The alarm goes off. The exhaustion lingers. Your soul is tired in ways you didn’t know were possible. Your mind races through everything that needs to be done, so you drag yourself out of bed to begin a day you aren’t ready for.

Maybe this isn’t how you imagined motherhood would feel—moving through your days on autopilot and struggling to find joy in an ordinary morning. Yet even in seasons that feel heavy, your days still hold meaning.

I found myself in a season that took everything I had. The deep weariness wouldn’t lift. I felt lost and without purpose. I tried to push through and manage it on my own, but nothing worked. One day, I finally understood: I had lost my joy.

In the busyness of motherhood, I forgot to care for my soul. It wasn’t that God had left me, but somewhere along the way I had drifted from Him. In trying to carry everything myself, I had overlooked what I needed most: a reconnection with Jesus.

If you are a Christian mom feeling this deeply, you are not alone. Maternal burnout is real and well documented. Mothers consistently report higher rates of burnout than fathers, even when duties are shared. This is not a personal failure. It may be a sign that your soul needs care.

Jesus speaks directly to this moment:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” — Matthew 11:28–29 (NIV)

He is not asking you to fix yourself first. He is asking you to come to him.

Soul care is the intentional practice of nurturing your relationship with God. It creates time and space for connection, renewal, and reflection, especially when life feels busy or hard.

This does not have to be complicated or perfect. For Christian moms, soul care could look like:

• Whispering a prayer while washing dishes
• Playing worship music during the drive to and from school
• Listening to your Bible app read Scripture while folding laundry
• Sitting quietly for a few minutes before the chaos begins

It is not about perfection. It is about intention. Soul care meets you where you are, not where you think you should be.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Daily devotions and spiritual life: where soul care begins

You carry a lot. Motherhood adds more. You’re used to multitasking, tending to everyone else’s needs, and keeping things moving. But your soul also needs attention. When you slow down long enough to rest with Jesus, it shapes how you carry the rest of your day.

Daily devotions don’t have to be long. Even brief moments with God can quiet the noise inside you. Research suggests that regular spiritual practices—such as prayer, Scripture reading, and worship—are associated with lower anxiety and improved overall well-being. Studies on spirituality and mental health also show that a steady faith life is linked to emotional resilience.

Some practical starting points:

• Choose one psalm or proverb to read each morning
• Keep a small journal for one-sentence prayers
• Use a daily devotion on your Bible app so you can listen on the go
• Set a daily reminder to pause and pray

Scripture reminds us that strength in motherhood isn’t about doing more or doing it flawlessly. Proverbs 31:25–26 reveals a steady assurance—strength that grows from trusting God, not from controlling every outcome. Soul care gently shifts the focus back to faith instead of performance.

Peace doesn’t come from having everything under control. It comes from trusting the One who does.

You were never meant to walk through motherhood alone

God created us for connection, and that need becomes clear in the beautiful, exhausting seasons of raising children.

Whether you’re an overwhelmed working mom and wife trying to hold everything together at the end of a long day or a stay-at-home mom who feels unseen in a busy house, you were not meant to carry this quietly by yourself. You need other Christian mothers, not to compete with, but to be honest with. To be seen and encouraged, even on the hard days.

A simple text from a friend who says she’s praying for you. Coffee with a mom who understands the chaos. A small group where no one pretends to have it all together. These aren’t extras. They are part of God’s love expressed through the people around you.

Research suggests that belonging to a faith-centered community is associated with lower feelings of isolation and greater resilience during stressful seasons. Scripture affirms this truth:

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:24–25 (NIV)

Other Christian moms feel what you feel—the exhaustion, the questions, the quiet longing for deeper peace. Allow someone to sit beside you in it, to pray with you, to remind you that you are seen and loved.

Returning to Joy

Joy isn’t found in your circumstances. It grows out of your relationship with Jesus. When you neglect your spiritual rhythms, joy can feel distant. The good news is you don’t have to change everything to find it again. It begins with small, consistent steps as you turn back toward Him.

Soul care and community are not luxuries. They are part of how God sustains you through every season. You have a God who walks with you and a biblical community that stands beside you.

