I’ve been heavily reflecting on the verse in 2 Corinthians Ch. 12 v 9, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” I believe it has been two weeks or so now reflecting and allowing this verse to permeate my heart. We go through many different things as mothers, nurturers, helpers, and even sole providers, and sometimes it can be challenging yet rewarding to raise children. What has really kept my mind is the knowing that God’s grace will see me through.
When I reflect on grace, it is God’s unmerited favor, His loving kindness towards me, His mercy. We do not have to work for it, beg for, pay for it. It is freely given to us. When you come to the realization that God saw you fit enough to raise up a child, another human being, a gift to this world, just know that you are not doing it alone.
There are days where I don’t have the strength to do anything and just flop on the bed, or sit and stare into space for minutes at a time because I’m so tired, but there is a strength that rises up within me that keeps me going. God’s power is perfected in your weakness, riiiight when you give up that last bit of strength that you have, God comes in and sweeps you off your feet and begins to empower you and align you because now you are allowing Him to take the lead.
God knows what we need, what our children need, what our household needs, He knows the things we will need even before we do!
When you allow God to work in your life, and you just surrender everything to Him, He will equip you, for His grace is sufficient. Lean and depend on Him, do not think you know based on what is happening in front of you or around you, but trust God and acknowledge Him in motherhood, in your career, in that relationship that seems to be a roller coaster and He will direct your path.
Some practical things that have helped me as well on this journey are:
Number One, knowing when to say no. You have to know when your body needs rest and when you need to reset and refresh. Those days where you just know you’re not at 100% ask God to give you wisdom to know how to communicate your needs and be assertive with setting healthy boundaries for yourself so that you can be at your best for you and your children.
Number Two is ensuring that you are eating nourishing foods and staying hydrated. When you are so busy with work and picking the kids up for school; it is easy to forget to eat or even drink the right amount of water. I have found that keeping protein bars, granola, and on the go fruit options, and even a large water bottle to be very convenient until I can get a full meal in.
Number Three is to make sure you take time to meditate and pray, feel the wind in your hair, take a walk, or even listen to your favorite song and learn some new dance moves in your living room. Anything that helps you be more present and aware. I love going to sit on my porch and watch the leaves blow in the wind or to see what kind of birds are flying around at the moment. It really helps as a gentle reminder that you’re very much so here and present. I hope this has encouraged you.
What are some ways that keep you balanced in your journey of motherhood? Write it out, and see what comes up for you. Be Blessed!