Make It AwkwardNäide

Introduction: Why do we let our worry about others’ opinions stop us from forming genuine connections? From reaching out to a lonely mom? From sharing the gospel?

This year, it’s time to get awkward. It may be uncomfortable speaking with a stranger, facing confrontation or choosing to listen to God when you don’t know what will happen next. But without embracing these moments of awkwardness, we stay stagnant, too comfortable in our own lives to take a leap of faith — to experience the stomach-drop of our feet leaving the ground.

But God doesn’t call us to a comfortable life — he calls us to trust him, even when it’s awkward. Because that’s when we grow. That’s when we draw a mom to Jesus. That’s when we learn that awkwardness isn’t something to avoid but something to embrace, fully.

Day 1: This Year Is About to Get Awkward …

Verse: “When [Jesus] had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So, they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink” (Luke 5:4-7, NIV).

Devotional: In a world that values polish over vulnerability, we’re reclaiming the power of awkwardness. Why? Because often in our quest to be seen as competent, professional and sophisticated, we forget the value of being real. It’s simple but powerful: Once you give yourself permission to be awkward, fear loses its edge. This is when growth happens, relationships deepen and obedience moves us from frustration to abundance. Perhaps, awkwardness isn’t a weakness but your greatest asset.

We’re entering a new era of earnestness. It’s about showing up as awkwardly as necessary to express real kindness to other moms. We will be wild, weird, fun, authentic and a little freer. We will become comfortable embracing our unique spark because denying it leaves everyone around us starving for warmth and light.

Challenge: Today, lean into the beauty of being real to do one awkwardly kind thing. Will you go out of your way to encourage or help another mom, even if it feels a little clumsy or uncomfortable? Will you send the random text, give the unexpected compliment or invite someone new for family dinner?