The Kids of Integrity Challenge is finished!

Small steps from another busy mom

When I first read Krista’s post the other day about her struggle to maintain a regular quiet time with God, I found myself nodding in agreement. Before I became a mom, I had a regular devotional time that involved Bible study, prayer and journaling. Now that I’m mom to an energetic two year old who loves to have my full attention (as I type this, her little arms are hanging around my neck), it seems that my spiritual life has dried up.

My reasons for busyness and distraction are real, but I find myself feeling frustrated with . . . me. Yes, I’m often tired and preoccupied (and also busy in wonderful ways), but I know in my heart that I need this time with God. And I know that He desires it, too – that, in itself, should be enough. And yet I still struggle. I suppose I thought life would slow down or “get easier" once my daughter had grown out of infancy, but those of you who’ve had a two year old know that “easy” is not a word to describe this stage of parenthood! 

So how do I make it a regular habit to pursue God, even when I feel too busy, tired or unmotivated to do so? To help address this issue, I recently called upon some fellow moms. In doing so, I found that they, too, struggled in this area. It was such a relief to know I wasn’t alone! But these moms also had some great ideas; some had even found successful ways to incorporate a regular devotional time into their day. I ended up writing an article on this topic for Focus on the Family Canada, and I hope you might find it helpful. Here’s the link: “The Spiritual Life of a Busy Mom.”

Recently I decided it was time to cast aside my crippling guilt over this struggle and offer my sacrifice of praise – however small it might be – trusting that God will be pleased with my offering. Just as Krista mentioned, I took a small step; I placed my Bible on my bathroom countertop. While getting ready in the morning, I’ve been flipping through it, reading a passage or two as I can. Throughout the day, I’ve been praying more often – whether simple prayers with my daughter or short prayers in my head. I’m trying to focus on more than just asking for this or that, but also on thanking Him and praising Him. It’s not much, but it’s a start! And I already feel His presence more profoundly in my life.

I know that you, our Kids of Integrity parents, have a deep love for the Lord and a passion for pointing your kids to Christ. I pray that you’re able to find ways to take refuge in Him throughout your day – even if it’s in seemingly small ways.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Is this issue a struggle for you? Have you found helpful ways to incorporate daily devotions into your life? Feel free to leave a comment here or on Facebook.

Here are some related Scriptures and resources that might be helpful:

“You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat” (Isaiah 25:4a).

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant . . .” (Psalm 34:4-5a).

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

NIV Bible for Busy Moms

The Busy Mom’s Devotional

Real Moms . . . Real Jesus

Daily Readings from the Life of Christ