Momma Theologians | Christian Motherhood Ministry

“Are you truly praying for thy will to be done,” the preacher asked a rapt congregation, “Or for my will to be done?” My church recently hosted a missions conference where our international and national partners shared their work for God's Kingdom around the world. For five days, I listened to stories from missionaries and church planters about smuggling Bibles into closed countries, preaching the Gospel to those who had never heard it, and experiencing persecution for the Christian faith. I sat on the edge of my seat as they recounted God's faithfulness to them in suffering, needs, and endurance. Their testimonies both encouraged my own faithfulness, and yet, caused some discouragement to rise up. I wondered how serving my own little community in the center of the Bible belt could make the same difference in the Kingdom of God. How could I, a mother who works in the home, make an impact on the Kingdom? On the final Sunday morning, one of our international church planters shared an exhortation for our faith family to live on mission wherever we are. He ended with the question above, challenging whether we truly were living our lives for the Kingdom of God. He encouraged us to submit our will to the Father's by daily praying, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). We're all kingdom builders. In my home, my primary mission field, I often want to build my kingdom, rather than God's. I build routines that protect my own comfort rather than provide opportunities for Gospel proclamation. I use my discipline to point to my own control rather than God's sovereign rule. I create all day long—meals for my family, words for others, activities for my children—expecting to receive glory rather than point to my glorious Creator. I steward my home and family to establish my own kingdom, rather than to further God's Kingdom. The question is not whether you and I are building a kingdom. It's whose kingdom are we building? Because we all are part of the story of the Kingdom. ________________ Practical Takeaways Begin memorizing the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13. You can even invite your children to join you! Brainstorm different ways you can go out of your comfort zone to share the Gospel with others. It might be inviting your children into your Bible study time or striking up a conversation with another mom at the park. Read through Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 where he describes what the Kingdom of God is like. Prayerful Takeaways Begin each day by praying Matthew 6:10 over your planner and to-do list—that God's Kingdom would come to earth through your work that day. Pray through the different areas of your life and ministry right now. Ask God how you can join his Kingdom work in each of those areas. Confess ways that you have been seeking to build your own kingdom rather than God's. ___________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Bethany Broderick Bethany Broderick lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, three-year-old daughter, and one-year-old son. A recovering perfectionist, she writes about resting in God's grace in the everyday moments of life as a woman, wife, and mother. She is on the blog contributor team at The Joyful Life and has featured articles at Risen Motherhood, Coffee + Crumbs, and Kindred Mom. You can find her words on her personal blog (dwellingword.com) and on Instagram (@bethanygbroderick).

Responsibility, exhaustion, and distraction often overshadow the joys of motherhood. Quiet and solitude remain as elusive as the Loch Ness monster. As we pour ourselves out for our children, we struggle to find more to offer our spouses, friends, and God. Wouldn't it be lovely if the solution consisted of doing less rather than more? What if being mindful of each moment enabled us to refresh our souls and glorify God? __________ Please read the Biblical truths behind this message and declare the awesomeness of our God: As he was now getting near, at the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works which they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest!” Some of the Pharisees from the multitude said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” He answered them, “I tell you that if these were silent, the stones would cry out.” – Luke 19:37-40 WEB ______________ Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways: 1) Start your morning by reading Psalm 148 and 150 and carry that spirit into your day. Actively look for moments of beauty, write them on your heart, and give praise to the Lord. 2) Read and meditate on Psalm 103 and/or 136. 3) Find a few moments to marvel at God's creation around you. Consider these songs to accompany your solitary worship: Chris Tomlin's “I Stand In Awe” featuring Nicole Serrano or “Beautiful Beyond Description” performed by Soul Survivor and Momentum. 4) Challenge yourself to spend time outside each day this week. Try to experience God with all five senses and turn the time into a prayer of praise. If you can't go outside, marvel over prerecorded sights and sounds from nature. _______________ Momma Theologians Contributor Leslie Klosterman Leslie Klosterman has savored more than a decade as a stay-at-home mother and volunteer. However, she recently took a leap of faith and completed her master's degree in Christian Spirituality and Formation at Regent University. God has blessed Leslie with three lively sons (a teenager and twins who are eight). Leslie loves God, reading, writing, K-Dramas, dessert, and taking pictures. She also has a passion for ministering to women and children. You can find more of her writing at her personal blog.

My parents modeled spiritual disciplines, read to us, taught us how to think, and demonstrated repentance. They did this in small, daily moments of faithfulness as well as after intentional planning. It wasn't complicated, but these four areas became powerful patterns in my life that shaped me and are now shaping my parenting. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways What are some of the things your parents did well in how they raised you? How might you implement them in your own life? If your parents were not believers and/or didn't raise you well, how has God led you in your parenting already? How can you grow still further in these things? Brainstorm ways you might apply my four points in your unique family circumstances. Select one or two ideas to try out this week. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com Find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians __________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns.

I've come to realize that most of my identity crises - both regarding to motherhood and with my spiritual growth - start with comparison. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Which one of the verses above speaks most to you? Try to memorize it and use it to protect your mind against destructive thoughts. Is there anyone you especially compare yourself to? If so, how about taking a break from following that person on social media or hanging out? Use the time apart to readjust your expectations of yourself according to God's Word. You might not be exactly where you want to be yet, but I am sure God has already taken you a long way from where you started. Make a list of things God has done in you and through you Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways Pray the verse you memorized daily, asking the Holy Spirit to permanently mark it into your soul. Pray for the people you compare yourself with, blessing them. Pray for a deeper understanding of who God called you to be and for alignment with Him. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com Find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians __________________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Denise Assis Dos Santos Denise is a pastor, wife, and mother of two boys who wake up way too early every morning. She is a Brazilian living in Oslo, Norway, and speaks Norwegian and English in addition to her mother language, Portuguese. Denise has a burning desire to serve Jesus and to manifest His Kingdom on earth, all while juggling motherhood and a full-time job. You will find her writing, drinking coffee, listening to worship music, and working up the courage to do the dishes.

If you're anything like me, you probably start your day with hot coffee and short prayers. Lord, give me strength, help me wake up, please make the baby sleep a little bit longer, please be the patience I come up short with. You might be mentally reviewing and ordering your tasks for the day, or you might prefer to wing it. You might be readying children for school or gearing up for “long days of small things” with your littles, as the author and theologian Catherine McNiel so aptly phrases it in her book of the same name. Whatever season of mothering you are in, I imagine your plate is full and your capacity for care might be waning. You are doing all that you can and trusting that God's grace will provide for all that falls through the cracks, and these days, it may feel like pretty much everything is. Momma Theologians Practical/ Prayerful Takeaways 1. Ask Holy Spirit to show you if there are any areas in your life where you could more wholeheartedly support the wellbeing of your family? 2. Do something out of the ordinary for your kids—bake them a batch of chocolate chip cookies on a Wednesday afternoon and tell them (and yourself) how delicious God's love is! 3. There are 221 references to the word “build” in the ESV translation of Scripture. Spend some time on biblegateway.com reading through the verses referencing this word. Pick one Scripture to re-write in your own words, and meditate on what God is showing you through this verse or passage. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com Find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians ______________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kelsi Folsom Kelsi Folsom is a poet and singer making her home in beautiful Kansas City with her husband and four young children. She navigates the ups and downs of marriage and motherhood with black coffee, her library card, and a no.2 pencil. Her essays and poems are published in Motherly, Coffee and Crumbs, Grit and Virtue, Verily Magazine, Mothers Always Write, Kindred Mom, and elsewhere. She is the author of three collections of poetry, Breaking the Jar (Finishing Line Press, 2022), Buried in the Margins (Finishing Line Press, 2020), and Words the Dirt Meant to Share (Desert Willow Press, 2018). Having lived in multiple countries and moved fourteen times since getting married, Kelsi loves encouraging women to find refreshment and comfort in the moment-by-moment friendship of Jesus Christ. She firmly believes in the power of true worship to foster healing through the embodiment of God's unconditional love. When she isn't cooking for family and friends, she enjoys thrifting, reading Bible commentaries, and occasionally putting her B.M. in Voice Performance to good use. Connect with her on IG @kelsifolsom and sign up for her quarterly newsletter The Shameless Beauty Digest.

