I married right out of high school. I was an immature Christian and didn’t realize I should pray about who I was going to marry. God gave me four children. Two adopted and two biological. However, one was a gift for a very short time.
It wasn’t long before I realized I was carrying the entire load. Just like many other moms, I was the breadwinner, cook, housekeeper, nurse, taxi service etc.
It was important to me that the children be raised in church. Therefore, they were in church from the time they were babies until they left home. I wanted them to learn of God’s love for them and have more Christian growth that I did when I left home. Money was tight. For more years than I want to admit, I would sell my vacation time so I could afford to send them to church camp and on mission trips. I have no regrets for that. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
Whenever they became teenagers life became very difficult. Unfortunately, it is during the tough times in our lives that we grow and I was doing a lot of growing. I would often turn to the 4th chapter of Philippians and read it over and over. It encouraged and gave me lots of comfort. Philipians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. I remember praying on several occasions and asking, “God, do I have to grow any more right now? Can I please just coast for a little while?”
It was during those years I was divorced and my eyes were opened. I had proof there were instances of adultery but even worse, I was convinced my oldest daughter had been molested by her dad.
My desire is to encourage moms to spend time quality time with their kids even in the face of life’s challenges. Have fun with them. Go to the park, play a game or sit down and watch a movie. Also have face to face conversations with them. Listen attentively to what they are telling you. There may be times you have to read between the lines. But, if you listen, you will know what is going on in their life. Your attention, wisdom and support…PRICELESS!!
About Pat McNatt
My name is Pat and I am a native of Oklahoma however my husband and I currently live in Texas. I am a nurse and have worn many hats but my favorite one is being a “Mimi”. My grandchildren are truly the light of my life and bring me more joy than I thought possible. It is a blessing for me to do things with them that I never did with my own children. I have a speaking ministry which gives me an opportunity to encourage other moms so they won’t make the same mistakes I did. Connect with me at pat@patmcnatt.com