Motherhood is a beautiful, joy-filled journey, but let’s be honest—it can also be so exhausting. The never-ending to-do lists, sleepless nights, and constant demands can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Some days, it feels like true rest is impossible.
But here’s the good news: God invites you to find rest—not just physical rest, but deep, soul-refreshing rest—even in the midst of the chaos.
If you’re feeling worn out, this post is for you, mama.
Let’s talk about how to embrace God’s rest, even in the busiest seasons of motherhood.
1. Redefining Rest: It’s More Than Just Sleep
When we think of rest, we often think of sleep or taking a break from responsibilities. While those things are important, the rest that God offers goes beyond just physical relaxation. True rest is about finding peace, renewal, and strength in God, no matter what’s happening around you.
Jesus said:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Rest isn’t about escaping your responsibilities—it’s about learning to carry them with God’s help. When we lean on Him, we don’t have to do everything in our own strength.
Ask yourself:
- Am I trying to do everything on my own, or am I relying on God?
- What’s stealing my sense of peace and rest right now?
2. Create Small Moments of Stillness
Let’s be real—some seasons of motherhood are so busy that finding an hour for yourself feels impossible. But rest doesn’t always have to mean long, uninterrupted time alone (though that’s wonderful when you can get it!). Instead, look for small moments where you can pause and breathe throughout your day.
Practical Ways to Find Stillness:
- Morning Surrender – Start your day with a short prayer, even if it’s just whispering, “Lord, give me strength today.”
- Open your Bible – Being in God’s Word daily (especially multiple times) can truly calm our soul and give us rest IN Jesus. There’s no peace like God’s Word. (My favorite bible right now is the rose gold journaling bible from She Reads Truth in CSB version.)
- Pause Before Responding – When frustration rises, take a deep breath before reacting. Ask God for patience and self-control.
- Step Outside – A few minutes of fresh air can reset your mind and heart, the outdoors is full of God’s creations right in front of our eyes.
- Turn Everyday Tasks Into Worship – Listen to worship music while doing dishes or folding laundry. Dance around the house with the kids while vacuuming.
- Deep Breaths – Pause for five deep breaths when the chaos feels overwhelming. Close your eyes and put your hands over your heart and ground yourself in your heartbeat.
Even five minutes of quiet can make a difference when you intentionally use that time to center your heart on God.
Have I locked myself in the bathroom to get a few minutes of peace and quiet? Absolutely. I also let my kids know that I need a few moments to myself. When I started this habit, it took a few times for my kids to understand how much I needed it. But now they respect it and know to behave as well after many attempts of repeating this.
3. Let Go of the Pressure to Do It All
As moms, we often feel like we have to do everything—keep the house spotless, cook perfect meals, plan enriching activities, and never fall behind. But God never called us to be perfect; He called us to be faithful.
If your plate feels too full, it’s time to release the unrealistic expectations and focus on what truly matters.
Ask yourself:
- What things am I holding onto that I could let go of?
- Am I putting unnecessary pressure on myself?
- What are the top 3 priorities that matter most right now?
Give yourself permission to say no to the unnecessary and focus on what brings peace instead of stress.
4. Lean Into God’s Presence
True rest doesn’t come from getting everything done—it comes from spending time with God. He is our ultimate source of peace, strength, and renewal.
When you feel overwhelmed, turn to Him. Pray, read Scripture, and remind yourself of His promises. Even if it’s just a few moments, those moments can refresh your soul in ways nothing else can.
Verses to Meditate On:
📖 “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” – Isaiah 40:29
📖 “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
📖 “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14
I’ve written Tenderhearted Prayers for Overwhelmed and Busy Moms to help moms connect with Jesus often and ask for true rest in the midst of all the chaos.
5. Rest Looks Different in Every Season
Some seasons of motherhood are more demanding than others. When you have a newborn, your rest may look like choosing a nap over housework. It may look like going outside for a walk with the baby in the stroller or strapped to you. It may look like laying on the floor while the baby is having tummy time.
When you have older kids, it might mean setting boundaries for quiet time like I mentioned above. Our children have to learn to respect us and our requests. Yes it takes time, yes it takes several times of repeating the habit and talking with your kids to have them understand and obey. But it is so worth it.
Instead of longing for an ideal version of rest, ask God to help you embrace rest in the season you’re in. Part of our problems as moms is expecting so much of ourselves and feeling like others expect so much of us too. But we HAVE to start putting our well-being as a priority also. I don’t mean putting ourselves before our families, husbands or children. What I mean is we see it as equally important as caring for our family.
We have to accept that rest looks different for everyone and in all different stages of life. We also need to accept that we need rest. It’s not a badge of honor to drain ourselves to a point of extreme exhaustion. Tired doesn’t feel good and we know it.
Final Encouragement: You Are Not Alone
If you’re struggling to find rest, know that God sees you, loves you, and wants to carry your burdens. He doesn’t expect you to have it all together—He just asks you to trust Him.
So take a deep breath. Release the pressure. Rest in His presence, knowing that He is with you in every messy, beautiful moment of motherhood. 💕
What Helps You Find Rest?
Do you have a favorite way to pause and recharge during the day? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear from you! 💬✨
