Homeschool Prayer Challenge Week 45: Do Over Moments
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We’re 45 weeks into our series of praying for our homeschools – I’m so thankful you are joining me! You can learn more about the series here. We’ll pray about a new area of our homeschool journey each week and dig into God’s Word with daily devotional reflections.
Several years ago, I listened to a parenting podcast where the speaker shared a simple—but incredibly powerful—tool his family used: the do-over.
He shared how one day, after a stressful day at work, he walked into his home frustrated, impatient, and tense. His wife and children immediately felt the ripple effect of his mood. But instead of just apologizing and moving on, he recognized that his attitude had influenced the atmosphere of his home. So, he paused, asked for forgiveness, walked back outside to his car, prayed, and then re-entered the house with a calm and loving spirit.
It became a tangible—and honestly, memorable—visual for his family:
We can choose to start again.
We can respond differently.
We can walk in grace rather than frustration.
Ever since I heard that story, I’ve used the “do-over” technique in our home, especially in our homeschool. When one of my kids responds disrespectfully, or two siblings begin to bicker, we rewind the moment. Instead of, “Stop fighting,” I’ll say, “Let’s do a do-over.”
I want them to practice the correct behavior.
I’ll even add, “Okay… and action!”, like we’re acting out a new take in a movie.
Kids who are determined to stay mad can’t usually hold onto it when everyone is smiling (and they usually all end up smiling).
That second chance diffuses tension, softens hearts, and gives space for humility and learning.
And honestly? I need my own do-overs too.
Do-Overs Aren’t About Getting It Perfect
They’re about practicing what Christ has called us to.
The verse I return to again and again in our home is Ephesians 4:2–3:
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
This mindset shifts the way we approach conflict:
Not as a battle to win,
but as a relationship to protect.
Jesus is our perfect example of gentleness, patience, and sacrificial love. He faced rejection, misunderstanding, and hardship—yet never responded in sin.
And while we won’t do this perfectly, Scripture calls us to continually grow in these qualities. A do-over is a chance to practice that growth.
God Gives Us Do-Overs Too
One of the most comforting truths in our walk with Christ is this:
“His mercies are new every morning.” — Lamentations 3:22–23
God does not hold yesterday’s mistakes over our heads.
He does not tire of forgiving us.
He does not sigh in disappointment every time we fall short.
Instead, He welcomes us with open arms, offering the grace to try again.
If He treats us this way, why wouldn’t we reflect that same grace in our homes?
Do-overs help build:
- humility
- responsibility
- empathy
- awareness of our words
- and restored relationships
They remind our kids—and us—that growing in Christlikeness is learned through practice, not perfection.
This Week: Watch for the Do-Over Moments
They’re going to happen—you don’t have to look for them 😉
A snippy tone.
Sibling tension.
A frustrated reaction to a messy lesson.
A tired heart.
Instead of reacting out of emotion, let’s pause and ask:
Is this a do-over moment?
Let’s commit to:
- Responding with gentleness instead of anger
- Practicing reconciliation, not just correction
- Keeping peace at the center of our home
- Giving second chances freely
Our kids will learn so much more from how we handle mistakes than from the lessons we teach perfectly.
A Prayer for This Week
Heavenly Father,
Homeschooling and raising our children is no easy task, but I know that what You have called me to do requires my best effort and dedication. This week, give me a child-like humility, allowing Your Spirit to lead me in keeping the peace in our home, especially when I don’t feel patient or kind.
Forgive me for the times I have been impatient, selfish, or quick to react. Give me the strength to show gentleness and patience in our homeschool, especially when I feel frustrated or overwhelmed. Help me to discern thoughts and actions that don’t align with Your Word, and guide me to respond with love instead.
Thank You for Your grace in the “do-over” moments that are sure to arise this week. Help me to teach my children the beauty of second chances and the importance of practicing behavior that honors You. May we all grow to reflect Your heart more and more each day.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen
Friend, you are not alone in the hard moments. Every one of us needs a do-over sometimes. God is shaping us just as much as He is shaping our kids.
Keep going.
Keep growing.
Keep extending grace.
You are doing a good work. 💛
Join the Challenge
Finally, if you want to join in on the challenge from the very beginning, make sure to sign up below, and you’ll receive a printable prayer and journal pages each week, right to your inbox. Join in any time, and you’ll start the following Monday with Week #1!
Simply click below, follow the instructions, and you’re in.
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