View all blog posts here or browse by category:
How to Spend Time with God as a Busy Mom
+Free Bible Study Printables+ Making time for God as a busy mom isn’t always the easiest thing to do. But, studying God’s Word is one of the most important things we can do to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Lord. Learn the key to spending more time with God, as well as 22 TIPS to help you consistently get in the Word each day.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, but it helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
I barely remember what my daily routine was like before having kids. I don’t remember what time of day I studied the Word. I know I did in fact study the Word (I have many journal entries to prove it), so my limited recollection leads me to believe that I didn’t have trouble spending time with God.
Our first child was born in 2013. I had many sleepless nights as I struggled with normal newborn challenges, adjusting to life as a new mom, and breastfeeding/pumping issues. I’m also fairly certain I had postpartum depression but was never officially diagnosed. Needless to say, I barely had time to shower, let alone spend ample time reading the Word.
Our second child came 19 months later. With two kids under two, along with working full-time, life was a whirlwind. I remember often wondering, how do you spend time with God when you’re busy?
RELATED: Finding Rest in the Midst of Motherhood
My kids have always been early birds, so that, coupled with getting ready for work, didn’t leave much time for uninterrupted studying in the mornings (my preferred time of day).
I don’t remember getting into a solid quiet time routine until our first two children were a bit older.
After becoming a stay-at-home mom in 2018, my mornings became a little easier to manage. I was able to set aside a solid 45 minutes to an hour before the kids woke up to read the Bible and pray.
Fast forward to 2020– I was several months pregnant with our third child, and between general tiredness, morning sickness, and a few minor pregnancy complications, I fell out of my morning routine– until that baby was almost one-year-old. *Sigh*
Now, that’s not to say I wasn’t reading the Bible during those times, because I was. I just wasn’t diligently meeting with the Lord each day and really seeking Him with all my heart.
Why do I tell you this? For one, maybe you can relate.
But, mainly my point is there’s an ebb and flow to our spending time with God. It’s not always going to go perfectly, and it won’t always be easy.
And, while there are numerous ways to grow spiritually as a mom, studying God’s Word should be at the top of our list.
So, let’s take a look at why it’s so important.
What is God’s Word?
God’s Word is God-breathed, divinely inspired, alive, and– it’s Jesus. Asking, ‘What is God’s Word?’ seems like a silly question. But, sometimes we get so used to having access to the Word of God that we don’t stop and truly think about what it is. Let’s briefly explore each of these truths.
God’s Word is God-breathed
There isn’t a single piece of Scripture that is there by mistake. God ordained it to be, and it is all divinely breathed out by Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Everything we need pertaining to life and godliness is found in the Word, and it’s beneficial for our training and for equipping us.
God’s Word is Divinely Inspired
Even though God chose approximately 40 different men to pen the words of the text, and you can clearly see different writing styles throughout the Bible, the words were not their own. These men were inspired by God to write the words He wanted to communicate for generations to come.
“But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture becomes a matter of someone’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”
God’s Word is alive
Our God is a living God; therefore, His Word is alive (Hebrews 4:12). God’s Word doesn’t change. It changed lives in the past, just as it does now– because it’s alive. It doesn’t need to be edited, added to, or subtracted from in order to keep up with the times. And, it powerfully works within us to accomplish what the Lord has for us.
Jesus is the Word
Jesus is literally the Word (John 1:14). He is the epitome of every truth of Scripture, wrapped up in the perfect example of love and the Savior of the world. Studying the Word is studying Jesus.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
“He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.”
Why is spending time with God Important?
When you make time for God, study His Word, and seek Him with all your heart, you will be blessed. Blessed, not only because you’re learning His Word, but also because you’re spending time with him.
“Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
Who walk in the Law of the Lord.
Blessed are those who comply with His testimonies,
And seek Him with all their heart.
They also do no injustice;
They walk in His ways.
You have ordained Your precepts,
That we are to keep them diligently. ”
spending time with God cultivates your relationship
How well do you know your husband? Your child? A close family close? I’m guessing, pretty well. Why? Because you spend time with them. You have conversations with them. You share your life with them. You can’t expect to have a close relationship with the Lord if you only pop in for a visit a few times a month.
spending time with God is personal
You need to study the Word for yourself. Don’t solely rely on sermons and pastors, no matter how good they are at accurately sharing God’s truths, to teach you everything about the Lord. The Bible is for everyone. It doesn’t have to be read to you or interpreted for you by man.
Like the Bereans, who “received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so,” (Acts 17:11), you too can read the Scriptures for yourself. Don’t worry about whether or not it will make sense to you– the Holy Spirit will help you understand what you need to know at the time.
it takes a decision
It starts with a decision. You have to decide to prioritize time for God. Making time for God won’t happen by accident or by default.
Let’s pause and talk about the fact that you can’t “make” more time. I know we throw that phrase around a lot– that we need to make more time for things– but, the reality is, we all have the same 24 hours in a day. We can’t create more time for ourselves.
The Bible tells us to redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16). The amount of time the Lord has given you is enough for what He has called you to do. And, one of those things you’re called to do is seek Him and learn His ways.
