Tag: god

Will i find fulfillment in motherhood?

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

Today as I struggled to get all boys to bed for the night I thought to myself, wow – motherhood is a beautiful and transformative journey, and it is also one of the most challenging sacrificial roles I have ever known. The endless nappies, sleepless nights, mental gymnastics, and constant demands often leaves me feeling not only exhausted and depleted, but questioning whether this is the place where joy can truly be found.

In the midst of the chaos, there is a deep fulfillment to be found—a fulfillment that goes beyond the immediate, and touches on the eternal. As Christian mothers, we are called not only to care for our children but to see the sacred in the everyday moments and train them up in the ways of the Lord, even when it feels really really hard (and most days, it does). I believe that God created and uses the role of mother to not only refine and transform us into the best version of ourselves, but to help us see His nature and character as we fall short daily.

It’s in those very moments of weakness—when patience runs thin, when exhaustion settles heavy—that God’s grace meets us most profoundly. Motherhood, in all its labour and sacrifices, becomes a living testimony of His strength made perfect in our weakness. The fulfillment we find is not in our perfection, but in the daily surrender, in knowing that our small acts of love and intentionality ripple through their lives into eternity.

Rocking a baby to sleep, correcting with gentleness (or firmness for the 10th time), or offering a whispered prayer over a child’s future are not insignificant; they are kingdom work. Fulfillment comes when we begin to see that this calling is less about what we accomplish in our own strength and more about how Christ shines through us as we do our best to lean wholly on Him.

What does fulfillment mean practically?

Practically, this means first learning to accept that we will not do it all perfectly. There will be days when the house is messy, the laundry undone, or tempers are tested and we are overstimulated more than we can bear. Accepting our human limitations frees us from the crushing weight of comparison and high expectations, and allows us to lean on God’s strength rather than our own.

Alongside acceptance, we can also be intentional about building rhythms into our days that anchor us in God’s presence—whether that’s beginning the morning with a short prayer before the children wake, listening to Scripture as we fold clothes, or finding small pockets of quiet to breathe and remember whose we are. Fulfillment often grows not from grand, sweeping gestures, but from the faithful repetition of ordinary acts offered to the Lord.

We can also build community into our journey, surrounding ourselves with other mothers who encourage, pray, and walk alongside us. In doing so, we are reminded that we are not alone in this calling, and that together we can point one another back to Christ when the days feel long and tiring.

Motherhood is sanctifying. The hard days do not mean failure; they are opportunities for God to grow patience, humility, and love within us. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2–3)

Will I be as fulfilled in motherhood? I miss my independence.

I think it’s natural for us to wrestle with the fear of “losing ourselves” in the midst of motherhood. For many, the world measures success by productivity, financial achievement, and visible recognition, and stepping into the unseen work of raising children can feel like stepping away from seen purpose. I remember processing the shock of my time no longer being my own when I had my first son, and feeling like my life was suddenly sucked into a vacuum. As much as I felt overwhelming joy and purpose in this new role, I deeply grieved the freedom and independence that I once felt, because all of a sudden, my life was under a spot light- being constantly watched by a little person!

Yet, Scripture gently reminds us that our worth is not rooted in what we do or what we earn, but in who we are in Christ. Motherhood may shift how our time and talents are expressed, but it does not erase them. In fact, it can refine and deepen them. The same skills of creativity, leadership, and problem-solving that shine in a career are often exercised in new, hidden ways at home and we can build up the courage and incremental time to explore these areas of our lives.

While the world may not applaud nappy changes, middle-of-the-night prayers, or the wisdom spoken into a child’s heart, heaven sees and honours these acts as holy work. The truth is that God does not ask us to trade fulfillment for sacrifice—He calls us to find a richer kind of fulfillment through sacrifice, one that is eternal rather than fleeting.

At the same time, embracing motherhood does not mean abandoning every dream, ambition, or calling outside the home. For some, “their own thing” might be pursued alongside motherhood in a different season or at a different pace, and that is okay. God is not wasteful; the gifts He has placed in you are not meant to be buried, but stewarded in His timing.

What motherhood does invite is a reordering of priorities—placing eternal impact above temporary accolades. It means asking not only, “What makes me feel successful?” but also, “What fruit will last beyond me?”

