Ministry of Mothering

As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get swept up in the busyness—shopping lists, decorating, and an endless calendar of events. But what if this Christmas, we did something different? What if we simplified our schedules, focused on what really matters, and experienced the peace and joy that comes from keeping Christ at the center of it all? Next week, I’ll be launching a special 5-part series, “Simplifying the Holidays: Putting Family and the Gospel First.” This series is designed to help you slow down, let go of holiday stress, and truly enjoy this season with your family. Together, we’ll explore practical ways to simplify, from adjusting our expectations to making the Gospel the heart of our Christmas traditions. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s to come: Letting Go of Perfection : Embracing a simpler approach to the holidays by focusing on what truly matters. Prioritizing Family Time : Saying "no" to an overpacked schedule and "yes" to meaningful family m...

 

  As Thanksgiving Day approaches, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude in our lives. This holiday offers us a special opportunity to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the many blessings we have received throughout the year. 1. Cultivating a Grateful Heart In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook the simple blessings around us. This Thanksgiving, take time to cultivate a heart of gratitude. Start a gratitude journal where you can write down things you are thankful for each day. Whether it's the warmth of a home, the laughter of family, or the beauty of nature, acknowledging these gifts can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. 2. Sharing with Others Thanksgiving is also a time for sharing and giving back. Consider ways to bless others in your community. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, donating food, or simply reaching out to someone who might be feeling lonely, sharing your blessings can bring joy to others and d...

Motherhood is an ever-changing journey filled with seasons—some are overflowing with energy and joy, while others can feel exhausting and overwhelming. If you’re in one of those seasons where spending long, uninterrupted time with God feels impossible, you’re not alone. And here’s the good news: God knows exactly where you are. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of extending grace to ourselves as moms. It’s easy to feel like we’re failing spiritually when we can’t have the same devotional time we once did, or when our prayers feel rushed. But God isn’t measuring your faith by the length of your quiet time or the number of chapters you read. He’s after something much deeper—He’s after your heart. God’s Grace is Bigger Than Our Failures First and foremost, we need to remember that God’s grace is abundant. He doesn’t look at us with frustration or disappointment when our prayer time gets interrupted by a crying baby or when we fall asleep during Bible reading because we’re simply ...

Prayer is such a powerful and personal way to stay connected with God, and it doesn’t need to be confined to a set time or a structured format. As busy moms, finding time to sit quietly in long prayers can be a challenge, but thankfully, God doesn’t require us to approach Him in one specific way. He invites us to commune with Him throughout the day in simple, meaningful ways. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages us to “pray without ceasing,” but what does that really mean for a mom in the thick of diapers, dishes, and homeschooling? Let’s explore how we can make prayer a natural, ongoing conversation with God in our daily lives. What Does "Pray Without Ceasing" Mean? The idea of praying constantly might seem overwhelming at first. How can we be in constant prayer while juggling all of our responsibilities as mothers? The beauty of this verse lies in its simplicity. "Praying without ceasing" doesn’t mean you have to spend every moment in formal prayer. It’s about having a...

As a busy mom, sitting down with an open Bible can sometimes feel like an impossible task. Between taking care of little ones, managing the home, and juggling a never-ending to-do list, it can be hard to carve out moments of uninterrupted time with God. But the beautiful thing about God's Word is that it’s always accessible—even when your hands are full. If you’re struggling to find time to sit and read, consider finding new ways to engage with Scripture through audio resources. Whether it’s listening to the Bible, sermons, or podcasts, you can fill your heart with God’s truth while going about your day. Whether you’re driving to the grocery store, folding laundry, or taking a walk with the kids, there are so many ways to hear God’s Word and be spiritually nourished, no matter how busy your day is. The Power of Audio Resources In today's world, we have an abundance of audio resources that allow us to stay spiritually fed, even when we can’t sit down and read. Listening to Scrip...

