When Life Gets Busy, It Can Be Hard to Keep God First

When my children were little, I found it incredibly difficult to find time to study God’s Word or have the kind of deep prayer life I longed for. At the time, I worked a full-time job while trying to juggle the responsibilities of being a wife, a mom, and serving in ministry. Thankfully, the Lord saw fit to place seven years between my children, but even with that blessing, those years were full.

No one really warned me about that season.

No one told me there would be days when I would feel needed from every direction at once. No one mentioned that there would be times when I would struggle to find a quiet moment to sit in God’s presence because there was always another meal to cook, another load of laundry to fold, another child to comfort, or another place I had to be.

So many mornings I found myself rushing out the door, trying to make sure everyone had what they needed and arrived where they were supposed to be on time. More often than not, my prayer time happened in the car while my kids slept in the backseat. I would drive to work with tears streaming down my face, talking to the Lord about whatever burden I was carrying that day. There were days when worship music filled my car because it was the only quiet place I could find to be alone with Him.

And if I’m honest, I felt guilty.

I knew the importance of taking time alone with God. I knew what I wanted my devotional life to look like, but my reality looked very different. By the time the day ended, I often felt like I was giving God the last little bit of energy I had left. Many nights, I would fall into bed completely exhausted and whisper a prayer under my breath, asking the Lord to forgive me because I felt like I hadn’t given Him enough.

Oh, how I desired to be in His presence. I wanted those quiet moments with my Bible open and my heart still before the Lord. I wanted to linger in prayer without watching the clock or listening for a child to wake up. Even going to church could feel overwhelming during those years. Instead of soaking in the message, I was making sure someone had a snack, keeping a little one occupied, or quietly trying to prevent a meltdown in the middle of service. I would leave some Sundays wondering why I had even gone because I couldn’t remember half of what had been preached.

But I kept going.

I kept praying.

I kept showing up.

What It Really Means to Keep God First

Looking back now, I realize I had a picture in my mind of what spending time with God was supposed to look like.

I imagined long, uninterrupted devotion times, a quiet house, and a peaceful place where I could sit with my Bible open and hear from the Lord. There is absolutely nothing wrong with those moments. In fact, I still treasure them. Even now, I love waking up before the rest of the house begins to stir just so I can sit quietly in His presence.

But during those busy years, God was teaching me something I couldn’t yet see.

Keeping God first wasn’t always going to look perfect.

Sometimes it looked like worship music playing while I stirred supper on the stove. Sometimes it looked like praising God while I folded another basket of laundry. Sometimes it was tears falling while I drove to work or a quiet conversation with the Lord while the kids slept in the backseat. Sometimes it was simply choosing to turn my thoughts toward Him in the middle of an ordinary Tuesday.

I wasn’t trying to fit God into my schedule.

I was trying to build my schedule around a relationship that mattered more than anything else.

That doesn’t mean I stopped longing for deeper moments with Him. In fact, there were many mornings when I intentionally woke up an hour before everyone else because I craved that time with the Lord. I wasn’t looking for perfection; I was looking for His presence. I’ve learned that there are seasons when uninterrupted time comes more easily than others, but the answer isn’t to wait until life slows down. The answer is to intentionally make room for God right where you are.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:33:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

He didn’t say to seek Him first only when the children are older, when work settles down, or when life finally becomes manageable. He simply said to seek Him first.

The Enemy Loves to Whisper Guilt

I think one of the greatest struggles during busy seasons isn’t the schedule itself. It’s the guilt that often comes with it.

The enemy has a way of convincing us that if our quiet time doesn’t look exactly the way we imagined it should, then it doesn’t count. He tells us that because our prayers are whispered while we’re washing dishes or driving down the road, they somehow matter less. He whispers that if we miss a day or two because life happened, then we’ve somehow failed.

But I’ve come to believe that God sees those moments very differently.

He saw me crying and praying in the car.

He saw me standing in the kitchen worshipping while supper cooked on the stove.

He heard the exhausted prayers I whispered before I drifted off to sleep.

He knew about the mornings I dragged myself out of bed early because I simply wanted to spend a little time with Him before the house woke up. He saw the desire that was hidden beneath the exhaustion. He knew my heart, even when I felt like I was falling short.

Psalm 46:10 says,

“Be still, and know that I am God.”

For years, I thought being still meant everything around me had to be quiet. But sometimes being still simply means quieting our hearts in the middle of the noise. Sometimes it means shutting off the distractions for a few moments and remembering that God is near, even if the laundry still needs folding and supper still needs to be made.

Your Children Are Watching How You Keep God First

One of the sweetest lessons God has taught me is that those imperfect moments were never wasted.

When my children were little, I often felt like I wasn’t giving them enough either. I worried that they weren’t seeing the kind of spiritual life I wanted to model because everything felt rushed and interrupted. I wondered if they would remember anything besides a tired mom trying to keep all the pieces together.

But children have a way of seeing what we don’t realize they’re seeing.

They watched me pray.

They came with me to the altar.

They listened while worship music filled our home.

They saw tears fall while I talked to Jesus.

They watched me choose Him over and over again, even when I felt like I was failing.

I can remember leading worship at our home missions church when my daughter was little. Her dad would be out praying with people while I sat at the piano, and she would be right there beside me because I didn’t have anyone else to watch her. At first, she simply sat and observed. As she got older, she began singing at the top of her lungs right there beside me.

Today, she helps lead worship in our church.

She loves to sing. She loves to worship. And I can’t help but think back to those little moments when I wondered if any of it mattered.

Recently, my son surprised me too. I was getting ready for worship practice and sat down to play through a song before everyone arrived. He asked if he could get on the drums. I smiled and told him that was fine, just don’t beat on them too hard. I fully expected him to make up his own little rhythm while I practiced.

Instead, he quietly started playing along with me.

And now, when the Spirit of God begins to move in service, I watch him. He’s still learning. He’s still growing. But I can see him responding. I can see a hunger beginning to stir in his heart, and it reminds me that those little moments mattered more than I ever realized.

In those moments, I realize something that I couldn’t see years ago.

While I thought I was failing because life was loud and messy, God was quietly planting seeds.

How to Keep God First When Life Gets Busy

I don’t want to minimize the importance of making intentional time for the Lord because I believe it matters deeply. In fact, I think one of the greatest acts of faith during a busy season is choosing to make room for Him anyway.

Sometimes that means waking up before the rest of the house.

Sometimes it means leaving the dishes in the sink for a little while longer.

Sometimes it means shutting off the noise, putting down the phone, or choosing worship music over another distraction.

And sometimes it means recognizing that today’s devotion time may happen while you’re folding clothes, rocking a baby, or driving to work.

The point isn’t perfection.

The point is pursuit.

