Day 4: Find the Glimmers of Hope

The first few months of my son's life caught me off guard. My other two babies were easily pacified with breastfeeding throughout the night. Not this one. For the first two months, he fussed for several hours in a row in the middle of the night. Every single night.

I tried pacing, singing, praying, light dancing, back rubs, tickles — you name it! I was so desperate for a little peace and calm. I was so desperate for rest. I felt hopeless and alone most nights. So tired and overwhelmed and filled to the brim with negative thoughts.

The truth is — God never abandoned me. Even when I felt alone, He was there. Instead of letting my emotions continue to overtake me, God showed me that I could use this time to find the glimmers of hope.

I started soaking in the baby cuddles.

I started reciting scripture and praying.

I started writing and reading Scripture while I was feeding him to keep me awake and feel like I was filling my mind and time with something other than negative emotions and frustrations.

While we still have the occasional “I’m going to be up for several hours in a row” in the middle-of-the-night, I know God will give us the strength we need.

This season of sleeplessness is strengthening you.

This season of adjustment is changing you.

This season of growing is pruning you and preparing you for something great.

Instead of living in a constant state of complaining, let’s celebrate where we are. Pour a cup of coffee, mama.

My mom texted me the other night and asked, “Do you ever sleep?” and my response was, “I’ll sleep when they are grown.” While I was joking, I will always say yes to cuddling my three-year old. I will always say yes to middle-of-the-night smiles and conversations with my baby.

Find the glimmers of hope in this season of life.

Fill your mind with the right things when anxiety, weariness, and loneliness try to creep their way to the forefront of your mind.

Heavenly Father,

Tonight, we pray for glimmers of hope in this weary season. Please send the sweet baby smiles when I need them the most. Please help that encouraging song to come on the radio at just the right time. Please help me to read the encouraging verse at a time when Satan is prowling on my anxious thoughts.

Please send the encouraging text or check-in when my heart is weary and burdened. I am yours, Father! I am open to the work that You want to do in this season.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

Find the glimmers of hope, mama.