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Families With Grace

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

Category: Faith

Posts in the Faith category encourage Christian moms in their relationship with Jesus with Bible verses, prayers and practical tips on how to spend time with God as a busy mom.

Additional faith content includes the Bible verses section, which is full of posts with Bible verses to encourage Christian moms on their faith journey.

Encouragement for Christian moms struggling with self-doubt

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Letting go of lies and stepping into God’s truth

“The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.”

Isaiah 32:17 (NIV)

As someone who has often struggled with self-confidence, I have marveled at others who are confident. They walk into a room with their heads held high and talk to others. They share their opinions and stories.

Basically, they are at peace with who they are and they own who they are. I’m not so great at that, to be honest.

For years, in fact, I realized I was struggling against the lie that nobody wanted to hear what I had to say. As a naturally quiet person, it was easy for me to keep to myself in many ways.

I didn’t necessarily realize that was the lie I was believing until God opened my eyes. Because sometimes we get stuck in our heads. We start believing truths that just aren’t true.

When that happens, we aren’t living in peace. We’re living in anxiety, stress, fear, discontentment and awkwardness.

That’s not God’s intention for us. He intends for us to live in peace and as a result have a quiet confidence that comes from Him.

If we are so full of God that He is shining out of us, then we can live out our truth in confidence. I may not always have self-confidence, but I do always have God-confidence.

Prayer:

Dear God, I ask you to fill me with your peace and righteousness. Fill me up with you so that I can walk in your confidence, especially when my own confidence is struggling. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Isaiah 32:17
A prayer for overcoming self-doubt
Read more encouraging and short devotionals for moms!

Forgiving those who hurt our kids (A devotion for moms)

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Learning to forgive when your mama bear instincts kick in

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Colossians 3:13-14 (NIV)

We talk about forgiveness a lot in the Christian community – and it makes sense. The Bible tells us time and again to forgive others as God as forgiven us.

And from a mental wellness standpoint, I also know the benefits of forgiveness. Carrying around hard feelings toward someone else is only hurting ourselves.

While I’d like to think I’ve made progress at forgiving others and am doing well with it, one area of struggle for me is forgiving those who have wronged my children.

That’s hard for us moms, isn’t it? Our inner mama bear can’t help but come out when we see our children hurt or wronged.

We want to fight. We want to defend and retaliate. Though we should most definitely stand up for and advocate for our children, we don’t want to get caught up in holding grudges and not forgiving.

The truth is, I don’t think I can do this on my own in some situations with some people. So that’s where love comes in. I need God to pour His love into me to ease my anger and frustration so I can let it go, forgive and move on.

What are you holding onto today that it’s time to let go? Ask God to pour into you so you can let go and move forward.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for forgiving me. I ask that you pour your love into me so that I can forgive others – even when they have hurt those I love. Show me how to move forward. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1 Colossians 3:13-14
A prayer for forgiving others
Read more encouraging and short devotionals for moms!

Letting go of mom worry

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Trusting God with your children

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Even if you aren’t predisposed to anxiety (as some of us are!), motherhood can certainly bring it out in you.

As a child, I remember seeing overprotective moms on television sitcoms telling their child to be careful with a stick or he might poke out his eye. I thought it was silly and over the top.

Then I became a mom. A stick! You can do a lot of damage with that!

We want so much to protect these people who God has given us charge over. We want them to be safe and secure and have all the things they need. All of that leads to worry and anxiety.

It starts at the very beginning of their lives and continues. I’d guess it continues your entire lifetime as a mom, no matter the age of your children. The worries change and evolve, but they are always present.

But God didn’t create us to be filled with worry and anxiety. He knows that our natural tendencies, especially as mamas. So many times, He reminds us to just trust Him.

This verse from 1 Peter says it succinctly. We can turn our anxiety over to Him because He loves us.

Just as we don’t want our own children to worry, God doesn’t want us to worry. We can trust that just like we take care of our kiddos and make sure they are safe, so is He taking care of us and them as well. That’s something we can rest in today.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for caring for me enough to take my anxiety. Help me to turn my worries and fears over to you and rest in your goodness today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1 Peter 5:7
A prayer for letting go of mom worry
Read more encouraging and short devotionals for moms!

Hope in the hard seasons: Trusting God for new beginnings

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Even in the wilderness, God creates streams of hope and renewal

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

Sometimes what we need most is the hope of a new beginning. I’ve had seasons in my life that were hard and exhausting. Yet, none of them have lasted forever. They always come to an end.

The changes may take longer than we’d like. But God is faithful and making a way through all the struggle and hard times.

As moms, the hardest times are when our children are suffering. Recently, both of my children had health issues at different times that we were at a loss to diagnose and treat.

I’d spent years in such a situation myself, but that didn’t cut me to the core like it did when my children were going through it themselves.

My love for my children is vast and deep. Somehow, God loves us even more than that. When we are struggling, He must surely ache for us. We can rest in His love and trust He is making a way through the struggle, even when we can’t see our way past or through it.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for always being with me in the struggle. Give me hope and encouragement to keep going. I trust that you have a plan for my life and for my good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Isaiah 43:18-19
A prayer for hard times
Read more encouraging and short devotionals for moms!

88 Powerful prayers for your family

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

The power of praying for those you love

More than anything we can do for our family, praying for them is the most powerful of all. We cannot be with our family members at all times, but God can. And these prayers for your family are a great place to start.

Prayers for your family Pinterest image 1

With prayers for everyone from yourself as a Christian mom to your husband to your children and even recent graduates, you’ll find prayers to get you started in bringing your family before God.