None of us would admit we view God as a cosmic vending machine who will dole out blessings if we only insert the right coins of our good works. Yet, here we are, living as though this karma ideology was the gospel truth. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Read Matthew 11:28-30 and praise God for the truths of Jesus' promises found there. Confess belief in Karma Christianity and pray that God will show you His nearness through your current difficulties. Journal about a difficult time in your past while paying special attention to God's presence with you and your family. Think of another mom in your life that may be having trouble and pray for her. Ask God how you might support her well during this time. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com Find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians Our team consists of fifteen writers and Momma Theologians, plus myself, but it is always a joy to host and steward others' words in this space to encourage you on in your spiritual growth. If you are a writer and would enjoy the opportunity to be featured on our podcast, just like Elena Limoges is featured on this one, or to have your essay published at Momma Theologians, check out our writer's and submissions guidelines at: mommatheologians.com/writer __________________ Momma Theologians Guest Writer Elena Limoges Elena Limoges is a registered nurse turned writer living on the West Side of Chicago. She is passionate about telling stories of God's goodness, even in difficult situations. She draws on her experience to write in the spaces of mental health and also justice. When she is not caring for her two small sons, you can find her making delicious food, delving into audiobooks, and discovering new coffee shops around the city.

This gives Eve hope: childbearing will be painful, but the womb will be an instrumental tool moving God's plan of redemption forward. It is a primary weapon in the war between the seed of the Serpent and the seed of Promise. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways How does tracing childbearing through Scripture give you hope and comfort in your suffering as a mother, be that miscarriage, infertility, postpartum depression, or wayward children? How does Scripture's view of childbearing align with your motives for having children and thoughts on family size? Be sure to consider both the creation order and the Great Commission. While you should not feel that motherhood is taking you away from “ministry,” or that you need to do more than stay at home and disciple your children alongside your husband, the priority of spiritual fruitfulness should pull you towards discipling your children and involvement in the body of Christ. How does this challenge or encourage you? Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians _____________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns.

Christ's death and resurrection open the door for our salvation. Jesus makes “safe the way that leads on high, and [closes] the path to misery.” God not only makes us new, He drives history forward to the New Heavens and the New Earth, where there is no more sorrow. He works to pull us out of a world of death and decay. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Meditate on Psalm 139. We gravitate towards the sections on being fearfully and wonderfully made, but do not neglect the rest of the Psalm, especially the emphasis on God's constant care of and presence with you. Consider more empathetic alternatives to “it was God's will,” especially ones that account for the complexity of God's will. What could you say instead to a friend who has lost her baby? Here are some ideas to get you thinking: I'm sorry you lost your baby. It's right to grieve your miscarriage. God did not design the world to be this way. Remember how Jesus wept at Lazarus's tomb? He isn't indifferent to your pain. God sees your sorrow, hears your cries, and is working to bring death to an end. 3. If you are currently grieving miscarriage, set aside time to lament, honestly bringing your pain before God as you seek to trust Him. For more comfort regarding miscarriage, I highly recommend the book Held, edited by Abbey Wedgeworth, for mom, and the corresponding Ours, edited by Eric Schumacher, for dad. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians __________________________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns.

Mommas, though I'm sure you're busy chasing toddlers and keeping up with laundry today, let's go back to high school for a little bit. Remember the days when our worries were school dances, pep rallies, and grades? In the midst of those days, we sat in English classes and learned about genres. In my previous article and podcast episode, “Understanding the Importance of Genre in the Old Testament,” we learn that genre matters, especially in studying Scripture. Knowing the genre of a book of the Bible enables us to interpret and apply it correctly. Today, let's focus on genres in the New Testament, which are typically a little more familiar to us. However, there are still helpful things to consider when studying each different genre. The New Testament consists of four different genres: Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) Acts Letters/Epistles (Romans, 1-2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1-2 Thessalonians, 1-2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1-2 Peter, 1-3 John, Jude) Revelation Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Choose a New Testament book you've never studied or haven't studied recently. Study it using these considerations given about that genre. Pray before, during, and after your study, asking the Spirit to illuminate His Word to you and help you rightly apply it. Alternate between reading an Old Testament book and New Testament book. I heard this tip from Kelly Needham, and it's really helpful to continue reading books that can be more difficult, instead of getting “stuck” in them. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ____________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Cassie Pattillo Cassie is a student pastor's wife, mom to two energetic boys, and hopeful adoptive mom to their daughter, growing in their hearts from India. She's passionate about biblical literacy, and writing and teaching about Scripture. Currently, she's pursuing an M.A. in Ministry to Women from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary to better equip her to teach God's Word. Cassie loves slow mornings with a cup of coffee, a good book on the beach, and Gamecock football. She loves giving Gospel-centered encouragement through writing, which you can find on her blog, Diaries of a Daughter. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement, Bible Study, Bible Genres

Have you ever been downright confused when attempting to read your Bible? Have you ever questioned how you should even read certain parts of Scripture? If so, momma, you're not alone. An important thing to understand that will tremendously help you know how to read your Bible is genre. Law (Genesis-Deuteronomy, but note these books contain some narrative also). Narrative (Joshua-Esther) Poetry/Wisdom Literature (Job-Song of Solomon) Prophecy (Isaiah-Malachi) Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Ask these questions to help your study: What does this teach me about God? How does this point to Christ? Therefore, how should this change the way I live? Is there a genre you often shy away from? Study a book from it. Pray! Prayer is powerful in helping us read God's Word. Pray for understanding. Pray God would help you apply His Word rightly. Even ask God questions as they come up in your reading. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians _____________________________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Cassie Pattillo Cassie is a student pastor's wife, mom to two energetic boys, and hopeful adoptive mom to their daughter, growing in their hearts from India. She's passionate about biblical literacy, and writing and teaching about Scripture. Currently, she's pursuing an M.A. in Ministry to Women from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary to better equip her to teach God's Word. Cassie loves slow mornings with a cup of coffee, a good book on the beach, and Gamecock football. She loves giving Gospel-centered encouragement through writing, which you can find on her blog, Diaries of a Daughter. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement, Bible study, Bible Genre

As Christian parents, we long to keep our children pure. We set guards on our computers, we limit screen time and negative friendships, and we pray our kids will never run into another child, teen, or adult who turns their eyes toward evil things. But inwardly, we wonder: is it is only a matter of time? And many of us have crashed into that moment already. Jesus taught his disciples to be "wise as serpents, yet innocent as doves." (2) But what does that look like? As I've read through the Word with my children, we've stumbled upon several stories that have helped us begin these difficult conversations. Lesson One: Turn away from nakedness. Lesson Two: Look for the way of escape. Lesson Three: Watch, Pray, and Stick Together. Lesson Four: Keep a Daily Check-In. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ________________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Katherine Pittman Katherine Pittman is married to Geoffrey (an itinerant preacher) and homeschooling mom to three. She is the creator of Write the Word on my Heart, a Bible memory curriculum for little ones; and co-host of the Books and Parchments podcast. When they're not on the road, the Pittmans make their home in central Virginia, gathering with and serving among the saints at Richmond Christian Fellowship. Connect with Katherine on Instagram, Facebook, or her blog. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement, Sexual Purity, Momma Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality, Raising Christian Children, Difficult Conversations with Children

Wisdom begins with a right attitude toward God, one that leads us toward Him and keeps us close to Him. Whatever choices we face in the day about how to apply God's word and walk rightly before Him, if our decisions flow from fear, reverence, and love for God, we will walk in wisdom. We can cultivate this attitude many ways, such as time in His Word, fellowship with believers, and worshiping God in church and at home. Wisdom is rooted in faithful discipleship. Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways Read and reflect on 2 Chronicles 1. In what areas of life do you feel daunted or unsure of your ability to fulfill the responsibilities on your shoulders? Pray for wisdom in these areas. Meditate on the fear of the Lord and spend time contemplating His character in reverence and awe. One encouraging passage might be Nehemiah 9, in which the Israelites are praising God and confessing their sins. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ____________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Amy Fischer Amy Fischer is a home educating mom of three rambunctious boys. Originally from Indiana, she now resides with her family in northwest England. Amy writes about home education and parenting on her blog, Around the Thicket. She is also the co-host of the Thinking Love podcast, a show about the Charlotte Mason approach to education. When she isn't chasing after her boys, you will find her reading, writing, or planning her next hike. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement, Wisdom, Theology, Biblical Definition

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). It was Joshua's declaration before the Israelites, and for many of us today, this verse has become our testimony as well. We read it at our weddings. We hang it on our walls. And as we do, we declare: "[we] have decided to follow Jesus," and we're taking our family with us. Almost from the time my husband and I were saved, we served in the church, especially among teens and college students. Eventually, we married; and together, we consecrated our marriage to the Lord. By his grace, we would serve him. Five years into our marriage, we rejoiced when I became pregnant with our first child. But soon, many began to question if we could still serve. Some even expressed dismay. They didn't say it, but the feeling implied was this: our lives would be just too busy to serve with children. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians _____________________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Katherine Pittman Katherine Pittman is married to Geoffrey (an itinerant preacher) and homeschooling mom to three. She is the creator of Write the Word on my Heart, a Bible memory curriculum for little ones; and co-host of the Books and Parchments podcast. When they're not on the road, the Pittmans make their home in central Virginia, gathering with and serving among the saints at Richmond Christian Fellowship. Connect with Katherine on Instagram, Facebook, or her blog. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement, Serving the Local Church in Motherhood, Church Service, Family Serving

