Gems of Motherhood~ Letters to a Mama: 20ish Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Mom Sýnishorn

Gem # 2

Dear Mama,

It’s time to pray. This is your weapon against the enemy and a shield over your children.

Before I knew how to, why, or to whom I should pray, I struggled with so many unnecessary stressors, including depressive moods, anger, the inability to love myself and subsequently my child effectively, to name a few. The ongoing struggle in these areas caused me to miss some of the most beautiful times and experiences with my daughters as they grew up.

The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, gives us a blueprint on how to defend ourselves from the enemy's wiles and strategies. We are in a spiritual battle until Jesus returns, and it is imperative that we cover ourselves with God's armor, daily. Not only ourselves as parents but we must also teach our children how to do so. Verse 13 of Ephesians 6 tells us why: "Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle, you will be still standing firm."

Mama, whatever you do, know that prayer to the Lord Jesus is vital to both you and your babies. It forms a bridge between you and whatever the attack is. When we understand the power of our prayers over our children and our homes, we can create God-breathed blueprints for future generations. Prayers are keys - keys to unlocking our children’s destinies, to provide a wall of protection, provision, and favor, and even to establish the plans of the Lord for our children (and ourselves). Do not be afraid to step out boldly and take a stand for what is right in the eyes of the Lord. But take baby steps, as needed. If this is all new to you, begin by perhaps journaling short prayers, and then pray them out loud over your family and home. Your faith in taking these small steps can move mountains and shatter the attacks of the enemy. The Lord is kind and will meet us whether we are at the sink, feeding the baby, doing laundry, or even (or especially!) taking a shower.

Go forth, Mama, weapon in one hand and tool in the other!

Journal prompt: What small (or large) step can you take today to begin incorporating prayer times for your children and family? Examine your current daily schedule and take into account how you can steward this part of your motherhood effectively. Always seek the Lord first for His direction and wisdom for your specific situation.

Once you have determined how to proceed, ask the Lord to guide you as you begin writing short topical prayers for your children. Use the Word of God as inspiration for your prayers, as well as asking the Lord to show you how to pray specifically over your children.