Real-life help from a mom who gets it

Back to school can be exciting, overwhelming and emotional — sometimes all before 9 a.m.

If you’re a mom trying to juggle drop-off schedules, supply lists, earlier bedtimes and maybe even your own work responsibilities, you’re not alone.

I’ve been there (still am there!), and I want to share some of the back to school tips that have helped our family navigate the start of a new school year with a little more peace and a lot more grace.

Whether you’ve got littles starting preschool or big kids heading into high school, these 20 practical and faith-filled tips are for you — from one real-life mom to another.

1. Practice lunchbox skills before day one

If your child is new to packing a lunch or hasn’t used certain containers before, take a little time to practice. Let them open their lunchbox, unzip their sandwich bag and open any tricky containers.

What’s second nature to us as adults might trip up a 5-year-old at a crowded lunch table. Plus, practicing now can save them frustration and help them feel more independent when the first lunch bell rings.

Also be sure to have them try things like opening milk cartons (if possible; these are harder to find!) and putting straws in juice boxes.

2. Ease into early wake-ups a few days at a time

If your summer mornings have been slow or even a bit slower than usual, gradually shifting back to earlier wake-ups will make the start of school easier.

Begin with setting alarms 30 minutes earlier each day in the week (or two!) leading up to school. This gentle transition helps reset their internal clocks without making that first school morning feel like a rude awakening.

It also gives you a chance to troubleshoot your own routine before it really counts. And, if your own schedule has been different, this allows your internal clock to reset as well.

3. Use a simple spreadsheet to track school supplies

I love spreadsheets. My latest obsession is AirTable, which takes spreadsheets to a whole new level. (Absolutely no affiliation with them. I just love them!)

Instead of relying on memory or digging through plastic bags every time you get home from Target, create a basic spreadsheet or phone note. List each item your child needs and check them off as you buy them.

You’ll save money by not doubling up and sanity by not second-guessing what you’ve already purchased. It also helps if you’re shopping for multiple kids or need to split up supply gathering with your spouse or older child.

Because school supply lists are often specific and, especially in elementary, can have overlapping supplies, spreadsheets just make organizing them all that much easier.

I even use a second page in the spreadsheet to track other things we need like backpacks, lunch containers, clothes, etc.

4. Shift bedtime gradually for everyone

Back to school means early mornings, so adjusting bedtimes is just as important. About a week before school starts, start backing up bedtime by 15 to 30 minutes each night.

Your kids might resist it, especially the older ones, but even just turning off devices and dimming the lights can help their bodies start winding down.

And just like with getting up earlier, it’s worth shifting your own bedtime too. Running on caffeine alone doesn’t count as self-care.

5. Create a “launch pad” near the door

Designate a spot by the door where backpacks, shoes, water bottles and school devices go. You can use a basket, a bench, a corner, a countertop or whatever.

Everything for school having a home near the door you exit will cut down on the morning chaos of misplaced items and last-minute scavenger hunts.

It also gives kids a small sense of responsibility as they learn to pack and unpack on their own. Bonus: It helps you feel more organized, even when the rest of the day is a blur.

6. Do a dry run of the morning routine

A couple of days before school starts, walk through your morning as if it’s the real thing. Set alarms, get dressed, eat breakfast, pack bags and time how long it all takes.

This helps everyone, including you, ease into the new rhythm and identify any problem areas (like realizing someone’s favorite hoodie is still in the washer).

It’s a low-stress way to set your family up for a smoother first day. You can also use it as an excuse to actually head out the door for some early errands or a doughnut trip.

7. Walk older kids through their new schedule

If your child is in middle or high school, try to walk the halls with them (or let them do it solo) before the first day.

Our school has an open house for all grades the week school starts. This is a great time to let them find their locker, locate their classrooms and get a feel for the flow.

Even if they say they’re fine, a little preparation can quiet some of those unspoken nerves. For kids who worry about the “what ifs,” this small step can make a big difference in their confidence.

Plus for kids like my daughter who is into aesthetics and organizing, it gives them a chance to set up their locker ahead of time rather than lugging all the supplies for it in on the first day.

8. Talk through first-day expectations

Sit down and talk through what the first day will look like. Cover everything from what time they need to wake up to how pickup works at the end of the day.

Go over things like what to pack for lunch, where they’ll wait for the bus or how they’ll find their classroom. Talk with them about what to do if they get lost, confused or have trouble.

Knowing the plan reduces anxiety for everyone. And if something does go off-plan (because it probably will), they’ll feel more prepared to adjust.

9. Build a grab-and-go snack station

Set up a basket or bin with school-approved and mom-approved snacks your kids can easily grab for their lunchboxes or after-school hunger.

Our basket includes granola bars, peanut butter crackers, breadsticks and cheese, fruit snacks and applesauce. Pick whatever works for your crew.

Having a dedicated snack station also helps avoid the endless “What can I eat?” question that seems to hit at 3:30 every day. And if your kids are packing or helping pack lunch, they have a go-to spot to grab from.

10. Start praying together about the school year

Find a time to pray together for the upcoming year. You can do this at breakfast, bedtime or whatever works naturally for your family.

Pray for their teachers, their classmates and for them to shine God’s love in whatever comes their way.

And don’t forget to pray for yourself for patience, peace and wisdom as you guide them through a new season.

These prayers not only speak to the heart of the Father, they remind your children and you that they aren’t going into the school year alone.

Check out these 30 back-to-school prayer cards to take inspire you.

11. Plan easy meals for the first week

The first week back can feel like a blur, so do yourself a favor and have a few go-to meals ready to go. Make a double batch of something simple like chili, baked pasta or muffins and freeze half.

You’ll thank yourself when dinnertime rolls around and you don’t have the energy to cook from scratch. Even frozen pancakes for breakfast can be a big win on a rushed morning.

