I’m in Naperville, IL tonight for the ICHE convention, where I will be speaking over the next 3 days. Tonight my son Mark, who is along as my helper, attended the speaker’s dinner with me. We walked into the banquet room, not seeing anyone we knew, and chose a table to sit at. Before long, the room was filled, as well as our table. Larry Guthrie, and Norm Wakefield were at our table, and across the room I saw Kevin Swanson and Philip Telfer. I commented to Mark that I kind of felt like the underdog. All these big name speakers were there, and they all knew each other; and then there was me, sitting there feeling a little bit out of place.
After our meal, introductions were made, instructions were given, and then Larry Guthrie presented an excellent devotional. God knew just what I needed! (Amazing how it always works that way.) As he got up to speak, he brought out a well-known Tupperware toy. It’s one of those shape sorter balls, where each piece will only fit in the one place it is meant for.
He went on to say how there was only one star on there, but lots of other pieces that were just as important. Each piece filled a hole, just like each speaker had a special place to fill, and a need to meet. Then he had illustrations about staying focused, and being prepared before the stress comes. I was very encouraged as God reminded me that I am here for a reason, and He wants me to stay focused, and prepare for the convention so He can use me in that place He chose for me to fill.
Afterwards I got to thinking about how much this also applies to mothers! It’s so easy to feel like what we do is unimportant, or that others are doing a better job than us. The world would have us think that our role is small, or mundane. But remember the saying: The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world. We not only have the privilege of filling the role of caring for our children’s physical needs, but more importantly, their spiritual needs. When we daily spend time teaching our kids about God and His Word, and training them in Godly character, we are investing in something of eternal value! I can’t think of too many things that are more important than that!
So next time you are feeling discouraged, or questioning whether it’s really worth all the effort and energy to teach and train your children, remember that God has given YOU a unique place to fill that only YOU can fill. No one else can do it like you, because God made you for that job!
