Father God,

Being an attentive parent

requires a level of selflessness

that does not come naturally.

This can be beautifully refining,

molding us in humility,

and bringing us closer

to your heart.

But sometimes, Lord,

in the barrage of needs,

I lose sight of my own belovedness.

I start to believe the lie that to love

my children well means being unkind

to myself.

I need your wisdom, Father,

to find a healthy harmony between

selfless love and self-care.

Jesus, remind me of the example

you set when you walked on earth.

You took naps, you retreated from crowds,

you accepted the limits of your humanity,

and trusted the Father in those limitations.

May I do the same.

Help me care for my soul

in ways that are truly life-giving

rather than indulgent.

Show me how to sabbath, Lord.

Help me stop long enough to breathe in

your goodness, listen to your truth,

and recognize again my dependence

on your provision.

May my children grow to see me as

more than “Mom” or “Dad,”

but as an individual whose life orbits

around your love, God, rather than their needs.

I want my kids to grow into healthy adults,

so help me model what that looks like.

I will never do this perfectly, Lord,

but I ask for your Spirit to guide and sustain me

as I grow toward wholeness,

leaning always on your

grace and truth.

Amen