Let’s get practical. Life with little kids often means that long, uninterrupted quiet times are a luxury we simply can’t afford. Between changing diapers, managing tantrums, and juggling a multitude of responsibilities, it can feel nearly impossible to carve out significant chunks of time for prayer and Bible study. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t need hours of our time to speak to us or to transform our hearts. He delights in every moment we offer to Him, no matter how short. In this post, we’ll explore how to start small and make the most of those fleeting moments throughout the day. Whether it’s a quick prayer while washing dishes or reading a single verse during nap time, we can still cultivate a rich spiritual life amidst the chaos of motherhood. Starting Small: Finding God in Everyday Tasks Sometimes, the best moments with God happen in the most mundane tasks. When you’re washing dishes, you might take a moment to thank God for your family or to pray for patience and strength a...

I used to think God was okay with me not making time for Him. I told myself that He understood my life was too busy with little kids, homeschooling, and running a household. But something shifted when I realized God wasn’t just permitting my lack of connection—He was inviting me into relationship with Him in the midst of it all. In this series, I’ll share how I came to understand that God wants our hearts, not our perfection. He meets us where we are, even in the chaos. I’ll talk about how to shift our mindset from seeing time with God as another task on our to-do list to viewing it as a vital connection that sustains us through all the demands of motherhood. Connect with me on Instagram at @ministry.of.mothering for daily encouragement, easy recipes, and support. We’re all in this together!

  Day 1: Introduction to the Series As moms, especially those of us who homeschool, life can feel incredibly full. Our days are packed with teaching, caring for little ones, cooking, cleaning, and everything in between. The busyness often leaves us feeling like we don’t have enough time or energy to spend with God, but deep down, we know how vital it is for our spiritual health. I’ve been there. I once thought God was "okay" with me not connecting with Him and His Word because of my hectic life as a mom. I believed He understood and gave me a pass, but I realized that in the middle of the chaos, I was missing out on something incredibly important—God was inviting me into deeper connection with Him, even in the busy moments. This series is all about how we can stay connected to God in this intense season of life. Over the next five days, we’ll explore practical ways to spend time in His Word, even when life feels overwhelming. Each day, we’ll dive into a different aspect of c...

As moms, it’s easy to feel like we’re constantly falling short. Whether it’s the never-ending to-do list, the challenges of homeschooling, or our own personal struggles, we can quickly start to believe the lie that God must be frustrated or annoyed with us. But here’s the truth: God is not annoyed with you. Psalm 103:8 reminds us, “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” God is patient and kind, full of mercy and grace. Even in our imperfections, He looks at us with love, not frustration. 1. God’s Love Is Unchanging God’s love for you is not dependent on how well you perform. His love is based on His nature, not your actions. Romans 8:38-39 says that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Whether you had a perfect day or a chaotic one, God’s love remains steadfast. He sees you as His beloved child, not as someone who needs to earn His approval. 2. God Understands Our Struggles As moms, we often hold ourselves to an impossible standard. We think...

As a mother, I often find myself reflecting on the kind of women I hope my daughters will grow up to be. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming and discouraging, I pray for them to be warrior princesses—strong, confident women who know their worth as daughters of the King. Here’s why this prayer is so important to me and how I hope it shapes their lives. 1. Understanding Their Identity in Christ First and foremost, I want my daughters to know that they are cherished daughters of the King. Their identity is rooted not in the world’s standards or opinions, but in who God says they are. By praying for them to embrace this truth, I hope they will walk in confidence, knowing their value is inherent and unshakeable. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…” — 1 Peter 2:9 2. Embracing Strength and Courage Life will undoubtedly present challenges and trials, and I want my daughters to face these with courage and strength. A warrior pr...

As part of our homeschool journey, we recently embarked on an educational field trip to explore two unique and historically rich sites in Texas—the Texas Rangers Museum and the Waco Mammoth National Monument . Both locations offered the perfect blend of hands-on learning, Texas history, and science, making this day trip unforgettable! First Stop: The Texas Rangers Museum Our first stop was the **Texas Rangers Museum** in Waco. This museum is a treasure trove of Texas history, dedicated to the legacy of the famous Texas Rangers, who have been serving the state since 1823. We chose to take a self-guided tour, which allowed us to explore at our own pace and really dive into the fascinating exhibits. The museum features everything from old weaponry to artifacts, photographs, and detailed accounts of how the Texas Rangers have shaped the state over the centuries. Our kids especially enjoyed seeing the interactive exhibits and learning about the role of the Texas Rangers in maintaining law ...