Prayers for moms

When we talk about praying for our loved ones and family, we often overlook ourselves. But, the truth is the more we are connected with God, the better we can pour into our families.

These prayers will help you remember to lift yourself up to your Heavenly Father.

Prayers for overwhelmed moms

Being a mom is so incredibly awesome, but it’s also draining and hard. And sometimes we are just plain overwhelmed.

It’s easy to get weary and overwhelmed when we are looking out for the needs of our families. On the days when I feel like there’s nothing left for or of myself, I struggle sometimes to even know what to pray beyond help!

I know God hears and understands our prayers, no matter how long or short they are. The Bible also tells us in Romans 8:26-27 that the Holy Spirit brings our needs to God when we can’t.

However, I also know the power of prayer and how praying based on Scripture can help me refocus on God to get peace and strength from Him when I need it most.

These seven Scripture-based prayers for overwhelmed moms are perfect for those days and times when you don’t have the words on your own.

Prayers for overwhelmed moms Pinterest image 1

Pocket prayers for moms

Finding quiet time in motherhood is challenging. Having these seven short prayers for mothers on hand can help us stay connected to God in the midst of busy family life.

These simple and powerful prayers for mothers are ones you can pray for yourself and for the other moms in your life. From new moms to seasoned moms, we all need prayer. 

Motherhood challenges you physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. I like to say motherhood is neither for the faint of heart nor the weak of composition!

But, I’m thankful for a God who understands and knows that. Our Heavenly Father is right there in the midst of motherhood with us. As much as we love our babies, He loves them – and us! – even more. We can lean on Him during the easy times and the difficult ones.

Short prayers for mothers Pinterest image 8

Prayers for your children

As Christian moms, praying for our children is incredibly important. We cannot always be with them, but we can trust completely that God is with them regardless.

Start with these prayers for inspiration and encouragement to lift up your children before God.

Prayers for your school-aged children

When I was pregnant with each of my children, I prayed for them. Now that they are here, I continue to pray for them.

But sometimes, I can get a bit stuck in a prayer rut. I can find myself praying for my kids in the same ways or about immediate needs of theirs. However, I want to be intentional about praying for all aspects of their lives and their futures.

These 14 intentional prayers for your children can make a big difference to help your children stay on the right path.

Prayers for school children Pinterest image 8

Prayers for your graduates

Graduation is a time when new grads and their families look forward to the future and what comes next. For Christian moms, dads and grads, seeking out Bible verses and prayers for guidance and encouragement is important.

These seven Bible verses and 14 prayers are ideal for graduation. You can use them in a graduation card, at a graduation celebration, in a graduation speech or wherever you can think of.

Each graduation Bible verse also includes two prayers: one to pray about the graduate and one for the graduate to pray. You can pray these prayers or use them as inspiration for a graduation card message.

Graduation Bible verses Pinterest image 6

Prayers for your husband

Of all the things we can do as Christian wives, praying for our husbands is one of the most important. I see my husband’s challenges and struggles more than anyone else in the world — as it should be.

Because of that, I can pray specific prayers for my husband and perhaps even prayers he doesn’t think to pray for himself.

Turning to Scripture can help us know what to pray for our husbands. The Bible reassures us that we can know God hears what we ask of Him (1 John 5:15). And that makes it all the more important to make sure you pray for your husband.

You can pray these eight Scripture prayers for your husband to meet his needs at work and in your marriage while also asking for protection and blessings for him.

Powerful Prayers for Your Husband Pinterest image 1

Prayers for your faith

Sometimes we go through situations in life that we need specific prayer for. Other times, we need more general prayers related to our faith.

These prayers work in specific situations or to help you grow in your Christian walk.

Prayers for God’s love

As mamas, we want the love of God to flow through us and into the lives of our families and others around us. In order for that to happen, though, we must fully embrace and live in God’s love.

These 10 powerful prayers for God’s love are Scripture-based and a great way to get started in resting in the love of our Heavenly Father.

10 Bible-based prayers to experience God's love from Therapy for Christians

Prayers in a season of waiting

Waiting goes against human nature. In a world filled with instant gratification, times of waiting often feel excruciating. 

And waiting on God isn’t any different. We pray and seek Him. We call on others to pray. 

Yet, sometimes He doesn’t move in a way we can see. Waiting on God’s timing can feel hopeless. But the good news is that it isn’t.

I find hope in knowing God has never let me down or forgotten me. From times of needing patience in my own life, I’ve put together these five prayers for seasons of waiting.

Prayer for patience while waiting Pinterest image 4

And I’m not the only one who has struggle with waiting and praying through the waiting. Whether you’re in a short season of waiting or a long season of waiting, these five prayers for patience while waiting will also help you stay focused on God during the wait.

5 Prayers for patience while waiting from Hope Filled Faith

Prayers for joy

Joy isn’t something we celebrate as a culture, especially in motherhood culture. Joy seems like a nice concept, but not something to work for. 

Yet God’s Word tells us that joy is a gift of the Holy Spirit. In fact, it’s one a Fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. 

While joy can be hard to find on our own, we can utilize prayers for joy based on Scripture. These seven prayers are designed specifically for Christian moms to find the gift of joy in the midst of motherhood.

Prayers for joy in the Bible Pinterest image 7

Prayers for when you’re afraid

So much joy and goodness comes with motherhood, but so does a lot of fear. I have been more afraid and anxious for my children than I ever have for myself — and as someone who struggles with anxiety, that’s saying a lot.

The fears start with pregnancy: am I doing everything right? Did the baby move enough today?

And they continue once the baby is born: will he ever sleep through the night? Did she get enough milk?

On and on they go through each phase of motherhood. Yet, God has not called us to live with a spirit of fear.

