In the Stillness
Are you one of those moms who has to be ‘on’ from the time you wake up until the time you lay your head on your pillow? Those ‘little ones’ attached to your every move requiring help, guidance and answers to even the simplest of tasks? With Mother’s Day approaching – I started a devotional called Stillness In the Chaos and I found it so fitting for this week’s insights.
If you’re a mom, you’re a superhero. Period… Rosei Pope
Whether you are a new mom, raising school-aged kids, or navigating life with adult children, finding time for yourself can feel nearly impossible. The constant demands from your children – or even the noise inside your own busy mind – can easily consume every moment of your day.
Whether that is getting your children dressed and fed for the day, completing daily chores, making lunches, helping with homework, being a taxi to and from events, extracurricular activities, or part time jobs, planning dinners, working fulltime, finding time for your husband, paying bills, or running errands – your day seems to be filled right down to the minute.
According to Stillness In The Chaos, finding some time during your day for quiet is not only helpful, but necessary. We ALL need time to reflect and time to breathe. Even if it is only for a moment. It’s about creating space for your soul to rest and be refreshed.
Side Note: This does not just apply to the moms out there, but also to the fantastic Dads who spend their days working at careers or jobs they may or may not fully enjoy only to come home to be on ‘Dad’ duty dividing up the child tasks at hand. You all deserve a ‘moment’ to reflect in the stillness as well.
Motherhood is an extremely rewarding and a beautiful job. It’s a fulfillment and purpose that God gives as a gift – a calling if you may, but it can drain your tank and leave you feeling empty at times.
Taking some time, even just a few quiet moments to breathe and reflect can make a big difference. Maybe the only place you find that time is in the bathroom – if so, take it without guilt. If you’re lucky enough to have a chance to get away for a day or two, go for it. Use that time to reconnect with your husband. You’re a team and staying strong and refreshed together matters. (For a fabulous night away idea – click HERE).
Another way is simply waking up 30 minutes earlier each day. Quietly climb out of bed and head to your favourite chair. Don’t turn on anything that makes noise. Get cozy with a blanket and turn on some soft lighting (or the morning sunrise).
Sit in the quiet – if only for a moment.
Listen.
Be Still and know that I am God… Psalm 46:10
Use this time to refuel and prepare for the day ahead. Let this pause be your refuge – a moment to breathe in grace and exhale the weight of the world. Prepare your heart in quiet and strength and clothe your soul in the armour of peace to deflect the arrows that may try to steal your joy. One way to do this is to read a devotional each morning – allowing God to start your day right.
Wondering what to read? Below is a small list of my favourites – all found on the You Version Bible App:
- 3-minute Devotions To Laugh and Reflect
- Strength For Each Day
- When Life Gets Hard
- Boy Mom
- Crash The Chatterbox
- Claim Your Crown
- How To Live A Joyful Life
- Powerful Prayers For Your Daughter
- Stay In Your Lane
- Get Out Of Your Head
- Mornings With God
- Hallelujahs and Hiccups
So, with Mother’s Day fast approaching and if you are struggling right now with exhaustion, fatigue or a state of being overwhelmed, please remember you are not alone. Being ‘still’ does not mean that all the ‘activity or chaos’ will stop – your children – young and old – will always require a piece of you. It simply means quieting your thoughts and calming your anxious heart. It means stepping away (or waking up a bit earlier) to focus on the quiet and peacefulness of the presence of God. Creating a sacred space – just for you.
You may feel or think you cannot take the time or you don’t deserve the time, but remind yourself that it is important. It will make you stronger. It will make you a more supportive wife. It will make you a more patient mom. It will make you a better YOU.
You will always be a mom who strives to be ALL to her kids and ALL to the family. God gave you that purpose in life because He knows you can handle it, but in order to be ALL, you need to be ALL with everyone – including HIM.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms out there – and to my own mom in heaven. You set a standard of love and strength that is hard to match and I am endlessly grateful for the legacy of grace, wisdom and warmth you left in my heart. And, for my two adoring children – being your mom is the greatest gift God has ever given me. Daily, I am amazed and proud of the accomplishments you both have achieved. I love you both from the depths of my soul.