So, the decision needs to be to make good use of your time by purposely and intentionally prioritizing your schedule to spend time with God.
Below, I’m sharing 22 things that I have personally done over the years to ensure that I am making the Lord a priority in my schedule. Read through and find what works for you!
how to spend Time with God (22 tips!)
Making time for God by prioritizing your schedule is easier said than done. I know from experience. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
GET PREPARED
#1: PRAY and ask the Lord to help you be consistent in your schedule.
#2: PICK A SPECIAL SPOT in your house to study the Word, whether it’s a favorite chair or a quiet room. Eventually, this place will mentally become synonymous with your quiet time.
#3: FIND A TIME OF DAY that works for you. There is something powerful about starting the day off in the presence of the Lord, but if you’re not a morning person, don’t try to become one overnight. After a short time, you’ll dread getting up extra early, and you’ll start compromising on your study time. Whether it’s morning, lunchtime, or before bed, just pick a time and stick to it.
Morning Tips: Plan to get up 30-45 minutes before your children wake up. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, but then settle in and get started right away! Avoid the temptation to check your phone until you’re done. Make sure your special spot isn’t in an area of your house where you’ll be tempted to start cleaning or doing household chores.
Afternoon Tips: If this is your work lunch break, eating and studying at the same time can work! Just stay focused. Politely ask your co-workers to not disturb you (and who knows how they’ll be impacted by seeing you read the Bible daily!). If you’re home, remember to turn off the TV, and worry about cleaning up the lunch mess later!
Evening Tips: Wait until the kiddos are off to bed and the house is a little quieter. Make sure the TV is off, and it’s not so late that you’ll be falling asleep! If this is a time you regularly spend catching up with your spouse, be sure to talk to him before making a change to your “married couple” time. Find something that works for both of you.
#4: PUT YOUR STUDY TIME on your phone calendar or in your daily planner. Set it up as a recurring calendar entry.
#5: SET A RECURRING ALARM on your phone. This isn’t the same thing as putting it on your calendar! Setting an alarm so you can hear your phone ding serves as an audible reminder that it’s GO time.
#6: PLACE YOUR BIBLE and study tools in your special spot the night before (or earlier in the day if you study at night).
#7: GET A SPECIAL NOTEBOOK AND PEN. Ok– you’re probably not an office supply nerd like I am, but I love a fresh notebook and brand-new pens! Sometimes having new writing tools helps get you excited about taking notes. They don’t have to be newly bought— find items you already have at home.
READY, SET…STUDY TIME
#8: PRAY BEFORE YOU READ. Ask the Lord to help you learn from Him and to minimize your distractions.
#9: GIVE YOUR CHILDREN A VISUAL CUE (if they’re awake) to let them know it’s your study time and to not disturb you. Put a sign on the door, set a timer so they know when you’ll be done, or simply tell them beforehand, “When mom sits in this chair, I’m spending time with God. When I get up, that means I’m ready to play again.”
#10: HAVE A DAILY PLAN. Follow a Bible study plan or purpose to read through an entire book, unless the Holy Spirit lays something different on your heart that day.
#11: CHOOSE WISELY. Devotionals and Christian books are great tools to help you continue to grow spiritually, but I believe these should be picked up AFTER you’ve spent time in God’s Word. The words of men do not compare to the Word of God. These tools are extra.
#12: WRITE SCRIPTURE AS YOU READ, or write a summary at the end of each chapter. This will help you stay focused and motivated to come to the Word each day to continue your notes.
#13: TRY A NEW BIBLE STUDY METHOD: Inductive Bible study, Bible Journaling, the SOAP Method, studying line-by-line, writing Scriptures– and more! Find one that works for you.
#14: SET REALISTIC GOALS. Whether it’s one verse or an entire chapter, the goal is to simply study the Word! Study what you can truly absorb in the time you have.
#15: DON’T GET DISCOURAGED. My study time is interrupted by a waking child more often than not. Know what interruptions may come, and honestly, expect them. Focus hard in the time you have.
Free Bible Study Printables
Are you looking for free Bible Study Printables to help you study the Word? Now that you’ve got plenty of tips to help you get started in setting up a consistent quiet time, print these out and create a new Bible Study binder! Fill out the form below.
PRO TIPS
#16: DOWNLOAD A BIBLE APP like Blue Letter Bible, Bible Gateway, or YouVersion so you have the Word on the go. These apps have many different study tools, including concordances, commentaries, and daily reading plans.
#17: MAKE USE OF DOWNTIME. Pull up the Bible app while you’re in the checkout line or waiting for something to heat up in the microwave.
#18: FORSAKE WASTEFUL THINGS. Examine your life and find the timewasters. Maybe this is social media or tv time. These things aren’t always wasteful of course, but if you’re choosing to do these before– or instead of– reading the Word, you aren’t redeeming your time well.
#19: READ THE WORD WHILE YOU EAT. You’d be amazed at how spending just 15 minutes a day in the Word can impact you.
