A Mother's Heart

When Peanut was born, my aunt gave me a book called A Mother's Heart: A Look at Values, Vision, and Character for the Christian Mother (Pilgrimage Growth Guide). She considered it a book that had a huge impact on her as a mother.  And as the mother of four boys and a precious princess, she would know what a mother needs! 

For the next few weeks, I am going to pass along some encouragement and advice that I found while reading through this jewel of a book. I encourage you to find a copy for yourself!

In the chapter "A Call to Mothers," author Jean Fleming explains the importance of a mother's presence in her children's lives.

A mother's presence throughout infancy and the entire preschool stage is important because more learning takes place in the child's first five years than in any comparable period of life. Experts agree that as much as 85% of a child's character is developed by age five, and the way a child is raised in the early years accounts for at least 20 points of his IQ.

Wow!

I have also read (I can't remember the source) that most of the child's behavior is set by the end of the preschool years thus making discipline and training imperative in the first few years. 

As I think about these two points, I feel overwhelmed. Scared. Defeated.  How many opportunities have I wasted?  Have I done enough?  What if I would have done more of ____?

By the grace of God, I declare these fears of the enemy. 

What I see in my fears is a towering "I."  Have I  done enough...have I said the correct thing...have I...have I...? 

Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  (Matthew 11:28)

We do not have to walk our days alone.  God invites us to come and sit at His feet to be renewed and refreshed. 

Yes, the first five years are so important.  But, by His strength we can help teach our children what they need to know, mold their character, and train their minds. 

 

How do you find renewal and strength from your Savior?

Unsure how to "sit at His feet and be renewed?"  You are not alone.  Be sure to ask your questions in the comment space below and then come back as this is one of the topics that you have requested and one that I will cover the next few weeks.