Back in ancient days, they did not have machines to create arrows. Every single arrow was made intentionally BY HANDS! Arrow smiths (known as fletchers) worked tirelessly 24/7, making sure there were enough quality arrows to be used for battle. Does this sound familiar? It feels like ALL we do as moms nowadays are working tirelessly around the clock to raise our children to launch into this world. Believe it or not, we are God’s modern day fletchers!
So many things to do, so many meals to prep, so many activities to tend to, many heart issues to correct and discipline. Which one should we be focusing on? Which one will make the most impact eternally? Which one truly matters?
1 Samuel 16:7 states, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at OUTWARD APPEARANCE, but the Lord looks at the HEART.”
The heart.
Their inner beings.
The unseen.
There are three parts of an arrow:
1. THE BODY. The long, straight part of the arrow made out of wood. This part is often called the shaft.
2. THE ARROWHEAD. The destructive part; made from tough materials, like bones or metal.
3. THE TAIL. typically made of feathers, designed to keep the arrows flying smooth and in a straight flight. Without this, even the strongest arrow can’t fly.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 tells us that human beings are ALSO created with 3 different parts: the body, the soul, and the spirit. Now, when we work tirelessly to raise our children every day, which part of their being are we focusing on the most? A lot of us mamas are putting 100% effort in their physical being (the BODY part of the arrow). This includes the meals they eat, clothes they wear, shoes, trophies, academic performances. A lot of times we emphasize heavily on the kids’ physical appearances. Chubby cheeks = successful parenting. Any amen? We often spend hours and hours prepping meals and making sure they finish their bowl to the very last bite.
Nothing is really wrong with this, really. Who doesn’t love chubby cheeks, well-behaved kids with a shelf full of trophies? But mamas, get this. THE LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART. Without strong ARROWHEADS (healthy souls and strong discerning minds), they can’t achieve God’s divine purpose in their lives. Without strong TAILS- (their spiritual beings that are soaring and connected deeply to their Heavenly Father) - even the strongest arrows can’t fly straight!
Today, let’s focus on shepherding their hearts, their souls, their spiritual growth. The things that matter most to God <3