There has been judgments and criticisms in my life about choosing to be a stay at home mom (domestic engineer). I understand that staying at home is not for everyone, I understand that some must work to keep their sanity, or to help make ends meet at home, but I am home because God has provided for me to do so, and because I believe and hope that this is the best choice for our kids.
Philippians 4:7-9, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (NIV)
Devotion:
It sounds so dream-like to dress your little darlings in clothes that match, hear them say that you are the best mom in the world, bake cookies together in the afternoon, and relish their sweet spirits while listening to their bedtime prayers. But woven all around the ideal moments are whiney voices, childish attitudes, sibling fights, strong-wills, messy accidents, snotty noses, stained clothes, and strained nerves. It all comes down to choosing what to focus on, for those things will become what’s most magnified.
Re-read today’s key verse above. Let’s take a look at each section and bring it home in everyday motherhood terms:
Whatever is true: It is a blessing to be a mom. Many women have empty arms and would do anything to have children. There are hard days, but they won’t last forever and God will fill the gaps as we walk in obedience with Him.
Whatever is noble: A noble mom recognizes that children are taught most effectively by example. They may remember what you say momentarily, but they remember what they see for a lifetime.
Whatever is right: A Christian’s pursuit is to exemplify Christ-likeness. This involves making right choices that honor God. View each choice as one step toward your ultimate destination.
Whatever is pure: Matthew 5:8 says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” If I want to see God in my home, I must seek to purify my heart. If I want to see God in my marriage, I must seek to purify my heart. If I want to see God in my children’s lives, I must seek to purify my heart. If I want to see God in my everyday life, I must seek to purify my heart.
Whatever is lovely: If someone were to ask me about being a mom, what is the look that would cross my face? Is my facial expression lovely? Am I smiling, or scowling? What would my kids say is my view of motherhood?
Whatever is admirable: The investment of time and energy you put into being a mom is admirable. The sacrifices you make are admirable. The love you have for your children is admirable. Nurturing, protecting, and caring for them is admirable. While the world may not esteem you, and while your kids may not rise up to call you blessed today, God notices, and He says you are admirable.
If anything is excellent or praiseworthy: The calling of being a mom is reason for great celebration and joyous praise to the Lord. You are participating in shaping a life for eternity. Even if you’ve struggled, choose to pursue excellence from this day forward. Praise God for second chances and mercies that are new every morning.
Dear Lord, thank You for the reminder that whatever I choose to focus on will be magnified in my sight. Help me to focus on You today, and the blessings You have placed in my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
beautiful.
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