“Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Proverbs 29:18, KJV)

When I first became a mother, I had grandeur ideas of how I would raise my kids. I would be diligent in training both their flesh and soul. I would impart to them the beauty and wonder of their creator and all of His ways. Without tiring myself I would remain faithful and consistent in these things, for I valued them the most. 

Then life happened. My efforts didn’t appear to be admired or matched by my husband. The days grew longer and louder, and my body became more tired and sluggish. I took for granted the word of God, thinking that I knew all that was written in its pages. Slowly traditions like reading the word of God first in the day with the children or even at night after supper began to be done away with, and the fruit, or lack thereof became evident. Tensions between my husband and I grew. The kids bickered more and no longer seemed to remember what we were aiming for. 

I had read the Fox’s Book of Martyrs and had anticipated a day when I might have to die for my faith. Sudden death and tragedy of my spouse or children I had tried to prepare my heart for, so that I might remain steadfast like Job, but backsliding and becoming lukewarm I did not anticipate or prepare for. I thought that it was reserved for the people around me. 

So here I find myself void of vision and drained in what I thought was my purpose- raising godly offspring. After a really rough few weeks and some serious self-reflection I have decided that to live without the hope of Christ is not an option. I refuse to go back to that misery and lifelessness. As I attempt to kneel and pray daily, and read His words more regularly, I am hopeful that the Lord will match my efforts and renew my love for Him. That as I draw near Him again, He will draw near to me and bring me the much needed energy and strength I need in order to continue to raise up a godly generation for Him and minister to the lost.

If you find yourself today in a place void of vision, I want to encourage you to draw near to the Lord and renew your first love. Without vision people perish and we know that it is not Gods desire that anyone would. Jesus Christ gave His all to the Father who is worthy, let us do the same.