In this light, I am learning to see that motherhood is not the end of identity or purpose, but the widening of it. It is stepping into a calling where unseen work shapes eternal souls, and where success is measured not by titles or paychecks but by faithfulness and love. The world may not always understand or applaud this, but fulfillment in God’s design often looks different from what culture celebrates. It is slower, quieter, and sometimes hidden—but infinitely more enduring.

I hope this encourages you on your journey.

Alethea x

Reframing the perspective for stay at home mums

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

Choosing motherhood and homemaking is far from a wasted life.

In a world that often equates success with visibility, speed, and accolades, choosing a life of motherhood and homemaking can feel quietly radical.

It’s a path full of unseen moments—toys everywhere, whispered prayers of desperation, patient corrections, and countless acts of service that rarely make headlines. But what the world overlooks, God treasures. This life—your life—is not small. It is sacred.

This post is an invitation to see your everyday with new eyes. To shift from simply surviving the tasks of home and motherhood to embracing them as part of a deeper calling. You’ll find encouragement to anchor your heart in truth, to find purpose in the small things, and to remember that your role carries eternal weight—even when no one else sees it.

What I feel

“This matters”. It is a constant, inner dialogue between my heart and mind—reminding myself that this path, though often unseen or undervalued, holds deep meaning and purpose.

Culture tells me that a successful life looks a certain way—the way of the majority. Because it has been glamorised, measured, and praised, so anything outside that mold can feel small or insignificant.

But the truth is, shaping a home is no small task. Nurturing children, creating peace in a space, building traditions, and tending to the needs of a family requires wisdom, strength, and a kind of love that doesn’t always receive applause. There are no promotions or performance reviews here—only the quiet, sacred rhythms of service and presence.

Still, there are days when the lies whisper louder than truth. Days when dishes pile up, children cry non stop, don’t listen and fight all day, and the world outside feels like it’s rushing ahead while I move slowly, wearily and deliberately, through another load of laundry. I sometimes wonder, Is this enough? Am I enough? And in those moments, I have to claw my way back to what I know deep down: that the unseen work of love is never wasted.

I’m learning that success isn’t always visible, and won’t always feel instant. Sometimes it looks like a child who feels safe, a marriage strengthened by small acts of kindness, or a home filled with peace and a warm meal rather than “perfect”. These things can’t be measured by certificates of well done or accolades, but they matter—deeply. I may not be building a career by the world’s standards, but I’m building something far more eternal: hearts, values, and a legacy of love.

Being at home is a deeply meaningful calling that I am finding is not just shaping my children, but also changing me.

Here are a few thoughts that I hold onto to encourage myself on this journey. I hope they’ll also help you in reframing your perspective if you are a stay at home mum.

1. Recognise the eternal value of your role

It’s easy to overlook the significance of what you do when so much of it happens behind closed doors and without recognition. But motherhood and homemaking are not just tasks—they are eternal investments. Instead of seeing homemaking as mundane, view it as a God-given calling to shape and nurture your family. Proverbs 31:27 says, “She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.”

Every meal prepared, every gentle and firm correction, every bedtime story and prayer whispered over a sleeping child is a seed planted into a soul. Yes, these quiet, repetitive acts may seem ordinary, and can get tiresome, but in God’s eyes, they are weighty with purpose. We are shaping hearts, anchoring lives, and reflecting His love in the most tangible way. We shouldn’t underestimate the eternal value of our role—it reaches far beyond what the eye can see.

2. Shift from “just a mum” to “A builder of the home”

I heard a good friend of mine refer to herself in this way and it struck me deeply. I thought “wow what a beautiful and thoughtful way to describe your presence and role in your home”.

Maybe you’ve heard it said,—or have said it yourself—with a shrug: “I’m just a mum” ” I stay at home with the kids”. After your journey of pregnancy and childbirth, that phrase just carries a weight of dismissal that doesn’t belong. Motherhood is not a lesser calling; it is a foundational one. How quick we are to forget this.

When we shift our mindset from just a mum to a builder of the home, we begin to see our days differently. We are not merely managing messes—we are laying bricks of stability, love, and faith. We are crafting the atmosphere our families breathe. A builder is intentional, strong, and purpose-driven—and that is exactly what you are. You’re not filling time; you’re forming lives.

The world may minimise homemaking, or trivialise it, but Scripture elevates it. Titus 2:4-5 encourages women to love their families and care for their homes. Instead of saying, “I’m just a stay-at-home mum,” say, “I am building a home filled with love, faith, and peace.” Our work is foundational to a thriving household.

