“Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” – Proverbs 3:6 (NLT)
If you’re a working mom who feels a tug in your heart toward home—whether it’s to be more present with your children, to slow down, or to live more intentionally—you’re not alone. And you’re not crazy. You may be sensing the Holy Spirit inviting you into a new season.
But how do you really know if it’s God calling you to leave your job and stay home, or just your own feelings, fatigue, or fear talking?
Discerning the will of God can feel daunting, especially when a big decision like leaving a job affects your identity, your finances, and your family. That’s why I want to walk you through the 7-step process I use when seeking clarity from the Lord.
This process has carried me through life-altering decisions—including my own transition from a 20-year government career into the unknown, beautiful world of home, family, healing, and purpose.
Step 1: Pray
Before anything else, pause and invite God in. Say something simple like:
“Lord, I want to hear Your voice. I want to do Your will. Please make Your path clear to me.”
Prayer isn’t a one-time ask—it’s an ongoing conversation. Let your questions, worries, and hopes spill out before Him. He is listening.
Step 2: Search the Scriptures
Ask: What does God’s Word say about this? Use your Bible app to search keywords like “work,” “home,” “obedience,” or “peace.”
Look for patterns. Do verses about family, stewardship, and rest keep showing up in your quiet time? God often speaks through repetition.
“And so, my children, listen to me, for all who follow my ways are joyful.” – Proverbs 8:32 (NLT)
Step 3: Seek Wise Counsel
Who in your life is grounded in the Word and can speak truth in love? Consult with trusted mentors, such as your pastor, a coach, or a spiritually mature friend. Don’t look for someone to agree with you—look for someone who will ask the tough questions, offer honest feedback, and pray with you. Sometimes the answers we seek are already within us; God is leading us, and we need to voice them to understand them. Speaking with someone wise and trustworthy can help you gain the clarity you seek.
“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”
– Proverbs 11:14 (NIV)
Step 4: Pray Again (Give God the Final Say)
Once you’ve gathered input and Scripture, go back to God. Ask Him:
“Lord, search my heart. Show me if there’s anything in me that’s fearful, selfish, or misaligned with Your will. I only want what You want.”
“Search me, O God, and know my heart… Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” – Psalm 139:23-24 (NLT)
Step 5: Reflect & “Try It On”
This step is powerful.
Consider both options (staying in your job vs. leaving it) and journal about how each would unfold. Ask yourself:
- If I go this route, what would happen?
- How would I feel?
- How would this affect my family, my mental health, and my spiritual life?
If fear is holding you back, think about that, and journal your thoughts, asking:
- What am I afraid of?
- Is this fear likely to happen?
- What then?
Then live with one decision in your mind for a few days. Don’t act on it yet—just imagine you’ve chosen that path. Then switch and do the same for the other. Pay attention to how your body, spirit, and emotions respond.
Step 6: Evaluate the Fruit
Ask: Where do I sense God’s peace? Scripture reminds us that God is not the author of confusion or fear.
“God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” – 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NIV)
“Perfect love casts out fear.” – 1 John 4:18
If one path is marked by peace, clarity, and a quiet inner confidence—even if it’s scary—that may be your confirmation. But if you feel constant anxiety, dread, or chaos, pause. Fear is not the voice of your Shepherd.
Step 7: Talk With Your Husband & Wait on the Lord
If you’re married, God will often confirm His leading through unity with your spouse. Share what you’re discerning. Be patient. God may speak to your husband, too.
And finally:
“Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.”
– Psalm 37:7 (NLT)
Don’t rush the answer. Obedience doesn’t always mean quick action—it often means quiet trust while you wait for His perfect timing.
A Final Word of Encouragement
If you’re feeling torn between work and home, know this: wanting to be home is not a weakness—it’s a worthy desire. God created you with a nurturing heart and a longing for intentional living. Whether He’s calling you to step away from work for a season, shift into a different kind of work, or simply slow down—He will provide the wisdom you need.
And remember: God’s will for your life will never contradict His Word, and it will always bring you into deeper freedom, peace, and trust in Him.
You’re not alone in this. Let’s discern His will—together.
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