Start with one thing. A whispered prayer. A single verse. A five-minute walk where you talk with God. Let that be enough for today. Then do it again tomorrow.

For Christian moms, caring for your soul isn’t selfish. It is part of staying rooted and present in everyday life.

References

Koenig, H.G. (2012). Religion, spirituality, and health: The research and clinical implications. ISRN Psychiatry. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3671693/

Lucchetti, G., Koenig, H.G., & Lucchetti, A.L.G. (2021). Spirituality, religiousness, and mental health: A review of the current scientific evidence. World Journal of Clinical Cases, 9(26), 7620–7631. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8462234/

Ren, X., Cai, Y., Wang, J., & Chen, O. (2024). A systematic review of parental burnout and related factors among parents. BMC Public Health, 24, 376. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10840230/

Health cost sharing has grown in popularity over the last few decades, especially among Christians looking for an alternative to traditional health insurance. Because of this, there are often misunderstandings about what it is and how it works.

At Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), we prioritize transparency about who we are and how we operate. Below, we’re tackling some of the most common myths we hear about health cost sharing to set the record straight.

Many don’t really know how health cost sharing works—creating suspicion about the approach in general. Anyone enrolling in CHM needs to fully understand our sharing process and requirements so they’re empowered throughout any bill submissions.

Since 1981, Christian Healthcare Ministries has satisfied 100% of all eligible medical bills. CHM follows clear, written Guidelines that define what kind of medical bills are qualified for sharing. Any bill that meets these requirements will be shared after a member’s Personal Responsibility (PR) amount has been met.

Our Guidelines are available before joining so you can determine if CHM is the right fit for your needs. These rules exist to protect our members and steward the ministry’s resources responsibly. Members can also reach out to CHM directly with questions regarding their bill submissions.

Every month, members contribute a fixed amount to the ministry that is used to satisfy the health expenses of fellow Christians. Reimbursing eligible bills has been and continues to be a time-honored tradition for over 40 years at CHM.

Myth 2: “Health cost sharing ministries are unreliable”

This myth is often spread by people who have been misled or hurt by disreputable health cost sharing organizations. Before joining any health insurance alternative, it’s always best to research the company thoroughly to make a wise decision.

CHM is the nation’s first and longest-serving health cost sharing ministry. Below are some of the ways we’ve established accountability and transparency as a ministry:

• Third-party independent accreditation through Demotech
• Better Business accredited charity since 2013
• Nationally endorsed by The Ramsey Show
• Yearly audits through an independent accounting firm

Likewise, our CHM Gold, CHM Silver, CHM Bronze, and CHM SeniorShare programs are also designed to be transparent and understandable. Things like monthly contributions, PR amounts, and sharing limits are all disclosed up front before joining.

Because many health cost sharing organizations abide by faith-based rules and ethics, they’ve often been misjudged by skeptics and critics alike. While thoroughly Christian, CHM does not belong to a specific denomination, church, or tradition that informs our rules for sharing.

Myth 4: “Health cost sharing only works for the young and healthy”

CHM welcomes members of all ages and health histories. While pre-existing conditions are handled differently than new medical issues, CHM offers helpful options for those in need. CHM Gold includes a scheduled sharing option for maintained pre-existing conditions, and CHM Give provides a way for members to receive support for eligible needs through voluntary donations from fellow members.

Programs like CHM SeniorShare are specifically designed for members age 65 and older to work alongside Medicare. Because Medicare only pays for 80% of medical bill costs, SeniorShare takes care of the remaining 20%; saving retirees lots of money in the long run.

For larger or more complex medical needs, CHM has a Complete Surgical Care Solution which helps members find quality surgeons, secure major discounts, and arrange any needed travel accommodations.

CHM also offers a Cancer Care Solution. It’s designed to simplify the treatment process, offer spiritual encouragement, save money, and get you the right care with the right provider. This makes health cost sharing an option not just for the young or those with a clean bill of health.

Myth 5: “Health cost sharing ministries can’t help you with prescriptions”

CHM shares eligible, incident-related prescription medications according to program Guidelines. While the initial eligible 90-day prescription supply can be shared for, members also have access to CHM’s Prescription Care Solution after the first 90 days. This connects members to different tools to help find coupons, generic brands, and the cheapest prices near you.