3. Find purpose in the small things

So much of homemaking and motherhood is made up of the small things—folding socks, wiping counters, answering endless questions, preparing yet another meal. It can feel unnoticed, repetitive, and, at times, insignificant. I’ve had days when I felt like I would explode with the overwhelm, yet it’s in these very moments that purpose quietly blooms. I know that God doesn’t just measure worth by grand gestures or public applause; He sees faithfulness in the hidden places, and I have to remind myself that when I choose to serve with love in the mundane, I am living out a holy calling. The small things—done with a willing heart—are not small to Him. They are sacred building blocks of a life poured out in love.

When the days feel heavy or unnoticed, pause and whisper a short prayer over what you’re doing—“Lord, let this simple act be an offering of love.” It helps shift your focus from the task to the purpose behind it. Even a folded towel can become holy ground when done with intention and grace.

4. Prioritise personal & spiritual growth

In the busyness of serving everyone else, it’s easy to forget that your soul needs tending too. But personal and spiritual growth aren’t luxuries—they’re lifelines. This is one of the areas that I struggle in often due to sheer exhaustion and lack of motivation at times.

Yet when we pour out daily for our families, we also need space to be poured into- well. Growing in your faith, learning new things, or simply taking quiet moments to reflect are not selfish acts—they’re wise and necessary. A nourished soul creates a nourished home. The more rooted you are in truth, the more grace, patience, and love you’ll have to give. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and God never asks us to run dry.

I start my day—even if it’s just five minutes—with a verse, a journal, or a whispered prayer before the house wakes. It doesn’t have to be long or perfect. What matters is the consistency of showing up and making space for your heart to breathe.

5. See homemaking as a ministry

It can take time to view our homes as a place of hospitality, love, and discipleship. I used to believe that anything worth doing had to be seen and felt by the masses, however ministry doesn’t only happen on stages or in mission fields; it happens right here—in our kitchens, gardens, and bedtime routines. When you begin to see your home as holy ground, the ordinary transforms into something sacred. Your faith is lived out in real time, shaping hearts in the most personal and lasting way.

We are the first example of Christ our families see day in and day out. Our kindness teaches grace, our patience teaches peace, and our sacrifice teaches love over time. Though this kind of ministry may not be noticeable immediately, its impact reaches far into eternity. It’s important to train our minds to start viewing our daily work through the lens of worship. Whisper this simple reminder to yourself: “This is not just work—it’s worship. This is not just a house—it’s a haven.” When we frame our homemaking as service to God, even the smallest acts take on eternal significance.

6. Embrace the season you’re in

Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” It’s a verse I think about often because it helps to center me in the truth that nothing truly lasts forever. Motherhood and homemaking may feel all-consuming now, but this season is temporary. Every season of life brings its own rhythm—some fast and full, others slow and stretching. It’s easy to look ahead and long for the next stage, or to look back and grieve what’s passed (guilty). Yet there is beauty and purpose right where we are.

God doesn’t waste seasons.

Whether you’re in the thick of newborn days, navigating school years, or adjusting to a quieter home, there is something He wants to teach you here. Embracing the season you’re in doesn’t mean it’s easy—it means we are willing to see it as meaningful, even in the mess, the mundane, or the mystery.

When we stop resisting the present and start receiving it, peace begins to grow. It frees us from comparison and expectation and allows us to truly live the moments we’ve been given. This season—whatever it looks like—is part of your story, part of your shaping, and part of the legacy you’re building.

Here’s a tip for you: write down three things each day that are unique to this season and thank God for them. Gratitude softens the edges and helps our hearts settle into the now.

Final thoughts

To the women quietly walking this road—those who have chosen to pour their lives into homes, children, and the unseen corners of daily life—know this: your work matters. It is not small. It is not second-rate. You are part of something sacred, something that will echo through generations. When the world questions your worth, hold fast to the truth: choosing love, presence, and faithfulness is never a wasted life. In fact, it may be the most meaningful work of all.

How to nurture a boys heart

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

Nurturing my boys’ hearts is one of the most important parts of my role as their mother. As a homeschooling mum of three boys, my husband and I have the privilege of being with them daily, shaping their character and guiding them toward Christ and into being strong boys and eventually men.