God honors a heart that seeks Him. He honors the mom who gets up a little earlier because she wants to spend time with Him. He honors the whispered prayer in the middle of a chaotic afternoon. He honors the worship that rises from a kitchen where dinner is still cooking.

The beautiful thing about God is that He is willing to meet us right where we are.

Keep Seeking Him First

If you’re in one of those busy seasons right now, I want to encourage you not to believe the lie that you’re failing because your quiet time doesn’t look like someone else’s.

Don’t wait for the perfect schedule.

Don’t wait for life to slow down.

And don’t wait for the children to get older before you make room for God.

Bring them with you. Let them see you pray. Let them hear you sing. Let them watch you worship while you’re making dinner or folding laundry. Let them stand beside you at the altar. Let them see a mom who loves Jesus enough to intentionally make time for Him, even when life feels overwhelming.

They may not understand everything that’s happening in those moments, but little by little they are learning what it looks like to build a life centered around Christ. Long before they understand every Bible story or every sermon, they are watching your example. They are learning that when life gets hard, we pray. When our hearts are full, we worship. When we don’t have all the answers, we keep seeking God anyway.

One day, you’ll look back and realize that God was meeting you in the kitchen, in the car, at the altar, and in those whispered prayers before sleep. And you may discover, just like I did, that the little eyes watching you all those years were learning far more than you ever imagined.

Looking back now, I don’t see a season where I failed to spend enough time with God.

I see a faithful God who met me in the middle of a busy season and taught me what it really means to keep God first.

Keep Exploring Makin’ Macon

If this post encouraged you, I’d love for you to take a look around. Here at Makin’ Macon, you’ll find faith-filled encouragement, practical homemaking inspiration, recipes, podcast episodes, and simple reminders that God is with us even in the middle of life’s busiest seasons.

If you’d like a little extra encouragement throughout the week, I’d also love for you to join my Stay Rooted email community. Every Wednesday, I send a note filled with biblical encouragement, honest reflections from everyday life, and reminders to keep our hearts anchored in Christ no matter what season we’re walking through.

You may also enjoy:

• How to Be a Mary in a Martha World: Find Peace Over Perfection
• Stop, Rest, and Eat
• The Crossroads of Faith in God’s Waiting Room

And remember, I’m always praying for you—even if I don’t know who you are.

The Crossroads in God’s Waiting Room

At first, most waiting seasons begin with hope.

We pray with expectation. We believe God is working. We trust that the answer is coming. Then time begins to pass, and with every passing day the gap between what God has promised and what we can physically see seems to grow wider.

That’s often when the questions begin.

Did I hear God correctly?

Is He still working?

Does He still remember me?

Should I keep believing?

Those questions don’t necessarily come because we lack faith. Sometimes they come simply because we’re human. We live in a world where we can see our circumstances, but we cannot always see what God is doing behind the scenes.

David understood that struggle. In Psalm 27:13-14 he wrote:

“I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”

I love the honesty in those verses. David didn’t pretend waiting was easy. He admitted there were moments when he felt like he might faint beneath the weight of it all. Yet he also understood that courage isn’t found in having all the answers. Courage is choosing to believe God is still good even when we don’t understand what He’s doing.

That is the crossroads every believer eventually faces. Will we continue trusting God when we cannot see the outcome? Will we continue believing His Word when our circumstances seem to tell a different story? Will we allow disappointment to take root, or will we allow our faith to grow deeper?

The waiting room has a way of forcing us to answer those questions.

What God’s Waiting Room Taught Me

I know what it’s like to sit at that crossroads because I’ve been there myself.

My husband and I waited ten years for the promise of a child. Looking back now, I can say those words in a single sentence, but living through those years felt very different. At first, I was confident. I believed God would answer. I never imagined how long the journey would actually be.

As the years passed, however, I found myself facing questions I never expected. We talked about adoption. I wondered whether I had misunderstood what God had placed in my heart. I watched time continue moving forward while the answer I was praying for seemed to remain just out of reach.

The hardest part wasn’t the waiting itself. The hardest part was learning how to trust God when I couldn’t see what He was doing.

That is where the real battle often takes place. It isn’t always a battle against our circumstances. More often it’s a battle over what we’re going to believe while we’re still waiting.

I could have allowed disappointment to take root. I could have stopped believing. I could have convinced myself that God had forgotten me. Instead, I made a choice to keep showing up at His feet. Some days that faith felt strong. Other days it felt fragile. But regardless of how I felt, I kept bringing my prayers back to Him.

Eventually, God answered that prayer. Yet even then, the waiting room wasn’t over.

Before my daughter was born, I developed preeclampsia. There were moments when both of our lives were in danger. After her birth, I watched her spend time in the NICU and wondered what would happen next. Later came another season of heartbreak when we lost our son. Then, when I became pregnant again, fear and doubt tried to creep back in. Bed rest, extra doctor visits, and countless prayers became part of that journey as well.

Looking back now, I realize something I couldn’t fully see in those moments. Every one of those seasons brought me back to the same question: Will I trust God even when I don’t understand?

One of my favorite verses became an anchor for me during those years:

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” — Proverbs 3:5-6

Trusting God is relatively easy when everything makes sense. Trusting Him when we don’t understand requires something much deeper. It requires us to believe that God’s character is trustworthy even when His plan is unclear.

The Danger of Letting Go Too Soon

One of the greatest dangers in God’s waiting room is becoming weary.

Not weary of God.

Not weary of prayer.

Just weary of waiting.

Hebrews 10:35-36 speaks directly to those moments:

“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”

What a powerful reminder!

After you’ve prayed.

After you’ve trusted.

After you’ve obeyed.

After you’ve done everything you know to do.

Don’t cast away your confidence.

Sometimes we assume that if we haven’t seen the answer yet, nothing is happening. Yet Scripture repeatedly shows us that God is often working in places we cannot see. While we focus on the delay, He is often preparing people, circumstances, timing, and even our own hearts for what lies ahead.

The waiting room can be frustrating because we naturally want movement. We want progress. We want evidence that something is happening. Yet faith has never been about trusting what we can see. Faith has always been about trusting the One who sees what we cannot.

What if God is working behind the scenes in ways we don’t yet understand? What if the answer is closer than we realize? What if the waiting room is accomplishing something far greater than we can currently imagine?

Digging Your Heels In

Over the years, I’ve learned that the answer isn’t found in giving up. The answer is found in digging your heels in and staying at the feet of Jesus.

The waiting room has a way of exposing what we’re truly leaning on. When everything is moving according to our plans, it’s easy to feel confident. But when the answer tarries, we quickly discover whether our confidence is in God or in our ability to understand what He is doing.

That’s why prayer became so important to me during those seasons.

Not because prayer was a formula.

Not because I believed I could somehow force God’s hand.

