Risen Motherhood

What does a mom do at the beginning of an unknown journey with a child who doesn’t seem to fit the mold? Whether it’s food allergies, therapy needs, medical concerns, hearing/vision impairments, challenging behaviors or something else; the differences can feel scary and isolating. How can a mom apply the truth of the gospel when she’s not even sure what she’s dealing with? In this episode, Emily and Laura discuss their own personal experiences with kids who don’t fit the mold, and offer encouragement rooted in an unchanging hope available in Christ. In him, we can be confident that all things are for our good and God’s glory.   Articles, Resources and Related Content: No Matter What Happens- Emily Jensen (contributor at For The Church) Though You Slay Me - song by Shane and Shane Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him - Sally Clarkson Battling the Bitterness of Parenting a Disabled Child- Christine Hoover (Desiring God) Disability and the Sovereign Goodness of God - free

Regardless of how long it’s been since having a baby, we can easily tie too much self-worth to our external appearance. Our confidence can be sky high one morning when we see that “number we’ve been waiting for,” and drop to the ground when it we see a friend who looks better-than-before-baby. But what does the gospel say about how we should view our MomBods? In this special “welcome back” episode, newly postpartum moms Emily and Laura discuss common cultural mindsets about body image, encouraging themselves and others to believe the truths presented in scripture. God isn’t shaming our postpartum bodies, and we shouldn’t either.   Articles & Resources: Humble Roots -Hannah Anderson The Kind of Weight that Matters-Gretchen Saffles (Well Watered Women) Exercise, Body Image, and God's Truth- Trillia Newbell, True Woman  More From Risen Motherhood: Post Partum Body Image- RM Ep. 3 Interview with Hannah Anderson-How Humility Nourishes a Weary Mom's Soul -RM Ep. 66  For More: To subscribe: on iOS, go to ou

When urgent needs and love for our littles abounds, it’s easy to become all-consumed by the role of motherhood. Without even realizing it, we can start to define ourselves by how we’re doing, letting our joy be found in the relative success of earthly ability instead of the secure anchor of the Savior. In this episode, Emily and Laura revisit the concept of identity and motherhood, encouraging moms to define themselves in Christ. As sinners, our success can’t be found in any earthly role or relationship, but only through our eternal hope in the Savior himself. Articles & Resources: The Westminster Shorter Catechism -online version The New City Cathecism - Kathy Keller Counterfeit Gods - Tim Keller Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family - Paul David Tripp Mom Enough - Multiple Collaborators (Desiring God) A Gospel Primer for Christians: Learning to See the Glories of God's Love- Milton Vincent When Mommy Loves Jesus More- Emily Jensen (For The Church contributor) More From R

It’s natural to prefer spending time with moms who share similar parenting values, lifestyle choices, and special interests with us. Conversely, most of us can instantly think of a mom we avoid, because she makes us uncomfortable with her more-extreme views in a gray-area of motherhood. These feelings beg the question, “How should we love and interact with those who do motherhood differently than us, especially when those differences breed difficulties?” In this episode, Emily and Laura bring the gospel to bear on these challenging relationships, remembering that the cross levels all of us. Because of the extravagant grace shown to us, we can now love others who are different, even when it’s hard.  Articles & Resources: Loving Difficult People || Stacy Reaoch (Desiring God) Organic Food, Essential Oils, and the Gospel of Grace || Stacy Reaoch (Desiring God) The Love that is Neither Easy or Natural || Erik Raymond (TGC) Mom vs. Mom: The War I Didn't See Coming || Jeanne Harrison (Revive our Hearts)  L

Moms celebrate Father’s Day with a variety of feelings. Some are incredibly grateful for their husband’s leadership, hands-on help, sacrificial love, and wisdom with child-rearing. But others feel the pain of disappointment, and aren’t sure how to reconcile their expectations with their reality. In this episode, Emily and Laura interview Jerrad Lopes, host of the weekly DadTired podcast and founder of the non-profit ministry, aimed at pointing men to Jesus. Jerrad tackles some of the most frequently-asked-questions Risen Motherhood receives about supporting husbands spiritually, with “from his perspective” insights and practical ideas. Because of Christ’s example, moms are free to love and support Dad, right where he’s at. Articles & Resources: Dad Tired Website/Podcast-Jerrad Lopes  Stop Behaving: A Gospel-Centered Devotional for Men-Dad Tired When Dad Doesn't Disciple the Kids-Jen Wilkin More From Risen Motherhood: How Mom Can Help Dad Invest in the Family's Faith- RM Episode 14 Putting Your Marria