#20: LISTEN TO THE WORD while you drive or do household tasks like dishes, cooking, or folding laundry. Many of the Bible apps mentioned above have audible features.
#21: FIND ACCOUNTABILITY. Link arms with another sister and encourage each other. Maybe she texts to see how it’s going, or you chat regularly to share what each of you is learning.
#22: GIVE YOURSELF GRACE. Don't beat yourself up if you miss a day! Build up consistency and it’ll eventually become a habit you can’t live without!
The bottom line, sister, is that we can and we should study the Word daily! It may take a little schedule rearranging, but it’s possible. Pray, find what works for you, get in the groove, and grow in the Lord!
Do you have any additional tips or a favorite Bible study method? Share with me in the comments below!
Like this article? Be sure to subscribe and be the first to receive the latest from A Woman Created On Purpose every week!
An Evening Routine that Honors the Lord
Maybe for you, the night is your time to shine. You’re perky, peppy, and love burning the midnight oil. If so, then creating a God-honoring nighttime routine will…
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, but it helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
One of my favorite things about summer on the East Coast of the US is that the sun stays out until almost 9:00 PM. Yes, I love that long light. I love the nighttime darkness that just doesn’t seem to want to come. Even though it makes it tough to put the little ones to bed because it’s “still daytime,” I enjoy it.
While there are many things about fall that stir my heart to happiness, I don’t look forward to the sun getting low before 7:00 PM. As the nights get longer and longer, darkness fills the streets and our homes for what seems to be an infinite number of hours each day, pushing the sun away harder and harder as we slide into the winter months.
Yes, I’m being a bit dramatic. But honestly, darkness just isn’t my thing— not the literal darkness that comes with the absence of daytime light, and not the sinful darkness that comes with the absence of the Light.
You get my drift, sister?
This darkness sweeps in and tends to stay for a visit much longer the more we forsake our quiet time with God. Spending time with the Lord each day in prayer and through studying the Bible is key. It’s what keeps our hearts in the right place, humbly bowed before Him and having a proper perspective of ourselves and the world.
Even in the darkness of night, you can still dwell in the Light.
Maybe for you, the night is your time to shine. You’re perky, peppy, and love burning the midnight oil. If so, then creating a God-honoring nighttime routine will help you grow in your faith and remain close to the Lord.
If a Morning Routine or an Afternoon Routine isn’t for you, let’s talk about the way the Lord can work in the hearts of you night owls.
How to Prepare for your Quiet Time with God
Before jumping into a new routine, especially one as crucial as your quiet time with God, it’s best to seek the Lord to determine all He has for you. Walking into anything in your own strength leads to doubts, struggles, and low commitment levels. Trust me, I’ve been there– I know!
There are a few things we can do to help us prepare for our quiet time with God:
#1: PRAY and ask the Lord to help you be consistent in your schedule.
Is the evening really the time of day the Lord wants you to have your quiet time? If so, ask Him to help you block off your schedule and commit. A wishy-washy commitment to Him equals a wishy-washy faith.
#2: FIND A specific TIME THAT WORKS FOR YOU.
Since the evening is the last portion of the day, it truly is now or never. If you’ve gone all day without cracking open your Bible and spending time in the Word, the evening is your last shot. Pray and ask God for a specific and exact time in your schedule each day for your quiet time.
#3: PICK A SPECIAL SPOT in your house to study the Word.
As I shared in my Morning Routine and Afternoon Routine articles, whether it’s a favorite chair or a quiet room, selecting a place where you have your quiet time with God each day helps you stay consistent. After a while, this place will mentally become synonymous with your quiet time.
Does that sound silly? Well, think of your workplace or your laundry room. As soon as you step into that building or room, you know exactly what you’re supposed to do there because that’s the main thing you always do in that particular place. It’s the same way with your “quiet time place.” Soon, you won’t be able to walk by that couch, coffee shop, or desk without the gentle reminder that it’s time for quiet time.
What Studying the Bible Does for Us
Studying the Bible is more than just an item we check off of our to-do list. It’s an important, crucial, and necessary spiritual discipline every believer should have. No matter the season of life we’re in, we can never—let me repeat, sister— never be too busy to read God’s Word.
I shared the importance of reading God’s Word in my Morning Routine and Afternoon Routine articles. If you missed that, take a look at those articles:
READ: A Morning Routine that Honors the Lord
READ: An Afternoon Routine that Honors the Lord
But now, let’s take a moment to focus on a few things that studying the Bible does for us, through the lens of Proverbs 6.
“My son, comply with the commandment of your father,
And do not ignore the teaching of your mother;
Bind them continually on your heart;
Tie them around your neck.
When you walk, they will guide you;
When you sleep, they will watch over you;
And when you awake, they will talk to you.
For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light;
And rebukes for discipline are the way of life.”
Firstly, there is an urgency and persistence we see being given. We are to be sure to not only comply, or keep, the commands, but to also be mindful that we are not blatantly ignoring the Word. We should hear the Word, and keep it.
And not just keep it, but to continually bind it on our hearts. Continually.
The only way something gets imprinted on our hearts is for us to be exposed to it over and over. There is a repetitive process that must happen so that the Word becomes ingrained and interwoven into the fabric of our lives.
