Motherhood: Embracing the Divine Calling and Influence

Motherhood as a Mission Field

There is a good old saying, perhaps only said by my grandfather, that distance adds intrigue. It is certainly true — just think back to anything that has ever been distant from you that is now near. Your driver’s license. Marriage. Children. Things that used to seem so fascinating, but as they draw near become less mystical and more, well, real.

This same principle certainly applies to mission fields, too. The closer you get to home, the less intriguing the work of sacrifice seems. As someone once said, “Everyone wants to save the world, but no one wants to help Mom with the dishes.”

When you are a mother at home with your children, the church is not clamoring for monthly ministry updates. When you talk to other believers, there is not any kind of awe about what you are sacrificing for the gospel. People are not pressing you for needs you might have, how they can pray for you. It does not feel intriguing or glamorous. Your work is normal because it is as close to you as your own heartbeat.

Motherhood: A Divine Calling

As a Christian mother, it is important to recognize that motherhood is not just a role or a job; it is a divine calling. In the Bible, we see numerous examples of motherhood being esteemed and honored. The very act of bearing and nurturing children is a gift from God.

Psalm 127:3 says, “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” This verse reminds us that children are not simply a burden or inconvenience, but a precious blessing entrusted to us by God. They are a reward, a heritage that we have the privilege to raise and nurture.

Proverbs 22:6 instructs us to “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This verse emphasizes the importance of our role as mothers in shaping and guiding our children in the ways of the Lord. It is a high calling and a responsibility that should not be taken lightly.

A Mission Field of Influence

While it may not always feel glamorous or intriguing, motherhood is a mission field of influence. As a mother, you have the unique opportunity to shape the next generation, to instill godly values and principles in your children. Your influence extends far beyond the walls of your home.

Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” As a mother, your good works are seen by your children, your family, your friends, and your community. Your faithfulness and love in raising your children can be a powerful testimony of God’s grace and love.

Titus 2:3-5 encourages older women to teach and train younger women in godly living. As a mother, you have the opportunity to be that older woman, guiding and mentoring your own children and other young mothers. You are called to be an example of godliness, patience, and sacrificial love.

The Eternal Impact of Motherhood

When you feel discouraged or overlooked in your role as a mother, remember the eternal impact of motherhood. Your investment in your children's lives has the potential to bear fruit for generations to come.

Proverbs 31:28 says, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Your influence and impact as a mother can be felt not only in your children's lives but also in the way they interact with others and their future families.

Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Motherhood is a journey that requires perseverance and faithfulness. Your labor of love will not be in vain, for God sees and rewards your sacrificial efforts.

Conclusion

Motherhood may not always feel intriguing or glamorous, but it is a divine calling and a mission field of influence. As mothers, we have the privilege and responsibility of shaping the next generation and instilling godly values in our children. Our work may not be applauded or recognized by the world, but it is seen and valued by our Heavenly Father.

So, let us embrace motherhood as our mission field, knowing that our labor of love has eternal significance. Let us continue to pour out our lives for the sake of our children, trusting in God's faithfulness and relying on His grace to sustain us. In the end, we will reap a harvest of blessings and see the fruit of our labor as our children rise up and call us blessed.