My husband Matthew wrote this post responding to John Piper re: women working outside the home. It created quite the stir online, and I feel compelled to respond to working moms.
I want to say first and foremost, if you are a stay-at-home mom, I think that is wonderful. If that is what you feel called to do and that works for your family, that’s fabulous. I have a lot of friends that are amazing stay-at-home moms.
But not all women feel called to stay-at-home. And not all families are able to make it work financially.
And that is okay too.
I think it is okay for moms to work outside the home.
I am a better mother because I’m a working mom.
Elias is growing up to be a wonderful little boy.
Our home may be a little dusty, but it is a loving, nurturing home for our family.
Sometimes I feel like stay-at-home moms judge working moms because they are not home with their kids. I also feel like some men judge me because I work instead of stay-at-home.
I don’t think that is fair, right or biblical.
So, if you work outside the home, I want to tell you this:
Don’t feel guilty.
You love your family just as much as moms who stay-at-home with their kids.
You are a good mom.
You are a woman of God.
Hi Jessica,
I have been searching your blog tonight on the hunt for encouraging posts about working moms. I knew I would find them. I have a 2.5 year old son and I’m 5 months pregnant with a little girl. I’m blessed to work from home, but it is a challenge at times, too, to “turn work off” and focus on family and vice versa. I’m also in a transition period with my job and lots of questions are swirling in my mind about what’s best for my family. I truly believe that I need to work – to have that outlet for myself and to have something personal to work towards, but some days I struggle with if I’m doing the right thing for my family. I know God will continue to guide my steps as I see Him and I’m thankful to read your encouragement as a working mom of two kids.
Thank you!
Emily
I think I understand what your point is in this post, however when I read,
“Sometimes I feel like stay-at-home moms judge working moms because they are not home with their kids. I also feel like some men judge me because I work instead of stay-at-home”
seems to imply that moms that stay-at-home do not work. As I reflect upon the times I was home with my children fulltime I recall feeling as if I had worked harder than any out-of-my-home employment. I also think that women and men come to conclusions about (judge) women who do not work outside their homes.
Really? This only got two comments. I felt so encouraged when I read this. I work and I have 3 preschool age girls. I fully support stay at home moms, because I know that there is no tougher or more rewarding job. I feel my girls are happy at home with their nanny and super excited when I come home too!
But its great to hear another mom in that situation say…. its ok!
Thank you!!
Thanks for your kind words. This post actually got a TON of comments, but when I moved to WordPress, I lost all my comments. 🙁
Hi Jessica, I tried to find the link on your husband’s blog to his article, but it’s not working anymore. Could you send it to me? Thanks!