In Part 1 , we explored what it means to redeem the time by focusing on what matters most—our relationship with God and our family. But how do we practically walk this out in the day-to-day, especially when distractions and exhaustion set in? 1. Use Your Gifts for God’s Glory Each of us has been given unique gifts. Whether it’s teaching, creating, cooking, or encouraging others, using these gifts in our homes and communities brings glory to God. Ask yourself, “How can I serve others with what God has given me?” 2. Say No to Distractions One of the hardest aspects of redeeming the time is avoiding distractions. From endless social media scrolling to unnecessary tasks, distractions can rob us of time that could be better spent elsewhere. Take a moment to assess where your time goes and ask God to help you refocus on what’s important. 3. Embrace Rest Rest is an essential part of redeeming the time. God Himself rested after creation, showing us that rest is not only good but necessary. As ...

As homeschooling moms, it can feel like time is constantly slipping through our fingers. Yet, in Ephesians 5:15-16, we are reminded to "walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." God is calling us to be intentional with our time—not simply to fill it up, but to use it wisely for His glory. What Does Redeeming the Time Mean? Redeeming the time is all about aligning every moment with God’s purposes. It means living each day with intention, seeking His will in even the most mundane tasks. 1. Prioritize What Matters Most The first step in redeeming our time is to put our relationship with God at the forefront. Setting aside time daily for prayer and reading His Word grounds us in His truth. Even if it’s just a few moments, those moments re-center us. 2. Be Present with Your Family God has blessed us with the opportunity to spend much time with our families, but we need to be truly present. It’s easy to get caught up in homeschool...

As Christian homeschooling moms, one of our greatest privileges is teaching our children not just academic subjects, but also the values and character traits that will guide them throughout life. One of the most important lessons we can impart is the heart of service—living out the Gospel by loving others through action. Incorporating service and mission work into your homeschool isn’t just a way to give back; it’s an opportunity to teach your kids about compassion, humility, and living out their faith. Here are some practical ways to weave service and mission into your homeschooling journey. 1. Start Small: Serving in Your Local Community Sometimes, service starts right in your own neighborhood. You don’t need to travel far to make a big impact. Start by identifying needs in your local community that your family can help meet. Consider: Volunteering at a local food pantry or soup kitchen. Organizing a clothing or toy drive for a nearby shelter. Baking cookies or preparing meals for el...

Recently, I had the pleasure of taking my kids, along with some friends from our homeschool community, to the Doug Smith Performance Center in Georgetown, Texas, for a live production of Charlotte's Web . The performance brought E.B. White’s classic story to life with such charm and creativity that it captivated kids and adults alike. This experience was not only entertaining but also rich in educational value, sparking conversations about friendship, loyalty, and the magic of storytelling. About the Doug Smith Performance Center Located in the heart of Georgetown, the Doug Smith Performance Center provides a fantastic space for educational and family-friendly performances. The center offers various shows throughout the year designed to engage young audiences, making it a perfect destination for homeschoolers looking to supplement their learning with the arts. Educational Performances for All Ages The center is committed to supporting education through the arts, offering numerous e...

As homeschooling moms, we often face unique challenges that can sometimes feel overwhelming. From planning lessons to managing household duties, it's easy to get caught up in the busyness of it all. But one of the most powerful tools we have for navigating this journey is prayer. Lifting our homeschooling experience to God invites His peace, guidance, and strength into every part of the day. Here are 7 prayers every homeschool mom needs for this beautiful, God-given journey: 1. A Prayer for Patience “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” — James 1:4 Lord, grant me patience as I teach my children each day. Help me to remember that homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. When the days are long and the lessons are challenging, give me the patience to respond with grace and love. 2. A Prayer for Wisdom “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to ...

Every season brings its own unique rhythms and challenges, both in life and in homeschooling. Whether it's the busy fall schedule, the excitement of the holidays, the slower winter months, or the fresh beginnings of spring, each season requires flexibility, patience, and grace. As homeschooling moms, it's important to recognize these changes and learn to adapt—leaning on God’s grace to guide us through. Here’s how we can navigate the changing seasons of homeschooling with grace: 1. Embrace the Seasons of Life Just like the natural seasons, our homeschool will go through different phases. Some seasons will be busy and full, while others will be quieter and more reflective. Learning to embrace where you are right now can help you stay present and appreciate the beauty in each season. In the busier months, give yourself grace if things feel a little chaotic. During quieter times, slow down and use those moments for rest and reflection. 2. Adjust Your Expectations Each season may c...

