Mom Heart Moments #101

I satisfy the weary ones and refresh everyone who languishes.

I HAVE SEEN SOME BOOKS AND articles going around that suggest that moms don’t really need a break from their children and that it is possible to be around them all the time without going crazy. Now, I love my children and am very committed to my family, and I hope I don’t step on anyone’s toes, but it is statements like this that put lots of burden and law on women and make them feel guilty unnecessarily. Motherhood is a very long-term calling, and I think all moms need breaks and the encouragement of other women, without having to feel guilty for taking some time for themselves.

There are lots of pieces of parenting advice around that sound wise, but in the end, I have to say, “Is this law? Is it an unshakable truth that applies to all moms at all times?” Or is it possible that there is grace for each mom to conduct her own symphony, so to speak, with her family, circumstances, and children in mind? I think this is far more likely! Paul tells us in Galatians, “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery” (5:1).

Stand firm in your ideals before God without letting someone else’s yoke slip around your neck unnecessarily.

Are there areas in which someone else’s translation of how God wants you to behave is pressing upon you —and choking the life out of you? Ask yourself, “Where in Scripture is this idea actually given as a command?” If you can’t find it . . . consider shaking that piece of advice (or yoke) off!