Mothering With Grace

When I was a new mom I read every book and article I could find on mothering.

I asked the Lord for wisdom. James 1:5 says, "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." God is faithful to fulfill His promises. He has always provided women with beautiful souls to mentor me. I walked through Bible studies with them and learned how to "do life" as they did. I prayed for a heart like theirs. Of course the beauty I saw in them was always Christ and they will be the first to tell you that.

I feel a sense of urgency now that my children are getting older. I need to get it right! I feel like the first part of motherhood has been learning, a sort of trial and error period but now is the time for me to implement the knowledge I have acquired. No more mess ups. No "do overs". This is it. I want to leave a legacy. What do I want them to remember about their childhood? About their momma and daddy? Their home? 

I was seeking answers one day when I felt the urge write out what I thought a good mother looked like. What kind of mom I wanted to be. What I thought I should be doing. I am keeping my list private but I do encourage you to write out your own list. Begin with the end in mind. What do you want your children to look back on in their life. What do you want to have instilled in your children when they are ready to move onto their own families? What memories do you want lingering in their minds? What Truths? What Habits? 

Sometimes I am inspired by my list and other times discouraged. It is something I strive for but I have not mastered this list. It is a goal, a reminder. I like to occasionally glance at it but there are times I know I fall short. 

This is where grace and simplicity come in.

What are the most important things I need to do as a mom?

Teach them diligently. 

Model a love for Christ.

Take care of their physical needs.

Love them and love their daddy.

Draw my strength for all of this from The Lord.

Motherhood (life in general) is not about a list of dos and don'ts. It is not about legalism or comparison. It us about doing what you know is right every day. It's about being faithful in the little things and drawing upon the Lord's strength when you are too weary to do it on your own. It is about creating a life of delight and goodness for your family in the best way you know how.

In the end I know that what makes a good momma is emptying myself of me and the distractions and false notions that I am failing. It is the filling up of God's goodness, strength, joy, peace and hope. I want my children to look back and see a momma who loved Jesus with all her heart, poured everything she had into taking care of them the best way she knew how, made their home a safe haven while creating a few fun memories along the way.

What I think makes a good momma has grown in ways and shrunk in others. I pray The Lord will enable me to be the mother He has called me to be consistently. God has created each of us to be the unique mom our children needs. I hope this list inspired you to seek out what you would write on you own list. If you do come up with your own, I would love to see it. Do remember that God's grace is enough for you and your children. He will equip you with what you need for what He called you to do. If you have children, you are called to motherhood and it is God who works in you in order to fulfill His good purpose.

Commit thy ways to The Lord and He will establish thy plans.  

Proverbs 16:3

Grace and Peace,

Adoring Family