Motherhood Reminds Me How Much I Need Jesus

In: Faith, Motherhood
Mother holding baby in nursery, color photo

Parenting is not only about the work it takes to raise up a child, but it’s also about continuing the work of being raised in Christ. Stripping back our innermost layers of selfishness and laying our pride exposed. Seeing ourselves as the center of our own personal schedule is no longer an option. Feeling like we have power over anything quickly vanishes into thin air. Parenthood pushes us to surrender and accept God’s sovereign control. Parenting sanctifies us.  Parenting shows us our sinful attitudes. When plans are ruined, when another blowout spoils the perfect outfit you chose, when your toddler...

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In the Hardest Moments of Motherhood, I’m Reminded to Look Up

In: Faith, Motherhood

It’s 3:00 in the afternoon, and you know the scene—I step on a tiny Barbie shoe as I’m walking to the sink. I shove it to the side with my foot and release a heavy sigh. I momentarily think about picking it up, but my back is aching from bending down to gather up treasures all morning. I place my half-filled coffee cup into the microwave to re-heat it for a second time. I need just an ounce of energy to get through the afternoon. My daughter heaves another basket of toys up from the basement, step by step. I can...

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Motherhood Is Ministry

In: Faith, Motherhood
Mother and child walking in backyard, color photo

When I’m tired. When I feel like I’m failing. When my cheeks hurt from laughing. When I’m content. Jesus, even then. Even here. As I cancel plans because the thermometer reads 102 again. As I give him my entire lunch because he has finally decided to eat. As I gently remind him over and over again to say please and thank you. And when I stumble to his room at 2 a.m. to comfort his cries–even then, even there. RELATED: In the Hardest Moments of Motherhood, I’m Reminded to Look Up As my heart breaks because discipline, correction, and punishment...

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