As homeschooling moms, it’s easy to get caught up in lesson plans, curriculum choices, and academic progress. But as important as academics are, our primary calling is to nurture our children’s hearts and help them grow in godly character. In the end, raising children who love God and live out His values is more valuable than any textbook can offer. Here are some simple ways to put character first in your homeschool: 1. Lead by Example Children learn by watching us. If we want them to grow in godly character, we need to model it ourselves. Show them what it looks like to live with integrity, kindness, patience, and humility. Let them see how you handle challenges, disagreements, and even mistakes, always striving to reflect Christ’s love and grace. “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 11:1 2. Make Time for God’s Word The Bible is our guide for teaching godly values. Start each day with prayer and Bible reading, making God’s Word a central part of you...

Reading has always been a way for me to escape, learn, and grow, and lately, my reading list has been more eclectic than ever! From children’s classics to deep dives into research methods, my current book stack covers a wide range of topics and genres. Here’s a look at what I’m reading right now and why each of these books is capturing my attention. 1. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg This charming children’s classic is a delightful trip down memory lane. It’s the story of two kids who run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and find themselves caught up in a mystery. I’ve loved revisiting it—there’s something timeless about the adventure and cleverness in this story. It also reminds me of how important curiosity is, both in learning and in life. It’s a great read to share with my children, and I’m excited to introduce them to this imaginative world. We are listening to this together as an audiobook. A great option for homeschool moms on the g...

I’ve always been fascinated by the history of our nation, and as a homeschooling mom, I’m constantly looking for ways to expand both my own knowledge and the curriculum I use with my children. Recently, I decided to take on a personal project that I’m really excited about: reading a book about each of the Presidents of the United States and their wives. It’s a big goal, but I believe it will deepen my understanding of the history that has shaped our country and give me valuable insights into the lives behind the leaders we’ve all learned about. Why This Goal? There’s something compelling about the personal lives of the men who have led our country. While we know them for their policies and public personas, reading about their personal journeys—along with the stories of their wives—adds an entirely new dimension to understanding American history. I’m hoping to gain insight into the different eras they lived in, how they handled challenges, and the impact of their relationships on their ...

As Christian homeschooling families, one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the blessing of community—where friendships are grounded in faith and fellowship points us back to God. Homeschooling doesn’t mean going through life alone. In fact, building a God-honoring community can strengthen both your family and your homeschool journey. Here are a few ways to create and nurture a God-centered community for your homeschool family: 1. Get Involved with a Homeschool Co-op or Church Group Many local churches and homeschool co-ops offer programs where families can come together to share resources, ideas, and encouragement. These communities provide opportunities for both academic support and spiritual growth. Being surrounded by like-minded families who share your values can be incredibly encouraging for both you and your children. 2. Serve Together as a Family One of the best ways to build community is through serving others. Partner with other homeschool families for service ...

As parents, we strive to provide our children with opportunities that align with our values and beliefs. When it came to choosing a civic organization for our daughters, we faced a decision between American Heritage Girls (AHG) and Girl Scouts. After careful consideration, we chose to go with American Heritage Girls, and here’s why. 1. Faith-Based Foundation One of the primary reasons we chose American Heritage Girls is its strong Christian foundation. AHG emphasizes biblical values and encourages girls to grow in their faith while developing leadership skills. The program's motto—“Building Women of Integrity through Service to God, Family, Community, and Country”—resonated deeply with our family’s values, making it a natural fit for us. 2. Character Development American Heritage Girls places a significant emphasis on character building and personal growth. The program encourages girls to develop their unique gifts and talents while learning important life skills, such as leadershi...

As a homeschooling mom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the countless responsibilities, lesson plans, and daily challenges. If you’re experiencing this sense of overwhelm, remember that you are not alone, and God’s Word offers us encouragement and hope. 1. God’s Strength is Made Perfect in Our Weakness In moments when you feel like you can’t do it all, take heart in 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” Remember that it’s okay to lean on God. His grace equips you to face each day with strength and resilience, even when you feel weak. 2. Cast Your Cares on Him 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” When you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pray and hand over your worries to God. He invites you to lay your burdens at His feet, assuring you that He cares deeply for you and your family. 3. Seek Rest in Him Matthew 11:28 offers this beautiful invitation: “Come to me,...

