What Should I Do To Prepare For An Empty Nest?

Hi Elisa,

I believe stay-at-home mothers have one of the highest callings in life. Congratulations on sticking with it.

Certainly we all need outside interests and activities. I pray that you already know the Lord Jesus. If you do not, there is a wonderful resource on our website to help you. However, I will assume you are a christian to answer your question. I don't know how involved you are in your church or if you have one at all. If not, please find a bible believing, bible preaching church to worship with.

After we come to know the Lord, he expects us to use the spiritual gifts that he gives us. We are all gifted differently. Romans 12:4-8 gives a discription of some of these gifts. If you haven't discovered your unique gifts yet, ask your pastor about taking a spiritual gifts inventory to find out what they are.

I say all of that to say this, we should use our gifts in the church and everywhere we may go. I think it is a wonderful idea to pursue outside interests. Make sure they line up with the gifts the Lord has given you. For example, if you have the gift of mercy or the gift of encouragement you might want to volunteer at a hospital to encourage the sick.

Remember, even though your children may leave, it doesn't mean that they cease to need you or look to you for an example. Pray and seek the Lord's will in this matter to see what He would have you to do and you can't go wrong.

I honor you for thinking ahead to prepare for times that you know can be trying. Stay close to the Lord and in the center of His will. That is what is best for all of us and ultimately for our children too. They are watching how we handle ourselves at all stages of life.

I will pray for you Elisa as you look to the Lord for His answer.

God Bless you.