I found the prayers to be pretty repetitive and that they didn't offer any more depth of connection ; however I did appreciate the annotations of the Bible verses in the margins that was a welcome addition.

Parenting isn’t all matching outfits and bedtime stories—sometimes it’s cold coffee, epic meltdowns in the middle of Target, and wondering if “chicken nuggets again” counts as a love language. In Deliver Us from Meltdowns, Janel Breitenstein shows up for those exact moments with humor, honesty, and heartfelt prayers that don’t shy away from the messiness of real life.

This collection isn’t your typical devotional. It’s more like a knowing glance from a friend who gets it—the toddler tantrums, the self-doubt, the deep desire to raise kind humans while staying spiritually grounded. Each prayer is short, sincere, and wonderfully down-to-earth, tackling everything from sibling rivalries and school chaos to the quiet guilt parents carry when they don’t have it all together.

What makes this book special is its voice: part confession, part conversation with God, and part comedic relief. Breitenstein doesn’t sugarcoat anything. Instead, she invites you to laugh, cry, and breathe through the madness—with God right in the center of it all.

Why You’ll Love It:

It’s deeply relatable without being preachy.

You can read a prayer in less than five minutes—perfect for busy days.

It helps you reconnect spiritually even when your brain feels fried.


Best For:

Christian parents who want authentic, real-world encouragement.

Anyone who’s ever whispered, “Lord, help me,” while hiding in the bathroom.

A thoughtful baby shower or Mother’s Day gift that says, “You’re doing great.”