Any mom who reads to her children knows that you wouldn't start a storybook right in the middle! If you skipped the first half, your kids would miss important aspects of the plot and the character development. Instead, you would start at the very beginning and view all of the parts as a whole. But for some reason, when it comes to the bible, we often toss that concept aside and go straight for the easier-to-understand New Testament books. In this episode, Emily and Laura make a case for the Old Testament, citing eight reasons why it really matters! Processing the entire bible in light of the cross is critical for mom (and her kiddos) to rightly understand God's epic redemption story. Articles & Resources: Teaching Theology to Children - Nancy Guthrie interviews Marty Machowski on her podcast, Help Me Teach the Bible Show Them Jesus - Jack Klumpenhower Women of the Word - Jen Wilkin  A Christian's Pocket Guide to Loving the Old Testament - Alec Motyer A Peculiar Glory - John Piper  From Garden to Glory -

We know we should be grateful for the gifts God has given us in motherhood, but instead, we find ourselves battling discontentment, anxiety, and stress over our inability to keep up with even the simplest tasks. In this interview, author Hannah Anderson, talks about her book "Humble Roots," offering an opportunity for weary moms to rest as they accept their limitations and let God be God. She applies gospel-truth to challenging topics like postpartum body image, vocational or ministry calling, and dealing with the temptation to live for our ideal version of motherhood instead of God's plan for us. This conversation is candid, challenging, and leaves much to be considered...don't miss it! More about Hannah Anderson & Her Writing: Humble Roots: How Humility Grounds and Nourishes Our Soul   Made for More: An Invitation to Live in God's Image  Sometimes a Light - Hannah's Blog / Website Persuasion Podcast - Hosted by Erin Straza and Hannah Anderson for Christ and Pop Culture Related Articles & Resourc

These days, it's common to hear the call for moms to find a "tribe" where they belong. While there is great benefit in connecting with women who share similar circumstances, challenges, or life passions, is this where we're supposed to find our primary source of community? In this episode, Emily and Laura address the online "tribe" trend, and challenge moms to examine God's plan for community, which is rooted in the local church. There is no online ministry or common interest group that can replace the need for deep relationships among flesh-and-blood believers.  This Month's free printable is designed by True Cotton. Download and view all printables here.  Related Articles & Resources: How to Find a Mentor in Motherhood - RM Blog  Friendship & Motherhood || Ep. 58 - RM Show Archive When You Feel Alone || Ep. 10 - RM Show Archive Community Requires Venerability - Christine Hoover You Need Gospel Community - Brad Gray  Communication & Community - Interview with Karen Loritts  The One Thing

Instagram and Pinterest-worthy spaces may have you feeling intimidated, jealous, or proud about the look and feel of your own home. But despite the trends or the tendency to make appearances too important, there is still value in serving others by creating a beautiful space for God's glory. In this episode, Emily and Laura explain the gospel's implications for beauty in the home, touching on everything from creating a functional space to using decorating for strategic ministry opportunities. Regardless of the size of the space or the size of the budget, mom can image God by drawing her children to His loveliness in all things - even through home decor! Articles & Resources: Social Media, Comparison & Motherhood || Ep. 09 Freedom to be the Mother God Created You to Be: Why Comparison Doesn't Work || Ep. 18 Serving Others Right Where You're At || Ep. 43 Four Questions to Help Determine Your Family's Ministry - RM Blog  Stay Focused on Your Family's Ministry and Giftings - RM Blog   The Lifegiving

Is there hope for developing a personal understanding of the bible in the season of young children? In this special interview, author and bible teacher, Jen Wilkin, shares her passion for biblical literacy, encouraging moms to stay committed to gaining a firsthand knowledge of their sacred text. Jen also gives practical examples of what this might look like, offering encouragement to set aside larger blocks of time, get involved in a structured study with accountability, and consistently consume the word whenever and wherever you can. If you haven't been sure about how an understanding of scripture impacts your spiritual life or your role as a mom, you'll be so challenged and encouraged by this interview! More From Jen Wilkin Books: Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible With Both Our Hearts and Minds None Like Him: 10 Ways God is Different From Us (And Why That's a Good Thing)  Bible Studies: The Sermon on the Mount 1 Peter: A Living Hope in Christ Listen to Jen's Weekly Bible Study teaching at her chu

