Overwhelmed, but Not Alone: A 5-Day Devotional for the Weary Momਨਮੂਨਾ

Day 5: God can work through your overwhelm.

How you handle your overwhelm as a mom will often speak a clearer theology to your children than your words. They may listen to what you say, but they will almost always absorb what you do. When the waves of life threaten to pull you under, you can show them how you tether your life to the steady anchor that never moves—to a hope that holds fast. If, however, you only show your children a version of yourself that can do all and be all, you’re not only presenting a fabrication; you’re also inadvertently declaring that you are all. But, remember, only God is all.

Don’t be discouraged when your kids see your ever-changing circumstances. If you’re looking to Jesus, you’ll give them a glimpse of your unchanging God. He can use your overwhelm to give voice to the gospel and point your children to Him. In that way, your salvation will no longer look like a theory or an abstract concept. You’ll be able to teach them a valuable faith lesson: those who need rescuing can always call upon the name of the Rescuer.

Whenever appropriate, share your struggles with your kids. Let them see you memorizing and meditating on Scripture, ensuring that Truth is both the first and the last word on the matter. Allow them to hear you give thanks to God, regardless of the outcomes, and they’ll soon learn that sanctification is less about what happens to you but more about what happens in and through you. Every time your children witness your trust in God during troubling times, they hear you say, like the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (NIV).

Reflect:

1.When was the last time your children heard you praying about a troubling situation or praising God for His sustaining work on your behalf?

2.How might you allow God to redeem your overwhelm by authentically walking out your faith in front of your kids?

Pray:

Heavenly Father, parent me as I parent my children. Show me how I might partner with You in Your sanctifying work in their lives. I offer up my current circumstances. Use whatever feels complicated and overwhelming right now to make me look more like Your Son. May my children follow me as I follow Jesus. In His name, I pray, amen.

Meditate:

1 Corinthians 11:1, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (NIV).

For even more encouragement and biblical truth to help you overcome overwhelm, be sure to check out Overwhelmed Mom: Quiet the Chaos, Mind What Matters, and Enjoy Your Life Again.