Four Amazing and Vibrant Views through the Seasons of Motherhood

The Seasons of Motherhood: From the joy and challenges of infancy through the growing stages of childhood, the explorations of adolescence, and the triumphs of young adulthood, each season of motherhood brings unique opportunities to nurture faith, character, and independence. I asked the four mothers in our family to share why they enjoy the stage of motherhood they are in– and give a tip for surviving and thriving in that season. We are so blessed by our beautiful, skilled, unique and godly daughters in Law.  I will share first, then each of our three daughters in law.

From Pam’s Heart.

I love parenting adult children because I get to witness their strengths blossom in new arenas, watch them embrace greater responsibilities with confidence, and see their people skills deepen as they navigate relationships and leadership roles. It brings me immense joy to see them discover their passions and succeed in their chosen career paths, to observe their spiritual leadership mature as they encourage and minister to others– AND to me and their dad. the Big bonuses are when we can  celebrate the milestones of marriage and the blessing of grandchildren!

Tip: In 10 Best Decisions a Parent Can Make, we have a chart of what a child needs at each age and stage, and our changing role of parents at each step. At this Young adult/Adult stage we are consultants. And consultants WAIT TO BE ASKED! A Consultant is proficient at asking questions to help draw answers out of their adult child. Giving you opinion without being asked can put a wedge in a Mother- grown child relationship. However, if you donate your time, talent, treasure, to help with their chosen path or climb to their dreams and are THERE when he or she is ready to talk, loyalty, value and appreciation builds in your relationship. My favorite joy in their lives of our three sons have been the times I sat under their biblical teaching while they spoke, taught or preached. And in recent years, when our sons have all donated their time, talent or treasure to be of help to Bill and I at a time we NEEDED them!And of course, we have been profoundly blessed by the amazing daughters in law each son selected and those delightful grandchildren! (Watch Pam and Bill on Grand Monday Night)

 “Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.” Psalm 145:3–4)

From Hannah’s Heart

Being a mom of teenagers is a season filled with unique blessings and opportunities for growth—both theirs and yours. One of the greatest joys is the deepening of your relationship with your child as they mature. As teens begin to express their own thoughts, values, and beliefs, your bond can grow stronger through meaningful, authentic connection. You also get the privilege of witnessing their transformation into young adults, discovering their gifts, passions, and God-given purpose. These years often bring thoughtful conversations about faith, identity, and the world, giving you the opportunity to speak truth and wisdom into their lives.

Tip: As a mom of teenagers, you become more than just a caregiver—you become a mentor and guide, shaping their character and helping them navigate life with a biblical perspective. And through it all, you share rich experiences together, whether it’s cheering them on at events, serving alongside them, or building family traditions that deepen your connection. Though parenting teens can be challenging, it is also a sacred, rewarding season full of God’s grace and purpose.

Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

From Caleigh’s Heart

What I love about being a mom of school age?  My favorite part of raising young school age kids is their innocence.

Tip: My advice to moms in the season of littles/ school age are these 3 things: surrender with open hands, accept help, and build a community!

Surrender with open hands. Our need for Jesus is always present but there are things in this season that can feel completely out of control. When we surrender our plans and allow the Lord to lead, some of the burden begin to feel lighter (Matthew 11:30). Many wise women before me have called this season- chaotic, loud, nonstop, difficult YET the sweetest, most life giving season.  Almost always I hear, “and I would do it all over again!!” This season, if we allow it, leads us to be more like Jesus. It calls for us to truly live a life of putting others needs before our own.

Accept help! Build community! Do not do it all alone. The Bible emphasizes community and that we were not created to do it all alone. Sometimes we have to put our fear or pride to the side to allow community to step in and help.

My favorite verse is Romans 12:2.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

From Jessica’s Heart:

What I love about being a mom of babies and a preschooler is the joy and laughter they bring. I love watching them learn and try new things. I love to watch what makes them laugh and the funny things they say.

Tip: My advice to moms in this season is not to get caught up in negativity that can easily surround you. We hear a lot of “oh, just wait until…” followed by a “terrible two’s” story. This stage is often viewed as challenging and taxing. Take pauses to stop and reflect on the joy of these learning stages. The best advice I received was when I complemented a young couple on an airplane who were traveling with five kids (all under the age of 8). I told the mother how impressed I was with her, her husband and their children. She thanked me and said “I take it 10 minutes at a time.”

My favorite verse is…

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.” (Psalms 127:3-5 NIV)

Whatever season of motherhood you are in, please know you are valued and needed by  your family, appreciated by our ministry, and you are a profound blessing to our WORLD!

 

Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author or co-author of 61 books, and Co-Directs Love-Wise with her husband of 45 years, Bill Farrel.  The Farrels enjoy time on their live-aboard boat docked in So Ca and time with their 3 sons, 3 DIL and 8 grandchildren.  Download a beautiful Mother’s Day Tribute sheet to fill in to give to yourMother(s) . It is housed on the book page of Growing a Joyful Heart Devotional (a perfect gift for mother’s). The Farrels books on parenting include 10 Best Decisions a Parent Can Make; Got Teens? , Raising a Modern Day Princess; and 10 Questions Kids Ask About  S*X- Answers to Have Ready.   www.Love-Wise.com