Homeschooling gives us a beautiful window of time and influence to not only teach academics, but to shepherd the hearts of our sons with intention. I always remind myself that It’s not just about teaching maths and reading—it’s about helping them develop a heart that seeks after God, is resilient, loves others well, and stands firm in the Christian faith. In a world that will constantly try to define them by achievements and success, I want them to know that their true worth is found in being sons of the true King.

Seeing their hearts

When we started our homeschool journey I was so geared toward only building them up academically, but I very quickly realised that in order to build a meaningful learning experience for them, I would need to win their hearts over with love, friendship and trust. Building a relationship with each boy where I do my best to see them for their individual strengths and personalities would help strengthen their sense of safety and confidence. It isn’t easy, because most of our days are quite loud and feel chaotic, and so the last thing I want to do is notice and compliment all the great and fun things about them (just being honest!) It’s a discipline that I am working on being more intentional in.

It’s also really easy to focus on correcting behaviour all the time, but true growth happens when we understand the heart behind it. When a boy is acting out or withdrawing, it’s often a signal of something deeper—confusion, frustration, or even a need for connection. Being intentional in this area for me means, trying my best to remember to pause, ask questions, and listen with grace.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1

Grace-based correction—rooted in relationship—helps a boy know that he’s loved, even when he makes mistakes.

Encouraging emotional honesty and empathy

Many boys are naturally active, physical learners, but they also carry deep emotions—sometimes masked by noise or movement. We’ve had to learn to give our sons language for their feelings. This helps them to communicate in a more self controlled way when they are feeling an emotion.

Creating an atmosphere of love and grace at home is also essential. I want my boys to know that our home is a safe place where they can be vulnerable, share their fears, and ask hard questions. I remind them that no mistake is too big for God’s grace and that nothing they do can separate them from His love—or mine. By showing them unconditional love, I hope to give them a glimpse of the immeasurable love of their Heavenly Father.

Conversations

Intentional conversations are another way I nurture their hearts. Whether it’s around the dinner table, during a car ride, or at bedtime, I try to engage their minds and hearts with meaningful discussions. We talk about faith, courage, kindness, and even the struggles they face, or anything random that may come to mind. I want them to know that their thoughts and feelings matter, and more importantly, that God cares about every detail of their lives.

Life skills

In raising boys, we’re not just preparing them for independence—we’re shaping their character and hearts for the life God is calling them to live. Teaching life skills within the rhythm of home and homeschool life is a sacred opportunity: a chance to model servant leadership, responsibility, and integrity. The boys are involved with learning to cook, tidying the garden and house, caring for each other and discussing life matters. As we teach our sons to work with their hands and think with wisdom, our desire and prayer is that it will help them grow into men who are not only capable but compassionate—anchored in faith, and willing to serve and work hard.

Service

Encouraging them to serve others is another way to shape their hearts for Christ. I remind them that true strength is found in humility and that leadership comes through service. Whether it’s helping a younger sibling, assisting a friend, or participating at church, I want them to experience the joy that comes from putting others before themselves. Jesus was the ultimate servant, and I pray my boys will follow in His footsteps.

Above all, I entrust their hearts to the Lord. I can do my best to teach, guide, and love them, but ultimately, their walk with God is their own. My prayer is that they will grow into men who love Jesus deeply, stand firm in truth, and live with integrity. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” That is my hope and prayer for my boys—that as they journey through life, their hearts will grow to be steadfast in Christ.

Dealing with monotony and routine as a stay at home mum

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

Being a stay-at-home mum is a beautiful calling, but it often comes with the challenge of monotony. The endless cycle of laundry, cooking, cleaning, and always being switched on to care for our children can sometimes feel repetitive and even overwhelming. It’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture when daily tasks seem to blur into one another. However, as Christian mothers, we are reminded that even in the most mundane moments, God is at work in our lives and in the lives of our families. If we truly look, we’ll find Him.

One of the most encouraging truths in Scripture is found in Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This verse reminds us that our work at home is not insignificant. Every nappy changed, every meal prepared, and every book read is an opportunity to serve God and our families with love and dedication. When we shift our perspective to see our daily tasks as acts of worship and privilege, we can find deeper meaning in what might otherwise seem mundane.