When Dad has to work late (again) and mom feels like she's soldiering on with the children, is there a gracious response to give? Although the long days might leave a wife stuck in cycles of comparison with other families and even anger, God hasn't left her without hope and help. In this episode, Emily interviews Laura, who shares a bit of her experience as a mom whose husband works long hours. Whether your own husband just misses the occasional dinner, or travels for months at time, you're not going to want to miss the wisdom she shares! The gospel turns "fairness" on its head, and offers wives a better way forward - where her husband (or his job) isn't the enemy, and all her needs are met in Christ. Articles & Resources: Let Your Husband Be The Best Dad He Can Be - Laura Wifler  Motherhood Is Lonely - Laura Wifler 30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge - Revive Our Hearts 31 Days of Praying For Your Husband - Revive Our Hearts Scraps - Jess Connell Do Him Good - Jess Connell Trusting God To Work Th

When schedules are full and urgent needs abound, it's a struggle to run to God in prayer. We are hindered by distractions, unrealistic expectations, and even guilt, because we haven't already gone to our Father with our needs. In this episode, Valerie Woerner, joins Emily and Laura in a conversation about how moms can intentionally rely on God through prayer in each season. Valerie is a wife and mom herself, and is the founder of Val Marie Paper, which she started with a heart to provide women with practical tools for consistent prayer. If you are a mom hoping to be refreshed with gospel-truth and practical ideas for prayer, we know you'll be encouraged by this interview! More from Valerie Woerner: Val Marie Paper Women's Undated Prayer Journal (as mentioned on the show by Laura & Emily)  House Prayers + Free Printable Worksheets - Resource from Val for intentional prayer in different rooms of your house  Checkout Val's Blog Archive on the topic of Prayer for more great articles! New Morning Mercies - P

Many moms wonder, "What is it going to be like to add another little one to our family?"...Through childbirth or adoption, the season of transition can cause everyone anxiety. In this episode, Emily and Laura talk about the way we face our limitations by looking to Christ, who ultimately fills our hearts with hope, not fear. God doesn't promise to spare us from spit-up, sleepless nights, blow-outs, or frustrated older siblings, but He does promise to use all things for our good and His glory. It's often the "out of control" seasons that remind us who's really in control. Articles & Resources: Ep. 33 || Intentional Motherhood Starts at Day One (podcast episode mentioned on today's show) A Prayer for Trusting Jesus in Our Seasons of Transition - Scotty Smith  The Seductive Song of Self-Pity - Michael Kelly  Loving the Little Years - Rachel Jankovic  Treasuring Christ When Your Hands are Full - Gloria Furman  The Mission Field of Motherhood Can be a Fearful Thing - Emily Jensen  Hope for the Mom With

Even before walking down the aisle, questions start coming your way, "So when are you going to have children and how many do you guys want to have?!" As a couple who just wants to settle into married life first, it's natural to take the path-of-least resistance, neglecting to intentionally consider the hard questions about family planning. In this episode, Emily and Laura share the unexpected ways that God has shaped their ideas about children -- including family size, caring for orphans, and being unified with their husbands. There is no formula for a perfect Christian family plan, but we can all rest in our gospel-freedom, embracing children as the Lord does (sacrifices, messiness and all!).  Articles & Resources: How to leave a rating and review on iTunes Ask Us Anything Show || Ep. 54 Heart Questions to Ask: "How Many Children Should We Have?" Gospel-Centered Question for Family Planning - RM Blog Does the Priority of Orphan Care Mean We Should Stop Having Children? - Russell Moore Newlyweds, Be Op

In motherhood, sometimes unexpected and even grief-filled news about your child can change all of your hopes and dreams for the future. When her son Titus was flagged for having a small cerebellum at his 20-week ultrasound, Abigail Dodds and her husband began their God-appointed journey as parents to a child with special needs. In this episode, she shares wisdom, rooted in the truth of the gospel, about everything from facing fears of the future to facing the hard chaotic "I can't do this" moments of the present. Whether you are a mom to your own child with special needs, an Aunt or Grandparent of a child with special needs, or a woman hoping to come alongside a friend as a loving support -- this episode is for you! As you'll hear Abigail share, God's promises in Christ can provide true joy and encouragement in any circumstance. Articles & Resources: Abigail's Blog || Hope & Stay (here you can find lots of her writing on the topic of special needs)   The Works of God - A blog by John Knight with a we