Prayer became important because it continually brought me back to the feet of Jesus. There were days when I didn’t have answers. Days when I didn’t understand. Days when fear tried to convince me that God had forgotten me. Prayer became the place where I laid those fears down and exchanged my questions for trust. It became the place where God reminded me of who He is when I couldn’t understand what He was doing.

Many times my prayer wasn’t, “God, get me out of this waiting room.”

Instead, it was, “God, help me stay at Your feet while I’m here.”

Over time, I discovered that prayer wasn’t simply changing my circumstances. Prayer was changing me. It was strengthening my faith, deepening my dependence upon God, and teaching me to pray His Word instead of my emotions. It was teaching me to look back at His faithfulness whenever doubt tried to creep in.

Paul provides a powerful example of this in regards to Abraham in Romans 4:20-21:

“He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.”

Abraham wasn’t focused on what he could see. He was focused on the God who made the promise. That doesn’t mean he never had questions. It means he chose not to let those questions become greater than his confidence in God’s ability to fulfill what He had spoken.

Prayer Changes Things in God’s Waiting Room

When most people hear the phrase “prayer changes things,” they immediately think about circumstances changing. Sometimes that’s exactly what happens. God opens a door. He provides a miracle. He answers in a way that leaves no doubt that His hand was involved.

But I’ve learned that prayer often changes us before it changes our circumstances.

One of my favorite verses hangs on the wall in my kitchen where I see it every day:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” — Hebrews 11:1

I’ve looked at those words countless times over the years, especially during seasons when I couldn’t see what God was doing. Faith isn’t believing after the answer arrives. Faith is choosing to trust God before the answer comes. It’s believing that God is working even when we cannot see the evidence with our natural eyes.

As much as I wanted answers during those waiting room seasons, what I needed most was a deeper relationship with the One who held the answers. Looking back now, I can see that while I was praying for God to change my circumstances, He was also using those circumstances to strengthen my faith.

The waiting room wasn’t wasted.

The tears weren’t wasted.

The prayers weren’t wasted.

And if you’re sitting in God’s waiting room today, yours isn’t wasted either.

A Resource for God’s Waiting Room

One book that has encouraged me in this area is God Has a Waiting Room by Kim Haney. While the stories and lessons in this post come from my own experiences and what God has taught me through Scripture, her book offers additional encouragement for anyone walking through a season of waiting and learning to trust God’s timing.

Want to Read the Full Story?

The experiences I briefly shared here only scratch the surface of what God taught me during those waiting room seasons. If you’d like to read the full stories behind those miracles, you can find them here:

A Tangible Miracle

The Pain of Unanswered Prayers

A Tangible Miracle 2

Looking back now, I can see God’s hand woven throughout the stories, even in the moments when I couldn’t understand what He was doing.

Conclusion

If you find yourself sitting in God’s waiting room today, I want to encourage you not to make a permanent decision based on a temporary season. Don’t allow what you can’t see to convince you that God isn’t working. Don’t allow the silence to convince you that He isn’t listening, and don’t allow the length of the journey to cause you to forget the faithfulness He has already shown.

When doubt comes—and it will—look back. Remember the prayers He has answered. Remember the doors He has opened. Remember the times He carried you when you couldn’t carry yourself. Then dig your heels in a little deeper and stay at His feet a little longer. Pray His Word. Trust His heart. Keep walking forward one step at a time, even when you can’t see where the path is leading.

The waiting room is not proof that God has forgotten you. Sometimes it’s simply the place where He is growing a faith strong enough to carry the promise when it finally arrives.

Keep Exploring Makin’ Macon

If this post encouraged you, I’d love for you to take a look around. Here at Makin’ Macon you’ll find faith-filled encouragement, podcast episodes, homemaking inspiration, essential oil recipes, and practical resources designed to help you find encouragement in the middle of life’s chaos.

Be sure to explore the blog, listen to past podcast episodes, and join the Stay Rooted email community for weekly encouragement delivered straight to your inbox.

Remember, I’m always praying for you, even if I don’t know who you are.

Looking Back at Small Beginnings

One important verse during this season is Zechariah 4:10:

“For who hath despised the day of small things?”

I think most of us appreciate that verse in theory, but living it out can be much harder.

We live in a world that celebrates big numbers, rapid growth, and visible success. It’s easy to look at what someone else is doing and wonder if our own efforts matter. It’s easy to become discouraged when growth feels slow or when the work we’re doing seems unnoticed.

What I’ve learned over the last three years is that God often works differently than we expect.

Most of the time, obedience doesn’t feel dramatic. It doesn’t look like standing on a stage or making a major announcement. More often, it looks like taking the next step God has placed in front of us and trusting Him with the results.

For me, that looked like writing one blog post at a time. It looked like pressing publish when nobody was waiting for it. It looked like creating content that encouraged others while trusting God to place it in front of the people who needed it most. Later, it looked like starting a podcast even when I wasn’t sure what I was doing.

Over time, God has taught me something incredibly freeing: He rarely asks us to carry the entire ministry. He simply asks us to carry today’s assignment.

When I remember that, the pressure lifts. I don’t have to know the outcome. I don’t have to see the full plan. I simply have to be faithful with what He’s placed in my hands today.

Encouragement in Chaos Became More Than a Slogan

When I first chose the phrase Encouragement in Chaos, I knew it described what I wanted to share with others. What I didn’t realize was how often I would need that reminder myself.

Life doesn’t stop being messy simply because we’re trying to serve God.

There are still seasons of uncertainty. There are still busy days, unexpected changes, and moments when we wonder what God is doing. There are still times when the to-do list feels overwhelming and the path ahead seems unclear.

Yet through all of those seasons, God has remained faithful.

Somewhere along the way, I realized that Encouragement in Chaos wasn’t just something I was writing about. It became something I was living. God wasn’t asking me to encourage people from a place of having everything figured out. He was teaching me to encourage others while trusting Him in my own imperfect journey.

God isn’t waiting for our lives to become perfectly organized before He shows up. He meets us in the middle of the mess. He walks with us through the uncertainty. He remains faithful even when we can’t see what He’s doing behind the scenes.

That’s a lesson I continue to learn over and over again.

The People Behind the Screen Matter

One of the greatest blessings of this journey has been realizing there are real people on the other side of the screen.

When I first started writing, I didn’t know who would read the posts. I didn’t know who might stumble across an encouragement article, a podcast episode, or a social media post. I certainly didn’t know how many friendships and connections would be formed along the way.

Over the years, I’ve received comments, emails, messages, and conversations that reminded me God was using this ministry in ways I couldn’t see.

Every time someone takes a moment to leave a comment, send an email, or share that something encouraged them, it does something to my heart.

It’s hard to explain.

