it will come clean. In fact, I keep a spray bottle of peroxide in my laundry room for this very reason.

Enlist help

Throughout my adult life, my physical health has taken a hit many times. And with chronic health conditions, sometimes it takes a beating and I can’t do things.

So I have learned to ask for help and be willing to accept it. My kids have their own bathroom. They’re required to clean it once a week. They divide the tasks.

I gave them a lesson on exactly what I want them to do and how to do it. They don’t always clean as well as I do, but I do check in on their progress and have had them redo things.

And it still is helping both me and them! One of these days they’ll have their own bathrooms to clean.

In different stages of my kids’ lives, they’ve been able to help in various ways. While we don’t assign specific chores most of the time, we do expect them to help when we ask. They both are good to do just that.

Kids can do things like wipe down the table, sweep the floor, take out the trash, empty the dishwasher, fold laundry (folding washcloths and pairing up socks are great starting places), put away their belongings and more.

I will say, one nice thing about kids getting older is they are able to take on more responsibilities. Just the other night, I had a few pans to wash after dinner.

My husband tasked the kids with doing that, so I could sit down — and it was really nice to do that!

Don’t procrastinate 

I’m not usually a procrastinator by nature, but I can be very good at overlooking things that need to be taken care of or put away. Very good!

I try to make sure that I’m putting things away when I’m finished with them. But in that mindset, I’m also trying to make sure that each item in our house has a home.

If I get derailed from putting something away immediately, then I make a conscious effort to take care of it next time I come across it.

Along with putting things away, I try not to procrastinate when it comes to dishes and laundry.

There are ALWAYS dishes and laundry. But, I’ve worked to simplify as much as I can.

Staying on top of the dishes

I have arranged my kitchen around my dishwasher. So the things I use most often are stored right above the dishwasher or within a couple of steps.

I can empty the dishwasher in five minutes or less and usually make myself do it the next time I am working in the kitchen (which is quite often with kids!) or ask one of my kiddos or husband to unload it.

House cleaning tips for moms overwhelmed with cleaning and laundry

I’ve also worked to be practical. My kids take their lunch to school everyday. I have enough lunch containers for two days worth of cold lunches for both kids.

That gives me two days to wash the containers in the dishwasher instead of by hand, which saves me time. If I throw in a day of hot lunch in their hot Thermos, then that helps even more.

I also have to add that I intentionally buy dishwasher safe items to make life easier and not have to wash as many things by hand.

Managing the laundry

And then there’s laundry. While I’m not as fast as my mom who folds and puts her away immediately, I definitely make an effort to deal with it in the same day.

My washer and dryer are on the second story in the middle of the bedrooms, so that really helps. We keep two laundry baskets for dirty things at all times in the laundry room: one for darks and one for whites.

I keep two additional baskets for my husband and me. One for clothes in our closet and another for towels and whites in our bathroom closet.

I can easily see when a basket is full and a load of laundry need to be thrown in. It helps keep me from getting as overwhelmed with load after load of laundry all at once.

Another bonus is that I have a set amount of laundry baskets and I have to make sure to keep laundry folded and put away so we can use the baskets as needed. (I do keep a spare one, though. I’m not THAT good!)

My handy husband also hung me a nice bar in the laundry room so I can hang up clothes straight from the dryer. If I hang up most of our pants and shirts, then I don’t have as much work to do with folding either.

As my kids have gotten older, they’ve been more involved in the whole process. My daughter now does her own laundry, which is sometimes a challenge to make sure her laundry is getting processed in and out of the washer and dryer.

They can switch out laundry, hang up clothes and fold laundry. Usually one evening a week, we’ll have a “laundry folding party” and spend about 15 or 20 minutes in my bedroom folding laundry together.

Give yourself grace 

This is my final tip. No matter what systems I have in place, no matter how much progress I’ve made, I’m not perfect and I’m not going to be.

Life is going to get in the way. My health will flare for a week. My kids will get sick. Things happen.

I have learned to not beat myself up if I get out of routine and don’t clean my bathroom this week. It doesn’t mean I’m never going to get back on track. I will, and I do.

Can I say that in the past I was just a total slob and wasn’t doing my best? No way. I really was doing my best.

There are some seasons of life where it’s easier to clean than others. Having babies and toddlers make cleaning a huge challenge.

Going through physical and/or mental struggles makes cleaning a huge challenge.

Doing the best you can? Then it’s enough. Don’t beat yourself up for not being perfect or having the perfect home!

A reminder for moms to enjoy their families more than they focus on cleaning and making everything perfect

Here’s the thing: I’m never going to transform into someone who loves cleaning. (At least I will be shocked if I do!)

I won’t ever keep as spotless of a house as my grandma or my mom. But, that’s OK.

I try to be realistic in my goals and work for what makes my family and me the happiest. We are all happier when we have clean dishes and clothes.

We are all happier when there aren’t piles of papers all over the table we have to clean off every time we want to eat a meal.

We are all happier to go into a bathroom that smells fresh and doesn’t have weeks of build-up.

However, my family life isn’t going to dissolve into chaos if I let clean dishes sit in the dishwasher for 24 hours or a load of towels stay in the dryer for a couple of days.

I do my best, but I also remember my priorities. I don’t want to be so busy taking care of my family and my home that I don’t remember to enjoy my family.

Take the 4-Week Deep Cleaning Challenge

Get a jumpstart on house cleaning with this free 4-Week Deep Cleaning Challenge from Families with Grace!

It’s divided into four weeks with seven tasks each week as well as space to write in your own items. There are also some tips and encouraging verses to keep you motivated!

Deep Cleaning Challenge download
Families With Grace
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