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The three “mosts” of motherhood
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Early in my career as a counselor and speaker—when my children were toddlers—I created a presentation with this same title. Now, as I parent four teenagers, I find myself returning to those same “mosts” again and again. It turns out God’s Word doesn’t age with our children. It remains unchanging through every season.
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What should my children be eating? How much screen time is too much? Should she stay in piano if she wants to quit? Is it okay that he doesn’t want to go to college? These are the kinds of questions that have followed me through motherhood—so many decisions, and so many opportunities to doubt, stress, and feel guilty. The truth is, most of the time there is no one right answer. And ultimately, those questions all pale in comparison to this one: Do my children know that God loves them and what he has done for them? I can research trends and prioritize goals and guide my children in many important ways. But teaching them about their Savior is what is most important.
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“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them” (Deuteronomy 4:9).
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When my children were little, I could tangibly meet many of their needs. When I changed dirty diapers, fed hungry mouths, and kissed bruised knees, they were left clean, satisfied, and comforted. There were times, however, when they were sick or upset and I didn’t know what was wrong or how to make it better. That was a helpless feeling. I’ve found that as my children grow, their needs are more complex and that helpless feeling is more common. I can’t make that friend be kind to her. I can’t fix the sports injury that has him out for the season. I can’t get her the part in the play she wanted. I can’t find him his dream job. I forget that God has given me the best way to help. Since he loves my children so much, he loves when I talk to him about them. He loves when I ask him to bless them and take care of them. He listens to my requests and says that they are powerful and effective. He answers according to his will and for their eternal good. When I pray for my children, I am doing what is most powerful.
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“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
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When they were little, it was broken bones and sickness and bullying. Now that they are older, it’s broken hearts and anxiety and deceptive philosophies. I want to protect my children and spare them from pain, and it can be overwhelming to think about the dangers they face during each stage. That’s when I need the reminder that my children are not mine—they are God’s. They exist because he created them, and he loves them infinitely more than I do. He sees them at all times, and he knows everything about them. He commands his angels to protect them, and his desire is to draw them close and bring them to heaven with him. In the middle of the night when I start to worry, that is the thought that is the most comforting.
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“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God” (John 1:12-13.)
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Reflecting on these “mosts” has been grounding for me through the varied and often challenging seasons of motherhood. When I wonder if I’m doing enough for them, I remember that my children have a foundation of faith (most important). When I want to help them, I go to the best helper in prayer (most powerful). When I am worried about them, I remember that they are God’s children first (most comforting).
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If you have been given the gift of motherhood, I pray that these “mosts” can be a blessing to you as well—from toddler to teenager and into eternity.
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You should also know
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Upcoming webinar
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Sacred Rhythms: Building a Life of Daily Devotion
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Thursday, June 11, 7:00 p.m. CDT
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Have you ever felt guilt when it comes to studying God’s Word? Maybe you don’t know where or how to start, maybe it’s the busyness of life. Maybe you aren’t understanding the words you read. Whatever it is, you are not alone.
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Join WELS Women’s Ministry June 11 for our webinar, “Sacred Rhythms: Building a Life of Daily Devotion” for encouragement and practical solutions for your daily devotional life. Our panelists will share their struggles, experiences, and tips for studying the Word. We will share resources and address challenges like how to incorporate a devotional life on vacation, how to be flexible in hard seasons, and how you can work towards staying consistent even with a busy schedule. And if you are just looking for new ideas or resources, this webinar is for you, too.
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This sacred rhythm is time well spent. Let’s build a life of daily devotion!
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About WELS
Women's Ministry
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Women’s Ministry exists to nurture, encourage, and equip women to faithfully use their gifts for service in God’s kingdom. Learn More.
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Find WELS Women's
Ministry on social media
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Follow WELS Women's Ministry on Facebook and Instagram. Share and make comments to help us spread the news about WELS Women's Ministry!
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Contact us
We'd like to hear from you! Contact us for additional information regarding WELS Women's Ministry or simply
visit wels.net/women.
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