Mama, You Be the Differenceਨਮੂਨਾ

Mama You Be the Difference

I’m not sure where you find yourself as you start this plan. You could be expecting your first bundle of joy, you may have received your long-awaited child through adoption, you may be multiple kids into this parenting thing, or you may be through the hands-on parenting season and find yourself praying for your adult children and maybe some grandkids. Just for the record, moms are never really out of the parenting scene; our roles just look different. New seasons of parenting await.

No matter where you find yourself, it starts with you. You can be the difference. Your kids are watching you, which means you’re a living, breathing representation of God’s love. I don’t say this to bring shame, condemnation, or guilt, but as a reminder and an encouragement. Your role is so important! You are so important.

If you’ve done any flying, you know that before the airplane even takes off, flight attendants spend several minutes discussing safety protocols. One of the safety items is the oxygen mask and how to handle it if needed. If the oxygen masks drop down, that means the cabin pressure is off. You can lose consciousness very quickly without the proper amount of air. If you’re traveling with someone who needs help with a mask, like a child or an elderly person, you’re instructed to put on your own mask first so you don’t lose consciousness before you can help those around you.

Just like in this analogy, moms must have the life-giving connection to God before we can try to help others. Otherwise, we’re trying to share limited, frazzled resources, and that’s the quickest way to burn out.

It starts with you, Mom! What our kids see in us will be reflected in their lives. If you’re thinking, Phew, this is a big job! you’re right. It is a big job. But keep in mind that you’re a work in progress too. Every step you take closer to the heart of God will help transform your thinking and actions. It’s a lifetime of learning and living it out. Don’t give up. You got this!

Reflection:

Spending time with God takes exactly that—time. Time is hard for moms, but you can create time. Give God the best part of you. If that’s the morning or evening, carve out time to be encouraged by His Word. Remember whoever you spend the most time with is who you’ll become.