While (trying to) quickly read a blog post before showering for bed, my oldest was at my shoulder.
“Are you cranky?”
“Please go to bed now,” I said, trying not to sound harsh. “I’ll be right up.”
“I think the other bed should have won,” she said, referring to a design show on TV.
This went back and forth for a bit and then, in a frustrated tone, I said, “I just want to read this so I can shower and go to bed. I am very tired. I can’t read while you are talking to me.”
“O. k.”
Ugh.
I sigh, shutting my notebook and stomping downstairs to shower, while mumbling about how my life is defined by guilt every time I try to do something for myself. I wanted to slam the door behind me, but I just shut it.
She opened it and called down, “I’m watching you…” in a sing-song voice.
I heard that—loud and clear. The first thing in my head after she said it was, “And you’re not the only one.”
When you are a mom, your kids are always watching you. You are always teaching them something—either actively, or passively. We want to actively teach them good things, godly ways. But it is easier to be lazy. Unfortunately, that is when the passive teaching kicks in and they learn by observing. Often, that’s not such a good thing.
Your kids aren’t the only ones watching, though. Of course, other moms may watch and learn from you (or judge you). But God's eyes are the only eyes we should care about. If our heart is trained on Him, reminding ourselves that He is always watching us—not to crush us, but to guide and to help us—then what we go through as moms doesn’t feel so overwhelming.
I remember feeling so much encouragement when I found this verse, as a mom of young ones:
“He tends his flock like a shepherd:
He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart;
he gently leads those that have young,”
(Isaiah 40:11, NIV).
In order to tend a flock, you have to keep your eyes on it. Sheep are vulnerable, and they need lots of help. Jesus is our tender Shepherd, and He is always gently leading us moms who have young ones.
So be encouraged! Having His eyes on you means you are watched—and well-cared for—not being harshly judged.
Linking with others at Daily Momtivity for:
Wow, I was just thinking along these same lines today. There are so many mundane and sometimes frustrating tasks we face as moms. I was thinking today about how God sees us, even if we feel alone in the tasks. How encouraging to see some of these same thoughts in your post!
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