While being tempted by the devil in the desert, Jesus says that we won't live only by bread, but of the words that come out of God's mouth (Mathew 4:4). He is telling us that we can't only feed our flesh, but that our spirit also needs food. And not any food, but God's Word. A balanced spiritual meal can be defined as meditating in the Bible, praying and worshiping. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways 1) One of the best ways to know if we are growing spiritually is to check if our reactions are being led by our flesh or by the Spirit. Try being aware of your reactions and ask God to show you who you are being led by. 2) Practice obedience to God in the small and big things. Obedience is one of Jesus's characteristics (Philippians 2:8) and is a big step into growing spiritually. 3) Based on Philippians 4:8-9 exercise exchanging ‘bad' thoughts with good thoughts. 4) Fasting is a spiritual practice that increases our connection with God. How about taking one day this week to fast for some hours to become more aware of the Holy Spirit? Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways 1) Use Philippians 4:8-9 to pray over your life. Your prayer could be something like this: “Dear God, help me keep my mind and thoughts on You and on things that You like so that I will be able to experience more and more of Your peace. Amen” 2) Talk to God honestly about where you are in your spiritual journey and ask Him to lead you to where He wants you to be. 3) Pray that you will stop comparing yourself to other people, but that your eyes will be fixed on Jesus. _________ Momma Theologians Contributor Denise Assis Dos Santos Denise is a pastor, wife, and mother of two boys who wake up way too early every morning. She is a Brazilian living in Oslo, Norway, and speaks Norwegian and English in addition to her mother language, Portuguese. Denise has a burning desire to serve Jesus and to manifest His Kingdom on earth, all while juggling motherhood and a full-time job. You will find her writing, drinking coffee, listening to worship music, and working up the courage to do the dishes. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement

It is easy to grow weary in this work, despairing of the day that our kids will say please without being reminded, wondering how they will ever make it in the world when their bedroom floors are less walkable than the path to Mordor, uncertain if anything we've ever said to them about truth and beauty and goodness will have any bearing on their lives, or if they will only ever talk about which new Mario Kart glider they want for the rest of their days. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians Practical Takeaways What is something that is making you weary right now? What feels like it might never end? Read Genesis 1-6 and consider God's patience with humanity. Imagine what it would be like to let your plans and hopes and dreams for your own children play out for hundreds or thousands of years before starting over. Pray and ask God to sustain you in your work. Ask his Spirit to remind you of his long-suffering with you as you approach the day-to-day work of mothering your own children. _______________ Momma Theologians Contributor Elizabeth Berget Elizabeth is a wife, mama to three, homeschooler, photographer, and writer who has always done her best thinking while writing—from her angsty teenage journal entries until now. She's lived in Africa and Asia but is really just a country mouse with a Minneapolis zip code. She strongly believes in the restorative power of Jesus and a home-cooked meal, or even just a really good cheese, and writes mostly about how the image of God is uniquely understood and displayed in motherhood. You can find more of her words on her website, or on Instagram. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Calling of Motherhood, God's Grace in Motherhood, Motherhood Encouragement

When we believe God is a begrudging Father, we hide from him. When we believe he's frustrated at our repeated failure, we run away from him in fear instead of to him for forgiveness. When we believe we've gone too far this time, we cut ourselves off from the very power which helps us overcome sin. If, in my own imperfect motherhood, I respond with grace and mercy when I find my child buried in blankets and shame, how much more will our perfect Heavenly Father lavish us with his steadfast love and abundant mercy. Jesus reminded us, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11). Momma Theologians Practical/ Prayerful Takeaways Prayerful Takeaways Take some time to write down the areas of your life where you feel shame. Then turn the page and create a separate list of the promises of God that are yours in Christ. Hang these promises where you can see them and rehearse the truth when you feel ashamed. Be quick to confess your sin, both to God and to the person you have sinned against. Satan keeps us in our shame when he tempts us to believe we must hide our sin. Practical Takeaways One of the best ways I fight shame is through worship. Listen to songs such as “Before the Throne of God Above” (Sovereign Grace Worship) and “His Mercy is More” (Keith & Kristyn Getty)—which remind us we are free from sin and shame in Christ. Share your testimony with another person this week. Tell them how God has paid for your sin and covered your shame. We often can feel isolated in our shame, so when we proclaim the Good News in community, we encourage others to step out of their shame as well. ________________________________ Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ______________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Bethany Broderick Bethany Broderick lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, three-year-old daughter, and one-year-old son. A recovering perfectionist, she writes about resting in God's grace in the everyday moments of life as a woman, wife, and mother. She is on the blog contributor team at The Joyful Life and has featured articles at Risen Motherhood, Coffee + Crumbs, and Kindred Mom. You can find her words on her personal blog (dwellingword.com) and on Instagram (@bethanygbroderick). TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Bible Study Tips

Just as it was not good for man to be alone in the beginning, it is not good for Christians to be alone. This includes busy, tired mommas. Even when we struggle to pay attention to the sermon, we need fellowship and unity with Christ's body. Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways Praise God for the church, Christ's body, and for how He uses church to form us into His likeness. Confess any areas where you are struggling with church, whether a lack of enthusiasm or commitment, difficulty paying attention or participating fully, embodying a humble attitude, or anything else. Thank Him for His grace and forgiveness. Ask God to use church to refresh and restore you and to help you grow spiritually as He intends. Pray to God for your local church, that it will draw every person toward Christ and fulfill His purposes. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians _______________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Amy Fischer Amy Fischer is a home educating mom of three rambunctious boys. Originally from Indiana, she now resides with her family in northwest England. Amy writes about home education and parenting on her blog, Around the Thicket. She is also the co-host of the Thinking Love podcast, a show about the Charlotte Mason approach to education. When she isn't chasing after her boys, you will find her reading, writing, or planning her next hike. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Bible Study Tips

Being a member of a local church is a vital part of the Christian life. The church represents the body of Christ and is the gathering of God's children, coming together to serve God and worship Him. As Christians, we are called to live in fellowship with other believers and to serve one another as Christ has served us. We all have different gifts and callings within the Body of Christ, but the reason why God has blessed us with them is the same: to serve Him and His church (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). As mothers facing the challenges of parenthood and serving our families, adding service in the local church to our to-do-list might seem like too big of a challenge. However, it doesn't need to feel that way. It is possible to be active in your local church even in the busy years of motherhood So, how do we do this in the right way? _______ Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways - Pray and ask God for discernment about the season you are currently in - Think about ways in which you can serve your community, in and outside of the church - If you are currently serving, check how it is affecting your family and change arrangements, if needed Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways - Pray for your church: we are encouraged by the Apostle Paul to pray for our leaders and brothers in faith. (1 Timothy 2:1-3) - Pray for wisdom on how to best use your gifts to serve those around you (1 Corinthians 14:12) - Pray for the Church, Christ's Bride, that it will continue to impact society and advance the Gospel. (Mathew 16:18) ________ Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians Momma Theologians Contributor Denise Assis Dos Santos Denise is a pastor, wife, and mother of two boys who wake up way too early every morning. She is a Brazilian living in Oslo, Norway, and speaks Norwegian and English in addition to her mother language, Portuguese. Denise has a burning desire to serve Jesus and to manifest His Kingdom on earth, all while juggling motherhood and a full-time job. You will find her writing, drinking coffee, listening to worship music, and working up the courage to do the dishes.

Mommas, there's a better way. Unlike those storybooks, every single passage of the Bible weaves together to create one beautiful metanarrative (aka- Big Story). Every story, Psalm, prayer, epistle, and prophecy fall into the backdrop of this Big Story. Since it's all one Big Story, there's also just one main character - God. Understanding this provides great richness and depth to our Bible study. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Practice asking the above questions while studying a book of the Bible you've never studied/haven't studied in a while. Read The Jesus Storybook Bible or The Biggest Story with your kids. Both of these do a great job of pointing to Christ and teaching the Metanarrative. Study the Bible alongside another sister in Christ. Work together to see how a passage fits into this Big Story. Doing this will sharpen the both of you. Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ----------------------------- Momma Theologians Contributor Cassie Pattillo Cassie is a student pastor's wife, mom to two energetic boys, and hopeful adoptive mom to their daughter, growing in their hearts from India. She's passionate about biblical literacy, and writing and teaching about Scripture. Currently, she's pursuing an M.A. in Ministry to Women from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary to better equip her to teach God's Word. Cassie loves slow mornings with a cup of coffee, a good book on the beach, and Gamecock football. She loves giving Gospel-centered encouragement through writing, which you can find on her blog, Diaries of a Daughter. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Risen Motherhood, Journeywoman, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Help Me Teach the Bible, Metanarrative, Bible Study Tips

