Challenges in the newborn phase

Sleep deprivation is part of the newborn package. I think all parents can vouch for this.

And if we need one thing to deal with difficult situations, it’s energy, which we can get from a good night’s sleep…

The newborn phase can be challenging. Babies can't talk; they communicate through crying, which can be frustrating. You want to do so well, give your baby the whole world, and make things comfortable, but sometimes, you have no clue what will ease the pain.

In those moments when confidence is dropping, remember: you are CAPABLE. Your competence comes from God, through Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:4-5). We must realize that we can always rely on Him and trust Him, especially when things feel like they’re slipping out of control. When we have absolutely lost reassurance that we can care for a baby.

But whether it’s a baby, a toddler, an eight-year-old, or even a teenager, God has equipped you to care for them.

Deep inside, you already know the answers, or you can ask the Holy Spirit to reveal them. God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). That spirit is always in us, but it can be run over by what is happening to us.

For me, if I can muster up the strength to turn to God in difficult situations, I’m always comforted by these two truths: that I’m made competent through Christ, and that I have been given a sound mind. It can be your go-to reminder, too, when things get tough. It reminds me that I’m not relying on my own strength, but that I’m carried by the almighty God, who already knew I could handle the job of motherhood. He made me capable, and He is the one I can turn to when I don’t know how to keep going.

I hope this helps you to brace yourself for the challenges and face them with the utmost confidence.

Reflection

What points God out to you in today’s devotional?

Action

Write one of the Bible verses on a sticky note and memorize it these days.