The Changing Seasons of Motherhood

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.
—ECCLESIASTES 3:1

Every season of the year is different from the others, and the seasons of motherhood are no exception. We moms will have seasons of weeping and laughing, giving and receiving, planting and uprooting, speaking and being silent.

When our family of two became a family of three, my husband and I quickly discovered we were entering into a very different season of life. As our family grew, each child brought new joys but also new challenges. One of the most significant challenges for me was the realization that I couldn’t do it all anymore!

I was working full-time. I was also involved in ministry at our local church, serving with my husband in a variety of ways. I was having an impact on my world, and I loved it. But with a growing family, my world was changing. Instead of late nights with teenagers from our student ministry, I was nurturing our kids. Instead of serving each week on our worship team, I was getting kids ready and hoping to make it to church on time!

Every family is different, and every season in a family’s life together is different. But just because we move into different seasons, sometimes with limitations, doesn’t mean we lose having an impact on our world. Living with limits doesn’t meaning living less or having less of an impact.

So embrace the season you are in now. Don’t be afraid to say no. Get creative about how you might engage in work or ministry during this unique season. Most of all, give yourself fully and wholly wherever you are. Each season is different but no less important. You can still have an impact on the world, no matter what season you are in!

Father, I know You have me exactly where You want me. Help me not to minimize this season, but to fully embrace it. Teach me where I need to guard my heart and family. I want to make the most of every season, using it to love You and love others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What has been the biggest adjustment in this season of parenting? Are there things you need to say no to for now so you can embrace the season you are in? I’d love to hear! 

Excerpted with permission from The Better Mom Devotional by Ruth Schwenk, copyright Ruth Schwenk. Available everywhere books are sold.