These 10 prayers against fear will help you find strength and peace in God when your fear starts to get th best of you.

Prayers against fear from Therapy for Christians

Prayer prompts for every day of the year

As you are growing in your walk with God and your prayer life, sometimes you just need some prayer prompts to get your prayers flowing.

Hope Filled Faith has 365 prayer prompts for every single day of the year that are perfect for this.

365 Prayer prompts from Hope Filled Faith

31 Bible verses about finding peace (with a free reading plan!)

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Encouraging Scriptures about peace for Christian moms

Ah, peace. As new moms, peace is something we dream about in the midst of crying babies and screaming toddlers.

Yet, Biblical peace is so much more than that. It’s about letting go over the overwhelm and anxiety and living in communion with God.

And there are so many Bible verses about finding peace that inspire us to seek God’s peace for our daily lives. This is exactly the kind of peace we want to cultivate in our homes and in our hearts.

If you’re longing for more peace as a mom – and who isn’t?! – these Bible verses about peace will encourage you. They’re more than just words on a page; they’re God’s promises for us as we navigate motherhood.

Let’s dive into some key Scriptures that teach us how to find and live in peace.

Download the free 31-day Bible reading plan about finding peace

Trusting God for peace

Peace begins with God. As we live with Him, we have greater peace. These verses remind us of the importance for us Christian moms to stay connected to God for peace.

Isaiah 26:3-4

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.”

Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV)

When we put our full trust in God, we can experience His perfect peace. Our circumstances may shift, but God remains steady and unchanging. By keeping our focus on Him, we can find lasting peace even in uncertain times.

Practical tips

  • Start your day by meditating on a verse about trusting God.
  • When anxious thoughts arise, replace them with prayers of trust.
  • Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of God’s faithfulness.
John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

John 14:27 (NIV)

Jesus offers us a peace that surpasses worldly understanding. His peace isn’t dependent on our circumstances but on His presence in our lives. When fear or stress creeps in, we can rest in the peace He gives freely.

Practical tips

  • Memorize this verse and recite it when you feel anxious.
  • Listen to worship music that reminds you of God’s peace.
  • Take deep breaths and pray when stress starts to rise.
Philippians 4:6-7

“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)

God invites us to bring our worries to Him. Instead of letting anxiety take over, we can trade our concerns for His peace by laying them at His feet in prayer.

Practical tips

  • Set aside time each day to pray over your worries.
  • Write down your prayers and thank God for His peace.
  • Practice surrendering control to God, reminding yourself He is in charge.

Peace in the storm

No matter what we do in life, we are always going to have storms come. We’ll have times where everything is upended, and finding peace seems impossible.

In the world, that would be true. But with God anything is possible. Let these verses soothe and calm the storms you face.

Mark 4:39-40

“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’”

Mark 4:39-40 (NIV)

Jesus has power over the storms in our lives, both literal and figurative. When we feel overwhelmed by chaos, we can trust Him to bring calm and stillness to our hearts.

Practical tips

  • When chaos hits, pause and ask Jesus to calm your heart.
  • Remind yourself that God is in control, even in life’s storms.
  • Focus on His past faithfulness to strengthen your faith for the future.
Romans 8:6

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”

Romans 8:6 (NIV)

Our thoughts shape our emotions and actions. When we focus on God and let His Spirit lead us, we can experience true peace rather than being ruled by fear or worry.

Practical tips

  • Read Scripture daily to renew your mind with God’s truth.
  • Avoid negativity that stirs up anxiety, like certain social media or news.
  • Focus on things that bring peace—like worship, prayer and encouragement.
Psalm 46:1

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

When we face difficulties, God is our safe place. He is always with us, offering strength and protection in every situation.

Practical tips

  • Run to God first when difficulties arise, rather than reacting in fear.
  • Create a prayer space in your home to remind you of His presence.
  • Speak this verse over your life during challenging moments.

Pursuing peace in relationships

Conflict in relationships certainly disturb our peace. We want to make sure that are being intentional about pursuing peace in our relationships with our family, friends and those we encounter.

Let these verses inspire and encourage you to turn to God for help in pursuing peace in relationships.

Ephesians 4:2-3

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 4:2-3 (NIV)

Relationships can be messy, but God calls us to pursue peace through humility, patience and love. When we strive for unity, we reflect His heart.

Practical tips

  • Practice patience and empathy when conflicts arise.
  • Pray for wisdom in difficult conversations.
  • Choose words that build others up rather than tear them down.
James 3:18

“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”

James 3:18 (NIV)

Living as a peacemaker means actively working to bring peace into our homes and relationships. When we do this, we reflect God’s righteousness.

Practical tips

  • Lead by example—demonstrate peace in your interactions.
  • Resolve conflicts quickly rather than letting resentment grow.
  • Encourage peace by being a source of kindness and understanding.
Colossians 3:13

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Colossians 3:13 (NIV)

Forgiveness is a key part of maintaining peace in relationships. When we choose to forgive, we free ourselves from bitterness and allow God’s peace to fill our hearts.

Practical tips

  • Ask God to help you forgive those who have wronged you.
  • Remember how much you’ve been forgiven by God.
  • Let go of resentment and choose grace in difficult moments.

Living in God’s peace daily

We also want to find ways to live in God’s peace daily through the storms, in our relationships and in just the general stress of mom life.

These verses will encourage you to embrace God’s peace on a regular basis and truly feel it in your heart.

Psalm 29:11

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”

Psalm 29:11 (NIV)

God’s peace isn’t something we earn—it’s a gift He freely gives. When we rely on His strength, we can walk in His peace each day.

