Ministry of Motherhood study

I am currently in week 2 of the Ministry of Motherhood online bible study. I, being a person who starts one thing and usually is onto another before I finish, have set a goal to complete this study!
The simplicity of it is this: each week you have what is called S.O.A.P verses, where you study one scripture a day, write down your observations from the passage, apply it to your life, and pray over it. We do one verse a day. Simple. But so effective!
So week one was basically 5 different verses.
Week 2 was 5 more verses plus the introduction of the book (which so far in itself has been so impactful!) Sally Clarkson has a true gift!

This week I wanted to share some questions (and a few of my answers) Sally posed for us readers.
These questions really make you think!
1. What purpose do you think God had in mind when he designed the role of mother? Have you ever specifically considered that, in becoming a mother, you have actually been called to a ministry? In what way does that concept change how you think about that role?
I now know He has a bigger plan for me, but I still struggle with how I, as a sinful, impatient, issue-ridden, emotional, controlling person can raise 4 Godly children and what He sees in me that I am still trying to find in myself.

2. Read Psalm 127:3- if possible, in more than one traslation. What does this verse imply about the ministry of motherhood?
Simply-it is a gift!

3. Provebs 31:10-31 paints a vivid portrait of the life of a Godly woman. Describe what a proverbs 31 life might look like in a modern context. What parts of this description do you find particulary inspiring? Which areas pose a challenge for you? How do you think these reaction relate to your ministry as a mother?
Woman of strength and dignity and when she speaks her words are wise and kind. These both are huge challenges for me. I begin to feel weak when I feel out of control (I have control issues and am learning that I am never really in control anyways!), I am embarrased of what people would think if they really saw me in my low points during the day with the kids, I dont feel like I know the Word enough to feel wise and usually end up angry and foolish in my speaking, kindness to my children does not come easily-I am easily frustrated and angered.

4. Read Proverbs 14:1. In what specific way can a woman in this way and age build her house or tear it down? If possible, give examples from your own observations or experience. Then list four specific ways you want to build your house by ministering to your children and making disciples of them.
Use/reference and be in the Word daily
Pray continually
Put the Lord first and rely on Him
Be an example
Slow to speak, slow to anger-tame the tongue!

5. Write out a plan for ministering to your own children using the acronym GIFTS. List at least one goal for each letter.

G:Grace-give my family grace for physical, emotional and spiritual growth.
I:Instruction-Instruct my children in the ways of the Lord. "Carry out my instruction; dont forget them for they will lead you to real living." Proverbs 4:13
F:Family (still working on this one)
T:Trust- "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5-6
S:Surrender- "So give yourselves humbly to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." James 4:7

If you are interested in joining this study (NO ITS NOT TOO LATE!!) visit www.goodmorninggirls.org for more info and the printouts. Buy the book (I kindled it from Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/Ministry-Motherhood-Following-Reaching-Children/dp/1578565820
And let me know if you do so you can join our little group on our facebook page!

Homeschool planner giveaway!

Go check out Mama Jenn's blog for a chance to win an awesome planner!

http://mama-jenn.blogspot.com/2011/05/weekly-homeschool-planner-review.html#comment-form