As we grow in watchfulness of God's character throughout our day our wonder begins to grow. We sing hymns about amazing grace, reminding us of both the depth of our sin and the penalty we've been saved from. “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are” (1 John 3:1). We plumb the depths of knowing and understanding our Creator more and more. He is so wonderful and good to show Himself to us, and as we satisfy our cravings with spiritual milk our appetite will develop to increasingly handle more substantial food. Momma Theologians Questions/Application for Reflection: * What did you notice around you today? * What did you learn about God during your Bible reading? *Take some time to meditate on a verse you've read today. *How have you seen God's wonders in your life? *How have you marveled in the Lord today? Who can you share it with? ______________ Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians Momma Theologians Contributor Amber Thiessen Amber loves equipping women to navigate the chaos and calm of life's changes by applying the gospel to everyday moments. After six years in East Africa as church planters, they're back on the Canadian prairies where her husband serves as pastor. They have three children. You'll find her hiding behind a book, exploring with her family in the woods, or writing on her blog, In The Vine. Connect with Amber on Facebook or Instagram @thiessenamber TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Awe of God

We as mothers get to revel in the limitless love of God even as we recognize our own limitations when we strive and often fail at loving our children like we want to. Because we understand the mothering love of God in salvation, we mommas, like the three Marys at the tomb, get to tell the good news of God's love for us, equipped with empathy and understanding from our own day-to-day lives as mothers. We as mothers can describe the salvation offered in Christ in ways that only mothers can. Momma, on this Mother's Day, God is calling us to live in the new life that God has labored toward since the earth's beginnings. God is inviting us to live our days in such a way that we both recognize and live out the tireless, unending, fierce love of God in the day to day of diapers and dishes. God is calling us to bear the image of God right within our mothering, in both the pain and the joy. Happy Mother's Day! Read the full essay here. We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ____________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Elizabeth Berget Elizabeth is a wife, mama to three, homeschooler, photographer, and writer who has always done her best thinking while writing—from her angsty teenage journal entries until now. She's lived in Africa and Asia but is really just a country mouse with a Minneapolis zip code. She strongly believes in the restorative power of Jesus and a home-cooked meal, or even just a really good cheese, and writes mostly about how the image of God is uniquely understood and displayed in motherhood. You can find more of her words on her website, or on Instagram. TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom, Mother's Day 2022

As much as our hearts desire it, we cannot choose God for our children or ensure their obedience. We point to God and He shoulders the burden of our children's souls – much like the line between faith and works. Our actions affirm God's grace, but cannot achieve salvation for ourselves or others (James 2:17, Eph. 2:8-10). READ THE ENTIRE ESSAY HERE Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways: 1) Meditate on the spiritual metaphor of seeds and harvest in Matthew 13:1-43. How can you cultivate the soil of your children's hearts to receive the seeds you plant? 2) When you are tempted to believe your children's obedience relies on yours, read Ezekiel 18. Confess your burden to the Lord in prayer so that He can take that weight from your heart. 3) Sometimes, Christian teaching becomes a stumbling block, but God draws his disciples. Read about this promise in John 6:28-69 and pray for God to draw your children. I like to pray using Ephesians 1:17-19, 3:16-21, and Philippians 1:9-11. 4) Talk to your children in age-appropriate ways about taking ownership of their faith. You want your children to be conformed to Christ, not your beliefs, so encourage them to seek and test. For scriptural conversation starters on this topic, consider Matthew 7:7-8 and James 4:7-8a. Ask questions like: "What do you think these verses mean? What would that look like in your day-to-day life?" _____________ We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ______________ Momma Theologians Contributor Leslie Klosterman Leslie Klosterman has savored more than a decade as a stay-at-home mother and volunteer. However, she recently took a leap of faith and completed her master's degree in Christian Spirituality and Formation at Regent University. God has blessed Leslie with three lively sons (a teenager and twins who are eight). Leslie loves God, reading, writing, K-Dramas, dessert, and taking pictures. She also has a passion for ministering to women and children. You can find more of her writing at her personal blog. *TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Armor of God, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Praying Mom

PMADs color a mother's whole world, and often nothing seems good. Saying “you're doing a good job,” feels empty. Worse, it may even make her feel hypocritical because of how she feels inside. Instead of offering her general statements about God or her motherhood, give her something specific: Comment on how patiently she handled her toddler's meltdown or how affectionate she is with her baby. Note other ways you see God at work in her life. Let her see that your life isn't all put together by sharing your own story of God's faithfulness in hard places. READ THE ENTIRE ESSAY HERE Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Think back: In your own suffering, what have others said or done that was helpful to you? Why? What was unhelpful or hurtful? Why? Plan ahead: When you visit a new mom, add extra time to your schedule to do her dishes or listen to whatever she has on her mind. Whether visiting in her home or passing in the church hallway, think of questions you can ask her to probe how she's doing (keep these appropriate to the closeness of your relationship). Prepare encouragement: Who might you text or call today to encourage them in whatever circumstances they're going through (postpartum or otherwise)? What Scripture passage or theological truth seems fitting for their situation? Go in depth: I have written more about the church supporting mothers at Gospel Centered Discipleship (here) and general support on my blog (here). Dave Furman's book, Being There: How to Love Those Who Are Hurting is an excellent resource to guide and encourage you as you walk alongside moms with PMADs. ____________ We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ____________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns. *TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Armor of God, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Christian Depression, Christian Therapy, Christian Postpartum, Christian Perinatal Depression Advice, Help for Postpartum Depression for Christians

I no longer feel afraid when I recognize the impact of spiritual warfare in my life. In fact, after I brushed myself off and continued my walk, I felt a sense of calm steadying me. There was no quick fix for the multitude of earthly problems in my life, but when it comes to principalities there is only one solution: Prayer. _______________________ Practical Takeaways Let's look at this verse together: Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1 Corinthians 13:7 I don't know about you, but there are some cultural messages ringing in my ears as I read this, particularly as a woman who was raised in the Evangelical church. Messages about long suffering, never complaining, always looking at the bright side, and what it means to be strong. I especially want to better understand the word “endure,” as in “[Love] endures all things.” Like the story I shared in this post, there are moments when I feel I cannot endure anything more. Is Paul suggesting that God wants me to try harder in those moments, to push through, or shrug it off? That doesn't fit the character of Christ I see in the New Testament, who is constantly walking alongside, healing, and comforting. It contradicts His own words when He says in Matthew 11:30, “My yolk is easy, my burden is light.” In Greek, the word “endure” is translated from the word “hypomenō,” which can mean “to stay under or behind.” When we face trials and are overwhelmed, we should recall that Christ promised us a yolk that is easy. This does not mean our trials will be small from an earthly-perspective, but that through Christ we can experience them as a light burden. We must ask for His help, claim His scriptural promises, and place ourselves under and behind His spiritual protection. What is one thing in your life that feels hard to endure right now? Pray for God to meet you in your suffering. Text three sisters in Christ to pray with you for God's protection and covering. ____________________________ We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ___________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Adrienne Garrison Adrienne Garrison lives in Bloomington, Indiana with her husband and their two little ones, soaking up the daily grace of a steadfast God. She is a contributing writer at Momma Theologians and Coffee + Crumbs, and her short stories have been featured in Literary Mama and LETTERS Journal. Adrienne believes magic takes the form of heart-to-heart conversations, petit-fours, and walks in the woods. You can find more of her writing and sign up for her newsletter at adriennegarrison.com __________ *TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Armor of God, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, The Belt of Truth

If you want to utilize the Belt of Truth in your family the most important thing that you can do is to teach scripture and then live it out. Read the entire essay here. Enjoy our continuing mini-series by Morgan D. Farr on the Armor of God. Listen to her first episode, "Isolation in Motherhood: A Call to Arms" and her introduction to this series, "Armor of God." _______________ We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ----------------------- Momma Theologians Contributor Morgan D. Farr Morgan is a Texas-loving, succulent-cultivating, book nerd and aspiring author. An Army wife of 8 years, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Christ as she walks this military life. Morgan and her husband have four young children and two fantastic dogs. As a jack-of-all-trades Morgan is always working on projects. When she isn't homeschooling her children, writing for Christian publications, or training her Dutch Shepherd, Morgan can be found listening to Texas country music while crafting, lifting weights, or reading. Morgan is best known for her discipline, organization, and love of turquoise jewelry. You can connect with Morgan on her blog (morgandfarr.blogspot.com) and on all major social media platforms using her handle: morgandfarr. *TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Armor of God, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, The Belt of Truth

