Called to Bless Others!

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 (TNIV)

Beginning in the late 1960’s, young women set in motion a radical mindset change about expectations for employment. Rather than just deciding on a job, more women began to aim for careers outside of traditional female vocations. As a result, college enrollment increased for young women and continues to do so even today. For 2012/13 high school graduates, the female college enrollment rate was about 72.3 percent or even more worldwide.

Many women are fortunate to have these life choices. While some pursue careers in the business world, others opt to enjoy the merits of being a stay-at-home mom. In choosing your path, Mother Teresa’s words ring true: “It’s not about what you do, but how much love you put into it that matters.” In a society that generally rewards professional success while downplaying the important role of motherhood, women often struggle with justifying this choice. 

In her book, Changing Your World One Diaper at a Time, author, Marla Taviano, articulates this precise perplexity. “Raise your hand if you’re a stay-at-home mom with a college degree in something other than motherhood. Wow - that’s a lot of you. Now, raise your hand if you think motherhood is a valuable and worthy endeavor. Good - all hands up. We know what we do is important, right? We don’t need a paycheck to validate our worth, right? We know how significant our “career choice” is, right?”

When I fall into the trap of accomplishment-comparison, His words in scripture bring a calming sense of purpose to my life. I’m reminded that God himself chose me for this most important role. “It is God himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others.” Ephesians 2:10 (TLB)  

As I love and nurture the children He placed into my care, I realize there’s no profession quite as significant as modeling a Christ-centered life to impressionable minds. 

Regardless of your path, domestic or professional, are you deliberate about accomplishing God’s call to bless others? Prayerfully put your life before Christ, be receptive to hearing His voice, and say “yes” to the role He has called you to fill. Remeber, you were called to bless others, you dont need titles and money to do that. Be blessed!