I finally got around to finishing Calm My Anxious Heart
In a chapter on our focus, Dillow discusses the temptation to focus on the future rather than the present. She challenges women to have a well-defined purpose (preferably a written statement) that drives their priorities and decisions, rather than letting activities and busyness rule. I hope to write a purpose statement soon–right now, my activities are getting in the way! Ha!
I also love a quote from one of Linda Dillow’s friends, Phyllis Stanley: “When I had children, I remember thinking, are my children now my purpose? I realized that my children are my platform, not my purpose” (p. 112). What a great perspective! As a stay-at-home mom, it is so easy to get lost in mommy world. It is easy to use my familiy as an excuse to not get involved in other ministry. It is easy to put ministry, friendships, and even my marriage on the back burner while my attention is focused on the kids.
I love thinking of my kids as my platform. They are the primary platform I have for ministry at this stage of my life. But someday, they will be grown and God will provide another platform. I need to look past the platform at the purpose. How can I best glorify God in this season of my life and those that come later? How can I make decisions based on my purpose, not just my platform? How can I set an example for my kids, showing them that I not only love and serve them, but I love and serve God even more?
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