Gratitude helps

One way to combat the monotony of routine is to cultivate a heart of gratitude. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to bring everything to God with thanksgiving. Taking a moment each day to thank Him for the little blessings—our children’s laughter, the comfort of our home, the provision of food, hot water, clothes—can really transform our outlook. Gratitude refocuses our hearts on the goodness of God rather than the repetitiveness of our routines, and it helps us to see abundance rather than lack.

Spiritual renewal

As mothers, we pour so much into our families, but we must also allow ourselves to be filled. I’ll hold my hand up and be the first to admit that sometimes sheer exhaustion makes me demotivated to pour into myself spiritually, but spending some time in prayer, reading scripture, or even listening to worship music while doing household chores does nourish our souls and keep us connected to God. When we prioritise our relationship with Him, we are better equipped to handle the demands of daily life with patience, wisdom and joy.

Building and nurturing friendships

Finding community is another key aspect of overcoming monotony. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Whether through church groups, Bible studies, or simply connecting with other mothers, having a support system helps us navigate the challenges of motherhood. Sharing experiences, praying together, and encouraging one another can breathe new life into our routines. I’ve personally found that taking some time to speak with and laugh with friends helps me to reconnect with a different part of myself, which in turn helps me to feel refreshed.

Monotony and simple living can also be a gift to us. In a world that constantly seeks distraction and busyness, the slower rhythms of homemaking allow us to cultivate a heart of peace and contentment. When we embrace the simplicity of our daily lives, we are able to focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God and the love we share with our families. God often speaks to us in the quiet moments, in the steady rhythms of daily life, reminding us that He is present in every small act of love and service.

How to raise confident and resilient boys

Published on by Alethea Awuku1 Comment

Raising confident and resilient boys in today’s world is challenging, unpredictable, full of constant adjustments, chaotic, downright exhausting, deeply fulfilling, messy and full of lots of teaching moments. As a homeschooling mum to three boys who are still babies to me (6,4 and 2 years) I am slowly learning that raising strong, capable young boys into men has become one of our aims. This isn’t about giving them an ego boost or bubble-wrapping them from failure, but about teaching them how to handle themselves when life’s inevitable bumps occur, and to deal with imperfections and bruises with grace, grit, and from a strong foundation in Christ.

Perseverance

One of the first and constant lessons that we are currently working on, is that failure and imperfection isn’t the enemy. When they get answers wrong, make a mistake or do something imperfectly, their natural response is to shut down, give up or walk away in tears because of the feelings of frustration and disappointment. In our home, my husband and I are consistent in pushing back against this and communicating to them that we celebrate mistakes (sometimes with a little treat) because they are an opportunity for us to learn and grow stronger.

When my first born son struggles with a concept during our learning time, or he colours out of the line during art time, we respond with enthusiasm because we have a chance to try again, and sometimes that is what life gives us- a chance to try again. We encourage him to know that it is ok to feel what he is feeling, but that he should never quit on himself. Resilience isn’t about never falling down; it’s about getting back up, dusting off the sawdust, and trusting that God will guide and strengthen us as we try again.

Confidence, too, is something that we are nurturing. As our boys are very young, we offer this through constant praise the majority of the time because I recognise that our hearts need to know that we are seen by those closest to us, and as their mama, it is my joy to let them know that I see them, love them, celebrate and affirm them.

There are moments when we explain that as they grow, their confidence wont come from constant praise but from real accomplishments and faith in God’s plan. So we do occasionally let them struggle and push through math problems, writing that tricky word for what feels like the hundredth time, and learning how to work together to serve one another during meal times (putting cutlery out, and setting the table). When they achieve something after working for it, the confidence sticks because they know they earned it through perseverance and God’s strength.

Service unto each other and strangers

My boys are very visual, and I quickly learnt that in order to capture their attention and imagination, it would be very helpful to give them a vision of the kind of boy and man that God is helping them to become day by day.

We usually say something along the lines of:

“God has created you for a purpose, and no challenge is too big when you walk in His strength. Keep trusting Him, keep learning, and keep growing into the man He is shaping you to be.“

“You are a warrior for Christ, and true strength comes from faith, kindness, and perseverance. No matter what happens, remember that God is always with you, guiding your steps.”

“When you do hard things, God is helping you grow stronger and stronger”.

We are all naturally self centered, and children demonstrate that to the highest degree because they are children(!), have constant legitimate needs and are under developed in their understanding, maturity and expression of their needs.

