As a stay-at-home mom of four, my days are full of diapers, snacks, spills, and sibling squabbles—and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. But if I’m honest, some days feel more like survival than joyful service. Over the years, the Lord has gently taught me that with a little planning and a lot of grace, my days can not only run smoother, but also help me find peace and His presence in the chaos. Here are a few simple rhythms and routines that help me embrace the tiny-human circus with calm and keep Christ at the center of our home.
1. Start the Day with Meal Prepping (It’s More Spiritual Than You Think)
I used to wait until 5 p.m. to figure out what was for dinner. Cue panic, stress, and hangry children (and mom). Now, I try to prep meals—or at least plan them—first thing in the morning. This small shift has a big impact. It clears mental space, helps me steward our groceries better, and makes the dinner hour more peaceful.
It also reminds me of Proverbs 31:15, which says, “She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family.” Meal prepping has become one of the quiet ways I serve my family in love. It’s not just about food—it’s about creating an atmosphere of peace in our home.
2. Don’t Save Cleanup for the End of the Day
I used to ignore the messes as they piled up, convincing myself I’d do a “deep clean” after bedtime. But by then, I’d be exhausted, and the mess felt overwhelming. Now, I try to clean as we go—a quick tidy-up after meals and activities and wiping counters throughout the day.
This habit helps keep chaos from overtaking our space and teaches my kids that stewardship matters. God is a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33), and bringing order to our little corner of the world is one way I reflect His character to my children.
3. Establish a Daily Quiet Time (We Call it “Half-Time”)
From 12:30–2:30 p.m. each day, our house gets quiet. The little ones nap, and the older kids read, rest, or play quietly in their rooms. My husband and I call it half-time—a much-needed pause that allows everyone to reset before the second half of the day.
It’s good for their bodies, their minds, and honestly—it’s good for my soul. I use that time to get some computer work done (aka blog!), simply sit in silence with a cup of coffee and breathe, or (gasp) turn a tv show on for myself! It’s certainly a sacred pause that refreshes us all.
4. Play Worship Music in the Background
Whether we’re doing puzzles, playing Legos, or baking muffins, worship music is often playing softly in the background. It changes the atmosphere of our home. The lyrics pour truth into our hearts, even when we’re not consciously paying attention. It calms tempers, lifts weary spirits, and reminds us that God is with us in the mundane moments.
Psalm 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Playing worship music helps me keep that posture of praise throughout the day and leads to spontaneous dance parties to break out through the day. It’s a win-win!
5. Facilitate Intentional Activities for the Kids
I’ve learned that a little planning on my part can prevent a lot of mischief. I try to rotate through activities that keep my kids engaged—crafts, puzzles, sensory bins, nature walks, or simple games. This doesn’t mean I entertain them all day long, but I do try to set up the environment for success.
When their hands and minds are busy with good things, they’re less likely to find their own (less productive) adventures. And it gives me moments to sit with them, be present, and speak life and love into their hearts.
Other Grace-Filled Habits That Help:
- Start the day with prayer and the Word (even if it’s just a few verses while brushing your teeth or on the toilet (no joke)—God meets us in the small moments).
- Get outside daily, even if just for a walk or playtime in the yard. Fresh air does wonders!
- Ask for help when you need it. You weren’t meant to do this alone!
- Speak truth over your home. Declare God’s promises, even when it feels like chaos.
Motherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. The presence of God in us, and our presence with our families. When we invite Jesus into our daily rhythms, He meets us in the mess. He brings joy to the ordinary and strength to the weary.
If you’re in the thick of it, mama, know this: God sees you. You’re not just managing a household—you’re building the Kingdom, one snack time, one prayer, and one heart-shaping moment at a time.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…” (Colossians 3:23)