Practical tips

2 Thessalonians 3:16

“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)

God’s peace is constant and available in every situation. No matter what we face, we can trust that His peace is with us.

Practical tips

  • Begin and end each day with a prayer for peace.
  • Speak Scripture over your heart when anxiety arises.
  • Trust that God’s peace is available in every situation.
  • Final Encouragement
Isaiah 32:17

“The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.”

Isaiah 32:17

God’s peace is a result of righteousness. When we follow His ways, we experience deep, lasting peace.

Practical tips

  • Seek to live righteously by aligning your actions with God’s Word.
  • Trust in God’s promises, even when life feels uncertain.
  • Embrace quiet moments with God to strengthen your confidence in Him.

Use the free Bible reading plan about peace

To go even deeper into Bible verses about peace, check out the free 31-day Bible reading plan all about peace. It includes a couple of verses per day and reflection questions to help you draw closer to God and embrace more peace in your life.

Free 31-day Bible reading plan about finding peace

Be sure to join the Christian Moms with Grace private Facebook group where we talk all about our monthly reading plans and lots of other spiritual and practical motherhood topics!

Join Christian Moms with Grace on Facebook

As moms, we may not always feel peaceful, but we can rest in the truth that God’s peace is always available to us. By trusting Him, praying through our worries and choosing to cultivate peace in our hearts and homes, we can experience the deep and lasting peace He promises.

If you’re looking for even more free Bible reading plans, you can find all of them here:

Free Bible reading plans for moms

Related posts to check out

20 Encouraging Bible verses about peace of mind

7 Prayers for overwhelmed moms

God’s rest for weary moms: Find peace in His presence

Finding God’s perfect peace in the chaos of motherhood

How to deal with anxiety as a Christian

Loving others without burnout: A guide for busy moms

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Ideas to help you love and serve others even when you’re exhausted

Mom life is pretty much epitomized by serving. We are constantly giving ourselves away to take care of our families. So, adding more service to that mix can be downright overwhelming.

Yet, God calls us to love and serve not from a place of exhaustion, but from a heart filled with His strength and peace. Through Him, loving others without burnout is possible, even for the busiest mom.

We need to take a look at what God is actually calling us to do in loving in others and talk about ways to practically – realistically – make it happen in today’s life.

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.

This post is part of a series on Biblical love. Find all the details and links to other posts here.

A Free 28-Day Bible study for moms about love

Understanding God’s call to love

Loving others is at the core of our faith. These words from Jesus reminds us plainly:

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 13:34-35

This call to love is not just for when we have extra time or energy; it’s a daily commitment to love others like Jesus.

In Matthew 22:39, Jesus says the first great commandment is to love God with all your heart, and the second one is to love others. Note the word “commandment” in both of these Scripture references.

A commandment isn’t a suggestion or even a “good idea if it works for you.” It’s something we must do.

Loving others starts with receiving God’s love

God never calls us to do something without giving us the resources to do it. Before we can pour into others, we must first be filled with God’s love ourselves.

“We love because He first loved us.”

1 John 4:19

If we try to serve others from a place of emptiness, we will quickly become exhausted. Taking time to connect with God refreshes our souls and gives us the strength we need to love others well.

This isn’t about adding more to our to-do list. It’s about allowing God’s love to flow into our daily lives so that loving others becomes a natural outpouring instead of a draining obligation.

Let’s also be honest that finding time with God can be challenging as a busy mom, especially if you have little ones who need you constantly. Try some of these practical ways to work God-time into your daily routine.

  • Utilize alone time in the bathroom by spending time in prayer while you shower or reading your Bible while you dry your hair. (I do both of these things!)
  • If you find yourself alone in the car, pray or listen to a sermon. With or without your kids, tuning into Christian music in the car is another great way to connect with God. (Try this playlist on Spotify that I keep adding to.)
  • Find a set time to connect with God, so it becomes part of your routine. Consider getting up earlier, staying up later, using nap time or utilizing your lunch break. I’ve even read my Bible in the school pick-up line when my routine has gotten interrupted!
  • Try a devotional to help you get in God’s Word daily or at least commit to reading a verse or two per day. (Check out all of these free Bible reading plans!)
  • Pray and ask God to help you find time to connect. God knows your heart — and your schedule. It’s OK to ask Him for help in figuring out when and how to best connect with Him.

Loving in small, intentional ways

Sometimes we fall into the trap of thinking serving and loving others means big commitments or gestures. While those are awesome, you can also find lots of small ways to love on others.

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Really, what matters most is your intentions as the Apostle Paul reminds us.

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Romans 12:9-10

Unsurprisingly, prayer is a great place to start with this. Ask God to open your eyes and help you see others who need just a little something extra each day.

Try some of these small, intentional ways to love on others:

  • Text a friend to check in. This is especially great if they’re in a difficult season, but even if they aren’t, you’re still letting them know you care — and everyone loves that!
  • Pray for the neighbor you see walking down the road. They’ll never even know, but that’s OK.
  • Encourage the cashier at the grocery store with a warm smile or compliment.
  • On trash pick-up day, help a neighbor by moving their trashcans back up to their house.
  • Pick up a few extras at the grocery store to donate to a local food pantry.

Even small acts of kindness matter, and they reflect God’s love in powerful ways.

Setting healthy boundaries to avoid burnout

Loving others doesn’t mean saying yes to everything. Jesus Himself set boundaries, stepping away from the crowds to pray and rest. Setting limits is not selfish—it’s necessary.

Jesus wants us to seek Him for rest and understands firsthand that we need rest.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28

When we say yes to every request out of guilt or obligation, we risk becoming overwhelmed and resentful. And that’s completely opposite from the idea of loving others without burnout!

