If ever there was a perfect visual given from nature for motherhood, we might discover it in a perennial flower. In the delicate sky-blue blossoms of the Star of Bethlehem, the gracefully drooping blooms of White Heather, or a colorful blanket of Creeping Phlox, we discover a tenacity for life. No matter the conditions they encounter, perennial plants are determined to thrive.

Year after year, they emerge from the soil. Taking lessons from previous growing seasons, they tuck away wisdom during their dormant months, endure harsh conditions, and prepare to succeed even stronger in the coming spring. In cold, hard months when a perennial plant has laid down in the soil, it might not look like much — but it is not idle. Instead, it is at rest, preparing to do what these plants were created to do — bring life and beauty in their time. What sets the perennial plant apart from an annual, which grows and dies in a single season, or a biennial plant confined by a two-to-three year lifespan? The difference lies in its roots system. The lifelines of perennials plunge deep into the soil and strengthen each year, bringing forth more brilliant blooms every spring.

In much the same way, God has designed motherhood as a calling in which we thrive and grow from hardship. The conditions around us provide an opportunity for us to draw power and grace from our Lord. Whatever we endure, He helps us tuck away lessons that will lend wisdom for days ahead. Although it may be hard to remember in the burdensome season, God has created us to thrive. Sometimes this thriving does not display itself in magnificent blooms but rather in our roots as they store up nutrients and go about the work of faithful waiting, trusting good things to come. As we abide in Christ, He enables us to flourish in this work of raising the children He’s given us.

Whatever season of motherhood you are in — whether it be a quiet season of waiting, one full of anticipation, a time of enduring harsh conditions, or a season to thrive — here are five verses to meditate on.

“Let’s not become discouraged in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not become weary.” Galatians 6:9

“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.” 1 Corinthians 3:6-7

“Behold, I am going to do something new, now it will spring up; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

 

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