Today was one of those exhausting days. A day where the little one fussed and cried most of the day and didn’t want me to put her down. By the end of it, I was drained. I felt like I had nothing left to give. Ever have one of those days where you thought I wish you needed me a little less? This was one of them.

But as I was getting her ready for bed, I kissed her on the head, and she wrapped her little arms around my neck and squeezed. If I tried to pull away, she pulled me closer. Oh, my heart. A perfect end to a tiring day.

It was like she was saying, “Thanks for always loving me.”

I felt God whisper to me in that moment. You are doing a great work. Never forget that. It might feel insignificant, but I am doing amazing things in the life of this little one before you. She is going to be a mighty warrior for me, and you are laying the ground work. I will give you the strength you need to get through the tough moments. Just trust in me, and you will be blown away by what I can do.

God used that sweet 20 month old to remind me that there’s so much beyond the frustration of the day to day. He has entrusted two little ones to my care. He has given me a short window of time to raise them in a way that honors him. He has provided me with an opportunity to build his kingdom.

Sometimes I forget that.

Sometimes mothering doesn’t feel great. Sometimes it feels like something you want to run away from, but God has an amazing purpose in the mundane.

With those little arms wrapped around me, I whispered a prayer.

Lord, help me see beyond today. Help me to overlook the fatigue, frustrations, and doubts. Help me to look past the tears, tantrums, and dirty floors so I can focus on the little one in front of me who is going to do great things in this world. Give me a vision for tomorrow.

Mothering is exhausting, but it’s also an incredible calling from God. I’m thankful for the strength He provides in those moments of weakness.