Instead, ask God for wisdom to know where He is truly calling you to love and serve. When our love is guided by His direction rather than pressure, it becomes life-giving rather than draining.

Remember your capacity to serve others may change in the different seasons of motherhood you’re in — and that’s fine.

I know finding time to rest as a mom is hard. It’s something I struggle with regularly. Try these strategies to help you find some rest and avoid burnout.

  • Define what rest is to you at the moment. Your definition of rest shifts in different phases of life. You may need to redefine what rest looks like for your now as a mom. It can be as simple as ordering pizza for dinner and watching a movie with your family.
  • Intentionally look for small pockets of time to refuel. Having an entire day of rest probably isn’t feasible as a mom. Look instead for a few minutes here and there you can intentionally rest. Even five minutes of quiet time can be incredibly refreshing!
  • Spend downtime in restful ways other than always scrolling mindlessly on your phone. Think about what you really enjoy and find little ways to work those into your rest time. I love to read, and often use the time waiting for my children in the car to have quiet reading time. Whatever works!
  • Do something just because you want to. We are always doing things we have to. Pick even just 30 minutes a week and do something you want to do. Give yourself grace to let go of the running to-do list in your head and do something just for you.
  • Ask God to help you find rest and downtime in this phase of motherhood. It isn’t easy, but we do need rest. He created us that way and will help us find rest if we let Him.

Teaching our children to love others

As Christian moms, we want to see our children love others and avoid being selfish. One of the best ways to teach that is by example.

Loving others without burnout Pinterest image 11

How we talk and how we act has a big impact on our children’s attitudes.

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

1 John 3:18

We need to show our kids love in action. When they see us serving with joy rather than obligation, they learn that love is not about duty—it’s about reflecting God’s heart.

Along with modeling a life of loving others, we can also get our children involved with loving others from a young age. Try some of these ideas:

  • Encourage your children to pray for their friends during their prayer time. This also helps them learn they can talk to God about everything and everyone. (Check out these simple DIY prayer envelopes to help your kids pray for others.)
  • Have them color a picture or write a note to someone going through a hard time or even just because. This can be extended family, church family, a friend, a neighbor or really anyone!
  • Take them with you to shop for a local food pantry and explain what you’re doing. Doing this with my children has made a tremendous and lasting impact.
  • Bake or buy treats to share with community members. Pass them out to first responders, your church staff, their pediatrician, their favorite librarian or whoever you’d like to show some appreciation for.
  • Volunteer together at a food pantry or soup kitchen if your children are old enough. They’ll usually have a great time and get to learn that serving others can be fun and rewarding.

For even more, check out these 16 volunteer ideas for families to do together.

The key to loving others without burnout

Overall, the key to loving others without burnout starts with God. When we connect to Him, find small acts of kindness to do regularly, set healthy boundaries like Jesus and model love to our children, we can use His strength to keep on loving and serving.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” 

Galatians 6:9

Loving others as a busy mom doesn’t mean overextending ourselves—it means loving in the way God designed. It means continuing the work of the Father in whatever ways we are able in our current season.

Bible verses about loving others

These Bible verses come from our Bible reading plan about love from the free “Love in Action” Bible study. They are great Scriptures to reflect on when it comes to loving others.

  • Matthew 22:37-29
  • 1 John 3:16-18
  • Galatians 6:9-10
  • Romans 12:9-10
  • Matthew 5:43-44

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Stories of God’s love in the Bible

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

A reflection for Christian moms

As mamas, our days are filled with moments that challenge and bless us, often in equal measure. In the midst of all this, there’s one constant: God’s love.

His love is the foundational cornerstone of our faith and a source of strength in our everyday lives. The stories of God’s love in the Bible remind us that His love is eternal, unchanging and available to us in every situation.

Let’s take a moment to dive into some of these beautiful Bible stories that highlight the depth of His love and how it impacts our lives as moms.

This post is part of a series on Biblical love. Find all the details and links to other posts here.

A Free 28-Day Bible study for moms about love

The prodigal son: A story of redemption and open arms

The parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) is a powerful reminder of the kind of love God offers us—a love that welcomes us back with open arms, no matter how far we’ve wandered.

In this story of a father with two sons, the younger son takes his inheritance early. He then leave home and wastes all his money on reckless living.

When a severe famine strikes, he finds himself penniless, feeding pigs and longing for the food they eat. In his despair, he decides to return to his loving father, expecting to be treated as a servant. Instead, his father runs to meet him, welcomes him back with open arms and celebrates his return with a feast.

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Practical application

As moms, we often feel like we need to have everything together. But the love of God isn’t based on our perfection. When we make mistakes—whether it’s losing our temper or feeling like we’re falling short—we can trust in God’s grace. Take a moment to pray and reset, knowing His love never wavers.

Teach your kids about the beauty of forgiveness. Use this story to explain that no matter what they do, they can always turn to their Heavenly Father (and you) for love and acceptance. Model forgiveness in your family by letting go of grudges and showing grace to your children and spouse.

Encouragement for moms

The story of the Prodigal Son is a beautiful reminder of how God’s love meets us in every season of life, including motherhood. Just as the father in the story welcomed his son home with open arms, God welcomes us with grace and love, no matter how far we feel we’ve strayed.

When motherhood feels overwhelming, and you’re wrestling with guilt over mistakes or shortcomings, remember that God’s love isn’t based on your performance. He sees your heart and offers new mercies every morning.

If you’re walking through a tough season with one of your children, this story also reminds us of the power of unconditional love. The father didn’t give up on his son, even when he was far away.