Rather than groan about sleepless nights and ornery children, we can thank God for the grace that he has given us today. We can pour out our lives for our families, ministries, communities—trusting that tomorrow when we rise, he will again fill our cups. We don't have to hoard our resources in fear of not being sufficient, because God has made us sufficient through his Son (2 Corinthians 3:5). Each morning, we wake up to another abundance of his faithful mercy and love (Lamentations 3:22-23). Prayerful Takeaways In what areas of your life are you living with a scarcity mindset? How can you surrender those to God, trusting that he will provide? Write out your needs—big and small—in a prayer journal. Daily submit these needs to our Heavenly Father, and then daily reflect on how he met those needs. Practical Takeaways While you may not be able to have the extended morning quiet time you desire, what are a few simple, quick rhythms you can build into your morning to help you remind yourself of God's new morning mercies? When you feel anxious, write on the left side of a sheet of paper everything that is weighing heavy on your heart. On the right side, write God's promises found in Scripture. This is a helpful visual reminder that his grace is sufficient for all our weaknesses. Momma Theologians Contributor Bethany Broderick Bethany Broderick lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, three-year-old daughter, and one-year-old son. A recovering perfectionist, she writes about resting in God's grace in the everyday moments of life as a woman, wife, and mother. She is on the blog contributor team at The Joyful Life and has featured articles at Risen Motherhood, Coffee + Crumbs, and Kindred Mom. You can find her words on her personal blog (dwellingword.com) and on Instagram (@bethanygbroderick). SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians

As we sit in the reality of the cost of love, of the God who submitted His own body to the brutality of a criminal's death on a cross in order to become bread and wine for all who are hungry and thirsty, let us prayerfully seek how we can better embody this extreme generosity of God towards our families, our neighbors, and our world. ((Read this full reflection here)) Momma Theologians Prayerful/Practical Takeaways Read Proverbs 18:24, and ask God to illuminate how Jesus might be inviting you into a deeper understanding of how he is the “friend who sticks closer than a brother.” How does this friendship affect how we lead our children? Ask God to bring to mind (or do an old fashioned google search) any organizations/marginalized people groups in your area that you can learn more about and perhaps volunteer with an organization that serves this specific population. Spend some time asking God to show you a few practical ways you can model the kind of generosity that builds bridges this week. Momma Theologians Contributor Kelsi Folsom Kelsi Folsom is a poet and singer making her home in beautiful Kansas City with her husband and four young children. She navigates the ups and downs of marriage and motherhood with black coffee, her library card, and a no.2 pencil. Her essays and poems are published in Motherly, Coffee and Crumbs, Grit and Virtue, Verily Magazine, Mothers Always Write, Kindred Mom, and elsewhere. She is the author of three collections of poetry, Breaking the Jar (Finishing Line Press, 2022), Buried in the Margins (Finishing Line Press, 2020), and Words the Dirt Meant to Share (Desert Willow Press, 2018). Having lived in multiple countries and moved fourteen times since getting married, Kelsi loves encouraging women to find refreshment and comfort in the moment-by-moment friendship of Jesus Christ. She firmly believes in the power of true worship to foster healing through the embodiment of God's unconditional love. When she isn't cooking for family and friends, she enjoys thrifting, reading Bible commentaries, and occasionally putting her B.M. in Voice Performance to good use. Connect with her on IG @kelsifolsom and sign up for her quarterly newsletter The Shameless Beauty Digest. ---------------- SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians

We should enjoy Christmas and exemplify the true reason for celebrating it in our culture, but we must also strive to ensure Easter is not downgraded in our hearts. We don't need to do more for Easter—in fact that would be the opposite of the gospel—but we can marvel at what Christ has accomplished and the way it informs how we live today. _ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians _ Momma Theologians Contributor Jenny Marcelene Jenny Marcelene spent six years living in conservative Muslim countries and desires to help families catch a glimpse of how God is at work among the nations. With a background in biblical languages, Jenny relishes plunging into the depths of Bible study and sharing these jewels from Scripture through writing. Her publishing credits include online articles in The Gospel Coalition and Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, print and online stories for global agencies, a five-day global devotional for a second-grade class, and a feature story in Adoption magazine. She worked as the Children's Ministry and Curriculum Coordinator at her previous church and wrote an in-house resource for parents to disciple their children. Jenny lives with her husband and two sons in Chicagoland. You can drop by her blog for ways to cultivate global family prayer.

What thoughts come to your mind when you hear the word “theologian”? You may imagine an older man, wearing thick glasses, sitting in an office decorated with multiple degrees; someone academic, philosophical and smart. Maybe you think it's a title for seminary professors, your pastor or authors of Christian books. Sometimes this title is understood to be similar to that of an astronaut: Years upon years of training, launching into the vastness of outer space, circulating high above the earth. While there's a holy wonder in traveling the cosmos, it's hard to understand the relevance to our own, everyday lives, planted firmly on earthly soil. Is this how you envision “theologians?” - - Momma Theologians Contributor Amber Thiessen Amber loves equipping women to navigate the chaos and calm of life's changes by applying the gospel to everyday moments. After six years in East Africa as church planters, they're back on the Canadian prairies where her husband serves as pastor. They have three children. You'll find her hiding behind a book, exploring with her family in the woods, or writing on her blog, In The Vine. Connect with Amber on Facebook or Instagram @thiessenamber SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians

As we pour our hearts before the Lord with our children, we demonstrate that nothing is too hard for the Lord, that we can come to him, no matter how messy our hearts may be. I can't even count how many times the Lord has gloriously answered these desperate prayers and changed the entire course of our day. Prayer helps our children understand we're not alone in our struggles. When we take our children to the Lord in prayer, we help them to begin to fellowship with the one who understands, who sees, and who lived this same way, too. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians (PLUS ENTER OUR GIVEAWAY THERE (From April 6th, 2022- April 13th, 2022) where we have teamed up with Katherine to gift one winner her Bible memory curriculum for little ones, Write the Word on my Heart, and an Adventure Bible!) ______ Momma Theologians Contributor Katherine Pittman Katherine Pittman is married to Geoffrey (an itinerant preacher) and homeschooling mom to three. She is the creator of Write the Word on my Heart, a Bible memory curriculum for little ones; and co-host of the Books and Parchments podcast. When they're not on the road, the Pittmans make their home in central Virginia, gathering with and serving among the saints at Richmond Christian Fellowship. Connect with Katherine on Instagram, Facebook, or her blog. - - - - *Tags* Momma Theologian, Christian Motherhood, Christian Prayer, Teaching Children How to Pray, Modeling Prayer, Christian Homeschooling, Children Praying, Power of Prayer, Christian Prayer, Risen Motherhood, Motherhood and Faith, Christian Motherhood Ministry, Praying Moms

I am grateful that I didn't wait for the perfect circumstances to seek Jesus because His Presence carried me through a stressful season and made me see that I wasn't alone in those difficult days. Mommas, I am not going to romanticize things and pretend I've gotten revelation after revelation during those busy, messy days. I didn't. And that is okay since the biggest revelation is: Our Heavenly Father sent his only Son to tear apart the veil that was separating us and because of that, we can be in His presence every day. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians _______________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Denise Assis Dos Santos Denise is a pastor, wife, and mother of two boys who wake up way too early every morning. She is a Brazilian living in Oslo, Norway, and speaks Norwegian and English in addition to her mother language, Portuguese. Denise has a burning desire to serve Jesus and to manifest His Kingdom on earth, all while juggling motherhood and a full-time job. You will find her writing, drinking coffee, listening to worship music, and working up the courage to do the dishes.

When we stand firmly on the foundation God has laid, we find inner peace and stability and show others the Holy Spirit in us. God calls us to stand firm because it brings glory to His name and draws people to Him. Every moment of perseverance in Christ brings greater maturity and fulfillment along our Christian journey. When we stand on the rock, we may stumble, but we will not fall. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways To refocus and energize yourself, read, listen to, and sing the worship song, “Firm Foundation.” To remind yourself of God's faithfulness, write or print Psalm 121 and post it where you can read it each morning. This is a truth in which you can stand firm. Read and reflect on Ephesians 6:10-18. To learn more about the armor of God, consider Priscilla Shirer's 7-week study, The Armor of God, which can be completed alone, with a partner, or in a group. Or, read our Momma Theologians series of essays about the Armor of God, written by Morgan D. Farr, here. To feed yourself from God's Word, challenge yourself to read the Bible in 2022. Dr. Kimberly D. Moore shares a reading plan, weekly thoughts, and small group discussion questions in her book The Bible in 52 Weeks: A Yearlong Bible Study for Women SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians --------------------- Momma Theologians Contributor Leslie Klosterman Leslie Klosterman has savored more than a decade as a stay-at-home mother and volunteer. However, she recently took a leap of faith and completed her master's degree in Christian Spirituality and Formation at Regent University. God has blessed Leslie with three lively sons (a teenager and twins who are eight). Leslie loves God, reading, writing, K-Dramas, dessert, and taking pictures. She also has a passion for ministering to women and children. You can find more of her writing at her personal blog.

