Be Strong and Courageous, Mom
“Our children get to represent Christ to the world around them, and we as moms need to stay strong and courageous each time our children step into a new grade, school, or whatever life may bring.”
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV
As summer fades and back to school preparations begin, our hearts start to feel that ache of
letting our babies go and grow. Whether your kids go to public school, private school, or
homeschool we feel that same sense that our kids are growing up. We are unable to stop
them from going out and learning new things but we can give them a strong foundation to
always come back to.
In Deuteronomy 31, Moses let his “children” know that he won’t be going into the
promised land with them. He appointed Joshua to become their new leader; he’s young,
strong, and has a deep faith in God. I can only imagine how hard it must have been for Moses to let go of his leadership and say goodbye to his people. But he had taught Joshua the ways of God and the laws that God demanded of His people. And because of Moses’s mentorship and love Joshua was ready to take the lead. The phrase “be strong and courageous” is in the Bible around eleven times (depending on your translation), and most of those occurrences are reminders to Joshua from God. Joshua, just like all of us, needed to be reminded that God's plans are greater and He will never fail us.
As Christian moms, we are doing the same thing with our children each time they step out of our house. We have to show our kids how to love God, follow His laws, and then let them go on their own journeys. We have to love and guide them on how to be good people to those they come in contact with. Our children get to represent Christ to the world around them, and we as moms need to stay strong and courageous each time our children step into a new grade, school, or whatever life may bring.
Today, reflect on this scripture and this truth. What are you asking the Lord to help you or your family through?
Faith Follow-Through:
This week, take some time to grow in motherhood and faith:
Tuesday:
Write out a prayer to pray over your kids, about growing strong and courageous in
their lives and faith.
Wednesday:
If you have kids at home, read this verse with your family and use the prompt for a family discussion:
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Prompt: How can you shine for Jesus while you’re out of the house?
If you have babies or adult children pray Matthew 5:16 over thier lives.
Thursday:
Find a worship song that brings you peace. When you're feeling anxious about your kids, turn that song up loud and give it over to God. (Feel free to share your song below!)
Go to God: Dear Lord, as we begin this new school year, give us moms strength when we feel tired, courage when we feel uncertain, and patience when things feel overwhelming. Help us trust You with our children and remember that You are with them wherever they go. Fill our hearts with peace and remind us that we don’t have to do this alone. Help us be strong and courageous, knowing You go before us every step of the way. In Jesus name, amen.
Written by April, mom of 3 kiddos