As moms, we can keep praying, loving and trusting God to work in our children’s hearts, even when we can’t see the results right away. God’s love reaches places we can’t, and He is always calling our children back to Him.

Take heart in knowing God rejoices over you just as the father celebrated his son’s return. He’s not waiting for you to have it all together before He loves you. Instead, He meets you in your mess, offering rest, grace and a love that never fails.

In every season of motherhood—whether it’s joyful, messy, or exhausting—you can trust that God’s love is more than enough to carry you through. Next time you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to reflect on how God welcomes you with open arms, just as you are. Let this truth encourage you to extend that same grace to yourself and others.

The good Samaritan: Loving others in everyday life

In the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus tells of a Jewish man is beaten and left for dead on the side of the road. A priest and a Levite, both respected figures, pass by without helping.

But a Samaritan—someone despised by the Jewish people—stops to care for the injured man. He bandages his wounds, takes him to an inn and pays for his care.

Jesus Christ uses this story to teach the kind of love and compassion should go beyond social and cultural barriers, embodying what it means to love our neighbors.

Practical application

As moms, we have opportunities every day to show kindness. It could be offering a smile to another mom at the store, helping a neighbor in need or organizing a playdate for a mom who seems lonely.

These small acts of kindness reflect God’s goodness and teach our children what it means to love others.

Teach your kids about helping others by involving them in acts of service. Whether it’s baking cookies for a neighbor, donating toys or volunteering as a family, these experiences will plant seeds of compassion in their hearts.

Encouragement for moms

The story of the Good Samaritan is a powerful reminder that small, intentional acts of kindness can make a big difference.

As moms, our days are filled with opportunities to love and serve, even in simple ways like comforting a child after a tough day, offering a kind word to another mom or lending a hand to someone in need. These seemingly small moments of love reflect the heart of God and teach our children what it means to live out His love in practical ways.

It’s easy to feel like the work we do as moms goes unnoticed, but the Good Samaritan shows us love in action is never wasted. Just as the Samaritan’s compassion had a lasting impact on the injured man, your kindness can make a difference in the lives of those around you.

Whether it’s a meal shared with a struggling friend or a listening ear offered to your spouse, every act of love is a reflection of God’s goodness at work through you.

When you feel stretched thin, remember God equips you to love others with His strength. You don’t have to do it all or have every answer—God uses even your smallest efforts to make an impact. Lean into His love, knowing that as you care for your family and extend kindness to others, you are living out the example of the Good Samaritan, showing God’s love in tangible, meaningful ways.

Look for small ways to show love to someone around you today. These acts of love reflect the glory of God.

Ruth and Naomi: A story of loyalty and God’s provision

The book of Ruth shows us a beautiful example of loyalty and trust in God’s plan. It tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi. After the death of their husbands, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, urging Ruth to stay behind.

But Ruth refuses, saying, “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16)

Ruth’s loyalty leads her to a new life in Bethlehem, where she meets Boaz, a kind man who eventually becomes her husband.

Through this union, Ruth becomes part of the lineage of Jesus Christ, demonstrating God’s provision and faithfulness.

Practical application

Trusting in God’s plan can be hard, especially when life feels uncertain. Take time to pray and surrender your worries to God, trusting that He sees your individual needs and will guide you through every situation.

Also, foster loyalty and strong family bonds by creating meaningful traditions with your kids. Something as simple as a family fun night or bedtime prayers can build connections that last a lifetime.

Encouragement for moms

The story of Ruth and Naomi beautifully illustrates the power of loyalty and love, even in the hardest times. As moms, we often find ourselves walking through seasons of uncertainty or struggle, whether it’s juggling family responsibilities, dealing with financial pressures or navigating changes in relationships.

Ruth’s steadfast commitment to Naomi reminds us God honors faithfulness, especially when we persevere in love and trust Him through the unknown.

Ruth’s story shows us we don’t have to have all the answers to move forward. Like Ruth, who chose to follow Naomi and trust God’s provision, we can take one step at a time, trusting that God will guide us.

Whether it’s loving our children through their struggles, supporting a friend in need or holding onto hope in a challenging situation, our faithfulness in love is a reflection of God’s heart and His unwavering faithfulness to us.

When you feel like you’re giving your all and still wondering what’s next, take heart in knowing God sees you. He is at work, just as He was in Ruth’s life, weaving His plan for good even when it’s hard to see in the moment.

Like Ruth, your love and commitment have the power to change lives, bringing hope and blessing to your family and others around you. Trust that God’s faithfulness will sustain you and lead you into a season of His abundant grace.

When you feel uncertain about your next steps, remember Ruth’s loyalty and God’s faithfulness. Pray for wisdom and trust in His plan, knowing He sees your heart and your efforts.

The lost sheep: A picture of God’s pursuing love

In the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:3-7), Jesus tells of a good shepherd who leaves his 99 sheep to search for the one that has strayed. When he finds it, he joyfully carries it home, celebrating its return.

This story illustrates God’s everlasting love for each of us. No matter how far we wander, He seeks us out and rejoices when we come back to Him.

Practical application

As moms, we often feel pulled in a million directions, but this story reminds us of the value of focusing on the one. Whether it’s spending one-on-one time with your child or reaching out to a friend who’s struggling, these moments reflect the heart of God.

Share this story with your children to teach them about the depth of God’s love. Help them understand they are deeply valued and cherished, just as they are.

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Encouragement for moms

The parable of the lost sheep reminds us that every person matters deeply to God. As moms, it’s easy to feel unseen or wonder if what we’re doing truly makes a difference.

But this story shows us God doesn’t just see the crowd; He sees the one. He goes after the lost and hurting with relentless love, and that same love is extended to us every single day.