As homeschooling parents, we often focus on academic success and structured lesson plans. However, incorporating Christ at the center of our homeschool routine can transform our approach to education and foster a deeper connection with God. A Christ-centered homeschool not only enriches our children’s minds but also nurtures their souls. Here are some practical steps to help you build a Christ-centered homeschool routine: 1. Start with Prayer Begin each day with prayer, inviting God into your learning environment. This sets the tone for the day and reminds everyone that your homeschool is not just about academics but also about spiritual growth. Encourage your children to pray for their day, their lessons, and their classmates—this practice helps them cultivate a relationship with God. 2. Incorporate Bible Study Make Bible study a foundational part of your routine. Set aside time for daily scripture reading, discussions, and reflections. You can choose a Bible curriculum that aligns wi...

As a homeschooling mom, life can often feel like a whirlwind of activities, lesson plans, and endless to-do lists. Amid the chaos, finding quiet time with God can seem nearly impossible. However, prioritizing this time is essential for our spiritual well-being and for maintaining a sense of peace and purpose in our daily lives. Here are some practical tips to help you carve out that much-needed quiet time with God, even in the midst of your busy schedule. 1. Set Intentional Time Blocks Just as you schedule lessons and activities for your children, schedule dedicated time for your quiet time with God. Whether it’s early in the morning before everyone wakes up, during nap time, or after the kids are in bed, find a time that works for you. Treat this time as an important appointment—one that you cannot miss. 2. Create a Sacred Space Designate a special spot in your home for your quiet time. It could be a cozy chair by a window, a corner of your bedroom, or even a spot outside in nature. H...

In Part 1 of my podcast list, I shared some of the shows that help me stay spiritually grounded and informed. Now, I’m excited to share even more podcasts that I listen to regularly—these focus on growing in faith, parenting with purpose, and navigating today’s cultural and political landscape. 1. Revive Our Hearts with Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth’s teaching has been transformative in my walk with Christ. Her podcast offers deep biblical wisdom for women, tackling topics like personal holiness, grace-filled living, and navigating life’s challenges with a heart centered on God. It’s a wonderful resource for Christian women seeking to grow in their faith. 2. Risen Motherhood Risen Motherhood brings gospel-centered encouragement for moms in the trenches. This podcast reminds me that motherhood has eternal value and helps me apply biblical truths to my everyday life. It’s a great listen when I need a boost of perspective and grace for this beautiful, but challenging, cal...

As a homeschooling mom, I’m always looking for ways to stay informed and encouraged while juggling daily tasks. Podcasts have become a go-to for me, offering everything from biblical wisdom to news updates, all while I’m on the move. In this first part of my podcast list, I’ll share some of my favorite shows that keep me grounded spiritually and help me navigate today’s world with a Christian perspective. 1. The Matt Walsh Show Matt Walsh tackles the toughest cultural issues from a conservative, faith-based perspective. His boldness in defending biblical values—especially on topics of family and morality—helps me stay informed on current events without compromising my beliefs. If you're looking for someone to speak truth in a world of confusion, this show is for you. 2. Enjoying the Journey with Scott Pauley Scott Pauley’s daily messages are a breath of fresh air. His podcast focuses on enjoying the Christian life and walking closely with God. It’s a wonderful way to start the morn...

 Whipped Feta: A Simple and Delicious Recipe You'll Love If you're looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious appetizer or snack, whipped feta is the answer! I recently tried this recipe using two 8-ounce chunks of feta cheese and plain Greek yogurt, and it turned out great. The result is a creamy, tangy, and versatile dip that pairs perfectly with fresh veggies, pita bread, or crackers.  Here's the recipe I used: **Ingredients:** - 16 oz feta cheese (two 8 oz chunks) - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 clove garlic (optional, for extra flavor) - Salt and pepper to taste **Instructions:** 1. Crumble the feta into a food processor. 2. Add the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice. 3. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. 4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice. You can even add a clove of garlic for an extra kick! 5. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and enj...