Why I Know I Should be a Mom

I could tell you all the reasons why I shouldn't be a mom. My list could stretch on, growing in length daily. The problem with this envisioned list is that it eludes reality.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8

Thinking about what is true is one of the biggest battles in my mind. I often let my thoughts race to dwell on scenarios that did not happen, have not happened, and (most likely) will not happen. I meditate on an alternative reality instead of actuality. I ponder the numerous what-ifs of the past, present, and future, with the main question on my mind being, “What if I wasn't a mom?” I mean, I’m not very skilled in the areas of patience and selflessness. Am I supposed to be a mom?

Well, the truth is I am a mom; therefore, I can answer the question, “Am I supposed to be a mom?” in the affirmative. God has, in His infinite wisdom, chosen me to be a mother for His glory. This is what is true. Being a mom is one part of my reality, a piece for which I am growing in thankfulness each day.

Since I am a mom, I shouldn't be focusing my heart on the reasons why I shouldn't be a mother. By the power of God’s Spirit in me, I need to be directing my heart to worship in my reality. If someone were to ask how I knew I should be a mom, I can respond that I did not always know if I should due to my multitude of shortcomings, but I now know without a doubt that I should be simply because I am.

So, if you are a mother struggling with this beautiful aspect of your life, uncertain in this calling of motherhood (even if only for fleeting moments), be encouraged by the truth that the gospel is always sufficient. Trusting in the perfect life of Christ, His death for our sins, and His victorious resurrection secures our holiness for all eternity. The truth for you is that Christ’s blood was shed for your every sin and you are never condemned in Him. The truth is that God did not make a mistake in blessing you with children. This is glorious news on the days when we fail to fix our eyes on the One who prepares us and provides for us as moms. Falling short of the glory of God as Christian moms is not meant to drive us to despair, doubting our reality. Instead, we look to Christ, seek truth, and dwell on truth, praising our great and glorious God for how He has called and equipped us for our reality.