Just as the shepherd didn’t give up until he found the missing sheep, God’s love for you is unending. On days when you feel like you’re falling short or struggling to keep up, remember God isn’t asking you to be perfect.

He delights in you as His child and seeks you out when you’re weary or lost. You can rest in the truth that His love isn’t based on your performance but on His unchanging character.

Let this story encourage you to model that same love to your children. Whether it’s through a moment of patience when they’ve made a mistake or through your persistence in guiding them back to the right path, your efforts reflect God’s heart.

Trust that even in the small, unseen moments, your love is making an eternal difference in their lives. And when you feel like the one who is lost, know God is always pursuing you with His arms open wide.

Take a moment to really reflect on the idea that you are God’s lost sheep, worth seeking and saving. When you feel unseen or unappreciated, take comfort in the assurance of God’s presence.

Paul on the Road to Damascus: A Life Transformed by God’s Love

The story of Paul on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-22) is one of the most dramatic examples of God’s transformative love.

Before encountering Jesus, Paul (then called Saul) was a Pharisee who persecuted Christians. While traveling to Damascus to arrest believers, a bright light suddenly surrounded him, and he heard the voice of Jesus asking, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”

Blinded and overwhelmed, Paul obeyed Jesus’ instruction to go into the city and wait. Three days later, a man named Ananias, following God’s command, prayed for Paul, and his sight was restored.

From that moment, Paul’s life completely changed. He went from being a persecutor of Christians to one of the most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel across the world.

Practical application

Paul’s story shows us that no one is beyond God’s reach. If you have loved ones who are far from faith, don’t lose hope. Pray for them consistently and trust that God can work in their lives in ways you can’t imagine.

Also, as moms, we all have areas where we want to improve—whether it’s being more patient, more present or stronger in our faith.

Just as Paul surrendered to God’s call, we, too, can let Him lead us through changes, big or small. Start by praying for His guidance in the areas where you feel stuck or need growth.

Finally, Paul didn’t hesitate to follow Jesus’ instructions, even when it was scary and unclear. When you feel prompted by God—whether it’s to encourage someone, serve your family differently or let go of something weighing you down—trust His plan and take that step in faith.

Encouragement for moms

Paul’s life reminds us that God’s love doesn’t just forgive—it transforms. You are not defined by your past mistakes, your bad days or the times you feel you’ve fallen short as a mom. God’s love sees your potential and works to shape you into someone who reflects His grace and goodness.

When you feel overwhelmed by guilt or inadequacy, remember Paul’s story. If God can take someone like Saul, who actively fought against Him, and turn him into one of the most impactful figures in Christianity, imagine what He can do in your life!

Lean into God’s love and let it renew your heart and mind. With His guidance, you can become the mom, wife and woman He created you to be.

Take a deep breath, trust in His power to work through you, and know that your story is still being written.

Bringing it all together: Living in God’s love daily

The stories of God’s love in the Bible aren’t just inspiring—they are deeply personal. They show us that His love is present in every season, whether we’re navigating the chaos of parenting, strengthening our marriages or loving others.

His love is a great love that meets us in our mess, pursues us when we wander and restores us when we’re broken.

Practical application

One way to live daily in God’s love is to start your day meditating on a Bible verse, and letting His love set the tone for your day.

(The free Bible reading plan about love is a great place to start with just a verse or two per day!)

Another great tip for focusing on the love of God is creating a gratitude journal to write down daily examples of how you see God’s love in your life. Share this practice with your kids to help them recognize His goodness, too.

Don’t forget to make time for quiet reflection or worship. Even five minutes can help you reconnect with the heart of God.

Finally, as we focus on love this week, let’s take time to reflect on how God’s love touches our daily lives. Whether through the unwavering loyalty seen in the book of Ruth, the redemption of the prodigal son or the compassion of the Good Samaritan, we are reminded that God’s love is a constant source of hope and strength.

Bible verses to reflect on this week

Take these Bible verses, along with the stories of God’s love, and let them fill your heart and mind as you go about your week.

Psalm 136:26

“Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.”

Psalm 136:26 (NIV)
John 3:16

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16 (NIV)
Lamentations 3:22-23

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

The importance of love in the Bible and how to live it out

The many facets of Biblical love

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

A reflection and free Bible study for Christian moms

Love is one of the most powerful forces in the world. It’s at the core of who God is and how He relates to us.

As Christian moms, we know love in many forms—from the selfless love we show our children to the enduring love we nurture in our marriages, and even the intentional love we offer to friends and strangers alike. Each of these forms of love reflects a piece of God’s perfect love.

February often brings love to the forefront, and it’s a perfect time to reflect on the many ways we experience and share love in our lives.

Let’s dive into the beauty and depth of love as seen in God’s Word and how it touches every aspect of our daily lives.

This month, let’s focus specifically on God’s love for us, our love as mothers, love in our marriages and love for others.

God’s unfailing love

The Bible is rich with stories and promises of God’s love for His people. From the father in the parable of the Prodigal Son who runs to welcome his wayward child back home to the Good Samaritan who shows compassion to a stranger in need, God’s love is a model for us all.

His love is unconditional, sacrificial and steadfast—qualities we all want to reflect in our own relationships.

God’s love also provides the foundation for our faith. It’s a love that pursues us, redeems us and assures us that nothing can separate us from Him (Romans 8:38-39). As moms, we can take comfort in knowing that the same love we share with our children is rooted in God’s greater love for us.

His love is patient when we falter, generous when we lack and constant when we feel unworthy. As moms, we can take comfort in knowing that the same love we share with our children is rooted in God’s greater love for us.