There is a warmth that comes from knowing God used something you shared to encourage another person. Not because it makes you feel successful or accomplished, but because it reminds you that you’re exactly where God wants you to be.

There have been moments when I questioned whether what I was doing mattered. There have been seasons when I wondered if anyone was reading, listening, or being encouraged at all. Then a message would arrive at exactly the right moment.

Sometimes it was a comment.

Sometimes it was an email.

Sometimes it was a simple note saying, “I needed this today.”

Those moments reminded me that obedience is never wasted. They reminded me that there are real people carrying real burdens, and that God often uses simple words of encouragement to help lighten the load.

What God Has Taught Me About Faithfulness

As I reflect on these past three years, there are a few lessons that stand out above the rest.

God often asks us to take the next step before revealing the entire path. If I had waited until I understood everything, I never would have started. If I had waited until I felt fully prepared, I would probably still be waiting today.

I’ve also learned that ministry happens in ordinary places. It isn’t confined to a church building or a platform. Some of the most meaningful opportunities to encourage others happen in everyday conversations, ordinary moments, and seasons that seem unremarkable at the time.

Perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned that God can use willing people who are still growing.

I certainly haven’t arrived. I’m still learning. I’m still growing. I’m still trusting God one step at a time. The beautiful thing is that God doesn’t require perfection before He can use us. He simply asks for obedience.

Looking back, I can also see how God has often used the very things I was tempted to quit.

There were moments when I questioned whether continuing was worth the effort. Moments when I felt discouraged or wondered if I was making any difference at all. Yet time and time again, God would send encouragement at exactly the right moment. He would use a message, a conversation, or a simple reminder to reassure me that faithfulness matters even when we can’t see the results.

Those experiences have taught me that God is always working, even when His work isn’t immediately visible.

Prefer to Listen?

Listen to the full podcast episode here:

Season 2, Episode 13: One Year Later—What God Has Taught Me Through Makin’ Macon

Looking Ahead

As I look toward another year of blogging, podcasting, and encouraging others, my prayer remains the same prayer it was when Makin’ Macon began:

“Lord, let this reach the person who needs it.”

Whether you’ve been here from the beginning or you’ve just recently joined this community, thank you for being part of the journey. Thank you for reading, listening, commenting, and allowing me to encourage you along the way.

Most of all, thank you for reminding me that there are real people behind every view, every download, every message, and every interaction. Your encouragement has often encouraged me right back.

No matter what season you’re walking through today, I hope you’re reminded of this truth:

God has not left you.

He’s still working.

He’s still faithful.

And He’s still right there in the middle of the mess.

Keep Exploring Makin’ Macon

If you’re new here, I invite you to take a look around. Whether you’re looking for faith-filled encouragement, homemaking inspiration, essential oil blends, family-focused content, or simple recipes to share around the table, you’ll find a little bit of everything here at Makin’ Macon.

My heart has always been to offer encouragement in the middle of real life, and I pray something you find here points you closer to Jesus and reminds you that you’re not walking through life’s chaos alone.

Be sure to explore the blog, listen to past podcast episodes, and join the Stay Rooted email community for weekly encouragement delivered straight to your inbox.

A Faith That Is Passed Down Through a Mother’s Faith

Paul reminded Timothy of something powerful, and he didn’t just reference it—he said it plainly:

“When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.” (2 Timothy 1:5, KJV)

That word unfeigned means sincere. It’s real, not forced, not something put on for others to see. It was a faith Timothy had seen before it ever became his own. It lived in his grandmother, then in his mother, and eventually in him.

That kind of faith doesn’t come from one moment or one message. It comes from being around it, watching it, and experiencing it lived out day by day. Paul was intentional to point that out because Timothy’s walk didn’t start with him; it was shaped by what was lived in front of him.

He didn’t just inherit words. He inherited a walk. He saw what sincere faith looked like when life was normal, when it was hard, and when no one else was around.

That’s what “unfeigned faith” looks like in real life. Not perfect, but consistent. Not loud all the time, but present. A faith that shows up again and again, even in the small moments.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 reminds us,

“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children…”

Notice it begins in the heart before it is ever taught. What lives in us is what is passed down—and often, it’s passed down quietly.

The Seeds We Don’t Always See

That truth has played out in my own life in ways I didn’t fully recognize at the time.

I remember sitting in my car, pregnant with my first, listening to music. I turned it up, and I could feel her moving. It may sound simple, but I remember thinking she was going to love music—and I wasn’t wrong.

I led worship while pregnant with both of my kids, and now they both love to sing.

To this day, our kids walk around singing constantly. You’ll even find my daughter standing on the stage with the praise team, worshipping with everything she has.

And I can’t help but see the hand of God in that.

But even before that, there were seeds being planted in me.

I can remember waking up as a child in the middle of the night and hearing my mom or my dad praying in the living room. They didn’t realize I was listening, but I was, and something inside of me was being shaped in those quiet moments.

Looking back now, I realize something… those moments didn’t look important at the time. They didn’t feel like anything life-changing was happening. But they were laying a foundation I didn’t even recognize yet.

And that’s what makes this next part so important, because the moments that feel the smallest are often the ones doing the deepest work.

When It Doesn’t Look Like It’s Working

I remember sitting on the pew as a child, scribbling on paper while church went on around me. To anyone watching, it probably looked like I wasn’t paying attention at all.

But something was stirring. Something was taking root.

Now I’ve watched my own kids do the same thing. They sit with us in service, they watch, they follow, and they mimic our posture of worship. They see more than we realize, and that’s the part we have to hold on to.

Because if we’re honest, there are moments we wonder if any of it is sticking. Moments where it feels like we’re repeating ourselves, correcting the same things, or trying to hold their attention while everything else pulls at them.

It’s easy to walk away from those moments thinking, “Did any of that matter?”

But just because it doesn’t look like it’s working doesn’t mean God isn’t working.

Isaiah 55:11 reminds us that His Word will not return void. Even when we don’t see immediate results, God is still moving beneath the surface.

And I want to speak to that season when your children are little and you’re trying to nurture them in church. There are services where it feels like you didn’t hear a single word the preacher said because you were tending to a child at your feet.

But listen to me clearly… that is one of the most vital times to teach your children about church.

You didn’t just sit on the pew waiting for them to grow up—you brought them with you. You took them up front and showed them how to worship. You showed them what it looks like to pray in the altar. You let them see it, feel it, and be a part of it.

It may have felt chaotic in the moment, but you were teaching something deeper than words ever could. You were showing them how—and that stays with them.

If you’ve ever struggled with staying focused in the middle of life’s noise, you may also be encouraged by my post, Guarding Your Heart in a Noisy World.

When You Feel Like You’re Failing

And if we’re honest, this is where it can get the hardest.

I know the feeling of wondering if you’re doing enough, if your children will make it, and if you’re getting this right.

