One Stressed Out Mama
I’m writing about being a mom and the stress associated with it because I feel that there is someone reading this post who needs to hear what I have to say. I hope you’ll find some comfort and encouragement today.
If you’re a mom like me, then you know the stress that comes along with all of the responsibilities we have. Sometimes I wonder why I’m so stressed. I have a wonderful husband and kids, a beautiful home, and a very blessed life. What could possibly leave me so stressed?
Right now I’m feeling a huge amount of stress. It has been mounting for many months. Maybe it’s a mid-life crisis. I don’t know. One thing I do know is that after 16 years of marriage and being a mom for almost 14 years, my life does not resemble what I thought it would be.
When I thought about being a mom, I just assumed that I would have consistent routines, be efficient and productive in our home, and provide a loving environment for my family. Well, the truth is my life does not look like that at all.
Sometimes I feel like a failure because I’m not a great housekeeper, I’m not a great cook, and I procrastinate too much. All of this leads to more stress in my home and for my family.
Recently I realized that it has been a few months since I’ve had a consistent quiet time. I’ve not been studying my Bible in any way other than opening it at church. I know this lack of quality time with God is contributing to the stress in my life.
This morning I read these words and they provided me much comfort. Maybe they will comfort you too.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
I know when I’m not in God’s Word and am not praying on a consistent basis, then life is much harder than it should be. I’m ill equipped to handle what comes my way.
But, when I’m in constant communication with God, I can turn over my problems and let Him guide me through them.
The inadequacies I mentioned above are compounded when I listen to the voice in my head telling me I’m a failure instead of listening to God’s voice telling me I’m His. Will you join me in turning over our stresses and burdens and picking up Jesus’ yoke instead of our own?
What stresses you the most about being a mom?
Interesting you should write on this topic, Jennifer. Thanks for admitting your human-ness and need. I have just edited my final draft of Prayer Patterns, and one focuses on that very thing. In Mark 1:35 and 38, I notice after Jesus spent quality time with His father, He was able to make decisions based on God’s will, rather than that of the clamoring voices of the world that wished to direct Him. The “take my yoke” part of the Matthew verses remind me of the “abiding” that’s necessary to be at peace in our spirit. I often wish the Lord would jerk me inside that yoke and strap me in, for my own good!
Thanks for pointing out those verses. Yes, it is easy to get caught up in hearing the voices of the world and ignore the One True Voice we need to heed.