May 8, 2014
Being a Mom that Matters
Part 2 (to read Part 1 of this devotional, click here)
Mary Southerland
Today’s truth
Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him (Psalm 127:3, NLT).
Friend to Friend
So much of who we are as men and women is rooted in the parent/child relationship. I believe that my role as a mother will greatly affect the kind of woman my daughter will become. I also believe moms are the primary teachers in a child’s life. God wants us to be moms who love Him, pray for their children, and give them time. He also wants us to encourage our children.
When we encourage our children, we are giving them strength. We need to be careful to keep their emotional deposits in balance. Many kids are in emotional bankruptcy because constant withdrawals of criticism are made with few deposits of encouragement. Our job is to study our kids and discover their strengths and weaknesses. We need to understand that their greatest weakness may very well become their greatest strengths.
As a child, I was very stubborn. That stubbornness often got me into trouble, but it also made me the survivor of some very hard times. We need to look for the good things in our children and draw them into the spotlight. In other words, become their cheerleader. Everyone needs a cheerleader.
When our son, Jered, was in second grade, a boy in his class was obnoxious and irritating. One Monday morning, he came to school with both arms in a cast from wrist to shoulder. The teacher explained he would need a friend for the next six weeks, someone who could help him with homework, eat his lunch…go to the restroom. Get the idea? The classroom fell silent until Jered finally said, “I’ll do it.” After a few weeks, Jered said, “You know, Mom. He’s not that bad.” The other children began to include this boy and even volunteered to help him. But the most amazing transformation was in the boy himself. He became sweet and kind. He just needed a cheerleader. Maybe that is all your child needs. Be a cheerleader for your children.
4. Laugh often.
Proverbs 17:22 “A happy heart is like good medicine, but a broken spirit drains your strength.”
Moms, we need to lighten up or as my daughter says, “Chill, mom!” Kids are fun. Find ways to bring joy and laughter into your home. Jered is a big hunk of a football player, but I occasionally have to remind him that I can still take him. He will make some irritating comment, tease me, or poke me in the ribs. I warn him, and then I see the gleam in his eye as he takes one more shot. I then begin chasing him around the house. Jered inevitably starts laughing so hard that, when I catch him, he is totally helpless. It is quite a sight to see! Children get most of their first impressions of God from their parents. I want my kids to know that God is a God of joy and laughter. Kids need a mom who laughs.
5. Hug a lot.
Luke 18:15 “One day some parents brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch them and bless them.”
Our children need moms who demonstrate healthy physical affection. Children need and crave physical affection. It is a God-given need that should be met in God-given ways. There is healing in a mother’s touch. Start early, and never stop. It is a terrible shock for kids to have the hugging stop just at the age when they need it the most.
One day, I grabbed our daughter Danna in a hug, and kissed her cheek. As I walked away, I looked back to see her wiping off that kiss. She caught my hurt look and said, “Don’t worry, Mom. I’m just rubbing it in!” I know. She’s good…and has become an affectionate young woman. Be a mom who hugs her kids.
6. Dare to discipline.
Proverbs 6:23 “The correction of discipline is the way to life.”
Kids want and need discipline. Discipline is a hedge of protection in the life of a child. Part of our job as a parent is to tend that hedge, to keep it strong and securely in place. If we are not careful, every day can dissolve into a never-ending battle for control. As parents, we need to let go of what we can, and hold our ground on what we can’t. Pick your battles of discipline and wage them with emotions under control. Whatever you do, don’t put the light out in their eyes. Kids need a mom who disciplines.
7. Forgive quickly.
Colossians 3:13 “Get along with each other, and forgive each other…”
We teach children how to forgive others by how we forgive them. Forgiveness is part of every healthy relationship. We also teach our children about God’s forgiveness by how we forgive. Be quick to forgive your child, but be quicker to ask your child’s forgiveness. My children are very used to hearing me say, “I am so sorry! I blew it. Please forgive me.”
One morning, I had to apologize to my daughter before she even got to school. I was tired and grouchy and Danna was not moving fast enough for me. I didn’t like the clothes she picked out. I didn’t like what she was saying or doing or how she was saying and doing it. I didn’t like the fact that she kept her cool while I lost mine. Therefore, I did what any mature parent would do. I threw a tantrum and grounded her for it. Yes, I have provided many opportunities for my children to practice forgiveness. I pray that it has made them more forgiving of themselves and of others. Be a mom who is forgives quickly.
Being a mom is the hardest job on earth. It brings out the best and the worst in us. I know motherhood requires great sacrifice and limitless energy, but to invest your time and best efforts into a child, to watch that child grow and develop, is to be part of the creative majesty of life itself. Today, commit with me to seek God’s power, and plan to be a mom who really matters.
Let’s Pray
Father, more than ever before, I want to be a great mom. But I often find myself doing just the opposite of what I know is right when it comes to my kids. Please forgive me. Help me apply the truths and principles of your Word as I walk in this high calling of motherhood. Bless my children, Lord, and help them to follow You all the days of their lives.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn
Review the principles from today’s devotion.
Choose one area in your role as a mom to focus on.
What changes do you need to make?
Today, celebrate your children. Give them a call. Prepare a special meal. Write them a special note.
Choose now to be a mom that matters.
More from the Girlfriends
Like to save money? Don’t miss the great SALE going on in Mary’s online store right now!
Check out Mary’s MP3, Tough Love for Tough Kids, for practical steps you can take to be a better mom. And don’t miss Mary’s NEW E-Bible Study, The Secret of Contentment.
Need help learning to study the Bible? Check out Mary’s weekly Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.
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Originally published Thursday, 08 May 2014.
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