Another one of the areas that I am working on when it comes to raising resilient sons is teaching them to serve each other and other people. Serving each other doesn’t always feel pleasant because they bicker, fight and compete against one another, but by learning the discipline of service to one another, they fulfill a really important goal of our family which is to love and work together as one in our home.

When they understand that their strength, and their faculties (hands, feet, eyes, speech) are meant to be used for God’s glory it gives them an external motivation. So gentle reminders are given when we are at home and out in public to help them think outside of themselves and to see the world and people around them—whether that means helping to open the door for someone or comforting a friend who’s has been hurt— it’s all to help them develop a deep, quiet confidence that isn’t rooted in arrogance, but in purpose. Plus, let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite as humbling as helping to clean up after your brother or others! Jesus Himself taught us that true leadership comes through service, and I want my boys to follow His example, and understand the inner strength it takes to think of others.

It’s OK to cry

We are at a stage in life with our boys where crying is the resounding sound in our home, so let’s talk about emotions for a second. We are balancing the importance of them talking with us when they are upset over screaming and shouting. Simultaneously we acknowledge that being strong doesn’t mean stuffing down their feelings and pretending that they are ok when they aren’t.

Boys also need space to express frustration, sadness, and even joy without being told to “be strong.” In our home, we encourage each other to talk things through—sometimes by removing them from a tense environment because resilience isn’t about hiding emotions but trying our best to handle them in a Christ-centered way. Praying together, reading God’s Word, and seeking His wisdom helps us all to process our emotions in a way that strengthens our faith and character.

Role Models

Positive role models also play a crucial role in building resilience. Boys need to see strong, faith-filled men who exemplify integrity, perseverance, and humility. Whether it’s their father, a pastor, a coach, or a trusted mentor, having godly role models shows them what it means to live with strength and grace under pressure. When they see men who turn to God in times of struggle, who admit their mistakes, and who stand firm in their beliefs, they learn to do the same. Surrounding them with wise, godly counsel reinforces the values we teach at home and gives them examples to emulate as they grow. As they are young, we have begun that journey for them through stories and books, as well as spending quality time with daddy.

Series and books that they enjoy are Bibleman, Veggie Tales, Emmanuel’s Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah, Ten Boys Who Made a Difference (Lightkeepers) and much more.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to “train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” At the end of the day, our goal isn’t to raise tough guys; it’s to raise kind, courageous, and faithful men who will stand firm in a shaky world. With a lot of prayer, patience, and probably a lot more mistakes, I trust that God will shape them into exactly who He created them to be, and we look forward to celebrating the good fruit that comes from their lives!

blooming flowers in vase on table at home

The beauty of homemaking

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

One of the beautiful things about homemaking is that as women and mothers we have the gift and the ability to create a beautiful environment in which everybody that lives in it feels loved, treated as though they belong and nurtured so they thrive.

It requires our undivided intentional attention. Our heart, our soul, our efforts, our time, our style, our sacrifice, our willingness, our openness, our strength, our lives. The beauty found in homemaking is really in our ability to personalise and tailor a wholesome life for the people closest to us, to keep loving the one that we have chosen to commit to for the rest of our lives, and to serve the people who have grown and come from our very own bodies.

It is hard, beautiful sacrificial work. It is a worthwhile work that reveals a lot within us so that we can grow and develop in character. The home stands as a testament to the beauty and life of diligent hands and a faithful heart. Within the walls of our homes, joy and sorrow are shared, burdens are lightened, and the spirit finds solace.

The dining table has the potential to become an altar of fellowship, where laughter echoes, tears are gently wiped away, and the bonds of family and friendship are strengthened over shared meals and meaningful conversations. It is in this sacred space that love is nurtured and memories are sown. It is akin to a garden of life where seeds are sown into the hearts of children. Such is the sacred art of homemaking, a divine vocation, where earthly tasks become heavenly acts, and a humble abode is transformed into a haven of holy love.

If we look closely enough, we’ll see God’s goodness in what He has given to us. Our portion is evident of His faithfulness.

Homemaking is a tender art, a symphony of daily rituals that breathe life and love into a home. From the sweep of a broom to the arranging of fresh flowers, each task is a stroke of comfort and care if we see it that way. The homemaker’s touch can bring warmth to every corner, infusing the air with a fragrance that only a woman can bring to her environment when she loves it. It’s in these small, thoughtful gestures that a house becomes a haven, a place where the soul finds rest and the heart feels cherished.

