Filling Your Cup: A Spiritual Guide for Mothers | featuring Dana Gebo

How to Fill Your Cup with God: Faith and Time Management for Moms

As moms, we juggle a hundred things every day. It can feel impossible to carve out time for ourselves, let alone dedicate moments to connect with God. Whether you're navigating sleepless nights with little ones, chasing toddlers, or guiding teens, the challenge is real. But guess what? You’re not alone, and you can make space for both faith and family without feeling like you’re failing at either.

Recently, I had the honor of chatting with Dana Gebo, a time management coach for overwhelmed moms, and host of the Weekly Planning for Christian Moms podcast, on the Anchored with Purpose podcast. Dana shared some incredible insights about weaving faith into our everyday lives and how small shifts can create big impacts. Here's what we talked about, along with some practical tips you can start using today.

1. Faith in the Chaos: Letting Go of Perfection

As moms, we often set high expectations for ourselves. Dana reminded us that our faith life doesn’t have to look perfect. It’s not about having an hour of uninterrupted quiet time every morning (though that’s wonderful if it works for you!). Instead, it’s about making God a priority even when life feels chaotic.

For example, Dana shared how she often hears God’s voice in the quiet moments of doing dishes or taking a shower. “When I’m still,” she said, “that’s when God speaks to me the most.”

Takeaway: Be open to hearing God’s voice in the everyday. Maybe it’s during your morning commute, folding laundry, or even in the middle of the night while rocking your baby.

2. Involving Your Kids in Faith Practices

Sometimes, the best way to nurture your own spiritual growth is by incorporating your kids into the process. Dana talked about how reading devotionals with her kids often blesses her as much as it blesses them.

She shared a touching story about reading the Jesus Storybook Bible with her children and being moved to tears by its simplicity and profound truth. “We don’t need complicated messages to remind us that Jesus loves us,” she said.

Takeaway: Don’t underestimate the power of family devotionals. Even children’s Bible stories can speak deeply to your heart.

3. The Power of a Plan B

Here’s a game-changer: Have a backup plan for your quiet time with God.

Dana explained that when life doesn’t go as planned (hello, early risers!), a “plan B” ensures you still make space for your faith. For example, if your morning prayer time gets interrupted, you could listen to Scripture while walking on the treadmill or play worship music during car rides.

Melissa’s Reaction: I was blown away by this idea. “Why didn’t I think of that before? Having a plan B is genius!”

Takeaway: Flexibility is key. Life happens, but your connection with God doesn’t have to fall through the cracks.

4. Time Management Starts with Reflection

Dana’s biggest time management tip? Don’t let life drag you along.

“If you just let life happen,” she said, “you’ll get to the end of the day feeling like nothing important was done.” She encouraged moms to sit down, preferably on Sunday evenings, and look ahead at the week. Discussing schedules with your spouse during halftime of a football game (Dana’s practical humor shines here!) can also help ensure you’re on the same page.

Takeaway: Plan your week with intention. What’s coming up? What matters most? What can you delegate or adjust?

5. Small Shifts for Big Impact

If you’re struggling to find time for God, Dana suggests asking yourself, “What can I cut out?”

Chances are, there’s some social media scrolling, Netflix binging, or other activities taking up time that could be repurposed for spiritual growth. Dana emphasized that these shifts don’t have to be drastic.

For example, instead of watching Netflix while folding laundry, you could listen to a faith-based podcast, worship music, or even the YouVersion Bible app.

Takeaway: Reclaim time by swapping less meaningful activities for ones that fill your soul.

6. Practical Faith Practices for Moms

Dana shared several strategies that help her stay grounded in her faith:

• Use a physical Bible. She loves highlighting and taking notes in her Bible while following a chronological reading plan in the YouVersion app.

• Take notes during church. Writing down key points during sermons helps her revisit the message throughout the week.

• Try quick devotions. Dana recommends Mom Heart Moments by Sally Clarkson, which offers short, impactful readings for busy moms.

Melissa’s Tip: If you love physical Bibles but also want the ease of audio, the YouVersion app is a great tool. It can even read Scripture to you while you multitask!

7. Overcoming Guilt Around “Me Time”

Many moms feel guilty about setting aside time for themselves, especially for stillness or prayer. Dana encouraged moms to reframe this mindset:

“You’re a better mom when you spend time with Jesus,” she said. “If you can’t do it for yourself, do it for your kids.”

She also reminded us that we’re modeling behaviors for our children. By showing them that spending time with God is a priority, we’re teaching them a valuable lesson about self-care and faith.

Takeaway: Your time with God benefits not just you but your whole family. Let go of guilt and embrace the blessing it brings.

Final Thoughts: Filling Your Cup Daily

Dana closed our conversation with a beautiful reminder: Motherhood is mission work. When we start our day with God, we approach our role as moms with more patience, purpose, and peace.

For me, this conversation was a breath of fresh air. Whether it’s incorporating plan Bs, involving my kids in devotionals, or swapping Netflix for worship music, I’m inspired to make these small but impactful changes.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: You don’t have to overhaul your entire life overnight. Start with one small step—maybe it’s a flair prayer in a stressful moment or a few minutes in Scripture before bed. God will meet you right where you are.

What’s one small shift you can make today to connect with God? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Did this resonate with you? Let’s continue the conversation in the Anchored with Purpose Tribe Facebook group. You’re not alone on this journey, friend!

Filling Your Cup A Spiritual Guide for Mothers