When I arrived early for Facing Freedom on Sunday evening, I was already a little frazzled. My husband had just left home to work the night shift, I was scrambling to get my 17-month-old ready, and I still had to look presentable! The thought crossed my mind, “Life would be so much easier if I had the night off.”
Well, that was obviously Satan whispering in my ear, because I believe I was blessed beyond measure that night.
I was nervous. I’m not going to lie. I had an idea of what I thought I would say, but of course, I was asked to speak on a topic or two for which I wasn’t prepared. However, this was God’s plan, not mine.
As soon as the panel conversation started, I felt an extreme peace. This was unlike any other feeling I’d had previously with public speaking. I knew then that I was walking in obedience that night. So, I disregarded my notes and spoke from the heart, exposing the real me.
In those moments, and the days following, I believe God wanted to speak to and encourage ME. I have felt many times that I’m alone in my struggles or I’m failing, but God has been slowly defeating those thoughts. The Spirit gave me confidence to speak up, and in turn, lavished His grace and love on my life. This is especially prevalent through you women! You ladies have connected with me, encouraged me, and cried with me more than I had ever imagined. I praise God for the blessing you all have been to me!
And this is my final thought: Sunday night was a glimpse of what we as the Church should be. We should NOT hide behind our bondage, struggles, sins, and fears. We SHOULD be compelled to confess to one another. To love and encourage each other. To be transparent. To link arms in our fight for holiness and freedom. Ladies, how amazing would that be? Through the Spirit, this can be true of us!
-Chrissy Toth
I just wanted to say it broke my heart to see you pour your heart out about having to work and not be a stay at home mom with you beautiful little one! As a stay at home mom myself.. I want to say Yes stay at home moms are truly blessed beyond measure. However.. please don’t let the (fun) post you read discourage you. Of course the parts where we need a mommy time out or want to lock ourselves in the bathroom for only 5 minutes do not flash up on status updates. Most days are awesome. but stay at home mom’s struggle at times to. I think as women whether we work or stay at home we still face many of the same challenges. I am sure you are doing an amazing job as a mother! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your story with all of us!!