Was I too harsh just now? Did I handle that the right way? Am I leading them well spiritually, or just trying to get through the day?

Those quiet questions can weigh on you more than anyone else ever sees.

But then there are moments that remind you otherwise.

Moments where you see conviction in your child’s heart, moments where you watch them worship freely, and moments where you realize something deeper has taken hold.

And in those moments, the Lord gently reminds you that He is faithful to what has been planted—even when you feel like you’re falling short.

Galatians 6:9 encourages us,

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

What you are doing matters, even when it feels unseen.

This part of the conversation continues here:

When They Have to Choose for Themselves

There is something else we need to talk about, because this is real life.

Sometimes, even when you have prayed, taught, shown them, and lived it in front of them… your children may still walk away.

And that can feel like the deepest kind of heartbreak.

It can make you question everything. Did I do enough? Did I miss something? Did I fail somewhere along the way?

But listen to me clearly… their choice is not a reflection of your failure.

There comes a point where faith becomes personal. Where what they have seen must become what they choose. Your responsibility was never to control the outcome. It was to be faithful in the teaching, the showing, and the loving.

Because even if they walk away for a season… it’s still there.

What was planted doesn’t disappear. The prayers, the Word, the example—it all remains.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us,

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

That doesn’t mean there won’t be seasons of wandering, but it does mean what was planted has a way of calling them back.

So we don’t give up.

We keep praying. We keep loving. We keep trusting God with what we cannot control. Because He cares for their soul even more than we do, and He knows how to reach them in ways we never could.

The Kind of Faith That Speaks Without Words (A Mother’s Faith in Action)

All of this comes back to a simple truth.

This kind of faith doesn’t have to be loud, and it doesn’t have to be perfect. It simply has to be real.

It’s the kind of faith that shows up in the middle of an ordinary day—the kind that chooses patience when you’re stretched thin, grace when you’re frustrated, and prayer when you don’t have the words.

What your children see consistently will shape what they believe deeply. Not just what you say on your best days, but what you do on your hardest ones.

Because they are watching how you handle pressure, how you respond when things don’t go as planned, and what you turn to when life feels overwhelming.

And it doesn’t stop inside your home—people are watching your life too.

Not for perfection, but for something different. Something steady. Something real.

A faith that doesn’t just speak when it’s easy… but lives even when it’s hard.

A Gentle Reminder

So if you’ve been wondering if what you’re doing matters… it does.

You don’t have to do this perfectly, and you don’t have to have all the answers. You simply have to remain faithful—to pray, to show up, and to live a life that reflects Him in the smallest moments.

Proverbs 31:28 says,

“Her children arise up, and call her blessed…”

That kind of fruit doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from a life faithfully lived before the Lord.

Because the faith you are living today is planting something for tomorrow, and God is faithful to grow what you’ve been sowing.

Even on the days you feel unseen, Heaven sees every seed you’re sowing. And in His timing, He is faithful to bring growth in ways you may not even realize yet.

If this encouraged you, I’d love for you to share it with another mom who may need it today.

And if you’re not already part of our Stay Rooted emails, I’d love for you to join us for weekly encouragement.

You can also find more encouragement just like this by visiting the Encouragement tab on the blog.

And remember… I’m always praying for you—even if I don’t know who you are.

A Real-Life Reminder to Be Still

At a recent doctor’s appointment, he looked at me and said, “Susan, you need to slow down.”

I nodded politely, but inside I was thinking, Slow down? With what calendar? With what margin?

Still, his words stayed with me.

And not just his words, but it’s something the Lord has been dealing with me about during this time of perimenopause. I feel like I’m very aware of what’s going on with my body—even if I don’t completely understand it. I did all the research over the last few years trying to prepare myself for what is to come. My situation has been a little different with PCOS and Endometriosis (something many doctors still do not understand to this day). So to sit and be still just didn’t feel right. But I have known—and I think the Lord has pushed me to know—that it is necessary.

That reminder stirred something deeper in me, sending me back to a verse I’ve heard a thousand times—a verse that echoed the same message God has been whispering all along:

"Be still and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10

It didn’t feel like a suggestion. It felt like an invitation.

To stop.
To breathe.
To remember Who holds it all together (hint: it’s not me).

I’ve been learning to listen to that invitation. Not just spiritually—but practically. I’ve started finding little ways to pause the noise and rest my mind:

• Sitting on the floor to play with my son—even when I have a million things to do.
• Soaking my feet in that little foot spa I bought and actually letting myself enjoy it.
• Sipping a hot cup of tea before the day takes off like a freight train.
• Letting my husband take over for a bit when I feel like I’ve hit a wall.

None of it’s fancy. None of it’s perfect. But it’s intentional.

And that’s the point.

What “Be Still” Really Means

When we hear “Be still and know that I am God,” it’s easy to think it means to simply pause and trust. And while that’s part of it, the Hebrew behind “be still” (raphah) actually means to let go, to release your grip, to stop striving.

It’s not passive—it’s active surrender.

It’s me unclenching my hands, loosening my shoulders, and saying, “Okay, God. I’m not holding this together—you are.”

That changes how I sit with this verse. It means I don’t just sit still—I surrender. I let go of the need to be perfect. I let go of my jam-packed schedule. I let go of the guilt for needing rest. And I make space to know—really know—that He is God and I am not.

Why Learning to Be Still Matters

If you’ve been feeling overstimulated, stretched thin, or emotionally drained—can I encourage you?

You’re allowed to pause.
You’re allowed to breathe.
You’re allowed to rest.

And not because everything is done. Not because your world is perfectly in order. But because God didn’t ask you to carry it all. He asked you to trust Him.

Sometimes trusting Him looks like moving forward in faith.
Other times? It looks like sitting down and letting Him carry you.

You don’t have to earn rest.
You don’t have to justify it.
You just have to say yes to the invitation.

Be still. Breathe. He’s already working.

Want More Encouragement?

If this post spoke to you today, you can listen to the full podcast episode here:
 Episode 7: Be Still & Breathe

And if you’d like weekly encouragement in your inbox (the kind that doesn’t overwhelm or guilt-trip you), join the Stay Rooted email group:
 Subscribe Here!

You’re not alone in this, friend.
And even on the days when it feels like too much—

God is still enough.

Remember, I’m always praying for you, even if I don’t know who you are.

Opposites in Marriage

I married a man who thrives on spontaneity, while I thrive on plans. He likes to decide as we go; I like to map it out ahead of time. His way can throw me for a loop, but it’s good for me—it keeps me from becoming too stiff. In turn, my structure has helped him too. We’ve grown from learning each other’s ways, and our kids have taught us both to stretch in new directions.

However, when God changes the rhythm? That’s a whole different adjustment.