In the morning when we wake up we get to decide on the tone that will be set for our homes. It can be filled with so much purpose, even in the midst of difficulty and challenge. The clinking of dishes, the rustling of pages as lists are made and tasks are planned, all contribute to a rhythm that reflects the reality of a household filled with life.

As a homemaker, you get the chance to dress each room, giving it a story, curated with love and attention to detail and reflecting the unique personality and values of those who live there. As a mama to little children, the season is extremely busy and exhausting. My days begin very early, and end late. The talking never ends, and the training is nonstop It isn’t easy. It requires much work and intentionality. It requires our life, and it is worth every seed sown.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of motherhood and faith. If you found comfort and encouragement in this post, I invite you to explore more of my writings on similar topics.

Why is motherhood so hard?

How do I balance family and personal life?

9 hacks to help you thrive in motherhood

Affirmations for mothers at home

On my blog, you’ll discover a wealth of stories, tips, and reflections aimed at nurturing your spirit and supporting you through the beautiful chaos of motherhood.

From practical advice on balancing daily responsibilities to heartfelt reflections on deepening your relationship with God, there’s something for every season of motherhood. I’ve shared real-life experiences, lessons learned, and moments of grace that I hope will resonate with you and provide the encouragement you need.

Visit my blog for more posts on creating a peaceful home, finding joy in the little moments, and leaning into God’s strength amidst the challenges. Let’s continue this journey together, growing in faith and love, one step at a time.

Alethea

Awaking wonder in the hearts of my boys

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

My boys by nature are already bent towards wonder. If they aren’t jumping off furniture imagining that they are flying superhero agents sent to rescue the world, they are completely immersed in the land of all things soil, mud and water as they dig to find treasure, or create foundations to build forts, castles and temples!

There is a part of us that has a longing. A deep well within us that needs filing with the fullness of God, but If I am honest, the thought of awaking wonder in the hearts of my boys feels like an intimidating prospect because there is a huge part of me that feels stuck when I consider being this other version of myself who is free spirited and sees and feels all the beauty around me.

It feels hard because I have been trained into a system that values results, efficiency, competitive edge, hurriedness over a slower more savored pace of life. I suppose the title of this blog post should be “how to awaken wonder in my own heart”.

My boys by nature are already bent towards wonder. If they aren’t jumping off furniture imagining that they are flying superhero agents sent to rescue the world, they are completely immersed in the land of all things soil, mud and water as they dig to find treasure, or create foundations to build forts, castles and temples. I honestly look at them most times in amazement. We absolutely have hunters, wrestlers, producers and conquerors in our midst! They are so cool and remind me that we have an innate pull within us to bring forth creativity in our own unique way.

I have to be honest also, that most of the time, I am also thinking “what on earth…” because I just feel so far removed from the way a boys brain is wired to work! Yet God has given me this portion. The three most wonderful boys to nurture, disciple and raise into wonderful men who reflect the image of God.

When I think of awakening wonder in the hearts of these souls, I think about leaving a legacy of hearts that beat after the unseen things of this world, while appreciating the very things that anchor us in real relationship, community and life. I think of hearts that beat strongly and thirst for knowledge in real tangible ways, hearts that feel full and satisfied with the precious simplicities of life that we are so unfamiliar with. Awaking wonder to me is about loving and nurturing each boy individually so that they grow roots in who they are without ever feeling the need to compete with others. To feel wholeheartedly secure in Christ and in your place in this world is probably the most anchoring experience that we can desire.

My view of education is changing and I never ever thought that I would experience this! I see now that it isn’t linear. The path to “success” and fulfillment isn’t just one way that we all have to walk and I need them to know this. There is so much wonder, so much to ponder on, so much to explore and to wrestle with in this rich life and I really want them to have this. Academic success is important, but I believe that a life undergirded by faith and inner character is more of a blessing- brings forth more of a fruitful and full life.

I want them to be free enough in their minds to build a deeply fun life giving enough time for their hearts to taste and see all that life has to offer. Seeking after it. Finding wonder and inspiration that organically and authentically propels them forward to their next learning adventure- because it truly never stops.

God bless,

Alethea

Why Graced for Home?

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

I, like many women had only one goal in mind as I grew up. Work hard to be competitive in the market place. The best in my field. Get that competitive edge so that I could stand out and land the high paying job with an incredible benefits package. I knew that I wanted to become a mother one day because it was the other natural path that I desired but my entire focus was on career and making money. I was and still am an ambitious, and highly capable and productive woman with several dreams and abilities.