Love in marriage

Marriage is one of the most intimate expressions of love, designed by God to be a reflection of Christ’s love for the church. While it’s easy to focus on romantic gestures during Valentine’s season, true love in marriage goes far deeper.

It’s about patience, kindness, forgiveness and selflessness, as described in 1 Corinthians 13.

As busy moms, prioritizing our marriages amidst the demands of parenting, work and daily life can be challenging

Yet, nurturing love in marriage is vital, not just for us but also for the example it sets for our children. When we lean into God’s design for love in marriage, we can experience greater joy and unity.

A mother’s love

Few loves are as instinctive and sacrificial as a mother’s love for her child. From sleepless nights with a newborn to the emotional rollercoaster of raising teens, motherhood constantly calls us to give of ourselves.

This love mirrors God’s nurturing care for us, as seen in Isaiah:

“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.”

Isaiah 66:13

While motherhood is a journey filled with challenges, it’s also a profound way to experience and demonstrate God’s love.

Through the everyday acts of service, encouragement and discipline, we have the opportunity to show our children what it means to love as God loves.

Loving others

Jesus’ command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39) reminds us that love isn’t confined to our families. It extends to our friends, neighbors and even those who are difficult to love.

This kind of love often requires intentional effort, but it’s a powerful way to reflect God’s love to the world.

Whether it’s lending a listening ear to a friend, serving a stranger in need or showing kindness to someone who has hurt us, loving others stretches our hearts and draws us closer to God. It’s a love that goes beyond feelings and is rooted in action.

Embracing love in every season

Each type of love we experience—whether it’s God’s unfailing love, the love in our marriages, the love we pour into our children or the love we show to others—teaches us something about God’s character and His plan for us. Love isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

As we prepare to focus on love this February, let’s ask God to help us see His love more clearly and share it more fully. Whether through big gestures or small, everyday moments, love is a gift that changes us and those around us.

So, how can you reflect love in your life this week? Let’s step into February with hearts ready to embrace the love God has for us and to share that love with those He’s placed in our lives.

Free online Bible study for moms

Join us for the free Love in Action Bible study for moms to go even further into these four different types of love. We’ll take a closer look at all four and grow in our relationship with God as well as with our families.

Find all the details here:

A Free 28-Day Bible study for moms about love

Bible verses about hope (with a free reading plan)

Posted on by Stacey A. Shannon

Encouragement for moms amid life’s chaos

Hope. It’s a word we toss around a lot, but when life feels overwhelming, it’s also something we desperately crave.

As moms, we juggle so much—kids’ schedules, household responsibilities, work, relationships and our own personal struggles. Add in moments of doubt or hardship, and hope can sometimes feel distant or even impossible.

But lot of Bible verses about hope in God’s Word remind us hope isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s a firm anchor for our souls.

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What is hope?

Biblically, hope is a confident expectation in God’s promises. It’s not about crossing our fingers and wishing for good things to happen.

It’s about knowing that God is faithful, even when life is messy. Romans 15:13 beautifully expresses this:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

This hope is not dependent on our circumstances but on God’s unchanging character. When we feel weary or overwhelmed, we can lean into this truth.

Why do moms struggle with hope?

Let’s be honest. As moms, life often feels like a hamster wheel, and the constant busyness can make us feel drained.

It’s hard to hold on to hope when everything seems chaotic or when prayers go unanswered. We might even wonder if God sees our struggles.

But in these moments, hope is precisely what we need. It’s what shifts our focus from our problems to God’s promises. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us:

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

How to cultivate hope in daily life

We know that hope is important, and we want to lean into the hope of God. There are a few ways we can be intentional about living in more hope daily.

Stay rooted in Scripture.

Spending even a few minutes in God’s Word can fill our hearts with hope. That’s why I’ve put together a variety of free Bible reading plans for moms that use just a verse or two a day.

You can spend the next 31 days focusing on Bible verses about hope in small, manageable chunks of Scripture. We all need reminders of God’s faithfulness to carry us through our hectic days.

Pray with expectation.

Prayer is our lifeline to God. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or lengthy—a simple cry for help or a whispered “thank you” is enough.

Through prayer, we can cast our worries on Him and trust that He is working, even when we can’t see it. And when we focus on God in prayer, we are more inclined to be filled with more hope in Him.

Surround yourself with encouragement.

Whether it’s a verse on your bathroom mirror or a friend who texts you prayers, find ways to keep hope visible. Community is vital, and sharing burdens with others can lighten the load.

Consider joining my online community of Christian moms in the free and private Facebook group, Christian Moms with Grace. It’s a great place to find encouragement.

Plus, we discuss the simple reading plan each month and take a deeper dive a few times a year as well to help you stay connected to God while also connecting with other Christian mamas like you.

Join Christian Moms with Grace on Facebook

Look for God in everyday moments

Hope grows when we acknowledge God’s goodness in the small things. Did you see a breathtaking sunrise? Was your child unexpectedly kind?

These glimpses of grace are reminders of His love. Take time throughout the day to appreciate these blessings in the moment.

A free reading plan for hope

This month, I’ve created a 31-day Bible reading plan on hope, designed with busy moms in mind. Each week has a specific theme—from finding hope in hard times to sharing hope with others—and includes reflection questions to help you dig deeper.

My prayer is that this plan will not only help you grow in faith but also remind you that you are never alone in your struggles. These Bible verses about hope will encourage and uplift you daily.

Let’s lean into the hope God offers. When we do, we’ll find that even in our toughest moments, His promises hold us steady. So take a breath, grab your Bible and let’s walk this journey of hope together.

Download the Free Bible Reading Plan for Moms about Hope
Check out all the free Bible reading plans for moms