My mom has always said that being a mom is one of life’s most rewarding jobs, all while being the most difficult at the same time; And now being a mom myself, I can say without a doubt this is true. For that reason, I chose not only to write this tribute to my mom to honor her, but also to bring encouragement to all of the amazing mothers out there as well!

The Powerful Mom is a Praying Mom

One of the thing that stands out the most to me about my own mom is the way that she prays for our family. One of the greatest childhood memories I have of my mom is her tucking my sisters and I into bed at night and praying over us. She would never even let us leave the house without praying protection and blessings over us! My mom is nothing short of a prayer warrior, and I am confident that it was those prayers that protected my sisters and I and also guided us to the path that God had for our lives.

The most amazing thing to me is the way that she prayed for me specifically when I was going through eating disorders. I tell people all the time that I am convinced that I wouldn’t have the testimony I have today if it weren’t for the power of a praying mom! I remember there were a few times when I would come into my room and find her on her knees by my bed. I could tell that in my darkest hour that she was behind the scenes fighting for me, even when I wasn’t fighting for myself. For this, I could never thank her enough. My mom’s prayer life is most definitely already a great part of her legacy on this earth.

A Powerful Mom is a Mom that Fills Up

The second attribute that really stands out about my mom is how she spends daily time with Jesus. The priority she has placed on time in His presence and word is without a doubt the reason she is able to pour out like she does. For as long as I could remember, she was always giving, whether it be in acts of service, generosity, or compassion. She has always been the type of woman that pours out the love of Jesus in tangible ways to others. I have often heard people say that when my mom walks in the room, you just feel loved. She portrays this love with her warm embrace, sweet encouraging words, and selfless attitude. I can truly say with everything in me that my mom is the kind of woman who shines the love of Jesus everywhere she goes. I truly hope to carry on this legacy of love to the next generation; As I can see a world that is in growing need of God's love, encouragement, and healing more than ever.

A Powerful Mom is a Mom Who Has a Heart after God

And last but not least, the thing I love most about my mom is that she truly is a woman after God’s own heart. Lately I have been studying the life of David, and in doing so I have learned a lot about what makes someone a woman or man after God’s own heart. One of the greatest qualities that I have found to be so evident in David’s life is that he worshiped and trusted the Lord with everything in him. Sure, David (just like everyone of us) made some poor choices, but despite his imperfections, he had a heart that was truly committed to the Lord.

I can truly say that my mom has this same heart, which is evident in everything she does. The neat thing about my mom is that I don’t even have to be around her every day to know how she spends her time. I know by the fruit that is growing in her life that she stays connected to the vine and author of life, who is Jesus. Because of her rich and vibrant heart for the Lord, His life flows through her onto others in a beautiful and effortless way.

A Powerful Mom is an Imperfect Mom

Despite the beautiful qualities I have listed in my own mom, I know she would be the first to admit that she isn't perfect, nor is any mother! The great thing is, God never called us to perfection, nor does He or our children expect that of us. I think often times we as moms are harder on ourselves than anyone else. If that sounds familiar, let me provide you with some much needed encouragement...

I want to encourage you that every prayer you have ever prayed for your family has not gone in vain. Even if it seems like it isn’t really doing much or that you are not seeing the fruit, I can promise you that every time you kneel down beside your child’s bed or pray a prayer of protection, that those prayers are shaping their destiny…and they are powerful!

I want to encourage you that your constant giving is making a lasting impact on your family and those around you. You might feel some days like you have nothing left to give, but I can promise you that every ounce of love, encouragement, compassion, and comfort is never wasted. Whether you know it or not, every time that you give of yourself, you are shining Jesus in a tangible way.

And last but not least, I want to encourage you that the Lord sees you. He sees your heart and He knows how hard you work for your family every single day. He doesn’t look at your imperfections or even your less than perfect actions, but He looks on your heart. He knows that your greatest desire is to be the best mother to your family, and all He desires is that you depend on Him for the grace, strength, and wisdom you need to raise your family. Lastly, I can promise that whether you know it or not, God is so proud of you, and not a day goes by that He is not cheering you on!

To my amazing mom and all of the wonderful women that call themselves moms out there, Happy Mothers Day! xo Katie