The Joys & Pains of Motherhood

 By: Joanne Viola

 

When I had my first baby, no one told me that my heart and mind would never be the same again. Nothing could have prepared me for all I would worry about from that day forward:

• getting up to put my hands on the little chests to check for breathing
• concern for choking as transitions were made to solids
• going to school, making friends, and hoping for a good education
• safety in sports
• safety as they learned to drive
• who they would marry
• jobs
• praying for their salvation

The list was endless. And, it continued as spouses and grandchildren came into our lives.

I would think most mothers go through these same emotions. Please tell me it is normal. I would like to think I am not alone.

Recently I read a verse that fell in an entirely new and enlightening manner. It made me realize these concerns are as old as the ages.

Mary and Joseph brought Jesus into the temple to be blessed. Simeon spoke to them about the Him. But it was to Mary, that Simeon spoke these words:

“And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, 
“Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, 
and for a sign to be opposed – 
and a sword will pierce even your own soul – 
to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” 
(Luke 2:34-35, NASB) 

Yes, Simeon was prophesying of the sorrow Mary would experience in the rejection and death her son would endure. But maybe, Luke, being a doctor, realized the strong attachment women have to their children.

Motherhood will cause us to pray, and pray more. What are some of the verses we can pray for our children?

• “But You, O Lord, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head.” (Psalm 3:3, NASB) 
• “He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.” (Psalm 91:4, NASB) 
• “The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in From this time forth and forever.” (Psalm 121:7-8, NASB) 

Motherhood brings the biggest joys and the deepest pains.
We won’t be able to shield them from every danger,
but we can pray and trust the One who will be with them forever.

 

Reflection: 
Has becoming a parent caused you deep pain rooted in concern for your children? What Scriptures have become a lifeline of assurance over the years that God is with them?

 

 

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