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Autumn (AKA The Season of The Pumpkin Spice Girls): A Devotional for the Imperfect Christian Mom


Blonde woman laying across orange sofa looking at her phone

Happy Autumn, Psalm Mom! The air is crisp, the leaves are bursting with color, and it’s officially Pumpkin Spice Girls Season. Yep. It’s the time of year when everything feels cozy, the chunky sweaters come out, and Instagram is flooded with flawless family pictures in front of haystacks and stacked pumpkins at sunset. But hold up for a sec. Before you get lost in the sea of “perfect” autumn moments, let’s take a step back and chat about what really matters—like being accepted by God just as you are.




The Autumn Vibes Are Real


Let’s paint a picture here. You step outside, and there’s that delightful chill in the air that makes you want to wrap yourself in a blanket, sip something pumpkin-flavored, and scroll through your feed. The trees are like nature’s Instagram filter—bright reds, burnt oranges, and yellows that would make even the best graphic designer jealous. And then there’s the layering of clothes! Finally, you can rock that oversized sweater that’s both comfy and stylish. Who needs a fashion show when you’ve got layers, right?


As we all know, this season also brings about a bit of a competition, especially in the world of social media. Everyone seems to have the perfect family photo: smiling kids in matching flannel, parents with that effortless, “we just threw this together” vibe, and the pumpkins! Oh, the pumpkins! It’s enough to make anyone wonder if they’re doing life all wrong.




The Pressure of Perfection


Here’s the kicker: while scrolling through those picture-perfect moments, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison. You start to feel like you’re living in a Pinterest fail rather than an Instagram highlight reel. But here’s the truth—those photos don’t capture the chaos behind the scenes. They don’t show the toddler tantrum or the husband who forgot to put on his “autumnal” shirt until the last minute.


Let’s remember a little something from the Good Book. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” You are wonderfully made just as you are, with your own quirks, flaws, and that one kid who refuses to wear matching outfits.




A Divine Perspective on Perfection


When we start to feel the pressure to be “Instagram perfect,” it’s important to center ourselves in the truth of who we are in God’s eyes. Romans 15:7 (NIV) says, “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Let’s unpack that: you are accepted by God—no filters required. He loves you in your cozy socks and messy bun just as much as He loves those polished family photos.


So when you see that perfect pumpkin patch photo, remember: it’s just a snapshot, not the whole story. Behind every curated image is a world that’s messy, unpredictable, and downright real. And guess what? That’s exactly how God designed it.




Embrace the Cozy Chaos


This autumn, let’s make a pact to embrace the cozy chaos instead of the curated perfection. When you’re out at the pumpkin patch, don’t stress if your kids are less than cooperative. Snap those candid shots of the eye rolls and mischief. Those will be the memories that last, the stories you’ll laugh about during Thanksgiving dinner.


And if you find yourself comparing your life to those polished images, remember Psalm 139:14 (NIV): “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” You are a masterpiece, not a mere filter!




Time for Real Connections


As the season unfolds, let’s focus on what really matters: connection. Gather with friends and family, and enjoy the beautiful messiness of it all. Host a cozy bonfire, share your favorite pumpkin spice recipes, and take pictures that capture the essence of your time together—even if they’re not Instagram-worthy. Those moments will be the ones you treasure forever.


And here’s the kicker: the more we lean into our authentic selves, the more we create space for others to do the same. When you share your unfiltered life, it opens the door for genuine connections, and that’s where the magic happens.




Closing Prayer


Dear Heavenly Father,


Thank you for the gift of autumn—the vibrant colors, the cool air, and the cozy moments we share with loved ones. Help us to remember that we are accepted by You just as we are, without needing to be perfect. When we feel the pressure to compare ourselves to others, remind us of our unique beauty and worth in Your eyes.

Guide us to cherish our authentic experiences and create lasting memories that celebrate our true selves. Help us to embrace the messiness of life and find joy in every moment.


In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.


So go ahead, enjoy the Pumpkin Spice Girl Season! Embrace the cozy chaos, take those family photos, and celebrate the wonderful, imperfect journey that is your life—just do it authentically, Psalm Mom. Happy autumn! 🍂🎃✨

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