Enjoying MotherhoodSample

Remember to Take Care of Yourself

by Rachel Jones

Motherhood is exhausting. If I can be honest, it is a lot harder than I thought it would be. I am sure most of you can agree that the intensity of it all has been a surprise. The love for our children is intense, and so is their strong will to be their own person, the tiredness from trying to do everything, and the frustration that comes from spending all of our time caring for others.

It is hard. And that’s why it’s time to start caring for ourselves, mamas, because we cannot pour from an empty cup!

It’s normal to get overwhelmed with the responsibility of being a mother, a wife, and a human. We spread ourselves so thin, taking care of everybody else but ourselves. But I’m here to tell you, mama, you need to take care of you, too. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus calls to us, saying “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” He desires us to slow down and find a few tranquil moments with Him.

You are just as important as those babies that you spend every waking minute (and most sleeping ones) worrying about. Your family is amazing, and they deserve the best version of you. Well, guess what? The best version of you will only be created if you take breaks! Love on yourself a bit and let Jesus do the heavy lifting. Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” Go take a bubble bath, read a book, or go to Target and walk through every aisle alone.

Every mother is still her own person! Underneath all of the laundry, dishes, and lists, you’re you, and you need to maintain that individuality in order to be fulfilled. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s an empty feeling when you lose who you are. So go take a break, mama. It’s okay. I’m taking one too.