Patience, a word every mom wishes she has when we feel we need it. I can’t say since I lean on the Lord now a lot more than I have in the past that I don’t yell or get upset with my kids. I’m not perfect and I know I never will be. However, what I can say, is as I have been growing as a mom and a follower of Christ simultaneously, God has shown me that I do have more patience than I give myself credit for. With that being said, motherhood is one of the most beautiful blessings God gives us—but it’s also one of the most stretching and hardest of ministries. Between the endless laundry, toddler tantrums, sleepless nights, and being pulled here and there for constant needs, it is very easy to feel overwhelmed. Therefore, when patience runs thin, we can either respond in our own strength, which can often lead to frustration, or lean on the One who promises to BE our strength. I have decided to list some biblical ways to stay patient as a mom, even in the most overwhelming times. I know these wont “cure” your impatience or overwhelming feelings, but it will most certainly help:

1. Remember God’s Patience Toward You

When we lose our patience with our children, it helps to pause and remember how patient God is with us. The Bible says: “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” Psalm 103:8. Every time we fall short, God meets us with grace. Let that truth soften our hearts and remind us that the same patience God extends to us can flow through us down to our children.

2. Breathe and Pray in the Moment

When your patience is wearing thin, whisper a prayer before reacting. Even a simple: “Lord, help me respond to this with gentleness,” can shift your perspective. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that when we bring everything to God in prayer, His peace will guard our hearts and minds.

3. Anchor Yourself in God’s Word Daily

Patience doesn’t grow overnight, it’s a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and boy do I know I sometimes don’t display this fruit with my girls as much as I should. However, the more we stay rooted in Scripture, the more we’ll be able to respond in love, not anger or frustration. Consequently, even just one verse in the morning can carry you through the day.

4. Let Go of Perfection

Sometimes our impatience comes from unrealistic expectations. The Bible says: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9. You don’t have to be a perfect mom, you just need to be a surrendered one. The battle of perfection is such a big thing in motherhood. For me, I’ve always wanted to be “perfect” and strive even for God’s love. (I know now, I will never be good enough for His love. It is graciously given to us through the love of Jesus Christ.) Therefore, give yourself grace, just as Christ gives us grace when the day feels messy. Remember, God’s strength shows up most when you feel weak.

5. Seek Support and Rest

Even Jesus rested and stepped away from the crowds to pray (Mark 1:35). If our Savior of the world needed quiet time, so do we. Take short breaks, when possible, ask for help, and lean on community. Also remember that God never meant for us to carry motherhood alone. When I’m feeling SUPER overwhelmed, I either call my mom for advice, or I text a close and trusted friend. Trust me, it makes a huge difference. As my church says, ” Life is better when experienced together.”

Encouragement

Patience isn’t something we come up with on our own, but it’s merely something God grows in us as we depend on Him more and more through our walk. Next time you feel overwhelmed, remember you don’t have to react out of frustration or impatience. You can pause, pray, and allow God’s Spirit to guide your response. I am forever reminded that motherhood is sanctifying. Each overwhelming moment is an opportunity for God to shape us into more loving, gentle, and patient women of faith. “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:2. Here me when I say, mama. God is with you in every mess, meltdown, and moment of overwhelmingness.

ACTION PLAN

1. Pause Before Reacting

When frustration rises, take a deep breath (or three). Whisper a quick prayer: “Lord, give me Your patience.” Remember James 1:19 says “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

2. Refocus on God’s Word

Keep a verse nearby (sticky note, phone wallpaper, or index card). I usually will keep one on my mirror in the bathroom or on my body mirror in my room. Here are some verses that I would recommend using:

“The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.” — Psalm 145:8

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience…” — Galatians 5:22-23 (My favorite. This verse helps remind us who we are in Christ and what we are striving to be on the daily.)

Repeat the verse of your choice aloud when you feel tension building. (Whatever verse you feel is going to help you the most, it definitely doesn’t have to be any of the ones listed. Let Holy Spirit guide you to your perfect verse.) I have done this plenty of times and it really helps center myself back to Christ and who He says I am.

3. Reset Your Perspective

Ask yourself, “Is this moment going to last forever or is it temporary?” Remind yourself: God is shaping both you and your child through this moment. Let go of perfection. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says His grace is sufficient in your weakness.

4. Release the Pressure

Step away if needed (place baby safely in crib, give toddler a quiet activity). Drink water, stretch, or step outside for fresh air. Short breaks protect your peace and help you reset with love. Even if its just for a moment in the bathroom by yourself, do it when you can. There’s no right or wrong time. All that matter is if you are doing it so you can be the best for yourself and your child.

5. Recharge Daily with God

Begin your morning with prayer (even 5 minutes). Journal or write down 1 blessing from the day before. Use worship music to set a peaceful atmosphere at home. I usually will put on my worship playlist all day long. When I don’t, I can definitely feel the shift of negativity in my mind and around my house. It truly makes a difference in my case. Remember, find what works for you.

6. Rely on Support

Share struggles with another mom or trusted friend. Ask for prayer and accountability. It is okay to ask for help. We are not meant to carry motherhood alone at all. But also, remember even Jesus rested and withdrew to quiet places (Mark 1:35). Know for yourself which position you need to take and always rely on the word.

7. Respond with Love

When it’s time to discipline or redirect your child, keep your tone gentle but firm. Ask yourself: “How would I want God to correct me?” Ephesians 4:2: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” This is very contrary to our spirit, considering flesh tells us to get angry and don’t think or pause before reacting, but we have to remember, even though we are moms, we are still children of God. He loves when we pause and ask for guidance because it not only shows US that we have a helper, friend, and a Father, but it shows HIM that we need Him and cannot do it on our own.

Final Encouragement:
Patience isn’t about never feeling frustrated, it’s about choosing to invite God into your frustration. With each step, you’re not just managing your emotions, you’re modeling Christ’s love for everyone (including yourself) to your children.

Remember, Selah’ (Hebrew word that means pause and listen) It is also the name of one of my favorite Forest Frank songs. 😉