I’ve been a little emotionally weary lately. I have a tween girl emotionally adjusting to a new season of life, an elementary-aged boy who I don’t always understand, and a toddler girl who is exploring every bit of the world around her.
They’re three of my most favorite people in the world, but that doesn’t mean mothering is easy.
I know in my head that being a mom – their mom, specifically – is the most important title I will ever know. But in the day-to-day organizing, cleaning, transporting, referring, teaching, and training, I sometimes lose sight of that.
September McCarthy’s words in “Why Motherhood Matters: An Invitation to Purposeful Parenting” spoke truth into my life right as my family settled back into a new school year, my oldest had a slate of new questions, my boy caught me by surprise again, and my youngest climbed out of her crib. As a home-educating mom of ten kids, this author brought understanding and encouragement to me through her words. I’m obviously not the only mom who has juggled her kids’ various seasons of life.
“Women, we are called to be sowers. Sowers. It sounds so mundane, doesn’t it? Planting seeds, bending low, tilling the ground, sifting the dirt, pruning, watering, and weeding. It takes time and hard work to plant and reap a harvest. We need one another if we are to remember to continue to work with an end in sight, even when life seems fruitless or desperate. The heart and understanding we take into motherhood will affect our vision, our purpose, and our outcome. We don’t need to suffer through God’s calling on our lives.”
– September McCarthy in “Why Motherhood Matters”
We aren’t to suffer through motherhood. Sure, some days will be harder than others. We will have to make hard decisions, say no when we want to say yes, draw boundaries the kids don’t understand, and walk through heartbreaking circumstances.
God promises us peace and joy while we mother.
Really.
I know, I forget that sometimes too.
But September reminded me in her book that is filled with some of her reflections on raising ten kids, truth straight from the pages of the Bible, and practical application to what that may look like in your real life. She keeps the big picture in view while relating it to what mommas do with their everyday lives.
I want to reread this book and give it to all the moms because we are the mood makers and world changers, right here from our homes.
“Women can ignite happiness, spark anger, diffuse arguments, and lift the fog of discouragement in any atmosphere. Mothers are mood makers, and it is our job to set the tone in the lives of those we are given to steward. It may seem daunting, but it is truly a gift. … Mothers, imagine the power over the nations, the generations, if you are willing to model and speak peace into the very fiber of your home and your children. It will be life changing.”
– September McCarthy in “Why Motherhood Matters”
I want this refreshed perspective to be life changing – for me and the ones I’m raising.
About the book
As a mom for 25 years who continues to raise young children and love her young adults, September McCarthy imparts words of wisdom and grace about getting honest with your family about your need for Jesus, learning to take care of your kids – and yourself, raising a new generation with creativity and character, and speaking to the heart of your children in unique ways. In these pages, you’ll find anecdotes and gentle guidance for those moments you need both a breather and a lifeline. Motherhood is an incredible labor of love—and in the scope of eternity, it matters.
This 256-page paperback is officially available from Harvest House Publishers today. Learn more about it at the book’s website.
About the author
September McCarthy believes every woman needs someone to speak into her life with understanding and truth. She encourages women in each season of motherhood through her blog One September Day and her ministry Raising Generations Today. As a speaker and writer, her vision and mission are for the generations. September lives in rural Upstate New York with her husband and their large family.
Giveaway
I’m thrilled to be able to give one of you a copy of this fabulous book! In the comments just tell me why motherhood matters to you and you’ll be entered to win. Earn an extra entry by sharing this post on the social media of your choice and come back here to let me know you did. A winner will be randomly chosen on Friday, Sept. 8.
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I received a free advanced copy of this book from Sidedoor Communications in exchange for reviewing it. These opinions are my own – and some of my momma friends really are going to be gifted this book.
Oh you are really enticing me and I think I definitely need to add this to my list, but I tell myself you have read lots of parenting books lately, do I need one more? I do think I need this one!
I know, I know. So many books. But this one is excellent. 🙂
Tweeted and why did my other comment go through twice above, well I see one was before I did my correcting. Ack!
I deleted one of them. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Motherhood had always been important to me. I went to college (already had a kid before that) had two more while attending and then three more after. I thought I’d graduate and “get a real job.” But from the moment we decided I could stay home, I have loved it. I absolutely love being a mom and all it entails. With the current hand that’s been dealt us, I’m having to play the role of both parents and some days I feel like a total failure so encouragement is my greatest asset.
I’m sharing this on FB as soon as I’m done posting.:)
Thanks for sharing. I pray for you often. xo
This looks so good! I forget that motherhood is more than laundry and dishes and running kids back and forth. I forget that it’s deeper, more important. We are not merely providers for needs, we are caretakers of the heart.
“We are not merely providers for needs, we are caretakers of the heart.” –> YES, yes, yes. Gosh, me too, Becky. This book was a good reminder for sure.