Don't Let Feelings Drive

Cathrine Schmelzer
Mar 12, 2024
2 min read

“Taking my anger, frustration, etc., to God, however, opens up room for me to be the mom He has called me to be.”

“Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” James 1:20 NLT

It's no surprise to any of us that motherhood is full of emotions. The emotional roller coaster starts before our little ones even enter the world. From whatever we feel when we find out we are pregnant, to feeling our baby move for the first time, to the nervousness around giving birth, just growing our babies is wildly emotional.

Then comes the part of motherhood that begins with giving birth and constantly brings new milestones, challenges, and of course even more feelings. There's the joy of seeing those tiny little faces for the first time. The excitement of first words and steps. The affection we have toward our kids because they're ours and the pride in their accomplishments. And then there are all the worries, the fears, and the times we're so frustrated we want to pull our hair out.

Emotions are inevitable and valid, but not always beneficial. In fact, strong emotions literally interrupt the logical thinking process (picture a toddler melting down because their cup is the wrong color). Particularly, to quote my pastor, “Angry me is stupid me”. Not once in my 14 years of being a mom have I reacted to my son in unchecked anger and done well by him. My anger and frustration have never led me to be gracious, gentle, patient, or kind. Taking my anger, frustration, etc., to God, however, opens up room for me to be the mom He has called me to be. It's in repeatedly surrendering my emotions- and at times simply saying, “Jesus, take the wheel”- that I'm able to receive more of God and be led and empowered by His steadfast Spirit instead of being ruled by fleeting feelings.

Action Steps

Give yourself grace and permission to acknowledge, experience, and validate your feelings.
When emotions rise up, take them to God in the moment and ask Him to calm you down and help you respond appropriately.

Written by Alisen, boy mom