Devotional Ideas for Moms During a Busy Summer
It’s the first day of summer over here and I can feel the new rythmn we’re about to embark on right around the corner. As a stay-at-home Mom to four boys summer can have these unicorn promises of tiki torches and sand dollar dreams, but the reality of the busy summer months can make it feel even harder to get time not only to ourselves, but alone with God.
Over the years I’ve learned this, so this time I’m not entering with unrealistic expectations. I know that for me spending time with God needs to happen, not just for me but for my whole family, and so how will I prioritize it this year? Having a daily devotion has made a big difference for me personally, and I’d argue for my whole family.
While there are many different ways to go about this, I’ve got some ideas for you to keep your not-always-so-quiet time in God’s word consistent this season, even if the summer days feel long and loud. There are simple ways to incorporate Him into your everyday life and I think summer is the perfect time to jump in if it’s been awhile since you’ve made bible reading a habit.
My Personal Experience
Before I go into any specifics, the best thing I’ve found to keep your summer devotions going is to wake up early. I know it’s hard because your kids may be up later, you feel like you should get some form of summer too, but the reality is you’re far more likely to read God’s word if you do it before your kids wake. The house is quiet, the coffee is warm and your daily devotions happen without interruption.
There’s really nothing like the one-on-one time with the Lord, so for me this is the number one way I’ve been able to stay consistent with devotional time be it summer, or winter. Wake first thing Mama’s, you can do it!
This is a Tip for All!
The next thing I’d say is, keep it simple. Depending on the season of life you’re in you may need short devotions, or you may be able to look at a Bible reading plan and do the inductive method of studying your Bible, taking it slow and really learning as you go. Whether you’re a working Mom, new mom or have teens up late, find what fits for you. I’ll link some of my favorite resources below!
Time in Fellowship for Accountability
Maintaining a formal Bible study with friends over the summer can be hard, but if you’re up for it, try for salad and a study either weekly or every other week. Each friend contributes toppings to the salad and you enjoy your summer meal outside while sharing what God has been teaching you.
Realistically I like this idea more than picking a specific study to do over the summer. Things come up, people travel, and it can be hard to have a study when others aren’t committed. If everyone knows the commitment is “time in God’s word” then showing up and sharing what they’re studying and learning is a no brainer.
Some Recommendations
During my own time in the word I’ve learned I really like the Bible studies by Daily Grace Co. For this season of motherhood they’ve been the perfect amount of depth and also brevity I need. I can dive in deeper on days I need to, or take breaks and go at my own pace as the Holy Spirit leads. Each study is well laid out and a lot of time goes into making these beautiful and doable. Yes, affiliate links will be posted here if needed!
I love some of the amazing women of the faith we get to look up to these days, but I also really love that the Daily Grace studies are a Bible Study Book written by a team of authors, minus the famous names. I’ve learned a lot about the entire Bible from them, they often go on sale and I enjoy the reflection questions that accompany them as well.
The Bible teaching has always been very sound and true to God’s word while helping Mom’s find real solutions, and better yet Godly advice and wisdom while studying the word. Awhile ago when I did one of their studies I used it alongside the app which had little video devotional which went deeper and was excellent.
Another idea for your summer devotions would be to go through the Bible alongside a book like Write the Word or the Bible Journals you can find online here. I love both of these options because they cause you to read our Bible minus the commentary, but with the best support, the Holy Spirit. These options offer less guilt than thinking you need to do a big in depth study but they offer much reward.
Allow yourself the permission to sit in the word. Read it, take notes around it, ask questions. If you are looking for more insight places like the blue letter Bible do offer great commentary alongside your own Bible study.
Finding God’s Presence and Peace Amidst the Summer Fun
Remember, he’s the ultimate artist so when you’re outside, enjoying his creation and the flowers blooming that can be your time with Him.
When the kids are enjoying fireflies and summer nights, that can be a moment to look up and worship.
For all the car travel that can be apart of summer, allow worship music to turn on first and let that be your time with God.
Do it Loud, with Kids Around. Here’s Why
You may not have much time to sit and study, but you do have time to read your Bible, even several verses with a family member aloud. I promise you more is caught than taught so don’t worry about your devotions actually happening when things are quiet! Your kids will love to see you study your Bible and learn from you too. It’s all a good good thing even if you have a busy schedule, your kids, high school students too will see how the priorities of faith you’re making, and that’s a big deal.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Everyone’s different and what works for me may not be the perfect way for different people. Take a deep breath and invite Him into your summer. Ask Him to teach you and grow this year. My ultimate encouragement to you is to make time for devotions this summer. Maybe they’re around your kitchen table with your kids, maybe you’re reading your Bible aloud to a toddler not yet able to comprehend. Maybe your devotion focuses on your marriage and you’re encouraged to be a better wife. In my own experience, the heart of the mater is reading your Bible and daily devotions to anchor your soul
The quiet moments may not always happen in the summer days, but time in God’s presence still can.
I hope this helped provide some practical insights and maybe new ideas or action steps on how you can grow closer to God this summer. I’ve been on my parenting journey for almost fourteen years, but faith journey much longer. The Lord never leaves us and is always there with open arms ready to have time with us.
In the coming days pray about how your summer will look with Him. Be expectant of great things as you prepare your heart to meet with Him around the summer fun. While you’re making a summer bucket list for your family, don’t forget about yourself and your spiritual growth too!