However things started to change for me when I left my first very good corporate job to work part time for my church at that time. I was newly married and I realised that a huge part of me also had a heart for home. I am incredibly passionate about building with my own tribe, having time to intentionally create a life of joy, adventure and success according to what it means to our unique family. I wanted to learn how to be this way.

That’s also when I felt the tension between the two. Seasonally, I came to realise that I couldn’t have the two at the same time. Yet the pull for home became intensely strong when I had my first son. Seeing that new life that my husband and I co created shifted my perspective on life and motherhood entirely.

“Choosing to walk confidently in Gods design requires a step of faith- a step away from the marketplace of activities and into the mummy place of the home, which is filled with beauty, love, creativity, purpose and peace”. Sally Clarkson

Yet I also realised that I naturally was entering into motherhood with so much insecurity, fear and confusion regarding my personal role and ability. I wasn’t confident in so many areas, and yet I still had a strong heart to be based from home with my child and now children.

The desire for this blog really is to;

  • Document my personal journey as a Christian woman and mother
  • To document and encourage others on the journey of raising boys
  • I have truly felt afraid to lean into this new version of myself because in alot of ways it confirms the new journey that I am on and I have never considered myself living this- and putting it out there for the world to see. I still coming to terms with a lot of things everyday! Yet I have accepted that this is the most authentic way that I-Alethea can express myself. This is what God has given to me and I am compelled towards it. Especially as I desire to teach my children to keep their hearts open to who God has called them to be and lean into their natural gifts. I have to model this and can’t run away from it.
  • It is making me a better mother.
  • To encourage Christian mothers, and specifically stay at home mothers that we can absolutely do this and grow in confidence managing the home, loving and nurturing our children, and discovering new things within ourselves- our skills etc and still thrive beautifully as individuals. Staying at home does not have to be filled with insecurities.
  • Share my journey of home education and encouraging mothers in this area too, sharing some resources that I make for my children to learn with.

I hope you’ll journey along with me x

A vision for home

Published on by Alethea Awuku1 Comment

A place for belonging and becoming is important to this mama. Where hearts find a home to discover, test their limits, dream and hope. Home is base. The place intentionally and carefully built to serve us all. A place of refuge when we need shelter and protection from the harsh winds of the outside world, a safe launching pad that encourages us to try, to take the steps needed to develop skills and ideas, and the heartbeat of all things discipleship, training and refining.

When I think about my home, I envision warmth. Sacred and natural deeply rooted rhythms and traditions that have been intentionally repeated so much that they lead our days into an ever deeper connection with each other, the world around us and God. To build deep, strong foundations takes time and considerable effort. To establish, set in, and anchor hearts to all that is good and wonderful takes a mighty work of the Holy Spirit to come alongside my daily efforts.

How I long for my boys to know the powerful, soul grounding witness of the Lord in their hearts! It is my prayer for them daily. My hope and desire is that our home will be a place where miracles upon miracles are witnessed in all of our lives. May it stand as a monument testifying to the goodness and faithfulness of God to our lives.

My vision for my home is that it would be filled with love, laughter and joy. A space where learning is not only expected, but inwardly pursued, cherished, and evolving as we all change and grow. A place of cultivation rings strong in my heart. The tiling, preparing, and nurture of the souls that live under my roof is a humbling magnificent job that I know I am called to. May God give me the grace and capacity to carry this for my boys.

A place to be. To know without a doubt that they belong, and that daddy and I are committed to their becoming. What holy work!

My boys are currently 5, 3 and 1 and most days, in the chaos and busyness of caring for very young children, this ideal can feel very far away- like an unrealistic and impossible dream. However it echoes so loudly in my heart and I just cannot ignore it. Living with my children and being with them each day is quite an intimate reality to live.

We eat together, rest together, learn together, play, adventure and pray together each and everyday. We frustrate one another, quarrel, love and forgive. It’s all encompassing. A whole life. One that I am incredibly grateful for. I hope to revisit this post in a few years time to reflect on how my thoughts and desires have evolved.

Through [skillful and godly] wisdom a house [a life, a home, a family] is built, And by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation], And by knowledge its rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. Proverbs 24:3-4 (AMP)