Be sure to give yourself grace along the way as well. If you don’t want to cook ahead and freeze, plan easy meals your family likes that don’t take too much energy or thought.

Our family has a first day of school tradition of going out to dinner and talking about the day. That works, too!

12. Plug school events into your calendar early

As soon as you get that school email or paper calendar, plug all the key dates into your digital or paper planner. Things like early dismissals, school picture day, parent-teacher nights and holidays can sneak up fast.

Having them on your radar now helps you plan ahead (and not be the only mom who forgets pajama day). It’s a small habit that makes a big difference.

Don’t forget to share important dates with grandparents or other family and friends as well. As soon as I have concert dates and such, I pass that information along as well.

13. Set up a low-key homework station

You don’t need a full-blown homeschool room (though that’s great if you do!). You really just a spot with good lighting, basic supplies and limited distractions.

A corner of the kitchen table, a lap desk on the couch or a shelf in their bedroom can work. Having a consistent place to do homework helps kids mentally shift into “focus mode.”

It also cuts down on the nightly scavenger hunt for pencils and glue sticks. During our time with e-learning, we used shoe boxes wrapped in wrapping paper to hold supplies. We’ve also just had a school box in a kitchen drawer that has pencils, glue sticks, scissors and such.

14. Start a family verse or motto for the year

Choose a Bible verse or short phrase to be your family’s anchor for the school year. Post it somewhere visible like on the fridge, a chalkboard or the bathroom mirror.

Refer back to it when someone has a hard day or when you need a reminder of God’s faithfulness. It’s a simple way to keep your focus on what matters most.

Consider one of these:

• Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
• James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God… and it will be given to you.”
• Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another…”
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Encourage one another and build each other up…”
• Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”
• Colossians 2:6-7 – “Continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up…”
• Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts.”

15. Schedule time for rest in the first month

Those first few weeks back can be a whirlwind of forms, events, new routines and emotional shifts. Plan for quiet evenings or even a low-key weekend at home to give everyone a chance to reset.

Kids need the margin, and honestly, so do we. It doesn’t have to be fancy — a movie night, a lazy Saturday breakfast or just skipping one more thing on the calendar is enough.

We try to keep activities on that first weekend especially low-key. Nobody is up for anything big.

16. Talk about friendship and kindness

Remind your kids that being kind, inclusive and respectful matters just as much as grades. Encourage them to notice classmates who are left out, be a friend to someone new and use their words to build others up.

These little conversations plant seeds that will shape how your child interacts with the world. As we model kindness to our children, we can see them do the same with those around them.

Also have conversations about friends in regards to identifying a good friend and knowing when to keep a classmate as more of an acquaintance than a friend.

These issues popped us for our kiddos by first grade and continue now into middle and high school.

17. Take time to grieve the season shift

It’s OK if you feel emotional when school starts. My kids are in middle and high school and I still have back-to-school blues each year.

So whether your baby is heading to kindergarten or your teen is driving off alone or anywhere in between, give yourself some grace for your own feelings.

The shift from summer to school can bring up unexpected feelings. Let yourself process them without guilt. Grief and gratitude can coexist — and both are normal.

18. Make a back-to-school playlist

Let each family member choose a song and create a playlist you can play during the first-day drive or breakfast. It’s a fun and easy tradition that adds a little joy to the morning.

You might find that “your song” becomes part of the rhythm of the year. Music has a way of grounding us and lifting our moods.

My family has a playlist on Spotify that we call “Car Music.” It’s had songs added and taken away through the years that include a variety of each of our favorites.

19. Do a family “summer wins” recap

Before diving headfirst into school mode, take a moment to reflect on what made summer sweet. Talk about your favorite memories, things you learned or moments you want to remember.

It’s a great way to close one season with gratitude before stepping into the next one. You could even write them down and tuck them into a jar for later.

This is also a great time to assess whether you’ve missed something you really wanted to do over the summer. Get it in before the first day if you can!

Another bonus to this is that it helps your kids remember the fun they really did have throughout the summer months.

20. Choose a consistent and simple after-school rhythm

The hours right after school can get chaotic fast: backpacks get dumped, emotions run high and snacks disappear like magic. Decide now what you want that time to look like.

Whether it’s 10 minutes of quiet time, a quick “How was your day?” check-in or a simple snack-and-homework routine, a little structure goes a long way. Your after-school rhythm doesn’t need to be rigid — just intentional.

We’ve found that one kiddo needs a bit of quiet in the car right after school to decompress from the day. The other likes to talk about their day a bit more. Do what works best for you and your kiddos.

Back to school doesn’t have to mean back to chaos. With a little bit of planning and a whole lot of grace, you can step into this new season with peace and purpose.

These tips aren’t about perfection. They’re about showing up for your family and trusting God to meet you there, even on the hard mornings.

You’re not alone in this. And I’m cheering you on every step of the way!

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.

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.

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!

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!

Encouragement and practical wisdom for the modern Christian mom

A mother’s love is one of the most powerful forces in the world—deep, selfless and enduring. While motherhood is full of joy, it also comes with exhaustion, doubts and hard days.

Sometimes we can feel like the struggle of motherhood in today’s world is vastly different from our foremothers. Yet, there are numerous lessons to learn from mothers in the Bible.

God’s Word is packed with examples of mom who loved their children fiercely and who had to learn about patience, sacrifice and trust in God.

Let’s take a look at five different mothers in the Bible and what each of them can teach us today.

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

Hannah: A mother’s love through surrender

Hannah longed for a child, and in her deep pain, she turned to God in prayer. She vowed that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him back to the Lord.

“‘I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.’ And he worshiped the Lord there.”

1 Samuel 1:27-28

When God answered her prayer and she gave birth to Samuel, she kept her promise, bringing him to the temple to serve the Lord.

