Girlfriends in God - May 21, 2007

May 21, 2007

God’s Oxygen Mask

Sharon Jaynes

Today’s Truth

“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31 NIV)

Friend to Friend

One mother with three active boys was playing cops and robbers in the back yard after dinner on a summer evening. One of the boys “shot” his mother and yelled, “Bang, bang you’re dead.” She slumped to the ground and when she didn’t get up right away, a neighbor ran over to see if she had been hurt in the fall. As the neighbor bent over, the overworked mother opened one eye and said, “Shhh. Don’t give me away. It’s the only chance I get to rest.”

As busy moms, we all need a break from time to time. We mothers need time to re-charge, re-fuel, and refresh. When Steven was two years old, some days I would brush quickly past my husband as he came in the door from work. “Hi, honey,” I’d say “I need a break.” And off I’d go to walk around the mall or the neighborhood for thirty minutes.

Even Jesus encouraged his disciples: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31 NIV) He knew that we all need time to recharge, reflect, and refresh.

When I was on an airplane recently, the flight attendant gave her usual instructions on the use of the oxygen mask. She said, “If you are traveling with young children, place the mask on yourself first, then assist the child.” I thought to myself, “That seems a little selfish,” until I realized that if I passed out, I certainly wouldn’t be much help to the child sitting next to me.

So mom, take a break today. Spend time with God and ask Him to fill your empty cup!

Let’s Pray

Dear God, You know that parenting is a hard job. Thank you for allowing me the honor and privilege of being a mom. I thank You that I don’t have to parent alone. You are right there with me all the time. I pray that You will refresh my soul today.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

Now It’s Your Turn

Are you running on empty? What happens if you drive a car until it is out of gas? I know that is a silly question, but I want you to keep that picture in mind as you push through your busy day without taking time to refuel.

When is the last time you got away alone to spend some refreshing time with God?

Mark out a 15 minute time block in your daily schedule for quiet reflection. This could be just after the children go to bed, right after dinner, or before you go to bed each night.

More from the Girlfriends

Being a mom is a daunting task! That’s why Sharon wrote Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids. It’s full of practical ideas, Biblical teaching, and stories to warm your soul. Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids also includes a 12-week Bible study to use during those quiet times of reflection. And check out Sharon’s bookmark just for moms!