Hi, busy mom! I thought you could use some encouragement today as you go about your work. Whether you’re a business owner or a ministry leader – or a mom who has been thinking about taking that leap of faith – I hope one or more of these verses speaks to you and offers the hope and encouragement you need today.
- You have a gift to share!
“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
- 1 Peter 4:10
From photography to number crunching…from listening skills to legal services…from speaking and writing to building and selling…we each have been given a special gift. It’s God’s desire for you to identify those gifts, nurture them and share them. Please don't hide your gift or put it on the back burner…or dismiss it as not important.
- Now is the time.
“If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.”
― Ecclesiastes 11:4
What are you waiting for, my friend? If you’re thinking that things will get easier when your baby starts sleeping through the night…or is finally in Kindergarten…or is off to college…I have news for you – it doesn’t get easier. Only different. You may have more time one day, but that will not necessarily create “perfect conditions” for you to take that next step in your business or ministry. If it’s on your heart to take that next step, then pray for discernment but know that there will never be “perfect” timing. So, now is probably as good a time as any!
- Let it go.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
– Proverbs 3:5-6
There is no greater education than the building of a business or a ministry. Every day is a new lesson…and a new opportunity to feel lost and confused. It’s also a humbling experience because most of us discover that – despite our “take charge” attitude – there are so many unexpected turns along the entrepreneurial journey. And our most valuable resource is the ability to trust in the Lord and know that he can see what we cannot.
- Keep up the good work!
“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
– Hebrews 12:11
Just because you love what you do and you are following God’s plan and living your purpose, doesn’t mean your work will be easy. They call it “work” for a reason. It requires effort. Sometimes it is a labor. But be encouraged, because the fruits of your labor await. They may not be the same fruit you imagine, but God does great things through those who persevere in his name.
- You are not alone.
“He who walks with the wise, grows wise.”
- Proverbs 13:20
You are not in this alone, mamma! There are 10 million women-owned businesses in the United States alone. But you may need to look outside your circles to find someone who understands and can help support you or point you in the right direction. You may need to consider joining a local professional association or attending a conference in your industry. Or you may want to invest in a mastermind group or find a mentor. Just know that you do not have to do this “mom entrepreneur” thing all by yourself.
- You’re just getting started!
"Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin."
- Zechariah 4:10
No matter how long you’ve been in business, you are always starting something new. That’s how we grow. In fact, whenever we are forced to start over, we’re given the opportunity to make new mistakes and learn from them. But sometimes we tend to focus too much on where we are headed, that we forget to honor the place we are right now. We forget that the beginning is a chance to celebrate the endless possibilities that abound. And to be grateful for the courage it took to begin.
Now it’s your turn. What’s your favorite verse and how does it encourage you in your work?
© Theresa Ceniccola 2016
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