Additionally, members have access to our Virtual Care Solution through HealthTap, making it easier to receive primary care and get a prescription for many common needs without an in-person appointment.

CHM’s financial and spiritual support isn’t a myth

While lots of misinformation about health cost sharing exists, there are real reasons why so many Christians trust it as a viable solution. For singles, families, and retirees, CHM’s affordable programs are a great alternative to health insurance. If you want to see how our ministry works practically for believers like you, check out our member stories or join CHM today!

What does the Bible say about women? It’s the question we ask when faced with trials and triumphs both great and small. It’s what we ponder when we try to make friends but still feel so out of place. It’s the echo in the back of our minds when we see Nancy bring her famous pie to the church potluck, and we’re left wondering if we’d be admired if we were just more like her.

Our culture has a lot to say about women, who they should be, what they should prioritize, and which things they should strive to achieve. In fact, there’s even an International Women’s Day each March, dedicated to women everywhere.

However, only one voice truly matters when we consider biblical womanhood, and that’s the voice of Christ. God has a lot to say about women, their importance, and their critical role in biblical community.

Great women of the Bible

God intentionally included examples of women in the Bible to help us learn what it means to live as one of His daughters. By considering snapshots of some of their lives, we can discover practical takeaways and put them into action in our own homes and hearts.

Use this list as a jumping-off point for further in-depth study on your own, in your church small group, or in your daily devotional time with God. As you take the time to look up each woman’s story and dive deeper, your faith will grow:

Ruth

Ruth’s story, recorded in the book of the same name, gives us a peek behind the scenes of a woman struggling with heartache. We often incorporate her statements on wall art, plaques, mugs, and even purses. However, upon further evaluation, the value of her story echoes much deeper.

“‘Look,’ said Naomi, ‘your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her.’ But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.’ When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her.” – Ruth 1:15-18 [NIV]

Upon the death of her husband, Ruth intentionally decided to stay with Naomi, her mother-in-law. Not many women would make such a choice, let alone what Ruth decided to do: take a journey and settle in a foreign land. Ruth would live as a stranger, an immigrant, with no community, no support, no family connections, and no hope of a future. However, she decided to put her trust in the hope of the Lord, and what a turn her story took!

Practical takeaways: As women, we’re important to the Kingdom of God. Our choices make a difference in the lives of those around us – but it can also change the course of history. We can take chances when God is calling us to move forward in faith. When we obey His voice, He is faithful to lead us and build community around us.

Esther

The story of Esther, also found in the biblical book of the same name, demonstrates to us that God cares for His people and is faithful to rescue us even when hope seems lost.

“When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, he sent back this answer: ‘Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?’” – Esther 4:12-14 [NIV]

Esther didn’t want to approach the king on behalf of her people. She was full of fear and doubt, concerned that her position, and even her life itself, would be taken from her. She’d already been through a lot of pain, having been orphaned at a young age. Later, she was also taken from the only family she knew to see if she’d be worthy enough to become the king’s wife. Now, with a stable position in life, she was faced with an impossible choice: approach the king to save her people’s lives or try to keep her stable position. At the urging of Mordecai, she decided to take the risk.

Practical takeaways: As women, we’re intentionally placed in our roles: wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, co-worker, teacher, leader, and many more. If we let Him into those roles, God transforms heartache into healing. He meets us in each calling and uses our unique gifts to bring about His glory.

Abigail

Abigail’s story is found in 1 Samuel 25, showing us what it means to be a strong woman in the face of difficult decisions and delicate situations.

“One of the servants told Abigail, Nabal’s wife, ‘David sent messengers from the wilderness to give our master his greetings, but he hurled insults at them. Yet these men were very good to us. They did not mistreat us, and the whole time we were out in the fields near them nothing was missing. Night and day they were a wall around us the whole time we were herding our sheep near them. Now think it over and see what you can do, because disaster is hanging over our master and his whole household. He is such a wicked man that no one can talk to him.’ Abigail acted quickly…” – 1 Samuel 25:14-18

Abigail was faced with a tricky situation, as her husband (who was said to be wicked) made a grave mistake in insulting the future king – David. David intended to destroy not only Nabal, but his whole household. However, Abigail didn’t hesitate. She knew what needed to be done to restore the relationship and prevent disaster. She stood in the gap, approached David herself, and asked for mercy. As a result of her bold choice, David decided to marry her upon the death of her husband Nabal. This secured Abigail’s position and status in life, giving her a bright future.

