What makes you a good mom?

I used to think that because Mateo's nose wasn't dripping with snot when I dropped him off at daycare in the morning that this made me a good mom. But guess what? There was always snot dropping from his nose when I picked him up. I know ridiculous one might think. But us moms know we notice things like this.

I used to think that being a good mom was making sure my sons nails were kept clean and cut so he wouldn't scratch other kids. But guess what? There was always dirt under his nails when I picked him up. He would also find a way to scratch if he really wanted to.

I used to think that I had to get a cute costume to dress Mateo in for Halloween because that is what all moms did. Right? Well, now I have studied and understand the true root of Halloween and our family doesn't celebrate this holiday anymore.

I used to think that being a good mom meant that I wouldn't have to yell or spank. Uh.......
I failed in this area. I do try really hard not to yell, and with lots of prayer, God's grace, and my husband holding me accountable I am slowly changing.

To me, being a good mom is spoken of in Proverbs 31. I know this chapter is mostly about the Wife of Noble Character, but there are things about being a mother that really stand out. Listed below are a few of my favorite verses. I know I am no where close to being the woman described here, but with God's help my heart can be changed so I can be the mom that He created me to be.

She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day’s work for her servant girls. (Proverbs 31:15 NLT)

She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night. Her hands are busy spinning thread, her fingers twisting fiber. She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes. (Proverbs 31:17-21 NLT)

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: (Proverbs 31:25-28 NLT)

I am learning what goes into being a mom. This will be a daily challenge for the rest of my life. Is there really such a thing as being a good mom? By whose standard are we saying that someone is a good mom? Being the mom God intended each of us to be is what we should strive for, not to be like or better than any other mom. There will be days of laughter, sadness, stress, weakness, love, brutal honesty, sarcasm, rolling of the eyes, death, and many more. Being a mom carries the responsibility of disciplining our children. Being a mom means we must forgive daily what the children did the day before. Being a mom means teaching our children that there is no love greater than the love of God. Seeing our children laugh and smile is God showing me I am doing something right. I love our children and love being a mom, and will never take this opportunity for granted.

Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. (Psalms 127:3 NLT)

Moms, you are doing a great job! Whenever doubt creeps in, just pray.