Hannah’s story reminds us that motherhood is an act of surrender. We don’t have control over everything—our children’s futures, choices or even their safety.

But just as Hannah entrusted Samuel to God, we can trust that God loves our children even more than we do. On days when worry grips our hearts, we can cling to these words from the Apostle Paul:

“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

Surrendering our children to God doesn’t mean we stop being involved—it means we cover them in prayer, seek His wisdom in our parenting and trust His plan even when things don’t go how we expected.

Practical application

Pray continually and specifically – Just as Hannah poured out her heart to God about Samuel, we can lift our children up in prayer daily. Whether it’s praying for their friendships, decisions, faith or future, we can trust that God hears us.

Keep a prayer journal to track prayers and see how God moves over time. You can also start with pre-written powerful prayers for your children.

Trust God with their future – Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord, fully trusting God’s plan for his life. As moms, we often want to control our children’s paths, but true surrender means trusting that God’s plan is greater than ours.

When worry creeps in, remind yourself that God not only has a plan to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11), but He has the same plans for your children as well.

Model faithful obedience – Hannah followed through on her promise to God, even when it was difficult. We can surrender our children by modeling an unwavering faith—showing them what it looks like to trust God in hard times, worship Him in all circumstances and make faith-filled decisions.

When they see us walk in obedience, they learn to do the same. Sometimes this can be as simple as praising God out loud in front of them or involving them in a volunteer project with us.

The Canaanite woman: A mother’s love that perseveres

The Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28 showed unshakable persistence when pleading with Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter. Though Jesus initially seemed to turn her away, she did not give up. Her faith moved Him, and He healed her daughter.

Motherhood requires perseverance. Whether it’s advocating for our children at school, praying over their struggles or simply surviving sleepless nights with a newborn, we are called to keep going.

This woman’s story encourages us to pray boldly for our children and to never stop believing in God’s power to move in their lives.

Even when our prayers feel unanswered, we can cling to God’s promise that no good is wasted:

“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

Sometimes, our greatest act of love is to keep showing up—through the tantrums, the teenage rebellion or the tough seasons of life.

Practical application

Pray boldly and persistently – The Canaanite woman refused to give up when seeking Jesus’ help for her daughter. As moms, we can follow her example by praying persistently for our children, even when we don’t see immediate answers.

Keep bringing their needs before God, trusting that He hears and will act in His perfect timing (Luke 18:1).

Advocate for your children – Just as this mother boldly sought healing for her daughter, we are called to stand up for our kids. Whether it’s ensuring they get the help they need in school, guiding them through challenges or teaching them to make wise choices, perseverance means never giving up on them, no matter how hard the journey gets.

Cling to faith in difficult seasons – The Canaanite woman didn’t let discouragement stop her. When parenting feels overwhelming, we can persevere by holding onto faith.

Trusting God through tantrums, teenage rebellion or struggles with faith itself requires endurance. But just like this mother, we can believe Jesus is still working, even when we don’t see it yet.

Mary: A mother’s love that trusts God’s plan

Mary, the mother of Jesus, had to trust God in ways most of us will never fully understand. From the moment the angel Gabriel told her she would bear the Son of God, Mary responded with faith.

She watched her son grow into His ministry, knowing He was destined for the cross. As Jesus suffered, Mary stood nearby, witnessing His pain but trusting in God’s greater plan.

As moms, we often want to shield our children from hardships. But sometimes we must stand by them and trust God is working, even when we don’t understand. These verses are great to cling to in times like these:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

Whether we’re watching our children navigate friendship troubles, big decisions or struggles with faith, we can follow Mary’s example by trusting God’s plan for their lives.

Practical application

Say “yes” to God, even when it’s uncertain – When the angel told Mary she would give birth to Jesus, she responded with trust, even though she didn’t have all the details (Luke 1:38).

As moms, we won’t always understand what God is doing in our children’s lives, but we can choose to trust Him. We can follow Mary’s example of surrender by releasing our fears about our children’s future or stepping out in faith as He leads our family.

Walk beside your children through their hardships – Mary didn’t try to stop Jesus from fulfilling His calling, even when it led to suffering. Likewise, we must resist the urge to shield our kids from every difficulty.

Instead of fixing everything for them, we can pray for them, offer wisdom and remind them that God is always with them (Isaiah 41:10). Because the the truth is not everything is fixable, and our children must learn to deal with challenges.

Trust that God is writing their story – From the manger to the cross, Mary had to trust God had a greater plan for Jesus. In the same way, we don’t always see what God is doing in our children’s lives, but we can believe He is at work.

Even when their journey doesn’t look like what we expected, we can trust that His plan is better than ours (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Jochebed: A mother’s love that protects

Jochebed, the mother of Moses, faced an impossible decision. When Pharaoh ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, she knew she couldn’t kill her child.

So, she hid her son for three months before placing him in a basket in the Nile River (Exodus 2:1-10). She trusted God with his life, and He provided—Moses was found by Pharaoh’s daughter and eventually led Israel out of Egypt.

Jochebed’s story reminds us that protecting our children sometimes means making hard choices. From setting firm boundaries to making sacrifices for their well-being to covering them in daily prayer, we are called to guide and protect them.

We may not always see immediate results, but like Jochebed, we can trust that God is at work.

Our children may not be facing threat of death from a king, but we still must protect them making tough choices. We do things like monitor their friendships, limit their screen time and say not to something “everyone else” is doing.

These things take courage and strength, but Proverbs 22:6 encourages us:

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

Proverbs 22:6

Practical application

Take wise action while trusting God – Jochebed didn’t just pray for Moses’ safety—she also took action by hiding him and then placing him in a basket in the Nile.

