Dear Mums,

This one's for you - an ovation of gratitude, and sincere recognition of your endless service and selfless sacrifice. Motherhood, can so often feel like a rollercoaster ride of sleepless nights, high expectations, and trying tantrums but in the middle of it all you have these 8 simple truths to hang onto.

YOU ARE CHOSEN

God handpicked you to raise your child! It wasn't a random assignment; it was a deeply personal and relational choice. He saw something unique in you, something that made you the perfect fit for this role.

It's easy to fall into the trap of comparison, especially in today's world where we're bombarded with images of seemingly perfect families. But here's the beautiful truth: God didn't compare you to anyone else when He chose you. He saw your heart, your strengths, your potential, and He knew that you were exactly what your child needed.

So remind yourself daily, "God chose me!" He saw all of your imperfections and still believed that you were the best person for the job. Embrace this truth in your relationships—with your child, your spouse, and with God Himself. Let it deepen your sense of purpose and strengthen your connection to those around you. You are not alone in this journey; you are chosen, loved, and supported every step of the way.

I love what 1 Peter 2:9-10 says, “But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.”

2. YOU ARE SEEN

Feeling invisible as a mum is common, given that the bulk of your time and energy is dedicated to caring for others.

But just remember visibility doesn’t equal value in God’s economy.

God so often does His best work (in us and through us) in the secret places of our lives.

Author and mother, Nicole Johnson, recounts discovering this for herself the night her friend gave her a book on cathedrals. She began to realise that most people would never recall who built the many great cathedrals around the world. Yet, these builders literally sacrificed their lives and expected no credit.

THE PASSION OF THEIR BUILDING WAS FUELED BY THEIR FAITH THAT THE EYES OF GOD SAW EVERYTHING.

"It was almost as if she heard God whispering to you about her own journey of motherhood, “I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you’ve done, no sequin you’ve sewn on, no cupcake you’ve baked, no last-minute errand is too small for Me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can’t see right now what it will become. But I see.”

WHEN I CHOOSE TO VIEW MYSELF AS A GREAT BUILDER—INSTEAD OF THE INVISIBLE MUM—I KEEP THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE.

In her blog, Nicole continues to share her story. The author of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals would ever be built in our lifetime because there were so few people willing to sacrifice themselves to that degree. I disagree.

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we’re doing it right—which is why we may feel invisible some days. But one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible mothers.

“She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” - Genesis 16:3 (NIV)

3. You’re graced for this

Yes, you, with your doubts and fears, your imperfections and insecurities. You are uniquely equipped for this journey as a mother! And when you feel like you’re at the end of your rope, you’re at the beginning of his.

“But He answered me, “My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness.” So I will celebrate my weaknesses, for when I’m weak, I sense more deeply the mighty power of Christ living in me. 2 Corinthians 12:9-11 (TPT)

And I know it doesn’t always feel like it, but good enough is actually enough! In fact, it seems to be a regular occurrence on this wild adventure called motherhood. We fall short of our own expectations but can pick ourselves up and fall forwards, stumbling all the way.

It's in the messy, imperfect reality of motherhood that you unearth the profound beauty of extending grace to yourself and others, sincere apologies, deep breaths, and personal growth.

4. WHAT YOU DO MATTERS

Never underestimate the profound impact of your actions, as they play a crucial role in shaping a child's psychological development. According to science, the formative years are the most pivotal in a person’s life, as they establish fundamental patterns of attachment, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. Your nurturing presence and love serve as essential building blocks, influencing the child's cognitive, emotional, and social development. Every interaction and expression of care contribute significantly to their psychological well-being, setting the stage for healthy growth and resilience in the years to come.

I’m convinced that God’s purpose in our lives often looks pretty ordinary.

It’s the candid conversations we have with our kids that shape the way that they view themselves, others, and God. It’s the moments we apologise when we miss the mark that foster deeper trust and connection within the family unit. It’s the times that we pray as a family and see God answer our prayers supernaturally that the bonds of faith are reinforced.

Through everyday interactions, in the simplest of ways, we pass down essential values, impart meaningful perspectives, and equip our children with the tools they need to navigate life's journey with confidence and compassion.

“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what He wants from you, and quickly respond to it.” — Romans 12:1 (MSG)

Embracing your purpose simply requires you to surrender what’s in your hand, right now. So, just like that verse says, take your everyday responsibilities, routines, and duties and give them to God. Because what may seem mundane becomes oh so magnificent when surrendered to Him!

5. YOUr time is never wasted

May these words put courage in your bones and remind you of the the profound privilege and opportunity you carry as a parent.

"Your most significant contribution to the Kingdom might not be a deed but rather the person you nurture." - Andy Stanley

Nobody will have as great an impact on your child as you do! Be intentional. Teach them the Word. Show them how to worship. Call out the gifts and graces that you see on their life. Model faith. Repent regularly. Be present. Just like a seed takes time to bear fruit, what you sow into the life of your child may not be seen until years down the track, but keep nurturing the seed because one day there will be so much to show for it.

6. YOUR PRAYERS are powerful

There’s something so powerful about the prayers of a faith-filled mother!

As James 5:16 affirms, "The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power]." So, don't hold back—let your prayers flow freely! Continually speak forth God's Word and promises over your family with unwavering faith and conviction.

Your prayers are not merely words; they are dynamic forces, empowered by the divine, capable of bringing about remarkable transformations in the lives of those you love. Keep pressing on, keep believing, and watch as your prayers shape destinies and move mountains!

7. YOU’RE MORE THAN ENOUGH (in him)

It’s so easy to feel inadequate or ill-equipped on this journey of motherhood. I know I have, many times. But, the truth is, you are enough. I am enough. Not on our own, but in Him. Because of Him. When we’re weak, He is strong. When you’re confused, He brings clarity. When we’re empty, He fills us up.

"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you, there is more of God and His rule. Matthew 5:3 (TPT)

Galatians 6:4-5 The Message (MSG) “Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.”

Stop looking at her, and just be you. Fix your eyes on what God says about you and all that He has called you to.

8. YOU CAN WALK IN PEACE

Amidst the whirlwind of motherhood, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and stretched thin (or is that just my personal experience?) But take heart, for the Word of God offers us a promise of peace even in the midst of chaos.

1 Peter 5:7 (AMP) reassures us, "Casting all your cares (all your anxieties, all your worries, all your fears) upon him, for He cares about you (with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully)."

This verse encapsulates the profound truth that God intimately knows and deeply cares for each one of us. Like a loving Father, He doesn't want us to bear our burdens alone. Whatever weighs heavy on your heart today, surrender it to Him. His yoke is easy, His burden is light, and His shoulders are broader than yours. Trust in His unfailing love and find solace in His comforting presence, knowing that He tenderly watches over you with boundless compassion and care.

If this encouraged you, please feel free to share.