The sadness of living in a broken world where war can transpire as quickly as a screen swipe is heartbreaking. The unfolding of war between Russia and Ukraine is unsettling. Families fleeing military attacks. Hordes of people seeking shelter in underground subways. A sobbing father saying goodbye to his daughter because he must stay behind to fight. This should not transpire. The shadows of evil seem to be prevailing, but the book of Revelation reminds us to hope in Jesus who will defeat the evil one forever. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Spend time lifting up families from Ukraine. Meditate on Rev. 1:5 where Jesus says, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one.” Pray these words about Jesus would sink deep into the hearts of Ukrainian believers. Consider donating money to charities supporting Ukrainian families in need. Pray Ps. 46:1 over Ukrainian families which states, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians ____________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Jenny Marcelene Jenny Marcelene spent six years living in conservative Muslim countries and desires to help families catch a glimpse of how God is at work among the nations. With a background in biblical languages, Jenny relishes plunging into the depths of Bible study and sharing these jewels from Scripture through writing. Her publishing credits include online articles in The Gospel Coalition and Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, print and online stories for global agencies, a five-day global devotional for a second-grade class, and a feature story in Adoption magazine. She worked as the Children's Ministry and Curriculum Coordinator at her previous church and wrote an in-house resource for parents to disciple their children. Jenny lives with her husband and two sons in Chicagoland. You can drop by her blog for ways to cultivate global family prayer.

The world views balance as making room for the things that are most important to us. However, as believers who submit both our work and rest to Christ the King, balance is making room for those things that are important to his Kingdom. Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Do you struggle more with the idol of work or the idol of rest? Take time today to pray through the idols of your heart. (If you're like me, you may find that you are tempted to do both in different seasons). If you tend to idolize rest, I recommend reading The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan. If you tend to idolize work, I recommend reading Humble Roots by Hannah Anderson. Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways Make a list of verses that address idolization of work or rest. Write them in your planner or calendar to help you remember the promises of God throughout your day. Find a list of the attributes of God and pray through them. Reframing our day in light of God's character can help us honor him with both our work and our rest. Text another momma and share your struggle. In our culture that celebrates the “superhero” and “hot mess” moms, you can encourage other mommas to become a “Kingdom-minded” momma. ____________________ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians _____________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Bethany Broderick Bethany Broderick lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, three-year-old daughter, and one-year-old son. A recovering perfectionist, she writes about resting in God's grace in the everyday moments of life as a woman, wife, and mother. She is on the blog contributor team at The Joyful Life and has featured articles at Risen Motherhood, Coffee + Crumbs, and Kindred Mom. You can find her words on her personal blog (dwellingword.com) and on Instagram (@bethanygbroderick).

Relieved, I sat down at an empty table, and took a deep breath in an attempt to slow my heart rate. I had just dropped my two children under age two in their classes for our program in support of young moms. A ‘mentor mom' quickly came to greet me, “It's so nice to see you, how are you this morning?” “I'm here,” as if to say, “We made it.” It wasn't that the morning was particularly difficult, it just felt like I wasn't breathing. ------------------------------------------------- SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians Our team consists of seventeen writers and Momma Theologians, but it is always a joy to host and steward others' words in this space to encourage you in your spiritual growth. If you are a writer and would enjoy the opportunity to be featured on our podcast, just like Patty and Heather are featured on this one, or to have your essay published at Momma Theologians, check out our writer's and submissions guidelines at: mommatheologians.com/writer _______________________________ Momma Theologians Guest Writer Danielle Dammeyer Danielle is a youth pastor's wife and mom living in Fort Wayne, IN. She holds a Master's of Divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She loves learning new things, theology, thrift shopping, and all things cozy. Danielle is on the writing team for Wholehearted Quiet Time and has been published on The Daily Grace Co. blog. You can find more of her writing on her blog, anchoredinthevine.com and on Instagram @danielledammeyer.

I want to carve out more time to intercede on the behalf of unbelievers. Since the Bible is clear God wants all people to know him (1 Tim. 2:4) and we should lift up that outside of Christ (Rom. 10:1), I want to pray for the Holy Spirit to work in the lives of those who don't know Jesus yet. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast to ensure you don't miss an episode! Later this week, we will be releasing another piece by Jenny about how to pray for mothers in Ukraine. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Here! ____________ Momma Theologians Contributor Jenny Marcelene Jenny Marcelene spent six years living in conservative Muslim countries and desires to help families catch a glimpse of how God is at work among the nations. With a background in biblical languages, Jenny relishes plunging into the depths of Bible study and sharing these jewels from Scripture through writing. Her publishing credits include online articles in The Gospel Coalition and Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, print and online stories for global agencies, a five-day global devotional for a second-grade class, and a feature story in Adoption magazine. She worked as the Children's Ministry and Curriculum Coordinator at her previous church and wrote an in-house resource for parents to disciple their children. Jenny lives with her husband and two sons in Chicagoland. You can drop by her blog for ways to cultivate global family prayer.

Easter is a celebration, a time of feasting and rejoicing. We should revel in Christ's resurrection. But if we feel that our family is losing touch with the real purpose of Easter, it is right to pause and ask ourselves how we can counteract this trend. In my home, I have found that a Christ-centered Easter begins several weeks before with the practice of Lent. ------- SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians If this episode resonated with you in any way, would you share it with a friend? -------- Momma Theologians Contributor Amy Fischer Amy Fischer is a home-educating mom of three rambunctious boys. Originally from Indiana, she now resides with her family in northwest England. Amy writes about home education and parenting on her blog, Around the Thicket. She is also the co-host of the Thinking Love podcast, a show about the Charlotte Mason approach to education. When she isn't chasing after her boys, you will find her reading, writing, or planning her next hike.

Our instinct as moms is often to run to Google or parenting resources when we don't know what to do in any given situation. There are certainly good times to utilize those things, but when we go there first, we neglect the great gift that dwells inside us—the Spirit of God Himself, a Helper who will guide us to truth. ---------------- SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians ___________ If this episode resonated with you in any way, would you share it with a friend? ------------------ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns.

God has apportioned us a certain territory, a realm of responsibilities for our earthly life. We are made in His image and called to steward and cultivate the space we are given. When I reflect on my life, I can see many times when I resisted where the boundary lines had fallen... God knows exactly what we can do through Him, and He sets our boundary lines in pleasant places, offering us a delightful inheritance. --------------------------- Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways 1. Some basic examples of boundary stones can be found in the Ten Commandments. God set up guidelines to protect His people from sin and destruction. Reflect on a time you crossed the boundary stones set for you by God's word. What were you looking for on the other side? What were the consequences? How have you resisted crossing the boundary stones recently? 2. How can we help our children understand that these boundary stones exist to flourish them, not to frustrate them? Discuss this with your husband. 3. There are many secular proverbs for women that encourage us to draw our own boundary lines. For mothers, the encouragement is often to draw in, lower the bar, expect less of ourselves, and put off our calling until our children require less of us. There can be shades of truth in all of these cultural messages, but just as God would never call us to hustle for our worth (as culture does), neither does he want us to accept less than His plan for our lives. What cultural messages have been motivating your expectations of yourself? Journal out a list of these messages and prayerfully seek scriptural truth to better understand what God's expectations for you are. 4. Another application of these scriptures on boundary stones is to consider how God feels when someone crosses our boundaries in friendship or relationship. Based on these scriptures how do you think God feels when that happens? Some examples of this would be friendships that do not respect the biblical values we've set for our lives and try to get us to compromise them. More frequently in this phase of our lives, we may encounter someone who expects more out of us relationally than God is calling us to give; specifically, they need Jesus, but they'd rather we be the ones to comfort them, encourage them, serve them, and meet their needs. When I have felt as though someone is crossing my boundaries, I have been grateful for godly mentors in my life to discuss the situation with. Sometimes, I need to soften my heart and better serve this person, but usually, I need to remember that the best thing I have to offer them is the truth about Jesus Christ. This has often resulted in rejection and abandonment, but I take heart in the fact that Jesus experienced this, too. Boundaries remind us that we are human, and that our Father in heaven knows what is best for our lives. ________________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Adrienne Garrison Adrienne Garrison lives in Bloomington, Indiana with her husband and their two little ones, soaking up the daily grace of a steadfast God. She is a contributing writer at Momma Theologians and Coffee + Crumbs, and her short stories have been featured in Literary Mama and LETTERS Journal. Adrienne believes magic takes the form of heart-to-heart conversations, petit-fours, and walks in the woods. You can find more of her writing and sign up for her newsletter at adriennegarrison.com

Sweet mommas, Scripture memory isn't reserved for children's Sunday school classrooms. Indeed, it's for us adults too. We desperately need God's Word stored in our hearts. ________ Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Make it a matter of prayer! Take time over the next week to ask God how you can memorize Scripture and which passage to memorize. Attach it to a habit. What are you already consistent with throughout your day - morning coffee, exercising, cleaning? Attach Scripture memory to something you're already consistent with, and it'll help you be consistent with this new discipline. Join us on Facebook or Instagram ( @mommatheologians ) in memorizing Ephesians 1:3-14! This passage is full of rich Truth for every believer. We'll be memorizing it starting in the month of March, reflecting on each new verse on Mondays. ------------ Momma Theologians Contributor Cassie Pattillo Cassie is a student pastor's wife, mom to two energetic boys, and hopeful adoptive mom to their daughter, growing in their hearts from India. She's passionate about biblical literacy, and writing and teaching about Scripture. Currently, she's pursuing an M.A. in Ministry to Women from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary to better equip her to teach God's Word. Cassie loves slow mornings with a cup of coffee, a good book on the beach, and Gamecock football. She loves giving Gospel-centered encouragement through writing, which you can find on her blog, Diaries of a Daughter.