Practical takeaways: As women, we’re gifted with wisdom and grace from God, and we’re called to use those gifts to seek mercy and unity. We can step out in boldness when God calls us forward.

Strong women: You have a place in biblical community

What if there was one thing that each of these women have in common? In fact, what if it’s something all the biblical women have in common?

Spoiler alert: they do! It’s their flaws.

Not one woman listed in the Bible reacted perfectly, lived flawlessly, or had every aspect of their heart and home in order. Far from it.

In fact, we see many examples of women who tried their best, but sinned. We see examples of women who were misguided or intentionally chose harder paths. We see examples of women who faced trauma, abuse, anxiety, brokenness, homelessness, and heartache. We also see snapshots of women’s lives where it seemed like they made good choices, however, it’s important to remember that we truly only see one story out of the entire tapestry of their existence.

We know there are no human beings without sin. No one, except Jesus, was perfect. This fills our hearts with hope, because we can approach God’s throne of grace through the blood of Christ. We’re not perfect, and we’ll never be on this side of heaven. This means that we’re not disqualified, nor should we be discouraged. Rather, God calls His imperfect daughters to important roles in biblical community. From homemakers and homeschool moms, to teachers, lawyers, missionaries, writers, artists, leaders and so many more, women have crucial skills to offer our world.

God wants His daughters to know how valuable they truly are. He says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made [Psalm 139:14], beautiful and beloved [Song of Songs 4:7], and that He has good plans for our lives [Jeremiah 29:11]. He calls us to be women of valor and virtue, stepping out in faith to allow God to work through our lives and hearts. As we do, we can be sure that we’ll be living out God’s call to biblical womanhood.

Living out our faith is less about perfection and more about daily commitment—allowing Christ to shape how we think, love, and act. Here are five creative, practical ways to embrace faith in everyday life:

On March 30, communities across the U.S. will honor the service of physicians—not just as medical professionals, but as stewards of healing and compassion in a broken world. National Doctors’ Day was first observed in 1933 in Winder, Georgia, when Eudora Brown Almond and fellow members of the Barrow County Alliance wrote cards, sent flowers, and placed memorial blossoms on the graves of physicians who had passed. This tradition eventually grew into a national observance, officially recognized in 1991 by Congress. 

As a physician myself, I appreciate this day. And as believers, we recognize that healing is both a physical art and a divine calling. As it is written in James 5:14 [NIV], “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.”

Doctors have a principal role in a sacred ministry of care and restoration—one that often reflects God’s heart for the suffering.

The journey to medicine: Commitment, cost, and calling

Becoming a physician isn’t a casual decision, but a long and demanding pilgrimage requiring:

• 4 years of undergraduate study,
• 4 years of medical school, and
• 3–7+ years of residency training (with additional fellowship years for some specialties)

From the first pre-med course to independent practice, it often takes 11–15 years or more of rigorous study and clinical training before a young doctor truly begins to serve patients on their own.

The financial cost is significant, with graduates carrying an average educational debt of $200,000–$250,000. Many physicians spend their first decade after college paying down loans while working long hours for modest residency salaries.

Rewards of the calling

Despite the challenges, the work is deeply rewarding. Every day offers moments to use skills and compassion.

Some of the most meaningful rewards include:

• The privilege of bearing witness to life’s most tender moments such as birth, healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
• Easing suffering and restoring function so people can return to family, work, and purpose.
• The trust placed in physicians by patients and families—a human echo of God’s own invitation to care for one another.
• The daily reminder that healing, even when imperfect, brings hope and dignity.

Like the good Samaritan who “binds up wounds” [Luke 10:34, NIV], physicians act as agents of comfort and care in the brokenness of our world.

Challenges of physicians today

Modern medicine often feels like a marathon, and physician burnout is a growing concern. Recent surveys indicate that nearly half of U.S. physicians report symptoms of burnout, including emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced sense of accomplishment.

