Being a Perfect Mom

Last night, Michael and I listened to a message from Tullian Tchividjian. {you can listen to it here} The entire message, I was thinking "Man, this is just what Michael needs to hear." But as I was lying in bed later that night trying to fall asleep, I was totally convicted. Let me explain:

I have to confess. I realized that being a perfect mom is something that I have been trying to become. {Although, my idea of being a perfect mom may be different than your idea} Becoming a mother is something that I have wanted my entire life. But as I have mentioned before, being a mother does not define me. However, I often make motherhood my top priority. And I am terrified that I am going to do something wrong! I mean, you can take back mistakes you make with your child!

Ever since I found out I was pregnant, I have been trying to prepare myself for raising my children. I have read and re-read BabyWise, I use cloth diapers, I strictly breastfeed, I make my own baby food and I feel like I am constantly looking for new ways that I can be the best mom. While these things are good things, I am adding a lot of nonessential pressure to my life. At the end of the day, I am stressed out. How did I do today? What do I need to do different tomorrow? 

But as I listened to Tullian last night, I was reminded that the pressure is off. There is no need for me to be a perfect mom. I do not have to do anything extraordinary; I am free to be ordinary. Because Christ was perfect, I can find rest in Him. He did what I could not and can not do. He was extraordinary. When I begin to realize and dwell on His holiness, I am reminded how not perfect I am. And that is ok. I am not called to be perfect, because I have a perfect Savior. I am redeemed by Him.

While I will still try to do what I feel is best for my son, I do not need to be overwhelmed by trying to be a perfect mom. Jude has a perfect Savior and that will be enough for him too.

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