It's always alarming and jarring when our world's state reflects the true reality of the fallen place we live in. When the groans and moaning of the need for redemption are so loud, we are yet again reminded that this is not our home. This episode is a tough one. What we're talking about is a topic that is close to all of us; today we are talking about suffering and trials. We'll discuss why suffering occurs, where is God in all of it, how can we know and love God through suffering and trials, and, lastly, how can we respond when we face trials and sufferings of many kinds? __________________________ This is episode 50 – FIFTY episodes! We launched Momma Theologians- this podcast and our website- on November 1st 2021, so we- the team of writers and I- have been stewarding this ministry for nearly five months. If this ministry has been a gift to you, would you take a few minutes to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts? Those truly help make this podcast more accessible to mothers like you! __________________________ On Momma Theologians this past week, we released two episodes and essays by our Momma Theologians, Amber Thiessen and Kyleigh Dunn, that I encourage you to go back through and listen to or download. Amber is finishing her seminary master's degree to become a Christian therapist, and in her essay, ”Where I Never Thought I'd Be: A Momma's Theology of Suffering” she encourages us to deepen our faith through spiritual disciplines and to build the foundation of our faith by developing habits to give you a footing on which to stand when the storms of life come raging. Kyleigh Dunn provides a wonderful explanation of another practical thing we can do in the midst of suffering- cry and pray out to the Lord in lament. Her podcast episode and essay is called “Learning the Language of Lament.” ________________________ Rachel Lynn Lawrence Founder of Momma Theologians Rachel delights in each day with her husband, Steve, and their three children, Isaiah, Elijah, and Ruth. She enjoys early morning quiet times, being home in their “Northwoods Eden” and deep theological study of God. She has been in Seminary her entire motherhood life, and will be completing her MDiv in 2021, with plans to pursue a DMin proceeding that. Prior to becoming a stay-at-home mom, she worked as a Pediatric ICU nurse and specialized in bereavement and end-of-life care. Rachel has a passion for equipping fellow mothers to grow in relationship with God and believes spiritual growth can be revived in the midst of motherhood. Rachel enjoys connecting with others on Instagram (@rachellynnlawrence). Don't hesitate to reach out to her via email at rachel@mommatheologians.com

Momma, your suffering is not for nothing. It is doing a mysterious work in you that's of great worth in His eyes. Cling to truth, hold on to hope and rest in his comfort. You may find yourself where you never imagined, but it's no surprise to him. He's got you. ______________ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians ___________ If this episode resonated with you in any way, would you share it with a friend? ___________ Momma Theologians Contributor Amber Thiessen Amber loves equipping women to navigate the chaos and calm of life's changes by applying the gospel to everyday moments. After six years in East Africa as church planters, they're back on the Canadian prairies where her husband serves as pastor. They have three children. You'll find her hiding behind a book, exploring with her family in the woods, or writing on her blog, In The Vine. Connect with Amber on Facebook or Instagram @thiessenamber

No matter how proficient we become at lamenting, there will always be times when our circumstances cause us to doubt God's goodness. But when we do, we know we can turn to lament. And there will always be a turning point, because through Christ, God is always for us. Sometimes the crossover to trust doesn't happen until much later. Sometimes the change is that we start to see Him working in ways we didn't before. Sometimes our priorities shift and our goals for our lives start to match His. Sometimes we have to wait. And wait. And wait. But in the waiting, we have something to say to the One who can save us. ________________________________________ Momma Theologians Prayerful Takeaways 1. Meditate on a Psalm of lament. Here are a few to choose from: Psalm 13, Psalm 22, Psalm 51, Psalm 56, 2. Journal through your current pain, modeling it on Mark Vroegop's structure of turn, complain, ask, and trust. 3. Listen to a lament such as The Sing Team's Satisfied in You, Michael Card's How Long, Andrew Peterson's The Silence of God, or, for a more reflective piece, my Lament for 2020. Recommended Books on Lament A Heart Set Free: A Journey to Hope through the Psalms of Lament by Christian Fox Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament by Mark Vroegop A Sacred Sorrow: Reaching Out to God in the Lost Language of Lament by Michael Card ________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyeigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns.

There is a battle going on for the hearts of our children. 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” As believers, we know that spiritual warfare is real and yet many of us do nothing to prepare for it. How can we fight the good fight in a battle that we aren't prepared for? The answer is that we cannot. We have to prepare. -This episode serves as a Series Intro to Morgan's upcoming essays and podcasts on the Armor of God! __________________________ Read Morgan's Essay, "Isolation in Motherhood | A Call To Arms" Here! To hear more from Morgan, download and listen to her recent conversation with another one of our Momma Theologians, Amy Fischer. In that episode, which is Season 3, Episode 13, and is called “Making Time for Bible Study”, you'll hear more about how Morgan practically remains in God's Word in the midst of motherhood and various life seasons. I know this episode will encourage and practically equip you! __________________________ Momma Theologians Contributor Morgan D. Farr Morgan is a Texas-loving, succulent-cultivating, book nerd and aspiring author. An Army wife of 8 years, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Christ as she walks this military life. Morgan and her husband have four young children and two fantastic dogs. As a jack-of-all-trades Morgan is always working on projects. When she isn't homeschooling her children, writing for Christian publications, or training her Dutch Shepherd, Morgan can be found listening to Texas country music while crafting, lifting weights, or reading. Morgan is best known for her discipline, organization, and love of turquoise jewelry. You can connect with Morgan on her blog (morgandfarr.blogspot.com) and on all major social media platforms using her handle: morgandfarr.

Mother in a Rocking Chair Her hand was never more holy than now, gripped like a lifeboat of rescue and solace, interlaced with innocence and tiny bone perfection, the road-weary rudder of empty tummies and fitful sleeping. Hand extended—hush, hush, Fear suspended—sleep, sleep, Was this how Jesus felt when the three words winds responded to were “Hush, be still” and he held the ocean's rage within the quiet well of his wholeness? yes That's how she felt when the wailing stopped, her body's son relaxing in the singular grasp of her voice singing out his name. ---------------------------------------------------------- I have been singing my children to sleep since they were babies. As I hold their exhaustion close to my heart, I feel God encircle me and hold me, singing to me, pulling my head close to listen to the sacred dance of mothering hearts. - - - SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians ___________ If this episode resonated with you in any way, would you share it with a friend? ____________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kelsi Folsom Kelsi Folsom is a poet and singer making her home in beautiful Kansas City with her husband and four young children. She navigates the ups and downs of marriage and motherhood with black coffee, her library card, and a no.2 pencil. Her essays and poems are published in Motherly, Coffee and Crumbs, Grit and Virtue, Verily Magazine, Mothers Always Write, Kindred Mom, and elsewhere. She is the author of three collections of poetry, Breaking the Jar (Finishing Line Press, 2022), Buried in the Margins (Finishing Line Press, 2020), and Words the Dirt Meant to Share (Desert Willow Press, 2018). Having lived in multiple countries and moved fourteen times since getting married, Kelsi loves encouraging women to find refreshment and comfort in the moment-by-moment friendship of Jesus Christ. She firmly believes in the power of true worship to foster healing through the embodiment of God's unconditional love. When she isn't cooking for family and friends, she enjoys thrifting, reading Bible commentaries, and occasionally putting her B.M. in Voice Performance to good use. Connect with her on IG @kelsifolsom and sign up for her quarterly newsletter The Shameless Beauty Digest.

