Finding Freedom in Motherhood w/ Jen Thompson
Motherhood Series
Equipping parents during their child’s academic years to bring learning to daily moments.
The Parenting IQ Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org
On today’s episode…
In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Kelly Cagle and guest Jen Thompson dive into what it means to truly return to Jesus in the chaos of motherhood. Jen shares her journey of letting go of guilt, embracing grace, and finding freedom from shame—including her story of post-abortive healing. This episode is an invitation for moms to experience intimacy with God in every season, no matter their past or pace.
Insights
Returning to Jesus in the Everyday Moments of Motherhood
How moms can reconnect with God through grace, not guilt
Motherhood can feel like a whirlwind—full of beautiful moments, but also overwhelming demands. Between caring for your children, managing a home, and carrying emotional weight, many moms find themselves spiritually drained and wondering, “When was the last time I truly connected with God?”
This blog draws insights from a recent conversation with Jen Thompson, author of Return to Jesus, and explores how moms can rediscover their faith—even in the middle of the mess.
1. Let Go of the Pressure to Be a “Perfect Christian”
Many moms carry the weight of spiritual expectations: daily devotions, long prayer times, perfect church attendance. But God is not asking for performance—He’s inviting you into presence.
Truth to remember: Your worth to God isn't based on what you do, but on who He is.
2. Embrace the Power of Small Moments with God
Instead of waiting for a quiet house or a free hour, learn to connect with Jesus in short, intentional moments:
Whisper a prayer while washing dishes
Listen to worship music in the car
Read one verse and meditate on it while your kids nap
These moments matter—and they count.
3. Return Without Guilt
Many moms feel ashamed for having “drifted” from God. But the heart of the gospel is grace.
Reminder: There’s no expiration date on God’s invitation to return to Him.
Jen shares how letting go of guilt was the first step in finding real spiritual renewal. God isn’t waiting to scold you—He’s waiting to welcome you.
4. Healing is Part of the Journey
Jen also speaks openly about past pain and post-abortive healing. Her message is clear: your past doesn’t disqualify your future with God.
Vulnerability opens the door to transformation
Honest conversations lead to real healing
Jesus meets us even in our deepest shame
5. Create Rhythms, Not Routines
Instead of rigid spiritual routines, think in terms of life-giving rhythms. These may change with each season of motherhood but should center on connection:
Weekly Sabbath-style rest as a family
Prayer walks
Regular time to journal or reflect
It’s not about doing more—it’s about returning regularly.
Final Thought
Motherhood doesn’t disqualify your connection with Jesus—it creates new, everyday opportunities to meet with Him. Whether you feel spiritually strong or stretched thin, you’re invited to return to Jesus, again and again.
About Jen Thompson
Jen Thompson is a writer, speaker, and the author of Return to Jesus, a devotional for women seeking to reconnect with God in the everyday moments of life. Known for her authenticity, vulnerability, and grace-filled message, Jen shares openly about her own journey through motherhood, faith, and healing—including her powerful story of post-abortive redemption.
She is the voice behind the blog Truly Yours, Jen, where she encourages women to embrace the love of Christ no matter their past or present. Jen lives in Indiana with her husband and four children, and she’s passionate about helping moms find freedom, purpose, and spiritual renewal in every season of life.
Connect with Jen at jenthompsonauthor.com or on Instagram and Facebook @trulyyoursjen.
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HEY THERE! I’M DR. CAGLE… DO YOU NEED HELP WITH CREATING GREAT HABITS???
Parenting is hard work. It requires tons of boundaries, daily consistency, so much awareness, as well as lots of patience, grace, wisdom, and filters. Combine that hefty list with all of life’s demands and others’ voice may become louder than yours in your child’s life, increasing their anxiety, fears, and doubts.
Healthy parenting is about seeing yourself as your child’s #1 teacher, saying the right words (or nothing at all) at the right time, and having the right tools to be intentional and impactful. Guessing your way through life, which is what most parents do, is a recipe for failure, but following the lead of someone who has two decades of research-based information and fully understands the demands of parenthood is a recipe for a full life— for you and your child.
With a PhD in education, I’m here to teach you how to use daily moments are learning opportunities so you raise confident and competent lifelong learners that thrive in an ever-changing world.
Additionally, I offer workshops and keynotes on various topics to parents, educators, students, and business leaders— because the need to understand, support, and empower learners is everywhere..