As moms, we can take practical steps to protect our children, such as setting boundaries with technology, choosing the right influences and teaching them about God’s truth. At the same time, we trust that God is in control beyond what we can do.

Let go and trust God’s plan – As painful as it must have been, Jochebed had to release Moses into God’s hands. We, too, will face moments when we must let go—it’s the very nature of parenthood to prepare them for life on their own.

Letting go isn’t easy, but we can rest in the promise that God loves them even more than we do (Isaiah 41:13).

Pray for God’s protection and guidance – Jochebed couldn’t follow Moses into Pharaoh’s palace, but God was with him every step of the way.

Likewise, we can’t always be with our children, but we can cover them in prayer, asking God to protect and guide them through all they face. Our prayers invite God to work in their lives (Philippians 4:6-7).

The widow of Zarephath: A mother’s love that trusts in God’s provision

In 1 Kings 17:8-16, a widow and her son were facing starvation when the prophet Elijah came to her. She had just enough flour and oil for one last meal, but Elijah asked her to make bread for him first.

She obeyed, and God miraculously provided—her flour and oil never ran out.

Motherhood often comes with seasons of scarcity, whether it’s finances, time, energy or patience. The widow’s story teaches us that when we put our trust in God, He provides.

When we feel like we have nothing left to give, He fills in the gaps. Throughout the Holy Bible, we can find promises of this very thing.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:19

Practical application

Trust God even when resources are scarce – The widow was preparing what she thought would be her last meal when Elijah asked her to make him bread first. Instead of giving in to fear, she trusted God’s provision.

As moms, we often worry about whether we’re providing enough—food, opportunities, emotional support and on the list goes. But God promises to meet our needs, and when we trust Him, He provides in ways we never expected.

Obey God even when it doesn’t make sense – The widow’s obedience to Elijah’s request led to God multiplying her flour and oil so she never ran out.

Sometimes, God calls us to trust Him in ways that don’t make immediate sense. It may be choosing faith over fear, stepping out in obedience or making sacrifices for our family.

Even when we don’t see the whole picture, we can trust He is working for our good.

Rely on God’s strength in hard seasons – Later in her story, the widow’s son became sick and died, and she cried out in grief (1 Kings 17:17-18). But through Elijah’s prayers, God brought her son back to life (1 Kings 17:21-22).

When we walk through painful seasons with our children—illness, struggles with faith or other difficult circumstances—we can bring our heartache to God. He hears our prayers, and while His answers may not always look how we expect, He is always near (Psalm 34:18).

Encouragement for moms: Living out a mother’s love

Motherhood is a journey filled with love, joy and sacrifice. Like the mothers in the Bible before us, we will have moments of surrender, perseverance, trust and protection.

But through it all, we are never alone. God walks with us, giving us strength for each day.

On the days you feel overwhelmed, remember this verse that talks about the special place moms have in God’s heart:

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”

Isaiah 40:11

God sees your love, your effort and your heart. Keep leaning on Him, knowing that the love you pour into your children is a reflection of His great love for you.

No matter what season of motherhood you are in—from cradling a newborn to guiding a teenager to praying for an adult child—you are seen, valued and loved. Your love as a mother is a beautiful reflection of God’s love, and He will sustain you every step of the way.

Related articles:

5 Characteristics of good mothering for Christian moms

How Christian moms can teach their children about God

8 Prayers for joy for moms based on the Bible

7 Prayers for overwhelmed moms

30 Encouraging Bible verses on stress for moms

40+ Christmas gift ideas under $30 for those on your list who have everything

The most challenging part of Christmas shopping can be coming up with good inexpensive gifts for someone who has everything. Figuring out the best gifts for someone you don’t know so well is also challenging.

While I can usually come up with ideas for kiddos I don’t know as well, I often struggle to come up with ideas for adults. After talking with a few friends, I quickly realized I am not the only one!

So I scoured the Internet for some ideas and spent time on Amazon tracking down 40 awesome Christmas gift ideas for the hard to shop for folks on your list. 

And I kept it budget-friendly at $30 or less to keep your bank account happy as well! The perfect gift doesn’t have to be pricey.

You’ll find a variety of categories to help you find just the right gift and save you shopping time with your busy schedule as a mom!

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.

Savory food Christmas gift ideas

Even the people on your list who have everything still need to eat. Food gifts are great options for a Christmas gift idea if you aren’t sure what to get for someone. While you can put together your own basket of items for someone, I am a big fan of gifts I can just order and they’ll take care of themselves. 

I’ve also found it’s usually cheaper to find a pre-made basket than to try and make one myself. Not only is that great for a tight budget, but the best part is it’s also easier!

Popcorn is one of my favorite things and really the perfect snack food in my opinion. I love this popcorn set from Urban Accents that includes three different kinds of popcorn and five premium seasonings. This Christmas gift idea would come in handy for movie night at home for the entire family. And, even better, it encourages family quality time, which is a win-win!

Another popcorn option is this Popcornopolis 12 Cone Snack Pack. It includes zebra, cheddar cheese, caramel and kettle corn in adorable Christmas themed cones. You can get a 12 Cone Snack Pack that isn’t Christmas themed as well.

Because I’m a fan of puns, I can come up with some groan-worthy puns to go along with this gourmet holiday nut gift basket. Your friends and family will go nutty for this tray of delicious Kabukim, honey roasted peanuts, American peanuts, honey glazed peanuts, salted roasted peanut, toffee coated peanuts and chocolate coated peanuts.

If you’d rather go for a mix with more than just nuts, this nut and dried fruit gift basket from Oh Nuts! might be the perfect Christmas gift idea. The vegan treat includes kiwi tidbits, papaya bites, royal dates, dried pears, raisins, plump apricots, dried summer plums and peaches, exotic pineapple, apple rings, heart-healthy pistachios and premium roasted almonds.