Prefer to listen? You can hear this encouragement here:

A Swift Move That Changed Everything

Several years ago, after almost seven years of marriage, I was in prayer when I heard the Lord say, “Your move will be swift.” Naturally, I brushed it off. I loved our quiet little life out in the sticks, near family. Moving wasn’t in my plans.

Meanwhile, my husband and I had been praying to be used more in ministry, and we were happily serving as Youth Pastors at the church I grew up in.

Then one day, while visiting friends in Colorado, our car overheated climbing a mountain. We pulled over, and the phone rang. On the other end was someone asking if we’d consider pastoring a home missions church in Texas.

Texas?! No jobs, no house, no plan—just hotter weather and a whole lot of unknowns. Nevertheless, God confirmed it through prayer, a dream, and even the quick sale of our home after months with no offers.

Within a week, we were packing everything into storage and a trailer, moving toward something we couldn’t fully see but knew God had called us to.

Talk about having your rhythm completely upended.

5 Powerful Reminders for When Your Rhythm Feels Off

When your rhythm is disrupted, it’s easy to lose focus and let worry take over. These five reminders have anchored me in seasons when everything felt uncertain, and I hope they will do the same for you:

1. Find a Place to Pray – First, make space to talk with God honestly about your fears, frustrations, and hopes. Prayer shifts your perspective and aligns your heart with His.
2. Ask God to Cleanse Your Heart and Bring Peace – Next, when your mind feels cluttered, ask Him to wash away anxious thoughts and replace them with His calm.
3. Get into His Word – Then, let Scripture steady you when everything else feels shaky. Even a single verse can keep you grounded in truth.
4. Fast – Sometimes we need to quiet our bodies to hear God more clearly. As a result, fasting removes distractions and makes space for His voice.
5. Take One Small Step – Finally, remember you don’t have to fix everything at once. Just start where you are and trust Him with the next step.

Learning from Joseph’s Rhythm Shifts

I think of Joseph. His rhythm shifted over and over—from living with family, to slavery, to serving in Pharaoh’s home, to prison, and finally to a position where he saved his family and a nation.

When God moved us to Texas, I couldn’t see the full picture any more than Joseph could when he was in prison. All I knew was that my rhythm was gone, and I was stepping into the unknown. But just like Joseph’s obedience positioned him to save a nation, our obedience opened doors in ministry we never could have imagined. In other words, what felt like a complete disruption was actually God setting the stage for something greater.

Genesis 50:20 says, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

Joseph’s story—and our own—remind me that God’s hand is at work even when the rhythm feels chaotic. Trusting Him in those moments allows us to see the beauty of His plan when the pieces finally come together.

Walking Forward in His Rhythm

If your rhythm feels off right now, take heart—God has not lost track of you or your story. The beat may sound unfamiliar, but He is still the One leading the song. Therefore, trust the process, lean in to His timing, and allow Him to guide your steps one measure at a time.

If this post encouraged you, I’d love for you to join my Stay Rooted email community. When you sign up, you’ll get my 5-Day Devotional for Women Who Do It All as a gift—a simple way to pause, reset, and reconnect with God’s peace each day. You’ll also receive mid-week encouragement in your inbox every week to help you stay grounded in truth and hope.

Click here to join Stay Rooted and get your devotional.

Remember, I’m always praying for you, even if I don’t know who you are.

Why We Needed a Different Approach During Our First Year Homeschooling

That said, I knew my son needed something a bit more interactive to keep his attention at home. He is incredibly smart but thrives with hands-on learning. (Note: I’m not speaking negatively about him here—just sharing how I had to adjust as a mom.)

After a conversation with my sister-in-law—whose son learns similarly—I decided to try The Good and the Beautiful. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Did it require work? Absolutely. But my son loved it.

The Good and the Beautiful Curriculum Review from Our First Year Homeschooling

Why We Loved It:

• Offers beautifully designed curriculum for Language Arts, Math, Science, and more
• Language Arts (Levels K–8) and Math (Levels K–5) are available as free PDF downloads on their site
• Lessons are colorful, engaging, and often incorporate nature, art, and hands-on learning
• Short, manageable segments that work well for active learners

The curriculum made learning fun and kept my son involved throughout the day. However, science and social studies didn’t stick as well. The content was solid, but the format just didn’t hold his attention consistently.

Why We Switched to Time4Learning Mid-Year

So we pivoted after the new year and gave Time4Learning a try—specifically for Science and Social Studies.

What Worked with Time4Learning:

• 100% online, interactive format with animated lessons
• Self-paced, offering built-in quizzes and review tools
• Flexible structure that allowed us to supplement only the subjects we needed
• It challenged my son while keeping his attention through video and audio content

Sure, we had some tough days. But by the end of our first year homeschooling, we finally found a rhythm that worked.

I had to learn to adjust my expectations, too. I’m naturally a “check-it-off-the-list” kind of person. My kids? They tend to lean more toward the “it can wait” attitude—thanks to their dad. So I had to learn to slow down.

Hands-On Learning in Real Life

Some of our most meaningful learning came outside the workbook. My son loves helping in the kitchen—so we counted baking as class some days. We gardened together, talked about bugs and compost, and explored life skills that matter just as much as test scores.

One of his absolute favorite activities was a volcano experiment we did using the UNGLINGA Science Kit, a generous gift from a wonderful lady in our church. The kit is packed with over 70 STEM experiments—from erupting volcanoes to fruit circuits—and was such a fun, educational addition to our homeschool curriculum. If you’re looking for a hands-on science supplement, I highly recommend it!

What My High Schooler Chose: Power Homeschool

As for my daughter, she chose to continue with A.C.E. last year because it was familiar. But after seeing her brother enjoy his lessons so much, she decided to switch this year to Power Homeschool. She’s entering 11th grade and is eager to explore electives while helping with our family business.

Why She’s Excited About Power Homeschool:

• Offers monthly subscriptions, no long-term contracts
• Access to core classes and a wide range of electives (business, art, foreign languages)
• Includes pre-recorded video lessons and automatic grading
• Ideal for independent, motivated learners in middle and high school

She enjoyed A.C.E. and learned a lot, but she was ready for a fresh experience—and Power Homeschool provides that flexibility.

Why We Believe in Homeschooling

Some may wonder why we homeschool rather than choosing public school. I believe every family deserves the freedom to make that decision.

In our case, it became clear when people in our community and friends of our kids affirmed that this was the better choice for our family.

Homeschooling is not for the faint of heart. Some moms may breeze through it—but many of us are learning as we go. It’s not always sitting at a desk from 8 to 3. It’s life, woven into learning. It’s math in the kitchen. Science in the backyard. Lessons in patience—for both teacher and student.

