5 Signs You Need a Mommy "Time-Out"

Anyone who has been a mother for more than a day can already determine that motherhood isn't easy. Motherhood, in my opinion, is one of the most difficult jobs to successfully maneuver through.

However, because of a mighty, loving God, we are able to mother our children with the love of Christ if we choose to do so. I know that there are times when I don't choose to walk in love with my babies. And it is during those times, I give myself a Mommy "time-out" to make sure I get my heart right with my Father and allow His love to enter in and control the situation. Don't get me wrong, it is not sinful to "feel" an emotion of frustration or anger toward your child, however, it is wrong to act on it in a sinful way.

Here are 5 signs that you need a Mommy "time-out":

1. You are fussing at your children more than you are hugging and loving on them.

This is a big indication that I need to spend time in the presence of Jesus. I am not called to "nag" my children, but rather instruct them in the ways of the Lord in love. It helps me to speak kindly when I meditate on Ephesians 4:29, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

2. You are getting frustrated with your children for simple things that don't matter.

I find myself doing this when I am tired or have other things on my mind. This is when I have to separate myself from my children and pray.

3. You start to put other things in front of your children that do not belong there (ie: phone calls, computer time, etc).

We live in an age of distraction and instant gratification. We have to be vigilant to make sure that we do not allow the enemy to steal our time and sow into things that are not on God's priority list for our lives. If you struggle in this area, I encourage you to fast from whatever is stealing your time and allow God to remove the desire.

4. You no longer listen to your children, you just tell them what to do.

I have been in this space too many times as a mother. While I may not linger there, I've been there, and it is not a fun place to be. I have trained myself when I am feeling tempted to do this to go to the Lord in worship. It works!

5. You judge them based upon past experiences more times than not.

I know I have done this before and I have seen the look of hurt on my child's face. It only took a couple of times for me to realize that I was hurting my child and telling them I do not trust them. This is in direct conflict with God's command to forgive others. I have learned not do to this over the years by simply choosing grace when I am tempted to judge.

I pray that this list is a blessing to someone who is seeking to continually be a better mother to your children. I am walking this journey with you, and am honored to do so!

Carlie Kercheval
Today's Frugal Mom™