Relentless moms: Your best is certainly good enough

The definition of relentless is as follows: oppressively constant, incessant, persistent, nonstop, steady. The world is full of relentless moms. They are always putting the needs of their own children first. Relentless Moms work while planning what the carpool schedule is for the day. At the same time, they plan a dinner menu and fit in when they can squeeze time in to prepare it. After all the running is done, dinner has been made, clean up has taken place, it is onto baths and preparing kids for bed, checking homework and so on. When I began writing this article, I started to question if part of the “relentless” definition was appropriate. I questioned if “oppressively constant” was a correct definition when it came to motherhood. It was in that moment that I realized how appropriate the definition is. Motherhood is rewarding, but it is oppressively constant. It is day in, day out care of raising children, and though joyful, parenting is proof that when James wrote in chapter 4, “Life is like a vapor,” he certainly was not kidding. Through the years, I have noticed it is very easy for moms to be their own worst critic. Also, there is a tendency for moms to criticize each other. We have a tendency to look at everything that is negative in this day and age, and I would like to add this: though there are several things going wrong in the world, for the things that are going right, we can most likely thank a mother for that. You have permission today to let yourself off of the hook. If you are doing your best, then your best is most certainly good enough. There will always be a blogger or someone who has in their mind that they are the best mother who ever walked the planet. Social media has created a world full of publishers who can take some pictures and talk about how amazing they are. Here’s the problem: they only show you the highlights. Most of the time, they are struggling with the same challenges you have — challenges like running everybody else’s schedule, preparing meals, balancing relationships and time with each child, and let’s not forget housework. I am giving you permission to let yourself off the hook. Here are also a few more things I would like to remind you of: You are not alone. Though your story is significant, others can relate to some of the details. Never think no one can relate to your struggles. You may look at someone and think you can’t measure up. That is not true. Quit comparing yourself to others and be who God created you to be. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. God has formed, created and equipped you. You are perfect in His image. Though there are times many may seem to be thankless concerning your effort, do not forget that God has prepared you for the mission of motherhood. Your efforts will truly not be rewarded with flowers or chocolate. Your efforts are rewarded when you see the fruit of the Spirit of God manifesting in the lives of your children. Motherhood is not a sprint; it is more like a decathlon. Your endurance and perseverance will make the difference. Sin does not define you, Christ does. You are the apple of God’s eye. When you think that nothing you do is ever good enough, remember God loves you with an everlasting love. His strength is perfect when you are running low on energy. And Last but not least, the Lord fights for you. Whatever your battle, trial or challenge might be, remember that your battle belongs to the Lord. Nothing is too big or too small for God. Your position needs to be acknowledging God’s presence. Be still and wait for God. Remember the 23rd psalm? “Though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and staff they comfort me.” I wish you a very happy Mother’s Day. May God bless you with an incredible day of joy. Make memories today and know that you are loved. Peace on Earth Y’all!

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Dave Truncone is the pastor of First Assembly of God Church in Van Buren. He is married to Heidi and they have two daughters, Hannah, and Abigail. They live in Van Buren.