This set of organic infused and smoked maple syrup from Runamok Maple Sugermaker’s in Vermont comes in an assortment of flavors. Who wouldn’t want to cover their pancakes in vanilla cinnamon real maple syrup?! Christmas is the perfect time of year for this unique gift idea since families often have more cooked breakfasts at home.

This 5-pack of gourmet organic spices from FreshJax is a great gift for anyone, especially someone who loves to grill or is an avid home cook. There are a few different variety packs available. Each seasoning lists what food items it would be good for. For example, Grill Master works well for burgers, veggies and kabobs. Cheeks is tasty on ribs, pork, chicken and even popcorn.

FreshJax is a small, family-run company who donates a portion of their profits to feed children in need. So that makes buying from them feel even better!

My maternal grandpa loved good summer sausage. I remember snacking on it with him sometimes as a kid. It’s still a meaningful gift for me, so I always think of Hickory Farms gift boxes as a great Christmas gift idea. This set includes two summer sausages, 4 ounces of sharp cheddar, sweet hot mustard, crackers and 8 strawberry candies.

Food gifts don’t have to be gourmet or fancy. Especially as families are home more throughout the holiday season, snacks are always appreciated. Pretty much anyone would like this snack box variety pack. It’s a practical gift that’s perfect for families with children.

Sweet food Christmas gift ideas

Treats are a great option for anyone who has a sweet tooth. And these affordable picks include gourmet chocolate for at a great price.

First up, this Hazel & Creme Biscotti gift box looks as pretty as it does delicious!

Christmas gift ideas that include chocolate get me excited! And Godiva chocolate is some of the best there is. It’s so creamy and delicious. I love this great deal on a whole box of chocolates.

Chocolate covered pretzels always seem like a treat and this large box of gourmet chocolate covered pretzels from Hazel and Creme would be a good gift for just about anyone.

Hazel and Creme also has this gift box of chocolate covered cookies that looks absolutely divine. The lucky recipient of this gift may not want to share!

Around the home or office Christmas gift ideas

Decorative items for the home or office are good ideas of inexpensive gifts for someone who has everything. These budget-friendly gifts are perfect for throughout the home from the coffee table to the kitchen counter to the living room. 

I love the versatility of bowls. They can be used for their named purpose (like holding fruit) or for decoration or really whatever your gift recipient has in mind.

Turn the bowls into thoughtful presents by adding in homemade treats or other small gifts.

And if you think the bowl may need a filler, consider including some decorative rattan balls with it as well. These 2-inch balls are available in a wide variety of colors as a pack of 24.

Sometimes the person who has everything doesn’t have some unique kitchen gadgets. Some small appliances are an amazing gift idea for the person who has everything or is otherwise hard to buy for.

My family got this Nostalgia electric indoor s’mores maker a few years ago and we absolutely love it. It’s so much fun and a delicious way to feel like you’re in the great outdoors during colder months. 

An easy way to take this gift up a notch is by pairing it with s’mores ingredients.

I keep coming across this hot dog toaster and hearing incredibly good reviews of it from people I trust. It’s a bit quirky, but it would also make an excellent Christmas gift. (There is also a 4-slot hot dog toaster, but it costs $40.)

Another helpful kitchen item that just about anybody would like is a pizza cutter. My husband prefers the rocker pizza cutters. This one from Checkered Chef is stainless steel, dishwasher safe and comes in 14-inches or 16-inches.

And then I have to throw in this pizza wheel from Fred and Friends that looks like a saw. It’s certainly one of the more unique gifts on this list and would make an ideal gift for those who use saws regularly!

Candles are also a great gift idea for those who are challenging to buy for. You can go for a scented candle gift set like this aromatherapy one with four different scents that burn for 120 hours.

Or you can go for a battery-powered, flameless candle like this set of three. With flickering LED lights, they look like burning candles without the risk of the flame. There are four vibrant colors and styles to pick from.

Along with decorative items, everyone can always use tools around home. A couple of multi-tools are ideal for a kitchen drawer for anyone.

Book Christmas gift ideas

While I’m an avid reader, I know that not everyone is. However, there are still books that work for just about anyone, even those who aren’t book lovers. Check out these books that just about anyone would like.

Pampering Christmas gift ideas

Who couldn’t use some pampering once the holidays are over? I love pampering products as a thoughtful gift for anyone. 

Lotions and bath gels are almost always a hit with women, especially. Light, clean scents instead of stronger scents are the best option for a perfect present if you aren’t sure what she’ll like.

Bath bombs are another great pampering gift idea. From Life Around 2 Angels, these handcrafted bath bombs are made in California.

Quirky Christmas gift ideas

Sometimes you ned a Christmas gift idea that’s just a bit quirky for the person who has everything. (If you need more of these ideas, be sure to check out my post of quirky, fun gift ideas under $25 for everyone on your list.)

If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas for someone who has everything, consider this gift that they surely don’t have: a star. You can order this kit and complete paperwork to name a star after someone. You can do it for them or let them do it themselves. How fun is that!

While we are celestial, check out this really cool moon nightlight. It comes in three sizes and is USB chargeable. The light works by touch to adjust its brightness.

Another space-related gift idea is this 3-inch plasma ball. It’s sensitive to touch and sound as it safely conducts colorful electricity.

Coming back to earth, this mini zen garden with rakes, rocks and figures is a fun Christmas gift idea!

Another fun option is this set of 100 Scrabble magnets. You could practically write your grocery list in magnets on your fridge!

I’m not sure it gets much more quirky or fun than this tortilla blanket from mermaker. The double-sided blanket is 71 inches and comes in three different colors as well as in pizza or waffle.