• Despite improvement after the pandemic, the burnout rate remains significantly higher for physicians than many other professions.
• Primary care doctors (who often serve as the front line of community health) have especially high stress levels compared with other specialties. 

Burnout correlates with decreased job satisfaction and diminished well-being for clinicians and patients alike. As a physician myself, I’ve found that this burnout is rarely rooted in caring for patients, but rather in working within healthcare systems that reduce physicians to data-entry clerks or productivity units rather than honoring the relational and vocational heart of medicine.

Yet, many physicians still find joy and meaning in their vocation. Recent data suggests that many doctors still report overall job satisfaction, particularly when their work allows them to practice medicine in ways that preserve meaningful patient relationships and professional integrity. Many doctors express enduring pride in their role and a sustained sense of calling, even as they navigate challenging healthcare systems.

Gratitude heals doctors, too

This Doctors’ Day, consider saying thanks to your personal physician. A simple, heartfelt “thank you for helping me” matters more than we often realize—especially to physicians who work long hours and carry heavy burdens.

Here are ways to express gratitude to your physician:

• Write a handwritten note sharing how a doctor’s care changed your life.
• Pause to say “thank you” during visits—genuine encouragement sticks with caregivers.
• Mention specific qualities (kindness, attentiveness, clarity of explanation) you noticed during your visit.
• Pray for your doctor privately or as part of your church prayer time. Ask God to give them wisdom, strength, and rest.
• Encourage others to share thanks! A culture of gratitude strengthens communities and reinforces a doctor’s calling.

A simple “thank you” is a small seed, but with faith and care, it grows to make a lasting impact.

A culture of care

On National Doctors’ Day, we honor my physician colleagues for what they do, and for what they give—long nights, listening ears, steady hands, and compassionate hearts.

As a community of faith, we celebrate the gift of healing, and pray God sustains doctors with wisdom, resilience, and peace. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 25:40 [NIV], “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

If you need a physician who prioritizes your care, explore CHM’s Virtual Care Solution through HealthTap for convenient access to caring, licensed doctors. Learn more by visiting www.healthtap.com/for/chm/.

With every compassionate diagnosis and restorative treatment, God’s love is reflected through the doctors He calls to serve.

References

Wikipedia – National Doctor’s Day https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Doctors%27_Day?utm_source=chatgpt.com

AMA Measuring Physician Burnout May 15, 2025. https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physician-health/measuring-and-addressing-physician-burnout?utm_source=chatgpt.com

AMA National Physician Burnout Survey, May 15, 2025 https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physician-health/national-physician-burnout-survey?utm_source=chatgpt.com.

Mohr DC, Elnahal S, Marks ML, Derickson R, Osatuke K. Burnout Trends Among US Health Care Workers. JAMA Netw Open. 2025 Apr 1;8(4):e255954. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.5954. PMID: 40257797; PMCID: PMC12013355.

AAFP. Family Physician Burnout, Well-Being, and Professional Satisfaction (Position Paper). 2023.

My cancer journey came out of nowhere, with no warning. I experienced shoulder pain, and when I went to the doctor, he told me there was nothing wrong with my shoulder. However, they decided to do an MRI to check everything out. That’s when they found cancer in my left lung, which meant I needed to begin chemotherapy.

Prior to my cancer diagnosis, we never submitted any medical bills for sharing with CHM, so we didn’t know what the process would look like or how it would unfold.

However, when we started submitting medical bills, we discovered a level of support that went beyond our expectations. Every time we reached out, we spoke with real people who listened to us. When my husband, Danny, needed to review bills or ask questions, everything was handled smoothly. The conversations would end with encouragement, reassurance, and prayer.

In fact, one of the very first things my husband and I noticed about CHM, and one of the things we are most grateful for, is CHM’s staff. From the start of our experience, every staff member we’ve encountered has been incredibly kind, supportive, and full of faith. I can see and feel the Holy Spirit at work in the way they serve.

