Parenthood can be overwhelming.
For instance, today I'm in a small hotel trying to keep it organized and help my sixth-grader keep up with school work. I am feeling overwhelmed. I have stopped three times in 45 minutes to pray for patience, kindness, gentleness and love. But, I am slowly losing it, friends.
So, I decided to look up verses today that can help. When I turn to God’s word, I can be filled with hope and help. The God of the universe cares for me. He loves me, and He really loves the children He’s entrusted to me.
There are many definitions for overwhelm. It can mean bury, defeat completely or overpower. Oftentimes I can feel all of these things in day-to-day mothering. I must stay attached to Jesus throughout the day, commit to spending time with Him each day in His word and in prayer, and know when to ask for forgiveness when I mess up.
When I know my triggers — the things that get me to the point of feeling overwhelmed more quickly — I can mentally prepare for and better withstand those feelings. Often, a deep breath, a moment away from the situation or a quick prayer can help.
There are times though when I need to ask my husband to step into a situation and help diffuse it, sometimes divert it or just calmly sit through it. I'm thankful I have a supportive husband and supportive parents in my life. We need other people to help — it truly does take a village.
You might be feeling similar to me some days; I want to give you a bit of hope too. Here are Bible verses to pray over, meditate on and commit to memory. Find hope in God’s Word, friends.
We can find refuge in God:
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging" (Psalm 46:1–3).
We can find our strength in God:
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (Isa. 41:10).
We can find rest and peace in God:
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matt. 11:28–30).
God empowers us to do hard things:
"I can do all this through Him who gives me strength" (Phil. 4:13).
We must surrender to God daily:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Prov. 3:5–6).
There is hope for moms and dads. We just need to be intentional in our parenting. We need to be in God’s word, praying daily and practicing healthy ways to deal with stressful situations. When overwhelming moments get to you on your journey, remember to find courage, hope and refuge in God’s Word.