And because it’s 2020, I just had to add in this final quirky gift for your friend who has everything, including a sense of humor! This 1,000-piece puzzle is covered in toilet paper rolls and should certainly keep your friend or family member busy putting it together during times of quarantine and self-isolation. (Funwares also makes a 1,000-piece puzzle covered with face masks!)

Looking for more ideas? Don’t miss these lists full of gift ideas!

30 White Elephant Gifts Under $20

Quirky, fun and unique Christmas gift ideas under $25

15 Christmas gift ideas under $25 for everyone on your list

Christmas gifts for men under $35

Gag gift ideas that are clean and fun

How to create a Godly home for your family

Building a Christian home is important for our families and their wellbeing. The world can be a harsh place, so we want to create an atmosphere that provides a safe place for our family to rest and rejuvenate.

As Christian parents, my husband and I work together to keep our household running calmly and smoothly. It not only decreases our stress levels but it also encourages a stronger family life with our children, which is so important.

And, if you’re like I am and no good at interior design, having a Christian home doesn’t have to do with decor. Instead it’s about creating a peaceful atmosphere where your family can relax, regroup and reconnect with each other and in their spiritual journey.

These 8 ways for how to build a Christian home are a great starting point for your family. They’re also part of the “Grace-Filled Stress Relief” free Bible study for moms. Find all the details here: 

1. Take care of your own relationship with God. 

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

The first thing you need to do in order to build a Christian home is to take care of your own heart. Make sure you are reading God’s Word, spending time in prayer and are seeking spiritual wisdom from other Christians.

When we are connect to Christ Jesus, then we are more at-peace and less stressed. We’re also able to better fulfill God’s plan for our lives.

We cannot teach our children about God without having knowledge of God ourselves. Keeping your own relationship with God strong will help you be a better Christian mom and create a Godly home.

Be sure to check out these resources on how busy moms can find time for God:

• How to connect with God in the midst of raising a family
• How Christian moms can teach their children about God
• 5 Ways moms can find downtime
• Connect with other Christian moms just like you

2. Stay connected to your husband. 

“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Ephesians 5:33 (NIV)

Keeping your marriage strong is an important part of Christian family life. Sometimes church members get caught up in the verses about marriage that focus on the husband as the head of the home. However, God’s purpose for marriage is to be a loving, joint relationship. 

You must love and respect one another to keep  your relationship strong. No home is going to be peaceful with parents who are at odds with one another all the time.

In order to live on Godly parents, you must spend time together and talk about parenting in order to best minister to your kids’ hearts and physical needs.

Be sure to check out these resources on how to have a stronger Christian marriage:

• How to connect with your spouse while raising children
• Couple goals every Christian marriage needs
• How to have a happy married life in the midst of hard times

3. Pray for God’s wisdom and peace in your home. 

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Colossians 3:15 (NIV)

If we want a home full of peace and calm, then we need to live as one body. Each member of the family needs to feel included and be part of family life. 

As Christian families, we can help accomplish this through prayer. We pray for our family’s needs, but we must also pray for God’s wisdom and peace to be part of our family lives and part of our homes.

You can pray this together as a family or make a commitment in your own prayer life to ask for guidance and help from the Holy Spirit in your family life and home.

4. Monitor the content your family consumes. 

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

You don’t have to be constantly reading family devotions or watching Christian content. But, you do need to use the Word of God as a guiding principle in deciding what content to let into your home.

This will change through the years as your children grow. Things they are permitted to watch now aren’t the same as when they were toddlers. 

We want to raise young people in the world but not of the world. Both of my children have groused about not being allowed to watch certain shows or movies their friends can watch.

However, we don’t use foul language in our family, and content rampant with it is not permitted in our home. Part of living a Christian life means that we are to be aware of what goes into our heads — and that certainly extends into Christian parenting and what we are putting into the heads of all our family members.

5. Make quality time with one another a priority. 

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

Psalm 133:1 (NIV)

Having a strong and calm Christian home also means spending time together just your family and letting the outside world fall away for a bit. You can do this however works best for your family.

For us, time around the dinner table is important. We talk about our days and what’s going on. We also spend time together watching movies and playing games. 

And having two children is an ideal situation for us to divide equally time with them. Each of them has two nights throughout the school week they get to hang out with their dad and me solo. 

Most of the time, we do fun things together during this time. Once a month, we have a check-in night with each child to talk about any concerns they have in any area of their lives.

Find more resources on having quality time with your family:

•  15 Ideas for spending time with your family at home
• 5 Ways to have one-on-one time with your kids
• 16 Volunteer ideas for families to do together
• Family fun night activities at home

6. Cheer for and encourage each other. 

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

The Apostle Paul tells us that we are to use our words to build one another up. Jesus Christ tells us to treat others how we want to be treated in Matthew 7:12. In fact, Jesus’ words here are often referred to as the golden rule, because they best sum up God’s purposes for us to live in love.

Using kind and encouraging words within your home is important. Our children are always listening and learning from the things we say and do. We cannot tell them to speak nicely to one another, when we are not modeling that behavior in how we speak.

Our family has a principle that what’s good for one of us is good for all of us. Competition is left for games only and in no other way. 

Our children support and cheer for one another just as their dad and I do. 

Find more resources on speaking kindly:

• Become a happy family with one small attitude shift
• 10 Ways to be kind to your family today

7. Pray for one another. 

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)

Prayer is important for spiritual growth to happen in the lives of your family members. We should pray for our families but also encourage them to pray for each other as well.

These can be prayers as simple as “God, be with my child today at school” or “Jesus, help my brother.”

Our children’s prayers will grow and evolve with them, but we want to start them off early with taking others to God in prayer — including their own family members.

Find more resources on family prayers:

• 14 Powerful prayers to pray for your school children
• Prayer envelope project for kids
• 8 Prayers for your husband
• 7 Short prayers for mothers

8. Make time for rest. 

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:28-29 (NIV)

These words of Jesus remind us of the importance of downtime. To build a Godly home full of peace and calm, you have to be there. 

