Losing My Grip

Some call it the "killer hour."  In my house it's from 4-5 pm.  My three kids just burst in the house from school, each vying to be the first at telling me about his/her day.  There are folders to go through, homework to help with, papers to sign, dinner to make, piano and dance to get to, hubby to spend time with, and backpacks to put away.  On a good night, this flurry of activity requires nerves of steel.  On a bad night, when kids are grumpy, hubby is hungry and mom is exhausted, it's a recipe for the perfect storm.  It's in those moments, I cling to every ounce of self-control within me and pray the most spiritual prayer I can utter, "God, HELP!"

As mom's, feelings of stress, exhaustion, guilt, exasperation and failure are all part of the job.  The problem is, we know God wants us to enjoy our journey, so the disconnect comes when we are surviving in motherhood, rather than thriving. 

What is a mom to do when she's losing her grip?

She need a God-powered transformation and renewal!  Romans 12:2 says, "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind."  The only tried and true way to transform and renew your mind is by meditating on God's words in the Bible.  If you are serious about thriving on this journey, there are no shortcuts or easy fixes.  Studying and meditating on God's Word takes time and concentration -- two things in very short supply for a mom.  But, I promise you, that even five minutes a day will begin to transform your thoughts, words, actions and attitude.

I love the encouragement from 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, "Therefore we do not lose heart.  Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.  For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

Do not lose heart, dear moms!  You are achieving something great when you pursue your God-given calling to be a positive, Godly, intentional mom.  Anytime God calls you to something great, there will be a battle of the mind, emotions and will.  Know that you are more than a conqueror through Christ who loves you (Rom 8:37) and you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Phil. 4:13).

To receive daily "Real Encouragement for Real Life," follow me on facebook.  I'll post one verse each day for meditation and renewal.  God is so proud of you, mom!