As a girl, Rachel had always dreamed of having a big family. But after giving birth to her first child, she struggled with postpartum depression, anxiety and perinatal OCD. The darkness seemed to consume her, and she felt like she was losing herself. She felt like she was drowning and there was no way out. She held on to God despite the mental health disorders and trusted God to bring her through. Eventually, with time, support, medication and therapy, Rachel began to heal. She learned to cope with her emotions, manage her mental health, and find joy in motherhood.
A Word from God
With time, Racheal found she was in a place where she wanted to grow her family. As she started thinking about having another child, Rachel felt a mix of emotions. She wanted to expand her family, but the fear of reliving her previous struggles lingered. Then, God spoke to her heart, giving her a word that she would have another child and that the next postpartum season would be better. Rachel had learned to trust God’s promises, and she held onto this word tightly.
Rachel knew that “For no word from God will ever fail.” Luke 1:37 NIV
The Enemy’s Attacks
But the enemy wasn’t pleased. He began to attack Rachel’s mind with fears and doubts. “Are you sure God told you that?” “What if your child has health issues or if you have a miscarriage?” “What if you can’t cope?” The fears crept in, trying to steal Rachel’s faith.
The enemy attacked her with intrusive thoughts and feeling, doubts, panic and crippling anxiety. However, she refused to let them win. Rachel knew that thieves do not break into empty houses—there must be something of value in her that the enemy hated.
Standing Firm on God’s Promises
You see, Racheal has promised to bring up her children to know their identity in Christ. She had made a vow to God that her children would be might in the Lord. She had promised God that her home would be a practical example of a Christian home.
Rachel knew that God was faithful, and His word would not return void. She stood firm on His promise, despite the intrusive thoughts and feelings that tried to convince her otherwise. She remembered the lessons she had learned from her previous struggles and knew that she was stronger now.
Rachel was aware that “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” Psalms 127:3 NIV
A Miracle of Faithfulness
Months went by, and Rachel conceived again and had a healthy pregnancy. She carried her pregnancy to term, and gave birth to a beautiful, healthy child. The postpartum season was indeed challenging, but Rachel was better equipped to handle it. She had learned to prioritize her mental health, and she knew that she wasn’t alone. She gave thanks in all circumstances. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV
Years later, her children are grown and doing exploits for the Lord. Her children are taught by the Lord, and their peace is great (Isaiah 54:13 NIV). Each stages in motherhood came with its various challenges, but Racheal put her hope in God—the God that never fails (Isaiah 58:11).
Conclusion
Rachel’s story is a testament to the power of God’s promises. When He speaks to us, giving us a word or promise, it’s essential to hold onto it tightly. God’s promises are our foundation, our rock, and our hope. They remind us that He is in control, and that He works everything out for our good.
If you are a mum in a season of going through mental health challenges—know that God sees you. Do not be ashamed to seek help or take medication if needed. Do not be ashamed to ask for support. This is a season and it would pass. It’s not going to last forever. Like Rachel overcame—you too would overcome.
Prayer
Thank you Lord for being our refuge and strength always, in Jesus precious name, amen (Psalm 46:1).
Called to Priesthood 
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