This is what studying the Bible does for us. And when we do so, God’s Word permeates our being, bringing us more clarity, perspective, and direction than we could ever muster up for ourselves.
God’s Word guides us as we walk through the trials, decisions, contemplations, and joys of life. We’re able to discern God’s promises from the world’s ways when we have an accurate view and knowledge of who He is.
The Word of God keeps us as we sleep, providing the peace that only Jesus can give us. There is less room for fear, doubt, and anxiety when the Word is bound in our hearts.
When we’re awake, God’s Word speaks to us from the depths of our souls, making plain His Will versus the world’s devices and deception. The Holy Spirit will bring specific verses to mind in our time of need. He will remind us of God’s promises, faithfulness, and wisdom in the little and big things of life.
God’s Word is always ready to light our path, showing us the way to go.
Yet, when we forsake studying the Bible regularly, we allow this light to go dim. We quench the Holy Spirit more easily. We have less peace and more doubt. We lead ourselves. All of these things happen because, even if it’s just for a moment, we’ve forgotten who He is.
10 Steps to a Quiet Time with God in the Evening
In our quiet time with God, as we pray and study, we will be drawn closer to Him. This is something to take seriously, and I exhort you, sister, to find a time of day—daily— that works for you!
If it’s the evening, here are some tips to help you get started.
#1: Put your scheduled time in your calendar every night.
Set up a calendar reminder or alarm, if needed. If you know you have an event happening during your normal quiet time, plan in advance to have your quiet time earlier in the day.
#2: commit to keeping your scheduled time, no matter how tired you are.
Know you are going to have busy, eventful days that tire you out. But, God doesn’t deserve your leftovers. Give Him the time, energy, and commitment of which He is worthy! Reserve some energy for your Lord.
#3: Realize this isn’t legalism.
Although your quiet time with God is undeniably the most important piece of your day, give yourself a little grace. If you miss it or have to cut the time short, remember that the Lord isn’t angry with you. Just purpose to do better in your planning tomorrow.
#4: Wait until the kiddos are off to bed and the house is quieter.
I don’t know about yours, but my kids don’t exactly put the “quiet” in quiet time! If you want to be able to study the Bible with little distraction, pick a time where you can truly relax in the quietness of your home.
RELATED: 22 Ways to Make Time for God as Busy Mom
#5: Know your limit.
Even though you’re likely a night owl, at some point, dear sister, I know tiredness kicks in and you’ve had enough for the day. If you tend to crash quickly once exhaustion sets in, purpose to not make your quiet time the very last thing you do before bedtime. The last thing you want is to fall asleep in your Bible every night before you’ve really gotten to soak up the Word.
#6: Communicate with your spouse.
If you’re married, and this is a time you regularly spend catching up with your spouse, be sure to talk to him before making a change to your “married couple” time. Find something that works for both of you.
#7: Prepare your study tools earlier in the day.
The better prepared you are beforehand, the more likely you will complete the task at hand (this goes for anything!). If you have to scurry around at night looking for your things when you’re already getting tired, the less time you’ll spend before the Lord. Grab your Bible, pens, journal, or whatever you need early in the day, and place them in your designated quiet time spot so you’re ready to go.
FLOURISH DURING YOUR EVENING QUIET TIME WITH GOD
Looking for a place to start in your Bible study time? Dive deeper into the Word and focus on God’s tremendous love for you in this 16-page Bible Study of the Psalms. Fill out the form below.
#8: Turn off the screens!
Unless you’re using a Bible app on your phone for study references, try to keep your phone, computer, and TV out of sight! It can be tempting to wind down at night via screen time, but leave the social media scrolling and TV show-binging until after your quiet time with God is concluded.
RELATED: 5 Surprising Ways Moms Waste Time
#9: Pray before you start.
No matter what time of day, pray and ask the Lord to reveal to you more of Himself in your time together. Ask for minimal distractions, and a heart to stay as focused as possible on Him and His Word.
#10: Let go of the day.
There are probably tasks you felt you needed to do earlier in the day that you didn’t get to. Let them all go. Don’t allow the never-ending items on your to-do list to cloud your time with the Lord. There will always be something to do, work on, or complete. Follow the Lord’s leading and keep the most important thing, the most important thing.
“But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and on His Law he meditates day and night.”
Sleep Tight, Sister
We can keep the Lord the main focus of our lives, no matter what time of day we set aside to commune with Him. He never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalm 121:3), and He is always ready to welcome you into His presence. No matter how weary you are, how your day went, or how bright-eyed and energetic you may be at 10:00 PM, He wants to hear from you. Bask in the Lord and His goodness. Allow His Word to strengthen you, gently lead you, and give you the peace you need for a restful sleep. When you rest in the safety of His care and under the shadow of His wings, you will surely sleep tight.
