Let Yourself Rest, Mama!
Homeschool
Audio By Carbonatix
I’ll never forget a particular day back in 2006. I was sick—truly sick—and for once, I let myself stay in bed. The stuffed nose and sore throat weren’t fun, but (should I admit this?) the idea of going nowhere and doing nothing kind of appealed to me.
And do you know what surprised me the most?
The world didn’t stop turning.
The kids still did their schoolwork. I emerged from my cocoon a few times to help with math problems or find the missing phonics book. My 11-year-old made me lunch, and a sweet friend brought over homemade chicken noodle soup. (Thank you again, Twyla!) My errands? Handled by my teenage son, who was more than happy to burn my gas instead of his. Even from bed, I managed to catch up on my Beth Moore Bible study, read a bit of A.W. Tozer, and email my to-do list to my amazing website team.
And yes, I did all of it from beneath my comforter, in my coziest pajamas, without brushing my hair.
Looking back, that day reminds me of something we all need to hear from time to time:
It’s okay to rest. In fact, sometimes it’s essential.
When You’re Sick (or Just Worn Out), the World Can Wait
As homeschool moms, we often feel like everything depends on us. The lesson plans, the meals, the laundry piles, the emotional temperature of the house… it’s a lot. And while we joyfully carry this calling, there are days when our bodies—or our spirits—just need to pause.
Mama, hear this: Resting isn’t failure. It’s faithful stewardship.
Even God rested. After creating the entire universe, He set the example for us—not because He needed it, but because we would.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” – Psalm 4:8
“The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul.” – Psalm 23:1-3a
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
“So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God.” – Hebrews 4:9
God doesn’t expect you to keep going nonstop. In fact, His Word commands us to rest—because He knows our limits better than we do.
5 Things to Tell Yourself When You Need a Sick Day
- “I’m not failing my family by resting. I’m modeling good stewardship of the body God gave me.”
- “My kids can learn flexibility, responsibility, and compassion when I step back.”
- “Rest is productive. It allows me to recover so I can serve with renewed strength.”
- “God is with me in the quiet. He sees, He cares, and He will carry what I can’t.”
- “This is a season, not a setback. My value isn’t in what I accomplish, but in Whose I am.”
So today, if you’re fighting a fever or just worn down by a hard homeschool week, give yourself permission to rest.
- Curl up in your bed with a warm drink.
- Let the kids eat cereal for dinner.
- Say yes to a movie day or independent reading time.
- Ask for help if you need it.
You don’t have to push through everything. The world will wait. God’s grace never runs out.
Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents
Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners. Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer. Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!
