The One Book Every Mom Needs

I have been a fan of Valerie Woerner for years. Her prayer journals have been instrumental in helping me cultivate a powerful prayer life, so I was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to preview her new book, Grumpy Mom Takes a Holiday.

Offering a refreshing perspective on motherhood, Val shows you a countercultural view of #momlife and gives you practical steps and loving encouragement on how to find more peace, contentment and fulfillment in the most important job God has called you to. This book has been the reminder I needed to surrender each day to the Lord, to be more present, and to look at each seemingly inconvenient moment of motherhood as an opportunity to glorify God. Perspective is everything and when we choose to keep our eyes on Jesus, motherhood looks a lot more joyful and a lot less grumpy.

“I am learning that true joy is not found in any of the places the world tells us to look. Not in sleep. Not in good kids. Not in easy days. Not in perfect meals and clean homes. Not in adventure itself. The fullness of joy is found only in the Lord.

We don’t default to joy. We have to fight for it. Scripture gives us this rather surprising command about joy: “Always be joyful” (1 Thessalonians 5:16). At first that sounds impossible, but when we recognize that Jesus is walking beside us through every part of our day, it gives us the perspective we need in order to see everything as a way to serve him. Even if it means changing the twelfth diaper today and not going to the bathroom in peace for several weeks running.”

The chapter that resonated with me the most was the one on WORRY. As someone who has long struggled with anxiety, this really spoke to my heart. Val reminded me that while there will ALWAYS be something to worry about as a mom, I can choose to trust God – knowing that He can take better care of my child than I could through all my worrying.

At the end of each chapter, she lists a few really doable action steps along with a key verse and powerful prayer that I have found extremely helpful. I’ve already been putting some of her suggestions into practice in my life, like this one here, and even though they seem small I can already tell are making a big difference in my heart and home.

This book has been a life-giving, game-changer for me and I think it could be for you too. Whether you’ve been a mom for 5 years or 5 minutes, you’ll be inspired by Val’s fresh perspective on motherhood. I also think this would be a wonderful gift for a soon-to-be mom. What better way to equip your mind and prepare your heart for the days ahead than with this Gospel-centered truth! This will undoubtedly be a resource I refer back to often and it’s one I think EVERY mom needs to read.