Our TCAP Testing Results Gave Me Peace

The ultimate reassurance came when we received our TCAP testing results. It’s a state-required test here in Tennessee. I wasn’t too worried about my daughter, but I had serious doubts about how my son would do—especially with spelling. He reads well but struggles with spelling. Imagine my surprise (and relief!) when his scores came back higher than expected.

It reminded me: I am doing okay.

Final Thoughts on Our First Year Homeschooling

To every mom reading this—if you’re just starting your first year homeschooling or still figuring out what works best for your child—I see you. I know the fears, the second-guessing, the sleepless nights wondering if you’re doing it right. I’ve been there. And while it’s not always easy, it is worth it. You’re showing up, you’re learning alongside your kids, and that’s something to be proud of.

So here’s my prayer for the coming year— That I would let go of the reins a little more. That our homeschool days would flow with peace, not pressure. That my kids would not only learn but enjoy the process.

And that I would remember this: learning isn’t about checking off boxes. It’s about shaping hearts, building memories, and trusting that God’s got this journey in His hands.

You can also read more from my sister-in-law—whose insights and encouragement helped shape our journey—in this blog post: Homemaking Harmony: Embracing Homeschooling.

We even sat down for a heartfelt conversation you can watch here on YouTube: Watch the Interview.

The Pastor’s Wife I Never Planned to Be

As a teenager, I boldly said I would never marry a preacher or a pastor. I didn’t. But God has a beautiful sense of humor—because here I am, a pastor’s wife of almost 20 years. What a ride it’s been!

Makin’ Macon was born during one of the most chaotic seasons of my life. I was walking through hardship and loneliness, particularly in ministry. I’ve always written in journals to process my thoughts, and when God nudged me to start a blog, I hesitated. Oh, I made every excuse you can think of. But deep down, I wanted to help other pastor’s wives who might feel the same way I did: faithful, but isolated.

Encouragement in the Chaos

What’s wild is how this blog quickly became a space for all women. Women juggling motherhood, homemaking, ministry, and all the messy parts of life. It’s grown into a place where anyone can find:

• Faith-based encouragement
• Easy, no-nonsense recipes
• Homemaking tips that don’t require perfection
• Natural wellness ideas, including essential oils

And most importantly, it’s a place where you don’t have to pretend. You don’t have to keep up with the Jones‘. You can show up in the chaos, and know that God is still right there with you.

My Walk, Shared With You

If you’ve read any of the encouragement posts here, you know they come straight from my walk with the Lord. They’re not manufactured or planned months in advance. They’re lived, prayed through, and shared as He leads. I always pray they meet you right where you are.

There have been many moments when I’ve asked God, “Are You sure You still want me to do this?” And right when I feel unsure, He sends a comment or email from one of you letting me know how something I wrote encouraged you. Or maybe it was a recipe that helped your week go smoother. Or an oil blend that brought relief.

YOU are the reason I keep showing up. God uses your words to remind me that this work is for His glory, not mine. I may never meet many of you in person, but I feel connected to this little community in such a powerful way.

No Perfection Required—Just Faithfulness

Starting this blog was never about building a brand. It’s always been about pointing you to Jesus. My hope has always been that when you read a post or an email, you feel a little lighter, a little stronger, and a little more reminded that God doesn’t expect perfection. He just asks us to be faithful.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

Exciting News: The Podcast Is Here!

Now for the latest big news—and what a way to celebrate our blog birthday! If you’ve been on the homepage or following on social media, you probably already know: Makin’ Macon now has a podcast. Yes, I said it! A podcast.Gasp.

Let me just say, it was a whole rollercoaster conversation with God to get here. But here we are. The first official episode releases this Wednesday, and I’d love for you to listen.

If you tune in, would you do me a favor? Leave a comment or message letting me know if it encouraged you. That feedback means the world.

Stay Connected

The same heart that goes into this blog flows into every “Stay Rooted” email I send. If you’re not subscribed yet and want a little extra encouragement in your inbox every Wednesday, you can sign up below.

Leave comments on the blog. Hit reply on an email. Share how something blessed you. I read every word, and it helps keep me going.

So here’s to another year of showing up, sharing encouragement, and walking this road together.

Rooted and Ready for Year Three

I cannot wait to see what God has in store for Makin’ Macon in this next season. Thank you for being a part of it.

Remember, I’m always praying for you, even if I don’t know who you are.

Prepare Your Home for a Meaningful 4th of July

Your home doesn’t need to look like Pinterest to hold sacred space. Preparing your home for a meaningful 4th of July is about making room for joy, connection, and community.

Here are a few simple ways to do that:

• Host a laid-back porch picnic with burgers, cobbler, and conversation
• Play music that lifts spirits and sets a tone of peace
• Light a candle, tidy just one area, and let the rest be what it is
• Invite others in, even if it’s last-minute or imperfect
• Get outside and be active—set up a simple volleyball net, pull out a croquet set, or revive an old-fashioned game from your childhood. It’s easy to forget the joy of outdoor play, but it makes memories that last.

Want simple recipes that bring people together? Don’t miss my 4th of July recipe roundup—full of faith-filled dishes for real-life gatherings.

And yes, community matters. Studies consistently show that families who eat and celebrate together foster stronger emotional bonds and lower stress. Whether it’s your church picnic, a backyard hangout, or sharing watermelon (even if you don’t like it), these moments shape your home.

8 Simple Ways to Make the 4th More Meaningful

1. Start the day with a prayer of gratitude for freedom—both physical and spiritual.
2. Read a Scripture together as a family (Galatians 5:1 or John 8:36 are great places to start).
3. Ask older family members to share memories of past 4th of July celebrations.
4. Serve a neighbor or church member who might be alone for the holiday.
5. Play a favorite game or activity together without the rush.
6. Cook a dish that’s been in your family for generations.
7. Pause before the fireworks to reflect on what freedom means to your family.
8. Let the kids run through the sprinklers and end the evening with a few simple fireworks—nothing fancy required. The goal is time together, not perfection.

Prepare with Purpose, Not Perfection

You don’t have to do it all. You just have to show up.

Prepare your heart in quiet moments with the Lord. Prepare your home with space for laughter, prayer, and paper plates. Let go of the pressure and lean into the purpose.

This 4th of July, may your home be a place where freedom is celebrated, Christ is honored, and community is cherished.

If you’re new here—welcome! I’d love to invite you to stick around. Each week, I share encouragement for your heart and practical ideas for your home. From simple sourdough to scripture-based routines, there’s always something to help you stay grounded in grace and grow in faith.

 Click here to subscribe and receive my free Sourdough Feeding Schedule—perfect for summer routines.

Looking for more ways to make this 4th of July memorable? Be sure to explore:

• Faith-filled 4th of July Recipes
• Spring Family Meal Roundup

Thanks for being here, friend. You’re not just welcome at this table—you’re needed.

