I think the term “beautiful trenches” sums up motherhood for me.

Having children is truly a gift from God, and I am so incredibly thankful for this role he has given me. My kids bring me so much joy. A child’s laughter is contagious. Their hugs soothe one’s heart. When they say, “Mama,” I don’t think I’ve heard anything more lovely.

But being a mom is also really hard. There are long nights, terrifying accidents, and routine sickness. My body has changed. My marriage has been stretched, and I don’t always feel like myself.

But it is in these times, in these “beautiful trenches,” that I have learned more of who God is. I have experienced what it means to take refuge in him. 

A refuge is a safe place, a protection against wars and storms. People flee to these places to escape the surrounding fray. 

Psalm 46:1 teaches us that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Proverbs 18:10 says, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”

In the hardest battles, darkest hours, and fiercest storms…yes even in the trenches of motherhood…God is our safe place. In the quietness of our hearts, we can run to him.

When we don’t know what to do, we turn our eyes to him (2 Chron. 20:12b).

When we feel like we’re failing, his power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9).

We turn. We surrender and ask for his help. 

And he carries us. He shields us.

The difficulty may not go away, but he now bears the burden. He fights the battle, and we rest in his protection.