"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." - Colossians 3:15
As we usher in a new school year, the calendar slowly starts to fill, the to-do list grows, and a little bit of grief sets in as we let go of the slower Summer days and exchange them for the busy school year routine. As a Mom of six kids, ranging in age from 2 to 14, I feel the tension growing in my body as we prepare for the school year ahead. Just this week, I have two Back-To-School nights to attend; my kids have three different sports practices on the calendar; one kid's doctor's appointment is scheduled; drum lessons are on the calendar for my son; I have a training for a class I teach; and we have a Back-to-School meet-up planned. Oh, and everyone needs haircuts! We are off to the races, and it’s only the beginning!
Raising a family keeps us busy. Our homes require a high level of care and investment. The good news is we are not in this work alone; God is with us, and he sees the quiet hours of prayer and preparation that we put in so those we love can thrive.
We can prepare our hearts and homes for the next chapter and all that it entails in the following ways:
1. Pray First
Our church has a rhythm of praying for 21 days in January and August. The timing of these prayer events is so helpful because these months mark the start of both the calendar and school years. We can implement the same rhythm of praying first in our own lives. Be intentional about setting aside daily prayer time to cover the new school year.
Pray for your child or grandchild’s teacher. Pray over the activities your family will be involved in. Pray for your family's unity, peace, and spiritual growth. We can seek God for his protection, wisdom, peace, and joy for the season ahead.
2. Make a Plan for the Most Important Things
I’ve found that the most important things often get put on the back burner when life gets busy! Things like staying connected with your spouse, taking care of your mind and body, doing daily devotions, or being present, not just productive, with your family. Before the busy calendar takes over, make a plan for how you are going to make time for the things that you know matter most, but won’t happen if you don’t plan for them.
My husband and I have begun setting up a weekly rhythm of check-ins with each other because we found that we quickly grow apart when life is going full speed ahead. We love each other, but the urgency of everything that must be done often pushes aside any time we have to connect. Our marriage matters so profoundly that we’ve become disciplined in how we prioritize it.
Other things, such as taking time to attend church, remaining connected to a small group, or participating in a Bible study, so God doesn’t take a backseat to your obligations, help. Planning nights at home as a family or meals you strive to share during the week are good ways to make sure you remain connected as a family unit during the busier seasons of life.
3. Be Intentional About Your “Yes”
As you make a plan for the school year its important to evaluate what you are saying yes to and remember you can’t say yes to everything! Here are some questions to help you evaluate your calendar:
- Is the activity you, your family, or your child is involved with going to add joy to your life?
- Is it a skill being learned that can be used for the glory of God?
- Is this commitment connecting you with a positive community that supports your values?
- Does this activity get in the way of the ‘most important things’ you need to invest in?
- Would saying no bring you more joy than saying yes to this activity?
Before the year starts, be honest about your capacity and be willing to say no to commitments that are more than your family can handle at the moment.
Let’s pray ...
Father,
We thank you for a new season and for all that you are doing in my life right now. I look ahead to the busy days ahead and ask that you would make them joyful days. Offer me chances to be present with those I love as we do the things we love. Open doors for strong community ties to be made, new skills to be learned, and beautiful memories to be made in the months to come. Help me to be wise in what I say yes to. Give me wisdom so I don’t neglect the most important things in my life. God, go ahead of me!
Amen.
What truth from today’s devotional is God using to encourage your heart? Share your reflection and join our conversation in the iBelieve Truth Devotional Forum.
Feel like digging a little deeper? Here is a wonderful resource to meet you right where you are. 5 Comforting Psalms for When We Worry: A Guided Reflection Journal
Photo Credit: GettyImages/Kaan-Sezer
Related Resource: The Blind Spots Hurting Your Relationships
In this episode of I Wish You Could Hear This, Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn sit down with licensed professional counselor and bestselling author Debra Fileta for an honest and insightful conversation about the relationship blind spots many of us don’t realize we have. Together, they explore how emotional patterns, past wounds, and unrecognized habits can quietly shape the way we connect with others.
Debra shares practical wisdom on how to grow in self-awareness, strengthen communication, and take ownership of the ways we impact the people we love. Whether you’re dating, married, leading others, or simply wanting healthier relationships, this episode offers hope-filled tools to help you break unhealthy cycles and build deeper connection.
If you’ve ever wondered why relationships can feel harder than they should—or how to become a healthier version of yourself—this conversation is for you. Like what you hear? Be sure to follow I Wish You Could Hear This on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
Like what you hear? Be sure to follow I Wish You Could Hear This on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
Originally published Friday, 30 October 2026.
SHARE
