When I was younger, I thought I knew what it meant to be a mother. I had certainly played the part enough times. I was a babysitter at 11, worked at a daycare center at 16, and volunteered to watch my friend’s kids as often as they would let me. I knew God had called me to be a mom and I knew I would be really good at it. How could I fail with all of the practice I had under my belt?
What I didn’t realize, or know back then, was how hard of a calling motherhood would be. It’s one thing to take care of kids and gently put them back into their parent’s arms at night, but taking care of my own little ones 24/7? Well, I have never had a more challenging or fulfilling job in my life.
As my family grew, I found myself doubting my mothering skills more and more. Many times I’d wonder how these days of changing diapers and wiping dirty hands and faces would make a difference. I was often grumpy and tired.
The gentle way I had always planned on parenting flew out the window every time one of my children disobeyed me. It seemed as though I was constantly making mistakes and I found myself wondering if God himself had made a mistake entrusting these children with me.
I joined a mother’s group at my local church and that’s when I realized that I wasn’t the only mother having these self-doubts. In fact, almost every mom I spoke with said the same thing, “I don’t think I’m cut out for this. I think my kids would be better off with someone who is more (insert any number of qualities here).”
Over and over again, I heard the same words come out of different mouths.
I’m now 20 years into this mothering gig and I still battle with these feelings. What I’ve come to realize though, is how important I actually am and not only me but every mother out there.
We see in the Bible that God handpicked Jesus’ mother, Mary. He didn’t pick someone flashy with loads of money or with a particularly high standing in society.
Motherhood is a sacred calling. Just like God picked Mary for a specific purpose, he also picked you for a specific purpose and reason. He chose you to be your child’s mom, not anyone else. Before you were born, before your mother’s mother was born, back before the world was formed, he knew your children and picked you to mother them. Like all children, your children needed someone to raise them, nurture them, and fiercely protect them.
You are just right for the job and not only is that a sacred calling, but it is an immense blessing. To be called out among many and chosen to be a mother is a sacred calling and honor. Whether your children are born of your womb or not, God picked you, precious mama.
Motherhood matters and knowing that we’ve been specifically picked by God for our kids should give us confidence and boldness in parenting. Whatever situation of life you’re in, whether the future seems hopeless or you’re just not feeling secure in the place God has put you in, I hope you remember these words- you matter.
Your specific touch matters. Each hug, song, and sweet kiss matters. The way you endlessly make food, clean dishes, and brush hair…it all matters. And nobody else could do your job the way you do it.