We live in Tennessee, but I was being treated in Ohio for my needs. It was difficult to be away from home. However, further into my treatment, we found out about CHM’s Cancer Care Solution. I contacted them and they embraced me with support. They helped with finding an oncologist for immunotherapy in Tennessee and answered any questions. CHM’s Cancer Care Solution team became advocates for my treatment.

The whole process has reminded me of how the early church gathered and shared one another’s burdens in Acts. Similarly, CHM and its members are living by faith. We are connecting as brothers and sisters in Christ, and I’d like to say thank you to the members who faithfully contribute towards each other’s eligible medical bills.

Please continue to pray for my healing on this side of heaven, as well as for our family as we continue to be examples for the Lord and share God’s love. My journey isn’t over yet!

Throughout the year, CHM members share stories about the financial and spiritual support they receive from fellow believers. The impact of participating in the CHM family is invaluable! Here’s a look back at the numbers from 2025 and what you, our CHM members, made possible.

2025 by the numbers

CHM members submitted $1,557,807,000 worth of eligible medical bills in 2025. Discounts and financial assistance received amounted to $693,469,000 which was an average of 45%—allowing member dollars to go even further. That’s over 54,000 individual members who were helped through sharing support in 2025.

Members received medical bill reimbursement for eligible illnesses, including pre-existing conditions, surgeries, maternity, cancer, and more.

• CHM Plus: Over $83,000,000 was shared in medical bills for catastrophic medical illnesses exceeding $125,000.
• Pre-existing conditions: $14,707,000 was shared in medical bills for maintained pre-existing conditions. This included $11,540,000 shared through the Maintained Pre-existing Schedule and $3,167,000 which was shared through CHM Give donations.

CHM Care Solutions

In 2025, CHM developed CHM Care Solutions—specialized components that allow members to save on costs and receive quality healthcare.

• Complete Surgical Care Solution (CSCS): CHM members who use a CSCS medical provider can receive a $1,250 membership credit.
• Maternity Care Solution: CHM members who call within the first 16 weeks of pregnancy receive $500 off their Personal Responsibility.
• Cancer Care Solution: CHM members who use a CCS provider receive a $1,250 membership credit.
• Virtual Care Solution: With CHM’s Virtual Care Solution, members can utilize HealthTap for urgent care and primary care needs.
• Prescription Care Solution: CHM members can save on prescription costs by taking advantage of CHM’s prescription discount resources.

Referral rewards

Members can save on monthly contributions and Personal Responsibility costs by referring their friends and family to CHM. Last year, thousands of members earned reward credits in the enhanced Refer-a-Friend program. Additionally, 8,799 new members received a 50% welcome credit when a friend referred them. Thank you for spreading the word about CHM!

When we reflect on all that was made possible in 2025, we glorify God for His goodness and thank you for your faithful support.

Looking ahead

As a CHM member, you can be confident knowing that 90 cents of every dollar you send to CHM goes directly to help another member in need. Our commitment to transparency and accountability led CHM to become the nation’s first health cost sharing ministry to earn independent accreditation. Demotech, a firm that conducts independent, certified financial stability ratings, gave CHM a score of 97 out of 100.

In 2026, CHM is positioned to share more eligible medical bills than ever before—helping members access quality care and meaningful savings. Thank you for being part of this ministry.

Raising a family with a lot of kids comes with plenty of joy and major expenses—healthcare being one of them. Many parents wonder why family health insurance has to be so pricey and if there are any viable alternatives out there.

For Christian families who want to steward God’s money wisely, Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) offers a unique approach compared to the traditional insurance model. As a nonprofit ministry, CHM allows Christians to share each other’s eligible health expenses.

Instead of paying premiums to an insurance company, members send monthly contributions that directly help fellow believers. Let’s explore how CHM can help bigger families save money while allowing access to high-quality, flexible care.

Marketplace health insurance is already expensive for just one person, let alone a whole family. Add a spouse and multiple kids and things start to add up quickly. Traditional family health insurance is often priced per person, which means costs increase with every additional child—stretching an already tight budget.

For households with low to modest income, financial planning and family planning can turn into a complex juggling act. Many health insurance plans for families present the following challenges:

• High monthly premiums plus added costs for each dependent
• Large deductibles that must be met before coverage starts
• Limited networks of private practices and hospitals

Parents wanting affordable family health insurance often feel financially constrained or priced out altogether, but it doesn’t have to be that way. CHM exists to help Christians live out God’s calling without worrying about the price of medical care.

