Redeeming Motherhood: Iradis' Story

Redeeming Motherhood is a series of posts where women open up about some of the struggles they've faced as mothers and how the Lord has redeemed those situations and brought beauty from them. Check out all the posts in the Redeeming Motherhood series here. (And if you want to share your own story of hope and healing, please check out the bottom of the post for instructions!)

Many thanks to Iradis of Live Faithfully for kicking off the series and sharing her experience in today's Q&A. (And boy do I know all too well what she means when she says she has a "spirited baby." Mine was one of those, too!) 

Iradis and her son at 5 months old,
now "a fairly happy baby" ;)

Describe one of the hardships you've faced as a mother. What made this time so difficult?
As a new mom, I had a few preconceived notions about how our baby would be, from his temperament to how he would look physically. We were blessed with a very spirited baby, who from the very beginning made his presence known loud and clear. One hardship I faced as a new mom was in the first 4 months of our baby's life. Having a newborn who cried inconsolably most of the time during his awake times was difficult. It made me feel like somehow I had failed as a mom.

What were some of the emotions you were feeling during this time?
I felt an overwhelming sense of insecurity. I had absolutely no idea what to do to get our baby to stop screaming. I felt frustration, failure and helplessness. Yes, there were times I even felt anger and resentment.

How did the Lord speak to you during this time? How did he bring redemption or healing to you?
Amid all the noise (literally), it seemed like God's voice was distant even though now I know it wasn't. I knew He was working in my heart to have more patience with the situation. God used my husband and a friend (also a new mom) to speak truth into my life, hard as it was. At one point, I knew that only God could cover me with his peace, as our baby screamed for hours at a time. Honestly, I feel like I am still healing and trying to find redemption for those first few months. It's an ongoing process but I am thankful for God's grace with me.

Is there a Bible verse that you think speaks poignantly to this experience?
During those first months, Philippians 4:4-13 is a passage that I would read over and over again. I was clinging to the knowledge that God would somehow bring peace and contentment through it all and that it would never be more than I could handle. If I made the choice to rejoice, even when I didn't feel like it, God would strengthen me to get through this experience.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. - Philippians 4:4-13

ABOUT THE WRITER: My name is Iradis, aka Urban Wife and I've been married to Red Beard since 2008. In May of this year, we welcomed our first baby boy into our lives. We are excited to see what God has in store for our little family and are forever in awe of His mercy & grace. Feel free to stop by my blog Live Faithfully or Instagram @urbanwife to follow along on our journey.

If you are interested in contributing to the Redeeming Motherhood series, contact me with your responses to the questions in this post. Include a short bio and a photograph, if you like. It's not necessary to have your own blog, just a heart and a story to share!

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