Before we've even grown comfortable in the role of motherhood, it starts...the fall-to-the-floor tantrums, the food throwing, the back-talking, the hitting, and even the selective hearing. Suddenly, we're faced with the the reality that our children are sinners, and moreso, that God has given us the authority to do something about it! With a sea of opinions and resources, it's easy to just feel paralyzed. In this episode, Emily and Laura give an overview of discipline in the early years, especially focusing on using it as a tool to communicate the gospel.  Discipline will play out differently in each family, but the goal is the same: pointing our sinful children to their desperate need for the perfect Savior. Resources: Although neither of us follow, subscribe to, or endorse one particular book or method of discipline, we still wanted to share some resources we've learned from (in different ways). Please see this not as the "perfect" list for discipline resources, but as a place to begin your own prayerful re

In today's culture, there is much debate about food, from the snacks on your toddler's plate to the liquid in their sippy cup. For every article that advocates for a certain diet, there is another one that says you should avoid it. Even the most research-savvy moms have a difficult time understanding how to love their family well by providing good food (without going overboard). In this episode, Emily and Laura discuss some common heart issues and gospel freedoms surrounding the issue of food. Holding to perfect food standards shouldn't be more important than the connection and fellowship we enjoy during meal times in the name of Christ.  Free Printable: By Copper Paper Co. // Download here 5x7, 8x10 Find all of our free printables here   Articles & Resources: Love to Eat, Hate to Eat - A series about idolatry and food, with Elyse Fitzpatrick   Organic Food, Essential Oils, & The Gospel of Grace - Stacy Raeoach Each One Should be Fully Convinced in His Own Mind - John Piper (on Romans 14 passag

Letting others into the imperfect mess of daily life is challenging in the easiest seasons, and holds particular stresses with little ones around. But should obstacles like disorganized toy rooms, meal planning, noise, and messes be a major deterrent to welcoming others in the name of Christ? In this episode, Emily and Laura discuss the biblical call to hospitality, and consider its importance, even in the season of young children. Because God welcomed us into his family when we were strangers at great personal cost to himself, we can extend that same welcome to others, even when it's not convenient. Articles & Other Resources: RM Ep. 43 || Serving Others Right Where You're At Why Hospitality Beats Entertaining - Jen Wilkin  How to Practice Biblical Hospitality - Pat Ennis  Gospel-Motivated Hospitality - (video) round table discussion w/Gloria Furman, Kathleen Neilson, Rosaria Butterfield Open Roof Hospitality - Melissa Krueger  You Can Be Hospitable, Even with Little - Trillia Newbell  Host Without Grum

Over the last year or so, we've had many questions from listeners about all things motherhood, ranging from the super practical to the thought-provoking theological. Although we've tried to keep up with answers, we thought it might also be fun to record an entire episode that was packed with frequently asked questions! In this special one-hour edition, Emily and Laura laugh and chat about coffee, maternity pants, daily routines, balancing time inside versus outside the home, and so much more. And of course, because it's still Risen Motherhood, we hope you also catch lots of ideas about how to apply the gospel to everyday life! Questions Answered (In Order) & Resources Mentioned: How many coffees do you drink each day (and when you're pregnant or nursing)? What are your go-to "momiforms," and what are your favorite places to shop for those pieces? Maternity: Gap, Old Navy, Pink Blush, Target Non-Maternity: Madewell, Nordstrom, Loft (Lou & Grey), Gap, Old Navy, Target Laura's Vans Ep. 08 || Top Knots

With nearly-unlimited resources for motherhood, it can be difficult to figure out what's helpful and what subtly distracts from our primary mission as moms. Even in the Christian resources, there are great nuggets of truth, stirred together with potentially dangerous theology. How can we safely get the help we need for motherhood without deviating from the path of truth? In this episode, Emily and Laura discuss the common fears and missteps moms face as they navigate resources, and offer gospel-principles for "finding the meat and spitting out the bones". Because ultimately, when we are familiar with biblical truth we can be wise and discerning instead of scared and gullible. Helpful Questions for Discerning Resources: Check credentials / endorsements  Who is this person? Were they educated in their field, and if so, where? How are they getting their information and who else endorses it? What is their reputation? Check agenda What type of theology are they hoping the reader adopts? Is there an underlying ide