CHM offers flexibility for your family budget

When managing a family budget with a lot of kids, having some wiggle room goes a long way. CHM’s monthly contributions are designed to be affordable and adaptable.

As your family’s needs change, your membership can be updated at any time. If you need to upgrade or downgrade your family’s program, you can do so within the Member Portal or by calling CHM’s member support team (1-800-791-6225) to assist you. This flexibility is helpful for parents who might need to adjust their spending during different seasons of life.

Just note that any bills submitted with your previous program will be shared under the rules of that program. Any new bills submitted after you change your membership will then be shared under the rules of the new program.

Compared to traditional insurance, CHM doesn’t lock you into a fixed year-long contract; allowing you to switch your program at any time. While health insurance plans can only be adjusted during an enrollment period or after a qualifying life event. CHM makes it easier for families to pivot so they can get the pricing and support they need when they need it.

Because CHM isn’t insurance, members also can benefit from self-pay discounts, adding even more to their savings. Many private practices and hospitals are eager to work with patients who can pay upfront instead of dealing with insurance.

Having a family is one of God’s greatest earthly blessings. For that reason, CHM is committed to supporting growing families as much as possible—and maternity care is one of the ways we do that. Our generous Maternity Care Solution shares many expenses related to prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal needs according to CHM Guidelines.

Members can also receive a reduction of $500 to their maternity Personal Responsibility if they call and speak with the Maternity Care Team within the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. This kind of discount is rare under traditional family health insurance plans. Not only that, but CHM fully reimburses mothers for eligible physical therapy sessions during pregnancy and postpartum treatment up to 90 days after delivery.

The Maternity Care solution also allows our members access to a nurse navigator to help with various things related to pregnancy like:

• Finding reputable healthcare providers nearby
• Clarifying your options for childbirth
• Explaining lab test results and possible health risks
• Answering questions and providing helpful resources

Because CHM doesn’t use a provider network, that means mothers can go to the certified OBGYNs and hospitals they prefer without worrying about extra fees or hidden charges. Or, you can share eligible costs for legally practicing midwives and birthing centers. Being able to choose your provider allows families to find the best care they need without unnecessary limitations.

CHM’s commitment to help Christian families

If God has blessed your home with many children, there’s no need to worry about unexpected medical debt or exorbitant health insurance fees. CHM serves families big or small by providing financial flexibility, greater provider options, robust maternity care, and compassionate member service. Check out our free cost comparison tool or join CHM today and feel the difference of a biblical alternative to traditional health insurance.

Hospitals often present self-pay as straightforward. You get care, you receive a bill, and you pay it. But if you’ve ever opened a hospital bill and felt that overwhelm set in, you know it’s rarely that simple.

For many families—especially moms already juggling what seems like a million things—self-pay can feel confusing and overwhelming. Prices aren’t clear. Discounts aren’t advertised. And no one explains your options unless you know exactly who and what to ask. That confusion can turn a stressful health moment into a long season of financial strain.

Here’s what hospitals often don’t explain—and what you should know before assuming that first bill is final.

Many people assume self-pay only applies if you don’t have insurance. In reality, self-pay simply means you are responsible for the bill.

That can include people who:

• Don’t have insurance
• Are getting care that isn’t covered
• Choose to pay cash or pay out of pocket instead of submitting a claim

Hospitals typically start with a chargemaster price. This is the internal list of charges for services ranging from lab work to imaging and procedures. These prices are often much higher than what most people end up paying, but they’re frequently the first numbers self-pay patients see.

It’s important to understand that those prices are usually a starting point, not the final amount you can expect to pay.

If you’ve ever wondered why hospital bills are so expensive, you’re not alone.

Healthcare pricing can vary widely depending on where you receive care, how services are billed, and how you pay. Research shows that the same test or medical procedure can cost very different amounts—even within the same community.

Although hospitals are now required to post pricing information, it can be challenging to find. You may still need to call or ask for a written estimate to get a clearer picture of what you may owe.