An Afternoon Routine that Honors the Lord
When the afternoon weariness sets in, we turn to the next cup of coffee, our favorite podcast, or maybe a walk around the block to revive us. All of these things are great, but they don’t…
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, but it helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
This one is for all the weary mamas. And, you know what– it’s for the energetic, pumped up, “get it done” mamas too. We’re all somewhere within that spectrum on any given day, and at any given moment. We all need a little boost of encouragement to help us flourish in our motherhood for the remainder of the day.
The problem is, that many of us are looking for that boost of encouragement in all the wrong places.
When the afternoon weariness sets in, we turn to the next cup of coffee, our favorite podcast, or maybe a walk around the block to revive us. All of these things are great, do not misunderstand me. Yet, they don’t fully revive and restore our souls the way the Word of God does.
In the first part of this series on routines, we focused on the early-bird mamas and how to create a morning routine– but not just any old morning routine– one that honors the Lord.
Starting the day in the presence of the Lord certainly sets the tone for the remainder of the day. But, if morning Bible study time is not what the Lord is calling you to in this season of your life, hang on! Don’t put off your daily meeting with God just because time has escaped you. You can still have a beautiful, intimate time with the Lord when the clock rotates to those “PM” hours.
The fact of the matter is that spending time with God is what matters, not the hours on the clock. So whether you have an effective morning routine, afternoon routine, or your Bible time comes hours after sunset, you can still make the Lord a priority, any time of day.
How to Prepare for Your Afternoon Routine
Mornings can be hectic when you need to get everyone up and out of the house on time. When I was a full-time working mom, my mornings did not include a beautiful, serene quiet time before the Lord! I know many working moms who have different stories, but just know that your story is your story, and you have permission to seek the Lord and what He desires for you in this season of your life.
Afternoon routines can work well for working moms, homeschool moms, or even stay-at-home moms with infants who keep them up all hours of the night. No matter what your situation, remember that the Lord is always present with us– in every moment and circumstance; during every task.
It is our job to be diligent to take our eyes off the tasks at hand and instead set aside time to focus our full attention on Him with no (planned) interruptions or distractions.
We’re talking about coming before the Lord– the Creator of the universe, the Great I AM, the Almighty God! How amazing is it that, as His daughters, we get to have a regular calendar appointment with Him, whenever we want?!
But, before creating a God-honoring afternoon routine, I think it’s essential to do a few things:
#1: Pray to find a time of day that works for you.
First, determine whether the Lord truly wants to you have your quiet time in the afternoon. You may think that’s the best time, but He may have other plans! If the afternoon is His will, then seek the Lord in what specific time in the afternoon to block off.
Whatever time of day you prayerfully choose, ask the Lord to remove obstacles you may face day to day.
#2: Pray and ask the Lord to help you be consistent in your schedule.
We all know that the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). We may truly want to be consistent, but distractions, calendar changes, and outside influences can easily throw us off track.
Pray for strength each day, so you don’t constantly give into your flesh.
#3: Decide where you will do your quiet time.
We’re creatures of routine and habit. Pick a special spot to study the Word, whether it’s a favorite chair, your car, a park bench, or a quiet room. Eventually, this place will become mentally synonymous with your quiet time.
The Importance of Spending Time with God
Spending time with God is more than just taking out our cute journals, pens, and beautifully-bound leather Bible, and doodling in the margins. While there are numerous methods we can use to study the Word, it’s not about finding the perfect technique.
Above all else, spending time with God is about communing with the Father— the One who created you, who loves you, and desires a close relationship with you. And, we can only have close relationships with those we spend time with, right?
“Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!
Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law!
I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me.”
Reading the Word of God gives us a better understanding of who God is, what He’s done, and what He desires for our lives.
As we see in Psalm 119, when we prayerfully read and meditate on Scripture, God gives us an understanding of His Word. He shows us the path we’re to take, gently leading us to take off our false, fleshly ways and leave them in the past.
Spending time with God gives us the desire to choose the Lord’s way— one of faithfulness because He is faithful.
So, sister— let’s not forsake the Father’s heart for us. There will always be time for the tasks that need to be completed, no matter how small or how significant. Yes– be responsible and fulfill the commitments He has entrusted you with; however, even in doing so, put Him above all else on your priority list.
STAY FOCUSED DURING YOUR AFTERNOON ROUTINE
Download this set of FREE Bible Study Printables to assist you during your quiet time! This 5-page download includes a place to take notes, create a weekly or monthly reading plan, and capture verses that speak to your heart. Fill out the form below.
10 Hassle-Free Steps to Creating an Afternoon Routine
Just like creating a God-honoring morning routine doesn’t have to be difficult, neither does building an afternoon routine. Remember– spending time with God is about spending time with God– not about perfection.
#1: Mark your calendar.
Once you determine a time, mark it as a daily appointment in your calendar. This will help you stay consistent and remind you to schedule other appointments around it.
#2: Eliminate distractions.
There are so many things in our lives that determine to waste our time. Turn off the TV, put your phone on silent, and vow to check emails later. Menial tasks and entertainment can wait.
#3: Understand that this is your shot.
Since the morning has come and gone, and your evening can quickly become busy with dinner, activities, and bedtime routines, this may be your best shot at uninterrupted quiet time. Sister, don’t waste it! It’s not the time to skimp on spending time with God or put it off until later. Don’t let the enemy deceive you into believing that there is something more pressing to do.