We can get caught up in the busy culture that surrounds us where we think we must be on the go all the time and do all the things. Intentionally set aside downtime for your family.

When our children were in elementary school, our general rule was they could only have one ongoing extracurricular activity at a time. That has grown and evolved with them, but we still guard our family’s downtime.

Downtime is important for physical and spiritual rest. It also allows you more opportunities to connect with one another.

Remember you aren’t alone!

No matter what, remember that you aren’t alone on this journey. God is with you every step of the way. Allow Him and His Holy Spirit to be at work in your life and in your home.

Connecting with other Christian moms can also help. Check out both the private Facebook group, Christian Moms with Grace, and the free “Grace-Filled Stress Relief” Bible study this post is a part of.

Biblical principles to help your children grow in faith

Of all the jobs I’ve held in my life, parenting is by far the most challenging, rewarding and important. More than anything, I want my children to have a personal relationship with their Heavenly Father. That’s the goal for Christian parents.

Figuring out the best ways to live out faith in our modern world takes some intentionality. The best parenting advice we can seek found in God’s Word.

While nobody is a perfect parent on earth, there are some Christian parenting tips that can helps us stay more in line with Biblical parenting as we raise our children and instill in them a Christian faith.

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 Christian parenting is important

In order to raise Godly children, we have to be purposeful. Ideally this starts before you have children as you talk about your parenting style. However, no matter what phase of parenthood you’re in, you can move forward with making parenting decisions based around your faith.

And, if we’re being completely honest here, Christian parenting is hard work. Not only are you trying to teach your children how to be good people, you’re also trying to combat the influence of the world. That’s all while figuring out how to teach our kids to be in the world but not of the world.

It’s exhausting! Yet, it’s also worth it. Building a Christ-centered home founded on Biblical principles shows our children what being a Christian is from their time they are a very young age.

My experiences with Christian parenting

In our years of raising kids, so far, we have been through a variety of stages. We are now mostly in the teenage years with a child in middle school and one in high school. 

We are still in the thick of parenting. These days, we are working more and more with our children to allow them to make their own decisions and want to be sure we have equipped them to do that God’s way rather than the world’s way.

In building a Christ-centered home, my husband and I have been intentional about raising our kiddos to know God personally.

1. Teach your children who God is.

“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV)

From young children to old children, they need to know about God. This means teaching them about Him in age-appropriate ways.

For example, we started nightly prayers with our children from before they were old enough to say them themselves. We read to them from children’s Bibles. (Our favorite is “The Jesus Storybook Bible!”) 

We took them to Sunday School. (Now our oldest is a Sunday School teacher herself!)

We talked about God in everyday life. Of course we didn’t only talk about God — that’s not practical. But when we had a natural chance, we talked about Him. 

Now that we have older children, we are teaching them more complex things about God. They know the basics, so now we focus more on what it looks like to really live for God in the modern world. 

We strive to give them a Biblical worldview on current events and challenges they face in school. Simply talking to your children about God and who He is gives them a foundation for their own faith and relationship with Him.

2. Talk with your children about how God is working and has worked in your own life.

“One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.”

Psalm 145:4 (NIV)

This second point is also important. For our children to see the relevance of God in their everyday lives, hearing and seeing Him at work in their own parents’ lives is important.

We do this in different ways. When we had little kids, my husband and I would talk about answered prayers for even the little things. Sometimes it would just be saying “Thank you, Jesus” out loud when we found a close parking spot on a frigid winter day.

This continued to evolve as our kids grew. We talk with them about making good decisions and ways we have relied on God for His guidance.

One of the best ways to share about God’s love with others is telling them our own stories. This applies to our children as well. They can see the testimony of God at work in our lives, but they also need to hear about it.

3. Make family worship a priority.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)

This Bible verse is certainly a familiar one for most Christian families. We love this promise God proclaims over our children’s lives. 

But we also have to do our part. And that means showing them time with God is priority.

While it may not seem like a big deal, taking your children to church regularly is important for their spiritual growth. There may be phases where that’s harder to do than others. 

The newborn phase is challenging and was with both of my children. When you have small children, getting everyone up, ready and out the door is definitely difficult. Keeping everyone healthy is another challenge.

We had so many viruses and germs go through our household when my oldest started preschool!

Yet we persisted. And now both of our children know that Sunday morning means church. In fact, sometimes we have had to miss church in person for one of us being sick, and my daughter usually pleads to go in person if at all possible. Even just watching the livestream of the service isn’t enough for her.

4. Pray for your children.

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Romans 12:12 (NIV)

One of the hard things about parenting is we can struggle to see our progress. During those early years when we are trying to keep our heads above water and find ways to somehow build Christ-centered homes in the chaos, we can get discouraged.

However, the Bible tell us to have hope in God, be patient during hard times and never stop praying. Praying for our children is so important.

We need to pray for our children’s hearts to be open and receptive to God. We should pray for protection over them in every way: mentally, spiritually, emotionally and physically.

The Holy Spirit is ever at work in our lives and the lives of our children. Through prayer, we can tap into that power and strength — both of which are desperately needed.

While most of my prayers for my children are on my own, I do also pray in front of them for them. For example, one of the practical ways we have combatted bedtime fears is with prayer asking God to help.

I share with my children that’s exactly what I do when I’m struggling with being afraid and need to sleep. Especially when they were younger, I’d ask if they wanted me to pray out loud for them, and usually they would say yes.

I also pray over each of my children on their birthdays. It’s become one of our birthday traditions, in fact.

Check out these 14 powerful prayers to pray for your school children.

