You have the power and the tremendous privilege to build your home. You can create a safe haven that brings joy to the people who live in it, or a prison. I believe the foundation for a joyful home is to love God and honor your children’s father.

And there I stood, front row witness to it all, in both ancient and modern times, with these four tender, beautiful little people I have brought into this mess of a world. It’s a daunting task to unpeel layers of dysfunctionality to get to the heart of a thing. And yet, I am not dismayed… Because I know the one who holds it all into place and I know He’s already written the ending and it is good.

He simply calls us to take the next right step: change the diaper, wash the dish, make the bed, speak the kind word, offer the prayer. And He promises His strength will meet us in each small moment.

Don’t let your fear of the “what-ifs” stop you from praying with your children. Invite them into the conversation with God in simple, yet meaningful ways. When they witness His answers, their hearts will grow to know His care more deeply.

You did good today, mom. You didn’t do perfection, you did motherhood. You showed up to the day’s unknowns, challenges, setbacks and frustrations, all while raising up a young soul.