We as moms can be so hard on ourselves. We desire to be everything for everyone, all of the time. However, we soon realise that the unrealistic goals and standards we set for ourselves eventually come crumbling down. It leaves us feeling like failures and completely exhausted mamas.
The good news is that we do not have to do this alone. We were never designed to rely solely on our own understanding and strength. Instead, we are called to rely on Christ, who gives us the power to be the mothers we ought to be.
Philippians 4:13 (NLT)
For I can do everything through Christ, Who gives me strength.
Most of us know Philippians 4:13, which tells us that we can do everything through Christ who gives us strength. Yet, we tend to forget this and lean on our own abilities. At least, I know I do. We make our own plans and live life the way we think we should, rather than trusting and relying confidently on the Lord with all our hearts (Proverbs 3:5).
Proverb 3:5 (NLT)Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
So, how do we actually do this? How do we trust and rely on Him? How do we acknowledge and recognise Him in all our ways (Proverbs 3:6)?
Proverb 3:6 (NLT)
Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.
I firmly believe it comes down to building a deep, personal relationship with the One who created you. We do this by spending time in the Word, praying without ceasing, and trusting in Him.
Let’s break these three areas down.
1. Spending Time in the Word
This is a crucial way to hear the voice of God in our daily lives. For me, the key to reading Scripture is first asking the Holy Spirit—who is our Helper and Advocate (John 14:16)—to read with me and minister to my heart through the pages.
John 14:16 (NLT)And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.
Reading the Word can sometimes feel challenging and overwhelming. We might not even know where to begin. What works best for me is reading book by book. If you are a new believer, I always suggest starting with the Gospel of John. If you just don’t know what to read today, try reading the chapter of Proverbs that matches the calendar date. With 31 chapters in Proverbs, it is a wonderful way to kick off your day.
As you read, write down key verses that speak to your heart and pray over them. Rewrite them in your own words and speak them out loud. Let the Word breathe life into your daily routine.
It is amazing how spending time in Scripture changes the way you show up as a mom. In moments of rising anger, the Holy Spirit will bring to mind that "a soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger" (Proverbs 15:1). As we spend more time in the Word, it becomes a natural part of our lives, applicable to every situation.
Join Me: I am planning to start an online Bible study group! If you want to build a motherhood journey armed with the Word of God, let me know if you are interested in joining.
2. Praying Without Ceasing
A while ago, I noticed I was feeling spiritually dry. I wondered why, because I was still reading my Bible. But if I am honest, I wasn't praying the way I should have been. Reading Scripture and talking to the Lord throughout the day goes hand in hand.
Prayer can be as simple as whispering, "Lord, help," when the kids are crying, the dogs are barking, and chaos hits all at once (a scenario I know all too well!). In those moments, prayer allows the incomprehensible peace of Jesus to take over, helping us handle the chaos with patience, kindness, and gentleness. When your child refuses to listen for the tenth time, take a breath and ask the Holy Spirit for immediate guidance on what to do.
Prayer is simply a continuous conversation with your Creator. It can be long or short. You can cry, or you can laugh. This space belongs entirely to you and Him. Communication builds healthy human relationships, and it functions the exact same way with God.
3. Trusting in Him
We must intentionally rely on God and place our trust in Jesus, knowing exactly where our strength comes from. Psalm 28:7 encourages us: "The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I shall thank Him and praise Him."
Does this mean we will execute motherhood perfectly every time? No, and that is okay. Part of any relationship involves making mistakes, asking for forgiveness, and drawing our attention back to what matters. The same applies to our walk with God. In 2 Corinthians 4:16, Paul reminds us never to give up. Though our physical bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed day by day.
You Are Not AloneI hope this encourages you today. You are not alone on this motherhood journey. If this lifestyle of reliance is new to you, or if you have questions, feedback, or just want to chat, please send me an email. I would love to connect with you!