Making Time for Bible Study with Momma Theologians Morgan D. Farr + Amy Fischer As a busy momma of young children, finding time for God's word is a constant challenge. We have great intentions, but life doesn't always let us have a consistent routine. Momma Theologians contributors Amy Fischer and Morgan Farr discuss how to make time for God's Word in the intensity of motherhood. DOWNLOAD A FREE INDUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY BOOKMARK SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY ___________ This episode is part of our Bible Reading and Study series: A Lamp Unto my Feet | Abiding in the Light of God's Word to Illuminate our Lives Here are some more Momma Theologians episodes on Bible Reading and Study we think you'd enjoy: 3 Tips for Studying the Bible in 15 Minutes a Day So You Don't Want To Begin Reading or Studying the Bible... So You Do Want To Begin Reading and Studying the Bible... Pursue Biblical Literacy, Mommas ___________ Momma Theologians Contributors Amy Fischer Amy Fischer is a home educating mom of three rambunctious boys. Originally from Indiana, she now resides with her family in northwest England. Amy writes about home education and parenting on her blog, Around the Thicket. She is also the co-host of the Thinking Love podcast, a show about the Charlotte Mason approach to education. When she isn't chasing after her boys, you will find her reading, writing, or planning her next hike. Morgan D. Farr Morgan is a Texas-loving, succulent-cultivating, book nerd and aspiring author. An Army wife of 8 years, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Christ as she walks this military life. Morgan and her husband have four young children and two fantastic dogs. As a jack-of-all-trades Morgan is always working on projects. When she isn't homeschooling her children, writing for Christian publications, or training her Dutch Shepherd, Morgan can be found listening to Texas country music while crafting, lifting weights, or reading. Morgan is best known for her discipline, organization, and love of turquoise jewelry. You can connect with Morgan on her blog (morgandfarr.blogspot.com) and on all major social media platforms using her handle: morgandfarr. _____________ Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians

How to Study the Bible | with Momma Theologians Kelsi Folsom + Amy Fischer Has your time in God's word ever felt lackluster? Momma Theologians contributors Amy Fischer and Kelsi Folsom talk about different methods of Bible study to help you dig deeper into God's Word. From inductive study and commentaries to contemplation and simply enjoying the Bible, find fresh ideas for Bible study in this episode. DOWNLOAD A FREE INDUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY BOOKMARK This episode is part of our Bible Reading and Study series: A Lamp Unto my Feet | Abiding in the Light of God's Word to Illuminate our Lives You may enjoy these Momma Theologians episodes on Bible Reading and Study: 3 Tips For Studying the Bible in 15 Minutes a Day Inductive Bible Study Method So You Don't Want To Begin Reading or Studying the Bible... So You Do Want To Begin Reading and Studying the Bible... Pursue Biblical Literacy, Mommas ___________ Momma Theologians Contributors Amy Fischer Amy Fischer is a home educating mom of three rambunctious boys. Originally from Indiana, she now resides with her family in northwest England. Amy writes about home education and parenting on her blog, Around the Thicket. She is also the co-host of the Thinking Love podcast, a show about the Charlotte Mason approach to education. When she isn't chasing after her boys, you will find her reading, writing, or planning her next hike. Kelsi Folsom Kelsi Folsom is a poet and singer making her home in beautiful Kansas City with her husband and four young children. She navigates the ups and downs of marriage and motherhood with black coffee, her library card, and a no. 2 pencil. Her essays and poems are published in Motherly, Coffee and Crumbs, Grit and Virtue, Verily Magazine, Mothers Always Write, and elsewhere. She is the author of three collections of poetry, Breaking the Jar (Finishing Line Press, 2022), Buried in the Margins (Finishing Line Press, 2020), and Words the Dirt Meant to Share (Desert Willow Press, 2018). Having lived in multiple countries and moved fourteen times since getting married, Kelsi loves encouraging women to find refreshment and comfort in the moment-by-moment friendship of Jesus Christ. She firmly believes in the power of true worship to foster healing through the embodiment of God's unconditional love. When she isn't cooking for family and friends, she enjoys thrifting, reading Bible Commentaries, and occasionally putting her B.M. in Voice Performance to good use. Connect with her on IG @kelsifolosom and sign up for her quarterly newsletter The Shameless Beauty Digest

Motherhood is often exhausting, and as a mother, it can seem like there's always one more thing. One more dirty diaper. One more temper tantrum. One more after-school activity. One more pointless argument. And when we're dealing with one thing after another after another, motherhood can quickly feel joyless... ________________________________ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com Find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians Our team consists of fifteen writers and Momma Theologians, plus myself, but it is always a joy to host and steward other's words in this space to encourage you on in your spiritual growth. If you are a writer and would enjoy the opportunity to be featured on our podcast, just like Tristany Corgan is featured on this one, or to have your essay published at Momma Theologians, check out our writer's and submissions guidelines at: mommatheologians.com/writer __________________ Momma Theologians Guest Writer Tristany Corgan Tristany lives in sunny central Florida. She graduated in May 2021 with her master's degree in Biblical Exposition from Liberty University, and she works at a local Christian non-profit. She is an avid reader, amateur photographer, and self-proclaimed theology nerd, and she loves flowers, oldies music, and going to Disney World. Tristany has a passion for encouraging women to know and love the Word of God, and she writes about the Bible and theology regularly at tristanycorgan.com.

Why Study the Bible | with Momma Theologians Kyleigh Dunn + Amy Fischer In this conversational episode, Momma Theologians contributors Amy Fischer and Kyleigh Dunn explore why we should study the Bible. We discuss what it means that God has given us the Bible, why the authors of the Bible wanted their words to be read, and how Scripture can help us grow in Christlikeness. DOWNLOAD A FREE INDUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY BOOKMARK SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY If this episode resonated with you in any way, would you share it with a friend? ___________ This episode is part of our Bible Reading and Study series: A Lamp Unto my Feet | Abiding in the Light of God's Word to Illuminate our Lives Here are some more Momma Theologians episodes on Bible Reading and Study we think you'd enjoy: Spiritual Growth for Mommas So You Don't Want To Begin Reading or Studying the Bible... So You Do Want To Begin Reading and Studying the Bible... Pursue Biblical Literacy, Mommas ___________ Momma Theologians Contributors Amy Fischer Amy Fischer is a home educating mom of three rambunctious boys. Originally from Indiana, she now resides with her family in northwest England. Amy writes about home education and parenting on her blog, Around the Thicket. She is also the co-host of the Thinking Love podcast, a show about the Charlotte Mason approach to education. When she isn't chasing after her boys, you will find her reading, writing, or planning her next hike. Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns. _____________ Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians

When it comes to keeping the faith, research indicates certain theological foundational building blocks make all the difference. As parents, we can build the right theological foundation for our children during their formative years that will enable them to weather the storms of uncertainty in the years to come. Learn more about how you can create a simple, solid, theological foundation for your children today! SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians Our team consists of fifteen writers and Momma Theologians, plus myself, but it is always a joy to host and steward others' words in this space to encourage you on in your spiritual growth. If you are a writer and would enjoy the opportunity to be featured on our podcast, just like Patty and Heather are featured on this one, or to have your essay published at Momma Theologians, check out our writer's and submissions guidelines at: mommatheologians.com/writer __________________ Momma Theologians Guest Writers Patty Parker Patty Parker attends Dallas Theological Seminary where she is pursuing a Master's in Media Art and Worship. She is wife to her sweetheart of 14 years, Marshall, and mom to her three little blessings, Dom, Charlotte Leigh, and Devin. She writes about motherhood, faith, and the delight of every day. Read more from Patty on her website or follow her on Instagram. Heather Owen Heather Owen is passionate about equipping women and families to intentionally study God's Word in proper context and to learn how to love Him well with their minds as well as their heart, soul, and strength. She maintains a focus on discipleship and apologetics, especially internal apologetics. She has an M.A.T.S. in Biblical Studies, an M.I.D.S. in Executive Leadership, Discipleship, & Evangelism, an M.A.T.S. in Christian Apologetics, and has just begun work on her doctorate. She is wife to Josh, mom to 5 grown kiddos with a bonus son (in-law), and dog mom to 2 very spoiled dogs. When she isn't nose-down in a book, you can find her coordinating shenanigans, traveling with family, or hanging out with the polar bears at the NC Zoo. You can connect with Heather in her Loving God With Your Mind Facebook group

Stories of women at work are laced all throughout the Bible and show us that God is not interested only in those magical-to-me women who seem to waltz through their days with peace and slowness, the Marys, who can easily ignore the siren song of their day planners. He loves us doers, us Marthas, too. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DEVOTIONAL NEWSLETTER TO STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR MINISTRY Go to www.mommatheologians.com to find articles and essays written by mothers just like you as they share stories and reflections about how they grow spiritually in Christ in the midst of motherhood. Join our community on Instagram @mommatheologians ___________ If this episode resonated with you in any way, would you share it with a friend? ____________ Momma Theologians Contributor Elizabeth Berget Elizabeth is a wife, mama to three, homeschooler, photographer, and writer who has always done her best thinking while writing—from her angsty teenage journal entries until now. She's lived in Africa and Asia but is really just a country mouse with a Minneapolis zip code. She strongly believes in the restorative power of Jesus and a home-cooked meal, or even just a really good cheese, and writes mostly about how the image of God is uniquely understood and displayed in motherhood. You can find more of her words on her website, or on Instagram.