#4: Be Prepared.
First thing in the morning, or perhaps even the night before, gather your Bible and any study materials, such as journals or pens, that you’ll need during your quiet time. Pack them in your bag if your afternoon quiet time will happen outside of the home, or put them in your study spot in your home. You don’t want to waste time scurrying around last minute when you could jump into the Word immediately.
#5: If you’re home, put aside household tasks.
Lunch clean-up, dishes, and laundry can wait! Mama, you don’t have to strive for the Pinterest-perfect house in each moment. Be a little more Mary and less Martha during this time.
#6: If you’re home, make it a big deal with your kids.
Explain to them what you’re doing, why you don’t want interruptions, and give them a few things to do to occupy themselves during the time. They may distract you at first, but if you stay consistent, eventually they will come to realize that this is an important time that mommy has with God. It may even impact them so much that they’ll be encouraged to have their own quiet time!
#7: If you're home, utilize nap time.
If you still have afternoon nappers in the house, first of all— hallelujah, right?! A child’s nap time can be such a refreshing time for a weary mama’s soul when used properly; yet, it can easily be a time to get a little lazy, binge a bit of Netflix, or take a scroll through Facebook. But, I think the Lord has better things for us. This is the perfect time to spend time with God in the quietness of your house, and many times, the only uninterrupted time you may get during the day. Put God time first, then do a few other things for yourself that you enjoy in the time you have left.
#8: If you’re a homeschool mom, work your quiet time into your homeschool day!
Schedule it as a time when your children can be independent in their work for a bit. Or, make it a scheduled part of their curriculum whereas everyone, including mom, has “Bible Time.” You could even take turns discussing what everyone read when quiet time is over.
#9: If you’re at work, utilize your lunch break.
The 30 minutes to an hour of freedom you have every day is golden. Don’t overlook how much you can get done in this brief amount of time. Eating and studying the Word simultaneously works great! Just stay focused.
#10: If you’re at work, find a spot where you can sit quietly alone.
When I was a working mom, there were so many times I’d go sit in my car to read! If an alone spot is not possible, politely ask your co-workers to not disturb you (and who knows how they’ll be impacted by seeing you read the Bible daily!).
“There’s no such thing as perfect balance— the Lord’s importance should always outweigh everything else on your life’s scale.”
Above all else, Pray.
No matter where your quiet time will happen, your afternoon routine will eventually fall to pieces if you don’t pray first! Start your time in prayer, asking the Lord to eliminate external distractions, internal dialogue, and thoughts. Ask Him to help you focus on His Word, give you an understanding of the text, and a willingness to receive all that He has for you during the time.
Encouragement for Spending Time with God
Sister– seasons change, schedules change, and circumstances change. But God and His Word do not change. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He is always ready for us to come to Him. It’s our job to make the choice and decision to do so.
Not once. Not sometimes. But, consistently and regularly.
Spending time with God is one of the most crucial tools in our arsenal to help us not only grow in our own faith, but to be equipped to train up our children in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6). So whether it’s in the afternoon, morning, or evening, just choose, sister. Choose Jesus. His counsel. His instruction.
He’s ready for your lunch meeting tomorrow! Are you?
Don’t stand Him up.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ
Creating a Morning Routine that Honors the Lord
Moms, we must make time for God. Does your morning routine reflect that? No matter how busy we are, God has entrusted us with the lives of tiny humans, giving us the privilege and responsibility to…
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, but it helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
Motherhood is hard. But mama, you know what? It doesn’t have to be as hard as we make it sometimes. Jesus calls us to come to Him and give Him our burdens when we’re weary; and to cast our cares on Him.
Are you in the habit of doing that, sister?
Full disclosure– sometimes I do; but, often I don’t. Many times I get overwhelmed, worried, and anxious in my parenting. There are so many things to do, schedules to manage, places to be, and people to care for.
But God.
God can handle all the things. He will calm our hearts, give us peace, and gently lead us in the direction we should go– if we let Him.
I’ve found that I struggle with these negative (and unnecessary) feelings the most when I am not seeking Him and studying the Word regularly. This happens when my morning routine is slacking and lacking.
Moms– we must, must, must find a way to make time for God. No matter how busy we are. God has entrusted us with the lives of tiny humans, giving us the privilege and responsibility to raise them to be productive citizens in society, who fear the Lord. In my opinion, this is the most important job in the world.
Therefore, we have no excuse. Yup, I said it! No excuse. These little eyes, hearts, and minds depend on us to train them up in the way they should go.
Yet, if we aren’t taking the time to allow the Lord to continue to train us up, how can we in turn expect to have the godly wisdom and knowledge to pass on to our children?
RELATED: 22 Tips for Making Time for God as a Busy Mom
How to Prepare for your Morning Routine
Creating an effective morning routine as a Christian mom is more than doing small and sometimes insignificant things to make your day more productive. You can find a lot of tips, tricks, and articles on the web about general morning routines.
