Encouragement For The Weary Mom

April 20, 2017

I woke up this morning feeling really downcast. I don't really know why. I just felt defeated and tired and sad before the day even began. I spent some time in the Word and prayer. Still sad. I wanted to crawl back into bed and sleep away the sorrow. In my mind I know I need to give care and attention to my family but there are days I don't feel like it. There are days when knowing it will not move me. So, I must move past my feelings and that is difficult. There are little people that depend on me to love them, feed them and participate in activities with them. Truth be told there are days when I don't want to spend time with my kids let alone plan activities for them.

The days are long and hard and not every moment is enjoyable. Don't get me wrong, I love many moments with my children but some moments are so, so, so very difficult. Like when you're outside together and you realize your two and three year old have yanked 10 plus hydrangea buds that were about to flower off the plant. Or when I forget to put a diaper on my potty training child at naptime and everything is drenched and stinky two hours later!!!!! Then there is the almost impossible task of calming the emotional life of a toddler and preschooler all while trying to do school work with my older two. I know my children need me. However, on some days knowing that in my mind is easier than actually putting it into practice. I want to just hide. Anyone else?

Putting into practice what I know takes intention and lots of prayer. This morning as I spent time in the Word I read this verse from Psalm 18:33 "It is God that arms me with strength and makes my feet of a deer, and sets me on high places." So, I'm brought to His feet because of my weaknesses and selfish desires. If I lacked weakness, I wouldn't need the strength the Lord can provide. So, I take off the covers and allow my feet to hit the floor. Breathe. I don't need to carry the emotions of my children, hold onto the frustration of destroyed plants or sulk over stinky pee clothes. Breathe.

I can give it into the Father's hands. His hands are stronger than mine. What do you carry that can be lifted into the Father's arms? Maybe feelings of sadness like me this morning? Overwhelmed with the tasks at hand? His hands are stronger than yours. Will you let Him hold you? May you praise the Lord in your weaknesses and like Psalm 18:33 says; may you let Him set your feet on high places. Then may you rejoice in the discoveries of your children, experience warmth from their smiles and laugh at all the things that bring them joy.