How joyous it is to be married and to bring forth children as commanded in 1 Timothy 5:14 – I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. However sometimes these changes can throw us into a whirlwind of depression, sickness, confusion, lack of motivation and focus. Below is a list of confessions from sisters and how they overcame these obstacles.
I’m frequently sick, tired or depressed:
-Self-examine, pray and study
-Get sleep, eat, and take care of yourself physically.
I carry the burden of handling everything myself:
-You are not alone, ask for and/or accept help.
-Just because you CAN do it by yourself does not mean that you have to.
I never have enough time to get everything done:
-Prioritize your responsibilities, find and get the house on a routine that works. Don’t make excuses, make it happen.
-Create a schedule, making time for your husband, the children and you.
I’m stressed when my baby cries:
-Sometimes it’s okay to let the baby cry.
-Feed them, burp them, change them. After that they will self sooth, allowing you the freedom to get other things done.
I don’t matter:
-Being pregnant and having a baby does not justify self-neglect. Take care of self, it’s the only way you can take care of the house.
-If you need a moment, find it where/when you can and take it!
I feel alone:
-Many may be giving you space to heal and bond. After the baby is born, time is needed to focus on your Lord’s house.
-Initiate a phone call or text. Sisters may not want to intrude as you are adjusting to all of the changes that come with a new baby, but would love to hear from you!
I don’t know what I’m doing:
-Talk to someone.
-Rely on other sisters for advice to help you avoid or get through mommy mistakes.
I neglect my lord:
-We become so involved with the new life growing in us and around us that we tend to forget about our lord’s. Be sure to make him a priority.
-Talk with other sisters who have been there for advice and examples on how they juggle and prioritize.
As each other’s keepers, we must rely on each other to grow and to develop into the women our foremothers were.
Remember Proverbs 27:17 – Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Let us help each other to avoid the silent screams.
MHNCB