Sis– that’s not what we’re going to focus on today, ok?
Here at A Woman Created On Purpose, I feel called to equip you in your walk with the Lord. So let’s use our time wisely and focus on the things that are actually important to the Lord, shall we?
So, when I say morning routine, I’m not talking about making the perfect cup of coffee, or what music to listen to as you work out (not that coffee, music, and working out are bad– I love all of those things!).
What I’m talking about is coming before the Lord. And, since coming before the Lord is such a major thing, before creating the perfect morning routine, I think it’s important to do a few things:
#1: PRAY. ask the Lord to help you be consistent in your schedule.
We all know that the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). You may truly want to have a consistent quiet time with the Lord in the morning; but, late nights, overnight feedings, or draining schedules leave moms weary in the mornings.
Pray for strength each morning, so you don’t constantly give into your flesh.
#2: Decide where you will do your quiet time.
Pick a special spot in your house to study the Word, whether it’s a favorite chair or a quiet room. Eventually, this place will become mentally synonymous with your quiet time.
#3: Find a time of day that works for you.
Since you’re reading the “Morning Routines” article, I’m assuming you’ve chosen the morning (or you’re entertaining the idea!).
There is something powerful about starting the day off in the presence of the Lord, but if you’re not a morning person, don’t try to become one overnight. You can check out the next two parts of this series to learn about Afternoon Routines and Evening Routines.
Whatever time of day you prayerfully choose, ask the Lord to remove obstacles you may face day to day.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. ”
The Importance of Morning Routines for Moms
Our days need to be hemmed and wrapped in prayer. I don’t know about you, but my 24 hours seem longer, harder, and more tiresome when I forsake my time with the Lord.
If we want a day where we are keeping the Lord and His Word first and foremost in our minds, then we need to put the Lord first and foremost in our schedule.
Seeking the Lord first puts our minds in the right framework. We can give our control, worries, schedule, and hearts to the Lord when we seek Him first. Also, we can do a better job of mentally preparing for the day when we allow ourselves to bask in His glory with the sunrise.
When we wholly give ourselves over to Him first thing, we’re less likely to take ourselves back into our own control throughout the day.
Bible verses about morning prayer
Although we can seek the Lord at any time of day (and we should!) there is something encouraging about seeking the Lord in the morning. It is like wrapping the day up in a protective covering and shield, powered by the Lord. If you’re looking for Bible verses about morning prayer and seeking the Lord first, be inspired by these:
My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; In the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up. (Psalm 5:3 NKJV)
Let me hear in the morning of Your steadfast love, for in You I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul. (Psalm 143:8 ESV)
I rise before dawn and cry for help; I hope in Your words. (Psalm 119:147 ESV)
But I will sing of Your strength; I will sing aloud of Your steadfast love in the morning. For You have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress. (Psalm 59:16 ESV)
But I, O Lord, cry to You; in the morning my prayer comes before You. (Psalm 88:13 ESV)
10 Uncomplicated Steps to Creating a Productive Morning Routine
So, sister– let’s get into it! Your morning routine may look different than mine, but there are some basic things we can all do to create the ultimate morning routine for ourselves.
“If we want a day where we are keeping the Lord and His Word first and foremost in our minds, then we need to put the Lord first and foremost in our day.”
#1: Determine how much time you’d like to spend before the Lord.
There is no right or wrong answer to this! Set a loose goal for how much time you’d like to spend praying and in the Word. Be gracious with the amount of time, knowing that there will likely be things that cut the time shorter than you prefer.
#2: Set your alarm for at least 45 minutes before your children wake up.
Be sure to account for the timeframe you determined in Step #1, so you may need more than 45 minutes.
When we allow our children to be our alarm clock, we set ourselves up to begin the day frazzled. Not that our children are a constant cause of stress (!), but we as mothers need to remember that first, even before our motherhood, we are a daughter of God.
We need time to be His daughter, alone, before engaging in our role as a mom.
#3: Pray the night before.
If you’ve ever been a morning workout person, you know that one of the things that can help to ensure you follow through with your morning exercise is to set out your workout clothes the night before. I’ve even heard people say they sleep in their workout clothes!
The idea is that you need to determine the night before the things you will do in the morning. Thankfully as Christians, we have the power of the Holy Spirit to help us be accountable; we don’t have to do this in our own strength.
Before going to bed, say a short prayer, asking the Lord to give you strength and mental clarity in the morning, and to help you uphold your commitment to meeting with Him.
#4: Get up!
Don’t you dare hit that snooze button, sister! Turn your alarm ringtone to something that sounds pleasant and invigorating, and puts a smile on your face. Get up and get moving.
#5: Don’t waste time doing unnecessary tasks.
I love starting my day with a cup of coffee, but I don’t want it to be an extra chore in the morning. I typically prep the coffee maker the night before, so that at the crack of dawn, I only have to hit a button or two to get the joe flowing.
I also give you permission to ignore the leftover dishes in the sink, the room that needs tidying up, and the looming to-do list. It’s not time for that yet! First thing in the morning is primetime for the Lord.
#6: Hold off on the electronics.
