So want to hear my latest insight into motherhood and God? (You better say, “Yes,” because these insights are few and far between). ?
Let’s hear it. ?
Okay, so this morning I was reading a devotional about God’s provision. As I was starting to pat myself on the back for how far I’ve come with that, it suddenly struck me how I do not trust God’s provision for my kids’ health.
I take on that burden and act like that is my job alone to make sure they’re healthy, and I should have it figured out.
Oh man, I can definitely relate. I definitely can lean too far to the “control” aspect when it comes to keeping us healthy, especially in light of my health history. I think making healthy choices for our kids is important and good but I feel like I always have to remind myself their health isn’t solely up to me….and nor is it even really a reflection of me.
Exactly. So then it was like God said to my heart, “No, I love your kids even more than you do, and I will care and provide for them the same way that I do you. I have given them to you to be their mom, but they are still MY children. Trust Me”.
Wow. That’s amazing. #dropthemic
I know when I hear or read truth like that, I feel so much more peaceful. How did you feel?
Well, it helped me give myself permission to not be in charge and stop taking all the weight of responsibility. I’m learning that, once again, I have to let it go and trust Him. #themeofmylife.
I agree, Desi! This is a truth that I regularly forget! And it does bring so much peace when I remember it. It is SO MUCH PRESSURE to feel like you are the sole person in charge of every tiny aspect of your kids’ lives.
I know, right? I had the same realization this week when Sophie was acting totally unlike herself all day–crying, clingy, lethargic. I knew it was probably a bug but I had to fight the what-if fear that it could be really serious. I got to the same place, Desi. Just saying to God, “She’s Yours. I’m trying not to freak out. I trust You.” I think that is one of the very hardest things to do as a mom!
Agreed! But how freeing to let them go and entrust them to Someone far greater and more capable than me.??
Yes! God loves them — even more than we do — I’m about to hang that on my fridge!!!
Yes! Thanks, friends. I just wanted to tell someone about that so I didn’t forget it! ? Now I better go hang it on my own fridge too before my mom brain loses this insight. ?
Scripture to encourage you:
- “Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.” (Psalm 9:10)
- “The Lord watches over you — the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.” (Psalm 121:5)
- “You will keep in perfect peace peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
- “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
- “Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.” (Psalm 16:1-2)
Music to inspire you:
- “Sparrows” by Jason Gray
- “Oceans” by Hillsong United
- “Eye of the Storm” by Ryan Stevenson
- “No Longer Slaves” by Bethel Music
- “Good Good Father” by Chris Tomlin
Readings to come alongside of you:
- No Matter What by Lysa Terkeurst from Proverbs 31 Ministries
- Fighting Fear With Faith from Texting The Truth
- Fear To Faith from Texting The Truth
Living Out the Truth
Ideas to try:
- Pick one of the above verses (or one of your favorites that reminds you of God’s provision and trusting Him) and commit it to memory. Write it on your bathroom mirror, in your car, on your fridge – wherever you’ll see it a lot) ? Teach yourself to quote this verse to when you start to worry about your kids. Say it out loud – there is power in spoken words. That may sound crazy, but we’re learning to do what it takes to let go of our fears and grab onto faith.
- Listen to one of the songs we listed above. Music has a way of calming us down and reminding us that He is in control.
- Pray for your kids. I know, this seems obvious, but do you really lift your kids up to God and surrender them to Him on a daily basis or whenever you worry about them? Get in the habit of reminding yourself that He has it under control and that He’s a good Father who has your very best interest in mind.
{These suggestions are ideas from novice moms. Sometimes our life situations need more. In that case, seeking out professional help is the right call.}