6. “I am just a worrier; I can’t help it.”
Slide 6 of 6
At 2:00 a.m. one morning, I woke up in a panic, worried sick: are my children okay? Where are they right now? Who are they with
Visions of a crashed car in a ditch popped into my head. Next, I imagined a masked terrorist with an AK-47, shooting up the quad. Then I pictured an electrical fire raging through my child’s dorm.
After my 3 children left for college, worry took over—especially at night. On and on the fear would run, ravaging my mind. Torturing my heart. And I’d lay there tearfully in the dark, filled with terror, wanting to protect my kids from things I couldn’t control and from people I didn’t even know.
No matter how old your kids are, the desire to protect them never goes away. But there comes a day when you can’t shelter them anymore. The older your children get, the further their lives spin out of your control. And if you’re not careful, worry can take over.
Like a cancer, it can eat away at you, consuming your peace before you know it.
Or at least, that’s been my experience.
And while I’m definitely not a worry-free mom now, I’m more at peace than ever before. I’ve finally learned to combat my runaway worrying by declaring the truth on purpose.
Here are some great declarations for moms to say out loud:
Today, I will choose to:
Rest in Christ, instead of wringing my hands.
Trust God, instead of trying to control everything.
Be peaceful, not panicked, because the Lord’s got this.
What other things should Christian moms stop saying? What are some good things for moms to say on purpose? Feel free to add your own ideas in the comment section below. Evaluate your words this week because what you say is important. Use your powerful words to:
- Reflect God’s promises.
- Impart hope to your kids, instead of doubt.
- Express your faith and love, daily.
- Display the infinite value of being God’s child.
- Bring glory to God.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/MangoStarStudio
May Patterson has been writing and teaching Bible study classes for years. Recently she released her first book, “Seeking a Familiar Face.” Now, she has just released its companion Bible study workbook. May trained in small group dynamics for over ten years with Bible Study Fellowship, serving as a leader for four years. She has written for various magazines including Focus on the Family, Upper Room Magazine and iBelieve, and is a sought-after public speaker. May is married to her dear friend, Mike, and they have three grown children. She loves to tell stories, laugh, and talk about the adventure of seeking God. Read more from May by visiting: http://www.maypatterson.com.
Parents: Need Help Navigating Our Crazy Culture with Your Kids? Listen to Our FREE Parenting Podcast!
Christian Parent/Crazy World with Catherine Segars is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to our episode on battling for your kids in prayer by clicking the play button below:
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Salem Web Network and Salem Media Group.
Related video:
Are you in the trenches with your toddlers or teens? Read Rhonda's full article here!