You’re Not Failing, And There Is Hope

You're not the only one who's felt the way you do. Motherhood has always been tough, but parenting in today’s world has its own unique set of challenges. Hear from other moms like you, and discover how they found hope and joy in the midst of their struggles.

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We are a group of moms with stories to share.

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God has met us in some of our most desperate moments of motherhood. We can’t wait to tell you all about it, and hopefully bring you some encouragement for your desperate moments too.

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  • "There are days with my three kids when I’m very fulfilled and simply loving life as a mom. Then there are days when I’m discouraged and weary and wondering if I’m doing much of anything right! Mothering on Empty encourages the soul on those hard days and renews a mom’s sense of mission and joy when we feel unrewarded for our hard work. The authenticity, perspective, and biblical wisdom in these stories are desperately needed. With the power of the Holy Spirit, healthy community, and books like this one, we’ve got this, mamas!"

    —REBECCA ST. JAMES, songwriter, actress, Dove Award–winning recording artist, cohost of the Practice Makes Parent podcast, and author of Lasting Ever

  • "Mothering on Empty offers an encouraging perspective for moms who feel disconnected from Jesus. Ashley Durand and Kristen Rusch offer relatable stories and ways moms can reclaim the joy of knowing God during this season of life."

    —ERIN SMALLEY, author, counselor, speaker, and cohost of the Focus on Marriage Podcast

  • "Mothering on Empty is the encouragement I always needed, especially during the early years raising my kids when I felt exhausted and alone. Ashley and Kristen feel like two kind, wise friends who come alongside you to offer true compassion and practical help. It’s hard to take time to read when you’re raising little humans, but this book is worth picking up because it’s so nourishing to a mom’s soul."

    —MAGGIE PAULUS, artist and author of A Light Brightly Shining and Finding God at the Kitchen Sink

  • "A gentle, grace- filled companion, Mothering on Empty is the book every weary mom’s heart needs. Through raw stories and biblical encouragement, Kristen and Ashley remind us that true joy isn’t found in perfect motherhood— it’s found in the presence of a perfect God. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, inadequate, or just plain worn out, this book will meet you with hope and point you to lasting joy."

    —CRYSTAL PAINE, New York Times bestselling author, mother of six, and founder of moneysavingmom.com

  • "Mothering on Empty feels like a sweet coffee date with a friend. This book puts words to feelings while also providing an action plan for mothers."

    —CHRISTINA WATKINS, mother and former youth pastor, now encouraging other moms at instagram.com/raisingkindbabies

  • "Mothering on Empty is a balm for the soul that weary moms don’t know they’re desperate for until they open its pages and exhale. Kristen and Ashley have created more than just a book— it’s a hand to hold in the dark and a whisper of truth when the lies of inadequacy are loudest. This book is a sacred patchwork of stories and Scripture that will help you trade shame for grace, guilt for joy, and burnout for sacred strength. If you’ve ever whispered, I can’t do this anymore, let this book be the voice that replies, You don’t have to do it alone. Take it in slowly, like a warm drink in a quiet moment. You’ll find Jesus on every page."

    —MANDY ARIOTO, author, speaker, and CEO of The MomCo (formerly MOPS International)

  • "Being a mother is a sacred partnership with God. When the demands of parenting are overwhelming, moms can feel isolated and weary. Filled with insights and shared experiences, Mothering on Empty assures us that we moms are in this together. Keep this title handy when you want to connect with and be encouraged by others who understand how you feel."

    —PEGGYSUE WELLS, bestselling author or coauthor of more than forty books, including The 10 Best Decisions a Single Mom Can Make

Listen Up

Music is a powerful way to connect with God during the day when your hands are full of little children and their toys, dishes or laundry. Check out our playlist to be inspired and reminded of the truths that God has for you today.