5. Encourage your children to find the plan God has for their lives.

“‘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

Part of good parenting is recognizing our children are unique from us. They each have their own purposes and God has a plan for each child’s life. 

From the time I found out I was pregnant, I wondered about the children God was blessing me with. What would they like? What would they want to do?

Now as the mom of an 11-year-old and 15-year-old, I can tell you that I was right about some things and wrong about others. One very obvious way I was wrong was I expected my daughter to have my dark eyes and hair since they are dominant traits. Instead, she has light eyes and red hair.

Yet, the differences in how we look aren’t the only things different about us. She has her own unique gifts and calling from God on her life, just as my son does.

My husband and I have worked to be supportive of their dreams and hopes from the time they were younger children. We don’t know exactly what occupation they’ll each have, but we have encouraged them each step of the way to seek God first and follow His leading.

I know following Christ Jesus will bring them joy and contentment more than anything else in this world. I also know their purpose and His plan for them may surprise me. 

The biggest influence I can have in the matter is encouraging them to seek God, have a good relationship with Him and hold strong to their faith as they make major life decisions.

6. Pray for yourself as a parent.

“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)

I am a smart person. Way back in the day, in fact, I earned a full academic scholarship to college. But being smart and being wise are two different things.

Wisdom comes with experience. And, boy, parenting takes a lot of wisdom! I don’t have nearly enough of it on my own. Daily I pray God gives me the wisdom and strength to be the mom my children need.

I cannot do it on my own. If I think about the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control), I know those are all characteristics I want to display and live out. But I also know, as the Apostle Paul tells us in those Bible verses from Galatians 5:22-23, that I cannot do so on my own.

To do the good work of raising a Godly child, we must seek God’s wisdom, strength and general help in parenting. 

Don’t forget in-the-moment prayers as well. Many times we’ve been in the middle of a discussion or challenge with our kids and I simply pray silently, “God, help us” or “God, give us wisdom.” I pray for both my husband and myself that way.

Find inspiration with these prayers:

• 7 Prayers for overwhelmed moms needing peace and strength
• 8 Prayers for joy for moms based on the Bible
• 7 Short prayers for mothers

7. Let your children see you make mistakes.

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”

Romans 3:23 (NIV)

Past generations of parents held to the opinion they were never wrong and admitting mistakes to their children made them seem weak. I just don’t think that’s a good parenting philosophy.

Just as we need to teach our children how to live, we need to teach them how to make mistakes and fail. One of the best ways we can do that is by letting them see our own mistakes. 

The last thing I want is for my kids to think they need to live perfect lives and not mess up. That’s not reasonable and goes completely against human nature and who God says we are.

Instead, I want them to know they will make mistakes, but not only will they have the unconditional love of their dad and me, they’ll also have the unconditional love of their Heavenly Father.

We’ve also talked about how if we were all perfect, Jesus wouldn’t have needed to come and die for our sins. Apologizing to your kids when you mess up is a good thing. It shows them nobody is perfect and how to behave when they do mess up.

One of the principles in our family is the kids will be in bigger trouble for lying to us than for owning up to what they did. Allowing them to see us owning up to mistakes helps them realize it isn’t the end of the world to do so.

8. Encourage open conversations about faith in your family.

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Young people of all ages have questions. Little children want to know a lot of things that are kind of random, like how Noah fit all the animals on the ark or what kind of fish was used when Jesus fed the 5,000.

Older children have deeper questions of faith, like how do we know God is real or why does God let bad things happen.

These are all valid questions and something you can explore together. Because here’s the thing I know for sure about God after my decades of serving Him: He can stand up to any and all questions. If He couldn’t, then He wouldn’t be a God worth serving!

Let your children ask questions, and don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know the answer. Look it up together. Talk to your pastor or other spiritual leader.

Or, in the case of answers nobody knows, talk about your different theories and how some information we won’t know until we get to heaven. Bring the focus always back to what matters most in faith of knowing God loves us, wants a personal relationship with us, sent His Son to die for our sins before raising Him from the dead.

9. Connect them with other Christians to pour into them as well.

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”

Titus 2:7-8 (NIV)

We don’t want to only keep our children people who are a bad influence, we also want to connect them with people who are a good influence. Often, our kids will listen to someone else more than us as their parents. 

Help your kiddos get connected to other Christian adults who can teach them about God and love on them as well. This includes extended family members, friends and church family. 

Taking them to Sunday School or other such offerings as young children is a great place to start. Then finding a good youth group and ministry to connect them with as they are older is important.

10. Pray and study with your children.

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

Some of the best Christian parenting advice is to pray and study with your children. When we read this Bible verse from Matthew that where two or three are gathered, God is there also, we don’t always think about it applying in our families, but it does!

Make prayer time and devotional or Bible study time a priority. One of the ways we helped our children learn how to pray for others when they were young was by using prayer envelopes they would draw from each night.

We’d talk about different ways we could pray for people from thanking God for them, asking God to bless them, asking God to protect them and so one when we didn’t know a specific request.

Now they are older and we still have family prayer time. Getting into the Bible together is also important. Even just having a Bible verse each week, doing a devotional together once (or more!) a week or whatever works best for your family.

(Grab the free “Finding Grace at Home: 7 Days of 5-Minute Devotions!”)

Another practical way to make this happen is discussing church sermons or lessons afterward. We have had some amazing time of connection and growth just by doing that.

Bonus tip: Grow in your own spiritual walk with God

In order to be the mama God created you to be and your children need you to be, you also have to take care of your own spiritual walk. Make prayer and Bible study part of your regular routine.

Another component of spiritual growth is connecting with other believers. Consider joining my free, private Facebook group, Christian Moms with Grace, for daily discussions about life and faith.

And take advantage of this free Bible study just for moms, “Grace-filled Stress Relief.”

God never intended for you to be on this journey alone!