I have Bible apps on my phone that I use during my study time, but other than that, all other apps are avoided until my time with the Lord is done. Do your best to ignore email and social media notifications. Don’t even open the apps– we all know how easy it is to get sucked into the digital world!
Outside media has a way of heavily distracting us from focusing on the Lord– not just in the morning, but throughout the day. Be mindful that you aren’t wasting your precious quiet time reading about everyone else’s life on Facebook or responding to emails. There is always time for that later.
#7: Prepare your study materials the night before.
Could you imagine diligently popping out of bed when the alarm clock rings, getting your coffee in a jiffy and eliminating all distractions– only to waste 15 minutes gathering your necessary study tools?
Whether it’s just your Bible (which is enough!), or your Bible along with a journal, pens, highlighters or study guides– place your study tools in your quiet time area the night before. Having everything ready to go removes the need to scurry around for it in the morning.
get the most out of your study time
Download this set of FREE Bible Study Printables to assist you during your quiet time! This 5-page download includes a place to take notes, create a weekly or monthly reading plan, and to capture verses that speak to your heart. Fill out the form below.
The less you feel you have to work to put your morning routine into motion, the more you’ll be motivated to stick with it.
#8: Pray before you get started.
This may seem obvious, but don’t miss it! Not only should you pray over what you’ll be reading and that the Lord will give you wisdom and understanding of His Word, but it’s also a good idea to pray over your morning routine itself.
Do you struggle with being extra tired as you read? Does your mind start to wander as you pray? Are you looking at the words of Scripture on the page, but mentally preparing your grocery list at the same time?
Pray and ask the Lord to give you undistracted (internally and externally) peace and quiet as you study.
And can I share a secret? I even pray that the Lord would keep my children asleep until I’m finished with what He wants me to read that morning!
#9: Focus. Focus. Focus.
Purpose to sit and be still for the entirety of your study time. I know your coffee needs warming. What was that noise upstairs, anyway? Ooops, there were clothes left in the washer last night that needed to be placed in the dryer. What time is that appointment, again?
All of those things can wait. The more you get up and interrupt yourself, the less you are soaking in what the Lord has for you. Your morning routine is not the time to multitask. Focus on hearing from the Lord, not on your present circumstances.
So, finish reading the verse, the passage, or the chapter. Whatever you felt led to study that morning, be diligent to stay put until you do so.
#10: Help your children start their day with the Lord.
You’ve just spent ample time with the Lord, and now your little blessings are awake. Will you forget everything the Lord revealed to you, or could you pass it along?
If appropriate, share a few truths with your little ones as they begin their day. Whether this is casually over breakfast, or in a devotional-type setting, getting your children in the habit of thinking about the Lord first and foremost sets them up to have their own quiet times as they get older.
Plus, we all know the best way to imprint what you’ve just learned is to not only take action on it, but to also teach it to someone else.
RELATED: How to Purposely Pray Over Your Children
Morning Routine: Bonus Thoughts for Working Moms
The 10 Tips above are coming from my perspective as a current, stay-at-home mom. I understand that it sounds easier said than done, depending on the number of children you have and their ages, and whether you work full-time or part-time, out of the house, or at home.
I remember how differently my morning routine looked when I was a mom working full-time, with two kids under the age of 4.
#1: Consider the Lord’s wisdom
For my working sisters, please know that although your mornings are probably busier, as you also must prepare for your day away from your children, the Lord will give you the wisdom to know how you can make spending time with Him a priority.
#2: Prior Proper Planning
Perhaps you do the bulk of your work-day preparation the night before:
Pick out your outfit (and your little one’s)
Shower
Prep and pack certain components of your lunch and school lunches
Pack the diaper bag
Prep the coffee maker
Maybe you have to get up an extra 20 minutes earlier to account for the time it takes to get dressed and do your hair and makeup; however, if many of these time-wasting tasks are handled the night before, you have much less to do in the morning!
#3: continue to converse with the lord
Work schedules can change, whether you have meetings or events; morning schedules can change when children are sick. But, as you continue to seek the Lord, you will see ways to make a productive morning routine possible. He’ll show you things you can change, adjust, or cut out so that He can be a priority.
The fact is that God wants us to seek Him and keep His Word, and He promises that those who do will be blessed (Psalm 119:2). Therefore, if you genuinely want to make the Lord a priority in your day, He will help you establish this time and sustain you through it.
“Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with their whole heart.”
Sister, we’ve got this.
As we work to set up a productive morning routine, please remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect. Things will arise. There will be unavoidable emergencies. Children will wake up a bit too early. You’ll get sick one morning and decide to stay in bed to get more rest.
Give yourself grace— because God does. He is always there, whether you missed your morning quiet time or not. He doesn’t move farther away throughout the day. He is waiting patiently for you to come to Him, seek Him, and spend time with Him.
So, although obstacles may come– don’t purposely stand Him up. Don’t leave Him hanging, sis. He’s your first love and He deserves to be honored.
Remembering that it’s all about Him, and not our perfect morning flow can help us start and stick with a morning routine that pleases and glorifies Him.