Long-range Vision

A “yes” to time watching somersaults in the backyard is a “no” to a phone call, a glance through a magazine, or a bit of alone time. A “yes” to asking friends over for a time of encouragement is a “no” to the free time you might have spent on yourself. “Yes” to the car pool means “no” to sleeping in; “yes” to playing during bath time means “no” to your favorite television show . . . and on it goes.

As moms, what we really need is long-range vision! While the decision to draw your circle of direct influence a little smaller might appear to minimize who you are, the truth lies elsewhere. Think about a drop of food coloring splashed into a cup of water. The more water, the more diluted the color. And so it is with each one of us. When we spread ourselves thin, leaving no time for snuggles and back rubs, Bible study and reading deeply, family vacations and Saturday afternoons at the park, our influence becomes diluted.

So, may I suggest something, mama? Feel free to say lots of “yeses” to your littles, and lots of “nos” to others. Limit yourself in this season of mothering young ones, and watch your influence grow where it’s most important.

I have never heard a woman say, “I wish I would have worked more hours while my children were young” or “I wish I would have read more magazines and watched fewer somersaults.” Rather, the longing is for time long slipped away.

His Promises

We can make our plans,

but the LORD determines our steps.

For everything there is a season,

a time for every activity under heaven.

But generous people plan to do what is generous,

and they stand firm in their generosity.