What Does It Mean to Flourish When Life Feels Chaotic?

The word flourish means to grow or develop in a healthy and vigorous way—especially when the environment is favorable. And let’s be real: environment does matter. It’s not always about having the perfect setting, but ignoring your surroundings can absolutely stunt your growth.

Psalm 92:12–15 says:

“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree... planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish... They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”

I recently read a commentary that said palm trees don’t even start producing fruit until they’re about 30 years old—and the older they get, the more fruitful they become. If that doesn’t speak to the weary heart wondering if she’s “past her prime,” I don’t know what will.

How Your Environment Impacts Spiritual Growth

Speaking from experience—if my house is a wreck, with things scattered everywhere and no sense of order (even if it’s not spotless), my anxiety goes through the roof. The noise, the mess, the chaos… it all compounds.

If there’s constant tension between you and your spouse—short answers, raised voices, emotional distance—it’s hard to find peace, let alone flourish.

If your interactions with your kids feel more reactive than intentional, or you haven’t had a moment to just be with them, that starts to wear on your heart. And let’s be honest, when our time with the Lord is missing or rushed, our roots feel dry and disconnected.

It’s like a plant—without water and light, it begins to wilt. Same with us.

But here’s what I’ve learned: even when the environment isn’t ideal, small changes make a big difference. A five-minute tidy-up. A deep breath before reacting. A whispered prayer over the dishes. A cup of coffee and one Psalm.

Sometimes the soil is rocky, but roots still grow deep when they’re searching for the Living Water.

Before we dive into the practical, let’s be honest—chaos isn’t always external. Sometimes it’s the storm swirling inside us that makes everything harder. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to wait for calm to grow in grace.

When Chaos Takes Over: Learning to Flourish Anyway

This year did not go as planned. We didn’t set out to homeschool. My son and I are two totally different creatures—he’s free as a bird; I’m “let’s get it done and do it efficiently.” It’s stretched me in ways I didn’t know I needed stretching.

I inherited my mama’s go-getter personality: list-maker, perfectionist, fixer. And while those traits can be a gift, they also make it hard to breathe when the plan falls apart.

But here’s the shift I’ve been learning: flourishing doesn’t mean everything’s perfect. It means leaning in—even when nothing looks like you expected.

God doesn’t call us to perfect routines. He calls us to His presence. That’s where real growth begins.

How to Flourish When Life Feels Chaotic: Practical Ways to Grow

1. Start Your Day with the Word to Flourish Spiritually

I know—you’re tired. You’ve got littles clinging to your legs or teens who test your nerves. But I promise, five minutes in the Word can shift your entire day. Sing while you rock the baby. Pray while you stir the soup. Whisper Scriptures while you drive. The Lord hears it all.

And believe me, I’ve seen what happens when I don’t start my day with Him. It’s not pretty.

Even if it feels like you’re only catching tiny moments of truth, those moments stack up. They form the foundation that helps you flourish when life feels chaotic.

2. Stop and Smell the Roses (Literally)

The other day, my daughter looked at me and said, “Mom, you’re always busy doing something.”

Ouch.

I thought I was managing things well—meal prepping, homeschooling, blogging, ministry-ing. But sometimes, the best thing I can do is pause. Sit. Look her in the eyes. Go outside and breathe.

Even homeschool looks different for us now. Less “sit still and do the workbook,” more “go outside and count the frogs.”

Let’s be honest—a walk in the yard or five minutes on the porch with a cup of tea can do wonders for a weary soul.

3. Schedule Time for You

This one feels impossible. But it’s not selfish—it’s survival.

I talked about this in my hormone support blend post, and let me tell you—I know this works because I’ve lived it. I still do. There are days I’ve had to step away, close my bedroom door, and grab a hot shower while my husband takes over with the kids. It’s not a luxury—it’s a necessity. I’ve learned that I have to check out for a minute so I can come back refreshed and ready to pour into my family again.

Even if it’s just five minutes with the door closed and the diffuser going, or a few deep breaths behind the bathroom door—take the time. You cannot pour from an empty cup. (And if you’re running on caffeine and fumes… I see you. Been there.)

You don’t need a weekend getaway to rest. Sometimes, it’s just a foot soak and a deep breath in the middle of a chaotic Tuesday.

Want to try my go-to hormone support blend? Click here for the full recipe gift set you can DIY or give to a fellow mom who needs a break.

4. Connect With Other Women in the Word

Flourishing in chaos often comes down to community. Whether it’s your church small group, a mom friend who brings over coffee, or someone who simply reminds you to breathe—we weren’t meant to do life alone.

Even a text that says, “Praying for you” can reset your entire perspective.

Not sure where to begin? That’s why I created my 5-Day Devotional for Women Who Do It All. It’s short, grace-filled, and designed for busy hearts who need real refreshment.

5. Don’t Forget—You’re Still Growing

Psalm 92 reminds us that even in old age, the righteous will bear fruit. That means you’re not done yet. Whether you’re 25 or 65, your roots go deeper, your faith grows stronger, and your influence becomes richer.

And those grays? Proverbs 16:31 calls them a crown of splendor. (If that’s true, then I must be royalty.)

“The Lord is upright; He is my Rock.”
—Psalm 92:15

That’s the secret right there. It’s not in the planner. It’s not in the perfect routine. It’s in Him.

When we anchor ourselves in His truth, we flourish in ways that schedules and systems never could.

You Can Flourish When Life Feels Chaotic

You may not feel like you’re flourishing right now. You might feel more like you’re floundering. But if you’re rooted in Christ, you are growing—right in the middle of the mess.

Psalm 1:3 reminds us, 

"He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." 

This verse is such a beautiful picture of what it means to flourish when life feels chaotic—our surroundings may shift, but when we’re rooted in God, we can still thrive. When we dig in deep—even when the ground feels shaky—our roots tap into something stronger than ourselves. Our fruit will be greater when we flourish in the middle, not just when things feel stable.

And friend, God is right there with you—in the middle of the noise, the laundry, the tears, the laughter. The greatest relief you can find in the chaos isn’t always control—it’s praise. Lifting your hands, your heart, and your voice to Him even when you don’t know what’s next.

So take heart. Even if your calendar is a disaster and your kitchen looks like a flour bomb exploded… you’re still blooming.

God’s grace isn’t reserved for peaceful mornings and tidy houses. It shows up in spilled coffee, broken routines, and the beautiful chaos of raising a family and walking in faith.

You were made to flourish. Not when things are perfect—but right here, right now.

 Hungry for more Christ-centered homemaking encouragement?

Browse the Homemaking section of the blog for practical tips, routines, and faith-filled inspiration to help you thrive in every season at home.

Ready for More Encouragement?

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Remember, I’m always praying for you, even if I don’t know who you are!