Financial assistance and charity care

Many hospitals often don’t specifically promote that financial assistance is available, even though it usually is.

Nonprofit hospitals are required to offer financial assistance programs—sometimes called charity care—as part of their tax-exempt status. These programs can help reduce medical bills for patients who meet specific income guidelines.

Hospitals must have written policies explaining:

• Who qualifies
• What help is available
• How to apply

While these programs aren’t always offered initially, you certainly have the right to ask about them—especially when a bill feels unmanageable.

Another important protection for self-pay patients is the Good Faith Estimate.

When you schedule non-emergency care in advance, providers are generally required to provide self-pay patients with a written estimate of expected charges. This estimate should reflect the planned care and include related services when possible.

If the final bill is much higher than the estimate, you may have the right to question or dispute those charges. Simply knowing you can request an estimate puts you in a stronger position before care begins.

These questions don’t make you difficult. They help you understand your options and take an active role in managing healthcare costs.

Always request an itemized bill

One of the simplest ways to review a hospital bill is to ask for an itemized statement.

Itemized bills break down charges line by line, making it easier to spot errors such as duplicate charges, services you didn’t receive, or charges that don’t match your care. If something doesn’t look right, asking questions can often lead to corrections.

You can compare prices for non-emergency care

For non-emergency services, you may have more choices than you realize.

Imaging, lab work, physical therapy, and some outpatient procedures can vary widely in cost. Calling ahead to ask about self-pay pricing or cash pay discounts can help you make more informed decisions.

A few phone calls won’t take much time, but they can save hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.

What happens if you can’t pay a hospital bill?

If you’re worried about what happens if you can’t pay a hospital bill, here’s some reassurance: most hospitals would rather work with patients than send bills to collections.

Many facilities offer payment plans, prompt-payment options, or financial assistance. Reaching out early and asking questions often leads to a better outcome.

A different way to handle healthcare costs

For those seeking an alternative to traditional insurance, Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) offers a different approach.

CHM is a faith-based health cost sharing ministry where members voluntarily share one another’s eligible medical bills. Members are considered self-pay patients, which may allow them to ask about self-pay pricing and available options when receiving care.

CHM also has staff available to help members understand medical bills, explore options, and navigate next steps. Since 1981, CHM members have shared nearly $13 billion in eligible medical bills.

When support and discounts make a difference

One couple joined Christian Health Care Ministries (CHM) shortly before learning they were expecting triplets. Their pregnancy, delivery, and extended NICU stay resulted in nearly $1 million in hospital charges. By securing self-pay pricing and provider discounts, the total eligible bills were reduced to $600,000—a savings of roughly $400,000 before bill sharing even began.

With guidance and support from CHM throughout the billing process, the family saw firsthand that asking questions and pursuing available discounts can significantly reduce even the largest hospital bills.

A more hopeful way to look at the bill

What hospitals often don’t explain is that the first bill you receive isn’t always the final bill.

Prices can vary. Financial assistance may be available. Self-pay patients have the right to estimates and clearer information. Knowing this can turn that next medical bill in the mail into a starting point instead of a dead end.

Asking questions isn’t being difficult. It’s being informed. Informed patients are better equipped to manage both their health and their finances.

If you’re exploring ways to manage healthcare costs while staying rooted in faith and community, learning more about Christian Healthcare Ministries may be a helpful next step. CHM exists to support members with clarity, compassion, and shared responsibility.

References

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. No Surprises: Understand your rights against surprise medical bills. https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/no-surprises-understand-your-rights-against-surprise-medical-bills
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. What is a good faith estimate?
  https://www.cms.gov/medical-bill-rights/help/guides/good-faith-estimate
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. What is a surprise medical bill, and what should I know about the No Surprises Act?https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-is-a-surprise-medical-bill-and-what-should-i-know-about-the-no-surprises-act-en-2123/
• Jiang, J. X., Dunn, A., McLaughlin, C. G., & White, C. Comparison of U.S. hospital cash prices and commercial negotiated prices for shoppable services. JAMA Network Open. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.40526
• Kaiser Family Foundation. Hospital charity care: How it works and why it matters. https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/hospital-charity-care-how-it-works-and-why-it-matters/