Not My Way, But Yours
- Susie Coldren
- Jul 13
- 3 min read
“If we’re going to be the moms - or the anything - God wants us to be, we have to give up our own way.”
‘“Don't panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.” Isaiah 41:10 MSG
Parenting is no joke. As I reflect on how trusting God seemed to be a lot easier when I was 19 and living life on my own, in a different state than my parents, I remember knowing it was me and God in this crazy world. Fast-forward 24 years, I’m now married with three adult children, and I can see how God has still been there through it all.
But, where did I have Him placed? Was He first, prioritized ahead of me?
A lot of times, yes. But if I’m being real honest, I can say I’ve tried so many times to rely on my own understanding. I’ve panicked. Still do, sometimes. When it comes to trying to show my newly adult kids how to trust and keep God in all areas, I seem to be more frustrated, worrying over every little choice they make. I know I cannot be in control, not because they are “adults”, but because I have to allow God to be their God in their journey. I have to surrender that urge to hold on daily. He is with us, just waiting for us to hand it all over to Him every morning. But even more so, He is with them. He is walking with them, and they are talking to Him. They are learning to navigate through life with Him. And I am blessed to be front and center watching God move in ways only He can.
Faith Follow-Through:
This week, take some time to grow in motherhood and faith:
Monday:
“Don't panic. I’m with you.”
We all know how easy it is to go into full panic mode when it comes to our kids. But God is always so graciously reminding us that He is with us. He’s got us, but more importantly, them! Let’s find three things we are going through, or our kids are going through, and turn it over to God today. Invite His Spirit into these areas. He will bring His perfect peace.
Tuesday:
“There's no need to fear for I’m your God.”
As summer is about to start winding down and the next school year, or whatever season of life your kids may be in, is about to begin, let’s walk in faith. There are so many unknowns ahead for each of us, but our loving Father wants us to know He is for us. He will lead and guide and always be with us. Reflect on this truth today.
Wednesday:
“I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you.”
Nehemiah 8:10b says, “the joy of the Lord is my strength!” Let’s find joy in all that is around us. Today, make a list of five things you are grateful for. Post your list around your house, car, or workspace as a reminder of how good God is. He will bring His strength!
Thursday:
“I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.”
I picture us helping our kids on their first bike ride without training wheels. We had them with a firm grip, not about to let go. Likewise, God is even more so for us than we are for our kids. Let’s allow Him to pour into us and into our families like we would pour into them. We eventually run out, but God will never run out of all that He wants to give to us.
Pray this prayer today: Father, We thank You for Your scriptures. We Thank You for such an on-time reminder that You’ve got each and every one of us. We trust You. We love You. Amen.
Written by Susie, mom of 3