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We’ve all been there, the first day of school hits like a double-shot espresso you didn’t order. The backpacks are stuffed (but did we pack the lunch?), the alarm feels way too early, and someone’s crying, possibly you, possibly the kid.

Here’s the good news: God’s got this. He’s not pacing the hallways wondering if you can handle the car line or the new drop-off rules. He’s already ahead of you, smoothing out the rough spots and walking your little one into that classroom, even if you can’t.

So breathe. Give yourself grace. You don’t have to have it all figured out today. This is a slow ease-in, not a sprint. Let the schedule find its rhythm, let the routines settle, and let God carry the weight you keep trying to shoulder alone.

One day, this first day will be just another page in your family’s story, and you’ll be glad you didn’t rush through it.

We’ve rounded up our favorite devotionals by age in our Family Resources directory.